NIGERIA NEWS
Fela Kuti to receive Lifetime Achievement Award
The Recording Academy has announced Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti as a Special Merit Awards honoree at the 2026 Grammy Awards, nearly three decades after his death.
Fela, who died on 2 August 1997, will be honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award alongside other legends, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon.
The Special Merit Awards, many of which are posthumous, are scheduled to take place on 31 January 2026. This will be followed by the 68th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony on Sunday, 1 February 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.
Special Merit Award
Announcing the awards in an Instagram Post on Friday, the Recording Academy stated that Fela is being honoured posthumously for his lifetime influence in shaping modern Nigerian Afrobeats and inspiring many global singers.
Beyond music, the Grammy Awards organisers praised the late singer for the legacy he left behind, citing cultural monuments like the Kalakuta Museum and the New Afrika Shrine.
“An architect of Afrobeat, honoured for a lifetime of influence. Fela Kuti was a Nigerian musician, producer, arranger, political radical, activist, and the father of Afrobeat. In the 1960s, he pioneered the genre by blending funk, jazz, salsa, calypso, and traditional Nigerian rhythms.
“His influence spans generations, shaping modern Nigerian Afrobeats and inspiring global artists such as Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, and Thom Yorke. His legacy continues to live on not only through music but also through his family, the Kalakuta Museum, and the New Afrika Shrine.
“On January 31, 2026, we are honouring this year’s Special Merit Award recipients, including Fela Kuti, with a Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award,” the statement read.
Fela Kuti
Although Fela did not receive Grammy Awards during his lifetime, the 2026 Grammy honour will be his second recognition by the Recording Academy within six months. In June, Fela’s 1976 socio-political album, ‘Zombie’, was inducted into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame.
Over the decades following his death, numerous awards have been bestowed in his name, with most of them being received by his sons, Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti.
READ ALSO: Afrobeat Rebellion: Art meets activism in Lagos exhibition honouring Fela Kuti
The ‘Zombie’ singer’s songs have also been sampled and referenced by some of the world’s top artistes, including Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Beyoncé.
Meanwhile, the recipients of the 2025 Special Merit Awards included Prince, The Clash, Frankie Beverly, Roxanne Shanté, Frankie Valli, Dr Bobby Jones, and Taj Mahal.
NIGERIA NEWS
TCN commissions 300MVA power transformer at Lekki 330/132/33kV transmission substation
The Lagos Region of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has successfully commissioned a new 300MVA power transformer installed at its 330/132/33kV Lekki Transmission Substation, Lagos State on December 19, 2025.
This is contained in a statement signed by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager (GM), Public Affairs on Saturday.
The 300MVA power transformer increased the capacity of the substation from 300MVA to 600MVA at the 330kV side. This allows for more load on the 132kV side with redundancy and reliability during maintenance and planned outages.
This equally means more bulk power available for Eko Electricity Distribution Company to off-take to its customers in Lekki, Chevron Estate, Maroko, Agungi, and environs.
This project is part of the ongoing TCN-World Bank power projects aimed at enhancing power supply in Nigeria.
NIGERIA NEWS
Nigerian Lady Shows Message She Received From Friend Who’s Tired of Relationship, Sparks Reactions
- A Nigerian lady showed the message she received from her friend, who was complaining about being in a relationship
- She posted the screenshot of their chat, showing what her friend wished for, and it caught people’s attention online
- The screenshot went viral, and netizens shared their observations about what the lady’s friend said, sparking reactions
A Nigerian lady received an unexpected message from her friend, who was complaining about being in a relationship.
She and her friend were discussing relationships, and she decided to post their chat online.
A lady gets an unexpected message from her friend having relationship issues. Photo: @that_girlkarina
Source: TikTok
In a TikTok post by @that_girlkarina, the lady’s friend shared how marriage was deeper that what people taught.
She also shared what she would do, as she wished that the government would sign a new law regarding relationships.
See the chat below:
A lady shows chat from her friend who was tired of relationship. Photo: @that_girlkarina
Source: TikTok
She captioned the post:
“Sometimes you just gotta read your homegirl text and move on with your day. The last part.”
Read also
Nigerian lady tells mother she’s working out, posts her unexpected epic response: “Very hurtful”
See the TikTok post below:
Reactions trail lady’s friend’s message about relationship
@juan_ita said:
“I honestly don’t see anything wrong in marrying a friend tho. Not for sexual reasons but for lifetime companionship. Y’all still have your freedom to date whoever you want but we all know men will fail us one day but your home girl will be there for life. Just my opinion tho.”
@A! said:
“She’s too realll. I used to pray that I will marry once and marry right but now if it doesn’t work, i carry my bag and move.”
@Joie!! said:
“I don’t agree to this …… but it is my wish… everybody marry your home girls instead.”
@Betty butterrr said:
“And that’s on period abeg. Na my own hg go Dey cook for me, cuz I can’t think of cooking different things everyday abeg.”
@amara_devine said:
“Lol she’s so real. It’s not by “ours will be different “ you just never know, anything wey you see for your marriage take am.”
Read also
Abroad-based mum shares why she left her children in Nigeria and relocated to China, many react
@𝕺𝖑𝖆𝖒𝖎𝖕𝖔𝖘𝖎 said:
“Make government approve fast abeg this love of a thing don tire person jare na to marry my hg asap no time.”
@HADASSAH said:
“Omo this is deep ooo.”
@Bami said:
“I dey reason am some times if government say you can marry your fellows gender omo eh@Veemoney you for don born for me self these men eh.”
@BangOntrend With Kitan said:
“Na true she talk sha because relationship is becoming draining and something else.”
In related stories, a customer posted the message he got from his customer, while a businesswoman displayed the unexpected message she received from her client’s boyfriend.
US-based Lady posts message from Nigerian uncle
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a US-based lady asked her uncle to sponsor her trip to Nigeria after telling him that she had seen an affordable ticket.
She posted her uncle’s reaction on social media, as he gave her a response that she was not expecting while reminding her of the past.
The screenshot of the messages caught people’s attention as some agreed with the uncle while others sided with the lady.
Source: Legit.ng
NIGERIA NEWS
Drama as old National Anthem ‘accidentally’ played during APC meeting at villa
An awkward moment played out at the Presidential Villa on Thursday night after Nigeria’s old national anthem was mistakenly played during the All Progressives Congress (APC) national caucus meeting in Abuja.
The incident happened at the banquet hall of the State House, where top party leaders had gathered for the high-level meeting.
Confusion as Band Plays Old Anthem
As protocol demanded the rendition of the national anthem, the band unexpectedly began with “Arise, O Compatriots,” Nigeria’s former anthem.
President Bola AhmedTinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas were already seated when the music started.
They stood briefly, appearing confused as the wrong anthem echoed across the hall.
Quick Correction by the Band
Realising the mistake, the musicians quickly stopped midway and switched to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the anthem recently reinstated by the Tinubu administration.
The brief mix-up was corrected within seconds, allowing the meeting to proceed without further disruption.
Why “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” Returned
On May 29, President Tinubu signed a bill restoring “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s national anthem.
The anthem was originally used between 1960 and 1988 before it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots,” which remained in use from 1978 until early 2024.
First Caucus Meeting Under New APC Chairman
Thursday’s gathering was historic as it marked the first APC national caucus meeting chaired by the party’s new national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.
Several governors who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC were also present at the meeting.
Defected Governors in Attendance
Governors who attended include Peter Mbah (Enugu), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa).
The presence of the defectors highlighted the APC’s growing influence ahead of the 2027 general election.
Other Top Political Figures Present
Other dignitaries at the meeting included former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, members of the APC National Working Committee, APC governors, and principal officers of the National Assembly.
See below;
APC National CAUCUS MEETING….
You have to respond the leadership acumen of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR @officialABAT. pic.twitter.com/4NDoXLTLZZ
— Amb. Pst Okezie Atañi (@Onsogbu) December 19, 2025
NIGERIA NEWS
Gov Otti Reaffirms Retirement from Politics After Governorship, Dismisses Presidential Ambition
Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has reiterated his long-standing commitment to retire from active politics after completing his tenure, emphasising that he has no intentions of pursuing the presidency, vice-presidency, or a senatorial seat thereafter.
Otti made the remarks on Friday at the Government House, Umuahia, in response to a viral video criticising his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, suggesting he might have political ambitions beyond his governorship.
Acknowledging the diversity of opinions in a democracy, the governor stated, “People are free to hold their opinions, but that does not mean they are right.
“I have said before, and I will say again, that by the time I leave office, I will retire. I do not have presidential, vice-presidential, or senatorial ambitions.”
He added that his focus is completing the mission entrusted to him and making way for younger leaders. “Some talk about the Igbo presidency. I do not even understand what that means. If their assumption is that I am seeking such a position, it is mistaken. I will not appear on the ballot.”
On the importance of knowing when to exit public office, Otti said: “When you have fulfilled your responsibilities, you must take the exit door and allow others to lead.
“Returning to lower political offices after governorship is not the goal. That is not what we are here for.”
Regarding his visit to Kanu, Otti explained that it was a matter of responsibility, not politics. “Nnamdi Kanu comes from my state, Umuahia North. Ignoring a problem does not solve it.
“I opened discussions on his situation at the highest level 24 months ago. While legal processes are crucial, there are administrative avenues to address issues. Two wrongs do not make a right.”
He further stressed that his intervention is aimed at fostering peace and not influenced by political ambition. “Even those convicted to death can be pardoned. My visit is about discussion, negotiation, and peace, not politics,” Otti concluded.
NIGERIA NEWS
US Stops Green Card, Citizenship Applications for Nigerians
The United States has placed a temporary halt on Green Card and citizenship applications linked to Nigerians.
This action follows a new expansion of Washington’s immigration restrictions and affects several other countries recently added to a broader travel control policy.
The suspension targets legal immigration filings, including applications for permanent residency and naturalisation.
Many of those affected are Nigerians already living in the United States who were in the process of adjusting their status or applying to become citizens.
Under the new directive, immigration authorities have stopped processing petitions from nationals of countries covered by the latest travel restrictions.
This includes both full bans and partial entry limits, depending on the country involved.
Nigeria is among the countries facing partial restrictions. As a result, immigration-related requests tied to Nigerian nationals are now subject to the pause, creating uncertainty for families, workers, and students awaiting decisions on their applications.
Other African countries impacted by the policy include Benin, Senegal, Ghana, Gambia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Côte d’Ivoire, among others.
Some nations face complete entry bans, while others, like Nigeria, are under limited restrictions that still affect immigration processing.
The move is part of a wider immigration clampdown introduced in recent weeks. Authorities have also frozen asylum decisions and halted the processing of certain visa and immigration requests from specific nationalities.
US officials say the decision is linked to a security review of immigration systems.
According to the immigration agency, “USCIS is conducting a comprehensive review of anyone from anywhere who poses a threat to the US, including those identified in the President’s latest proclamation to restore law and order in our nation’s immigration system.”
Taken together, the latest policy changes affect a large portion of African countries and several nations in Asia and other regions. Analysts estimate that more than half of Africa is now impacted in one form or another.
The development has sparked strong reactions among Nigerians at home and abroad. Many have criticised the decision, describing it as unfair and damaging to long-standing diplomatic and people-to-people ties between Nigeria and the United States.
Concerns have also been raised about the economic and social impact of the suspension, especially for families separated by immigration delays and professionals whose careers depend on legal residency status.
Former senator, Shehu Sani, reacted to the development, describing it as “a clear signal that migrants from developing countries are no longer welcome.”
NIGERIA NEWS
Best performing Nigerian stocks for the week ended December 19, 2025
The Nigerian stock market wrapped the week ended 19 December 2025 on a positive note, gaining 2,624.12 points to close at 152,057.38, driven by rallies in large-cap stocks such as First HoldCo.
Tracked by the All-Share Index (ASI), the market advanced 1.76% from the previous week’s close of 149,433.26.
As a result, the ASI is now up 5.95% month-to-date in December, while its quarter-to-date and year-to-date gains stand at 6.55% and 47.73%, respectively.
Volume and breadth
Market participation spiked earlier in the week, with traded volume surging to 9.8 billion shares across 126,584 deals, compared with 4.3 billion shares in the prior week.
Equity capitalization mirrored the upward price movement, rising to N96.9 trillion from N95.26 trillion.
- Market breadth remained bullish, as 55 equities recorded price gains, up from 49 advancers in the previous week.
- On the downside, 36 equities declined, fewer than the 41 that fell a week earlier, while 55 stocks closed unchanged.
Market overview
The All-Share Index (ASI) closed in the green on every trading day of the week ended 19 December 2025, reflecting sustained bullish sentiment.
Although the market opened the week on a cautious note, gaining just 4.6 points on Monday and 21.2 points on Tuesday, momentum strengthened on Wednesday, when the ASI climbed 383.7 points.
The rally accelerated on Thursday as the index reclaimed the 150,000-mark, and by Friday it surged a further 1,694.4 points to settle at 152,057.4.
Key highlights
The NGX Premium Index advanced 1.10% week-to-date, driven largely by a 42.9% surge in First HoldCo. Other notable gainers included Access Holdings, up 1.99%, and UBA, which rose 0.76%.
NGX 30 Index also closed higher, gaining 1.44%, while the NGX Main Board Index rose 2.02% over the week.
Sectoral performance
Leading performance, the Consumer Goods sector climbed 4.51%, as Guinness and Champion Breweries joined the advancers’ list with gains exceeding 19%.
Close behind, the Insurance Index rose 3.07%, supported by double-digit gains of more than 13% in SUNU Assurances Nigeria and Sovereign Trust Insurance.
Meanwhile, the Banking Index posted a 2.75% increase, largely driven by First HoldCo’s strong rally.
By contrast, the Industrial Goods Index edged up just 0.72%, while the Oil and Gas Index dipped 0.17% to close the week in negative territory.
Top gainers
Leading the pack was ALUMINIUM EXTRUSION INDUSTRIES PLC, which soared 59.35% week-to-date to close at N12.35, marking a standout performance. Mecure Industries Plc followed with a 44.93% gain, ending the week at N55.00.
Other major gainers included:
- First HoldCo Plc: up 42.93% to N44.95
- Guinness Nigeria Plc: up 33.01% to N289.70
- NPF Microfinance Bank Plc: up 20.65% to N3.74
- Champion Brewery Plc: up 19.79% to N16.95
- Sunu Assurances Nigeria Plc: up 17.96% to N4.73
- Tantalizers Plc: up 15.45% to N2.69
- Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc: up 13.82% to N3.87
- Africa Prudential Plc: up 13.33% to N13.60
Top losers
On the flip side, LIVINGTRUST MORTGAGE BANK PLC led the laggards, shedding 11.38% week-to-date to close at N3.35. JAPAUL GOLD & VENTURES PLC followed with a 10.53% decline, finishing the week at N2.38.
Other notable decliners were:
- International Energy Insurance Plc: down 9.92% to N2.27
- FTN Cocoa Processors Plc: down 9.80% to N4.42
- Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc: down 9.33% to N95.20
- Royal Exchange Plc: down 8.29% to N1.77
- Honeywell Flour Mills Plc: down 7.55% to N17.75
- Eterna Plc: down 5.63% to N28.50
- Red Star Express Plc: down 5.43% to N8.70
- Omatek Ventures Plc: down 5.22% to N1.09
Corporate actions overview
The week featured a handful of corporate disclosures and sector-wide developments:
- Legend Internet announced the successful completion of its Series 1 Commercial Paper issuance.
- Jaiz Bank disclosed the appointment of Tukur Galadima as Chief Compliance Officer.
- Transcorp Hotels named Dr. (Mrs) Awele Vivien Elumelu as Chair of the company.
- First HoldCo announced the purchase of N14.8 billion worth of shares by Calvados Global Services Limited, a company related to Mr. Olufemi Otedola.
Market outlook
The All-Share Index is edging closer to a potential return to the 155,000-point level, as sustained bullish momentum has lifted the index above the 152,000-threshold.
If buying interest broadens across more equities, the market could push beyond this level, with attention shifting to possible new highs above 155,000 points.
NIGERIA NEWS
“I’ll quit politics after my tenure”
The Abia State governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has said he will retire from active politics after completing his current tenure.
No Ambition for Higher Office
Speaking on Friday at the Government House, Umuahia, Otti emphasized that he has no plans to contest for the presidency, vice-presidency, or senatorial seat after his governorship.
Reacting to Viral Video
The governor made the statement in response to a viral video in which an individual criticized his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, alleging that Otti might be harboring ambitions for higher political office.
Respecting Opinions, But Clarifying Position
Addressing the issue, Otti acknowledged that democracy allows for diverse opinions, but stressed that having a different view does not automatically make one correct.
“In the first place, that is the beauty of democracy. So people should hold their opinions, and we respect people’s opinions. And the fact that you hold a different opinion does not mean you are right,” the governor said.
No Presidential or Senatorial Ambitions
Otti reiterated his commitment to step down after his tenure, stressing that he has no interest in running for any other political office.
“One of the things he talked about was my ambition after being governor, and I have said it before, and I want to say it again, that by the time I am done with governorship, I will retire. So I do not have presidential ambition, nor vice-presidential ambition. I also do not have senatorial ambition when I finish with the governorship,” Otti added.
Mission-Driven Leadership
The governor explained that his focus is on delivering his mission as governor and leaving space for younger leaders to take over.
“I came on a mission, and when I deliver that mission, I will give way for younger people. So he was talking of the Igbo presidency. I do not even understand what that means. So I think if his thesis is based on that assumption, the assumption has collapsed, because he will not see me on the ballot,” the governor stated.
NIGERIA NEWS
NBA misleading public on vehicle tinted glass permit policy, Police insist
- Knock association over claim policy is revenue-driven initiative
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Friday insisted that the motor vehicle tinted glass permit policy is lawful and meant to safeguard the public.
NPF described moves by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, concerning the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy as misleading.
The police authority said the regulation of vehicle tinted glass is not a discretionary or arbitrary policy as erroneously put by the President of NBA.
NPF said it is firmly grounded in law, adding that the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, Laws of the Federation (LFN), 2004 is an Act of the National Assembly and not a military decree as misrepresented by the President of NBA.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Section 2(3)(a) of the Act vests the Inspector-General of Police with statutory authority to issue permits, while Section 1(2) of the same Act requires applicants to establish legitimate security or health-related justification.
Hundeyin said this framework exists primarily to address public safety concerns, particularly the use of obscured vehicles in the commission of crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and other violent crimes.
He said: “It is therefore incorrect and misleading to portray the policy as a revenue-driven initiative. The Nigeria Police Force is not a revenue-generating organization. Nonetheless, the Force is empowered by law to receive funds that accrue incidentally in the discharge of its statutory functions. Section 26(1)(f) of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended) expressly recognizes this authority. This legal position is neither novel nor controversial.
“The Nigeria Police Force has observed recent public commentary attributed to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, concerning the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy. In the overriding interest of public order, institutional clarity, and national security, the Force finds it necessary to place the facts on record, correct material misrepresentations, and reaffirm its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, public safety, and judicial authority.
“At all times, the Nigeria Police Force remains a law-abiding institution operating strictly within the framework of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extant statutes, and valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction. Under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, the Force has neither acted nor intends to act in contempt of court. Respect for the judiciary and adherence to due process remain non-negotiable pillars of police governance and command responsibility.
“In balancing accessibility for legitimate applicants with the imperatives of national security and operational sustainability, the Federal Government approved the Police Specialized Services Automation Project, which received due approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in July 2022. The project is implemented under a lawful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement authorised by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Act, with the Nigeria Police Force partnering a licensed Information Technology infrastructure provider.
“Under this automated framework, applications for tinted glass permits are processed online, subjected to security vetting, and approved strictly in accordance with law. Administrative fees paid by applicants are applied solely towards sustaining the technology infrastructure, data security systems, and workflow architecture supporting the process. They do not constitute revenue generation by the Nigeria Police Force”.
Hundeyin said the allegation by Osigwe, that payments are made into a “private account” operated by Parkway Projects is entirely false and betrays either a lack of understanding of payment processing systems or outright mischief calculated to mislead members of the public.
“Parkway Projects Limited is a Central Bank of Nigeria-licensed Payment Services Provider, engaged by the Federal Government as a payment collection channel for the Vehicle Tint Permit Project, in the same manner as platforms such as Remita. The reference number cited as bank account number of Parkway Projects by the President of NBA is not a bank account but a unique transaction identifier, used for reconciliation and settlement into designated government channels.
“While some motorists may desire tinted glass for privacy, aesthetics, or protection from sunlight, the indiscriminate use of heavily tinted vehicles has demonstrably undermined traffic surveillance, facilitated criminal concealment, and impeded intelligence led policing. The enhanced Tint Permit System was therefore introduced to standardise applications nationwide, improve vetting, and integrate security innovations, previously absent from the process while eliminating bottlenecks and tendencies for extortion associated with the previous process. This is part of a series of innovations recently introduced to modernise policing in Nigeria under the current Inspector-General of Police.
“The Nigeria Police Force recalls that enforcement of the policy was earlier voluntarily suspended following engagements with the NBA leadership and in response to public appeals. This decision was an exercise of institutional restraint and goodwill, not the result of any judicial restraint. The Force remains fully cognisant of pending matters before the courts, including Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025, in which judgment has been reserved, and will not take any step capable of pre-empting or undermining judicial outcomes.
“The recent communication regarding enforcement was intended to provide advance public notice on operational planning, subject always to compliance with subsisting court directives and further guidance from the courts. Where any aspect of such communication is capable of misinterpretation, the Nigeria Police Force is open to constructive engagement to ensure clarity, harmony, and strict adherence to the law. That notwithstanding, the Nigeria Police Force will not expend valuable time responding to ignorant and mischievous claims especially by persons who have chosen to use malicious attacks on the Police as a launch pad to limelight and fame under the guise of being a defender of the masses,” he added.
The police said for the avoidance of doubt, no court has issued a restraining order against the Nigeria Police Force on the matter.
He said the application for interim injunction was outrightly refused by the Federal High Court sitting in Warri and that earlier suspension of enforcement was a voluntary act of courtesy to stakeholder engagement.
Hundeyin said in the face of Nigeria’s current security realities, many of which are exacerbated by the abuse of tinted vehicles, the Force cannot abdicate its constitutional responsibility.
He said: “It must also be noted that only a small percentage of motorists utilise tinted glass. No responsible police institution will allow the security of the overwhelming majority of Nigerians to be jeopardised in order to protect the narrow interests of a few, whether elitist or criminal, under the guise of public advocacy.
“Notwithstanding the foregoing, enforcement, where lawfully undertaken, will be professional, measured, and rights-compliant. The Inspector-General of Police reiterates that extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority by any police officer will not be tolerated. Officers found culpable will face severe disciplinary sanctions. However, Individual misconduct must not be weaponised to malign the Nigeria Police Force as an institution.
“While the Nigeria Police Force recognises the Nigerian Bar Association as a vital stakeholder in Nigeria’s justice system, public narratives that suggest institutional lawlessness or bad faith are neither accurate nor helpful. The Force will not continue to engage publicly with individuals who misuse respected platforms like the Nigerian Bar Association to pursue personal agendas or erode public confidence in lawful authority.
“The Force is also aware, through media reports, that Olukunle Edun, SAN, whose earlier actions were unsuccessful, has allegedly instituted a fresh suit at the High Court of Delta State, Orerokpe Division, despite the pendency of Suit Nos: FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025 and FHC/WR/CS/103/2025. The Nigeria Police Force has not been served with any processes in respect of this alleged action. Upon service, the Force will review the same with its legal advisers and take all lawful steps available to it.
NIGERIA NEWS
Tinubu to inaugurate developmental projects in Maiduguri – Presidency
President Bola Tinubu will on Saturday visit Borno to inaugurate key development projects and attend a high-profile wedding ceremony in Maiduguri.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit is part of the President’s engagement across selected states during the yuletide period.
While in Maiduguri, Tinubu is expected to inaugurate projects in the aviation, transport and education sectors executed by the Borno State Government and the Federal Government.
According to the president’s itinerary, he will inaugurate new aviation facilities at the Maiduguri International Airport, including an extension and a VIP wing, aimed at boosting air transport operations in the state.
The development is expected to further strengthen aviation services in the Northeast, amid improving security conditions in the region.
The president will then proceed to Ramat Square, where he will inaugurate newly procured tricycles to enhance urban transportation and support livelihood empowerment.
As part of efforts to expand access to education, Tinubu will inaugurate a newly constructed primary and secondary school in Maiduguri, named in his honour.
The project is part of the state government’s broader drive to improve educational infrastructure and enrolment.
Tinubu will later attend the Nikkah and wedding ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno State Governor Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff, and Hadiza Kam Salem.
After concluding his engagements in Maiduguri, the president will depart for Bauchi State to condole with the state government and the family of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi.
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, a renowned Islamic cleric and leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood, died on Nov. 27.
Tinubu will thereafter proceed to Lagos, where he is expected to spend the end-of-year holidays. (NAN)
The post Tinubu to inaugurate developmental projects in Maiduguri – Presidency appeared first on Vanguard News.
NIGERIA NEWS
UI professor, ex-REC Abdulganiy Raji, dies
The University of Ibadan (UI) community and Nigeria’s electoral circle were on Friday thrown into mourning following the death of Professor Abdulganiy Raji, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State.
A respected academic at the University of Ibadan and an indigene of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Raji died on Friday, according to an official statement issued by the University of Ibadan Muslim Community (UIMC).
Raji, a professor of agricultural and environmental engineering at the premier university, was the former resident electoral commissioner in Ekiti, Ogun and Osun states.
Until his death, the late professor was regarded as a strong pillar of the UI Muslim community, where he was actively involved in religious, academic and welfare activities.
Announcing the death, the UIMC, under the directive of the Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, described Raji’s passing as a painful loss to the community.
The statement read in part: “Inna lillahi wa inna illaehi raajiuun. With a heart full of sadness but total submission to the will of Allah, I am directed by the Chief Imam to announce the demise of a strong pillar of this community, Prof. Abdulganiy Raji.”
The statement further disclosed that the deceased would be buried on Saturday at his hometown, Ogbomoso, in accordance with Islamic rites.
“His janazah will take place at Ogbomoso tomorrow. The UIMC team will depart the campus by 6.30 am on Saturday, in shaa Allah. May Allah grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. Aamin,” it added.
Professor Raji was widely known for his intellectual depth and commitment to public service.
As a former REC, he played a notable role in the administration of elections, earning commendation for professionalism, integrity and adherence to due process during his tenure.
Within the University of Ibadan, Raji was regarded as a seasoned scholar who contributed significantly to teaching, research and the mentorship of students, many of whom have since distinguished themselves in academia and public service.
Colleagues described him as humble, principled and deeply committed to the advancement of knowledge and moral values, while members of the Muslim community remembered him as a dependable supporter of religious programmes and welfare initiatives.
Since the announcement of his death, tributes have continued to pour in from academics, former electoral officials, students and community leaders, all lamenting the loss of a man widely seen as a bridge between scholarship, faith and public service.
His death is considered a major loss to the University of Ibadan, the Muslim community, and Ogbomoso in particular, where he was regarded as an ambassador of intellectual excellence and integrity.
The late professor is survived by family members, colleagues and numerous protégés across the academic and public service sectors.
