Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has ended a nine-year blackout in Ukwa West Local Government Area by restoring electricity to 33 communities.

Community response and future plans

The Power Restoration Project was carried out by the Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ASOPADEC), under the supervision of the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, fulfilling a promise Otti made in March 2025.

During the official switch-on ceremony at Central Primary School in Obehie, the governor, accompanied by his cabinet members aboard the newly launched Abia Green Shuttle EV bus, called on residents to protect the electricity infrastructure.

“I believe that we have a responsibility to protect what is in our community. Nobody can do it better than you. And those thieves do not come from heaven. They are all part and parcel of the community,” Otti said.

Project details and infrastructure upgrades

Addressing concerns about the affordability of electricity bills, Otti instructed stakeholders to meet and devise ways to support residents who might struggle with payments.

The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, highlighted the technical aspects of the project, including the rehabilitation of 30 transformer distribution substations, installation of 12 new transformers, and restoration of 37.5 kilometres of high- and low-tension lines.

Aba Power Limited CEO, Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji, assured residents of continuous power supply, noting that electricity would now be generated outside the national grid.

The event was attended by the Chief of Staff, several commissioners, and former government officials, marking a major milestone in Abia’s development agenda.

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Wale Igbintade

A youth advocate and social critic, Nwabueze Onwuneme, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure an unhindered, transparent, and comprehensive investigation into allegations of massive corruption in Nigeria’s oil industry raised by billionaire industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.

Onwuneme made the call while reacting to the confirmation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of its readiness to investigate a petition submitted by Dangote against the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed.

The activist described the allegations as a critical opportunity for the federal government to confront what he termed “deep-seated and long-standing corruption” in the oil sector, warning that failure to act decisively could attract international attention.

According to Onwuneme, President Tinubu must treat the allegations with the seriousness they deserve, given the strategic importance of the oil industry to Nigeria’s economy and the credibility of the petitioner.

“Dangote should be taken seriously because he is not known to be flippant. As a major player in the sector, he understands how the industry works and what obtains there,” he said.

Dangote, Africa’s richest man and Chairman of the Dangote Group, had on December 16, 2025, submitted a petition to the ICPC through his lawyer, Chief James Onoja, SAN, accusing Farouk Ahmed of corrupt enrichment, abuse of office, and impunity.

In the petition, Dangote specifically alleged that Ahmed diverted over $7 million in public funds, which he purportedly used to finance the overseas education of his four teenage children in named foreign institutions.

Following the petition and the ICPC’s confirmation that it was set to investigate the allegations, Ahmed resigned on Wednesday from his position as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NMDPRA.

In a related development, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, also resigned his appointment, further deepening the fallout from the unfolding scandal.

Reacting to the resignations, Onwuneme welcomed the development, describing it as a necessary step to ensure that investigations are conducted without interference.

“The resignation of the heads of the downstream, midstream, and upstream regulatory bodies should aid a thorough and credible investigation into these grave allegations of corruption,” he said.

He added that corruption across Nigeria’s oil industry had become an “open secret,” spanning the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors, and warned that the country could no longer afford to ignore such allegations.

“The issue of high-level corruption in the oil sector is so central to Nigeria’s economic survival that President Tinubu cannot afford to treat this matter lightly. The stakes are simply too high,” Onwuneme said.

The youth advocate also issued a stern warning, threatening to escalate the matter beyond Nigeria if the federal government fails to act within a reasonable time frame.

“If the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government fails to conduct a satisfactory investigation and take appropriate action, I will personally report this matter to the United Kingdom Parliament for greater global attention,” he said.

Onwuneme commended Dangote for what he described as a patriotic intervention, noting that corruption in the oil regulatory agencies affects not only government revenues but also the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“Dangote’s action is patriotic. Corruption in this critical sector undermines the very foundation of our economy and affects every Nigerian, directly or indirectly,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has accepted the resignations of both Ahmed and Komolafe. 

The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development, stating that the President had already forwarded the names of proposed replacements to the Senate for confirmation.

According to Onanuga, the President has nominated Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, while Engineer Aliyu Mohammed has been proposed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

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The Federal Government has fulfilled its housing and land pledges to Super Eagles players for their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had confirmed that players received certificates for the allocated plots of land and housing units promised by President Bola Tinubu.

Similarly, Promise Efoghe, the Media Officer of the Super Eagles told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  that the documents were presented to the players at the team’s camp in Fes, Morocco, on Monday.

Nigeria finished second at the tournament, played in 2024, after a 2–1 defeat to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.

On their return, Tinubu hosted the team at the Presidential Villa and conferred the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each squad member.

The president also approved a plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory and a flat for every player in recognition of their performance.

NAN also reports that certificates were also presented to the players as instruments of conferment of OON by Sen. Abdul Ningi, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi.

Speaking at the presentation, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, said the gesture underscored the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to Nigerian sports.

Gusau said, “The president graciously promised houses and lands, as well as national honours, and today those promises are being fulfilled.

“There was no reason to begin another AFCON campaign without honouring that pledge. This shows seriousness and respect for the players.”

He expressed confidence in the team’s prospects at the tournament in Morocco.

“We have prepared with the clear objective of winning the trophy. Success here will lift the spirits of Nigerians everywhere,” he said.

Gusau added that the federation maintained high standards in travel, accommodation and logistics despite global economic challenges.

“It has not been easy, but the players deserve comfort and respect. We must always find ways to support them,” Gusau added.

He expressed confidence in the technical crew and players to make the nation proud.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), said government resolved to deliver all promises before the tournament began.

“It was a firm decision of government that every promise must be fulfilled before our first AFCON match,” Dikko said.

He recalled delays in fulfilling similar promises in the past.

“Previously, such pledges took nearly 20 years. This time, we acted promptly to show a new trajectory for Nigerian sports,” he said.

Dikko described the development as a reflection of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“Whatever President Bola Tinubu promises, he delivers on time. This is about trust, motivation and shared prosperity,” he added.

Nigeria will face Tanzania in their opening Group C match on Tuesday at Complexe Sportif de Fès stadium, Fez city, Morocco from 5:30 p.m.

The Super Eagles arrived in Fez on Dec. 18 aboard a chartered flight from their final training camp in Cairo.

Nigeria will also face Tunisia on Saturday and Uganda on Dec. 30, as they seek a fourth continental title. (NAN)

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The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has dismissed claims that Nigerians’ bank accounts will be frozen or automatically debited from January 2026, describing the reports as false and misleading.

Oyedele made the clarification in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, saying there is no provision in the new tax and financial reform laws that authorises the freezing of bank accounts.

He wrote, “Don’t let anyone manipulate you. Your bank account is safe.

“Misinformation makes you panic and fear a reform that is designed to help you. When they tell you that your account will be frozen or automatically debited from January 2026, ask them for the evidence in the new law.”

Recall Vanguard reported earlier that Oyedele also dismissed fears that the government plans to deduct money directly from bank accounts, insisting that such claims are “false, dangerous and capable of destabilising the economy.”

Speaking during a media workshop on the new consolidated tax law on December 13, Oyedele said the warnings trending on social media were based on ignorance and deliberate misinformation.

“Let me say this clearly: nobody — not FIRS, not CBN, not any government agency — has the power to debit your bank account,” he declared. “Whether you have ¦ 50,000 or ¦ 50 million, nobody is taking any money from your account. It is simply not true,” he said.

The post Tax reforms: No plan to freeze or debit bank accounts in 2026, Oyedele clarifies appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Iconic Nigerian Afrobeats singer, Ahmed Ololadelisten, known professionally as Asake has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a young woman who reportedly lost her life in a stampede during his concert in Nairobi, Kenya.

Taking to his Instagram page, the award-winning artist described the incident as devastating, noting that it occurred at a festival on December 20 in the Kenyan capital. Asake said he was heartbroken by the tragic turn of events at a show meant to spread joy through music.

“I am devastated by the tragic incident that took place at the festival on Dec 20th in Nairobi,” he wrote.

The singer extended his condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased identified as Karen Lojore, while pledging to support efforts to uncover what led to the incident.

“My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore, and I pledge to support and do my best to understand what happened,” Asake said.

He also stressed the need for accountability, stating that those responsible for the tragedy should be held to account.

According to Asake, music has always been his way of spreading love and happiness, making the loss even more painful.

“Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss,” the statement read.

Asake concluded his message by offering prayers for the bereaved family and the country, adding, “My thoughts are with everyone grieving, and I pray that Karen rests in peace. God bless Kenya.”

The incident has sparked conversations around crowd control and safety measures at large-scale entertainment events.

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Ahead of this year’s Christmas celebration, security operatives in Kaduna have intensified patrols along the Kaduna-Abuja Highway and other major roads in Kaduna metropolis.

The state police command explained that the action of the security operatives is a result of the directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetekun.

In a statement, the police spokesman in the state, DSP Mansir Hassan, said, “Proactive security measures have been put in place, sequel to the directives of Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to ensure a hitch-free festive season”.

Subsequently, he said, “The Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, CP Rabiu Muhammad, alongside all Tactical Commanders under the Command, conducted a joint anti-crime patrol and monitored the Kaduna–Abuja Highway to ensure safety and security of all commuters flying the road on a 24-hour basis.”

Hassan explained, “The patrol exercise was carried out in collaboration with the Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, reinforcing inter-command cooperation and strengthening security along the major transit corridor to the northern region.”

“The operation also covered all border areas between Kaduna State and the Federal Capital Territory, aimed at deterring criminal activities, boosting visibility policing and reassuring the commuters flying the road and members of the public that adequate security has been provided before, during and after the festive season”, he added.

He further stated, “The commissioner of police emphasised that the command remains committed and resolute in safeguarding the commuters, residents and travellers. He also assured the public that patrols and surveillance will be sustained throughout the festive season and beyond the yuletide to prevent any form of criminal activity.”

“The commissioner of police further applauded the military for their immense contribution and the other security agencies for their role in policing the highway.”

He said the commissioner also admonished those who continually mislead the public on social media about negative publicity regarding the road, saying it is this and that, to desist; otherwise, they will face the full wrath of the law.

“The commissioner solicits the cooperation of the members of the public to achieve success,” he added.
In other news, troops have arrested two persons for impersonating the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, at Utesi in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The Director Defence Media Operations (DMO), Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, who disclosed this in a statement, said the arrest was made on December 11, 2025, following intelligence reports.

Onoja said that the suspects are in military custody, undergoing investigation before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.

The statement gave an update on military operations across all theatres in the past week.
It said troops foiled an oil theft worth over N15 million in the South-South. The breakdown indicates 6,52000 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,510 litres of AGO and 2,015 litres of PMS, while three illegal refining sites were discovered and destroyed.

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As part of proactive security measures put in place Kaduna police under the leadership of the state police commissioner, Rabiu Muhammad will conduct a joint anti crime patrol along the Kaduna–Abuja Highway to ensure safety and security of all commuters flying the road on 24 hours basis.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer ( PPRO) DSP Mansir Hassan and made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday.

The statement therefore directed,” all Tactical Commanders under the Command to conduct joint anti-rime patrol and monitoring the Kaduna–Abuja Highway to ensure safety and security of all commuters flying the road on 24 hours basis.

ALSO READ: Nigerians will resist new taxes without transparency — Aborisade

It said the patrol exercise will be carried out in collaboration with the Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, reinforcing inter-command cooperation and strengthening security along the major transit corridor to the northern region.

“The operation also covered all border areas between Kaduna and the Federal Capital Territory, aimed at deterring criminal activities, boosting visibility policing and reassuring the commuters flying the road and members of the public that adequate security has been provided before during and after the festive season.

“The Commissioner of Police emphasized that, the Command remains committed and resolute in safeguarding the commuters, residents and travelers.

“He also assured the public that, patrols and surveillance will be sustained throughout the festive season and beyond the yuletide to prevent any form of criminal activity, he further applauded the military for their immense contribution and other security agencies in policing the highway.

“The commissioner also admonished those who always mislead the public on social media about negative publicity that the road is this and that to desist otherwise they will face the full wrath of the law. and Commissioner solicits the cooperation of the members public to achieve success.”

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The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OSE on Monday, December 22, 2025, rescued 20 crew members from the Motor Vessel (MV) Chimba Express following a fire incident along the Calabar Channel.

NNS OSE, which was on routine patrol, responded to a distress call at about 1:00 p.m. from the vessel, which was en route from Gabon to Calabar carrying scrap materials and other logistics.

Speaking on behalf of the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander K.K. Ahunanya, reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to ensuring the safety of seafarers and maritime assets, in line with the mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff.

The vessel was reportedly crewed by 21 persons, comprising 14 Nigerians and seven Cameroonians.

Upon arrival at the scene, thick smoke was observed billowing from the vessel, prompting immediate rescue operations. Crew members who had abandoned the ship, as well as those stranded on deck, were rescued using life buoys.

A total of 20 crew members were successfully rescued and administered first aid, according to the report.

However, the Chief Engineer reportedly jumped overboard due to fear of an explosion and remains missing as of the time of filing this report. Search and rescue operations are ongoing.

Personnel from Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA, Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat, and local fishermen supported the rescue effort.

NNS OSE also deployed portable pumps to combat the fire, which affected the midship and aft sections of the vessel.

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The immediate past Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Barrister Alphonsus Eba, has been expelled from the party.

The decision was taken by the APC Cross River State Caretaker Committee during a meeting held at the party’s secretariat in Calabar.

The committee, led by Mr. Ekum Ojogu, announced the expulsion of Eba after invoking Article 21.5(v) of the APC Constitution (as amended in 2022).

Ojogu explained that the provision mandates the automatic expulsion of any party member who institutes legal action against the party without first exhausting internal dispute resolution mechanisms.

“He was expelled in line with the constitution of the party,” Ojogu said.

The Caretaker Committee also upheld the suspension of the State Special Leader, Dr. Juliet Diwa, following deliberations on a petition from the Boki Local Government Area.

Diwa was accused of gross misconduct at the ward level, including the alleged assault of the Ward Chairman, Mr. James Abang. After reviewing the allegations, the committee resolved to uphold her suspension pending the outcome of the party’s disciplinary committee.

It will be recalled that Alphonsus Eba was earlier impeached as state chairman after some party members accused him of misconduct, including allegations of withholding the salaries of some party stakeholders.

The Caretaker Committee reaffirmed its commitment to party discipline, internal democracy, and strict adherence to the APC Constitution, stressing that no member is above the rules of the party.

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The Kano State Police Command has arrested a notorious armed robbery suspect, Abba Aliyu, popularly known as Abba Fiya, following a distress call over an armed robbery incident in Hausawa Quarters of the state.

According to a press release issued by the Command on Monday, the suspect was arrested on December 21 by operatives of the Anti-Daba Unit while responding to a report of an armed robbery in the area.

“In line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police on prompt response to distress calls, operatives of the Anti-Daba Unit swiftly responded to a report of an armed robbery at Hausawa Quarters and arrested the suspect,” the Police said.

The suspect, a 26-year-old resident of Dala Quarters, was arrested on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori. A sharp knife was recovered from him at the point of arrest.

The Police disclosed that the suspect confessed to involvement in several armed robberies and violent daba rivalry clashes within Kano metropolis.

“The suspect confessed to conducting several armed robberies and rivalry daba fights in areas such as Gobirawa Gangare, Dala and Tudun Fulani Mayanka Quarters,” the statement said.

The Command further revealed that discreet investigations uncovered the suspect’s alleged involvement in violent crimes beyond Kano State.

“On discreet investigation, the suspect further confessed to a series of armed robberies resulting in deaths, causing injuries and robbing of properties in Kano, Rivers and Lagos States,” the Police added.

The Police said investigation is ongoing and assured that the suspect would be prosecuted accordingly.

“Investigation is in progress, and the case will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation,” the statement noted.

Commending the officers involved in the arrest, the Commissioner of Police called on members of the public to continue to support the Police by providing timely and useful information.

“The Commissioner of Police appreciates the officers for the notable arrest made and urges members of the public to continue to cooperate with the Police by reporting any suspicious movement or activity,” the Command said.

Residents were also advised to report emergencies through the Command’s emergency lines or via the Nigeria Police Force “Rescue Me” application as part of efforts to enhance security across the state.

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• A Nigerian woman has accused an inDrive driver of absconding with a package containing highly expensive cameras after she used the ride-hailing platform for delivery.
• She said all attempts to reach the driver have failed, as his phone lines are now unreachable.

A Nigerian woman is publicly calling out ride-hailing and delivery service inDrive after one of their drivers allegedly absconded with a package containing “extremely expensive” cameras.

The distraught lady shared her ordeal on social media, explaining that she used the inDrive platform to send the valuable items to a friend.

According to her account, she entrusted the inDrive driver with the cameras for delivery. However, soon after the driver picked up the package, communication ceased.

“I Ordered inDrive And Gave The Driver Some Cameras To Deliver To My Friend, But The Driver Absconded With Them. The Cameras Are Extremely Expensive. I Have Been Trying To Reach The Driver, But His Lines Are No Longer Available,” she wrote in her distress call.

The woman highlighted that the driver’s contact lines have since become unreachable, leaving her with no way to recover her valuable equipment.

“I Ordered inDrive And Gave The Driver Some Cameras To Deliver To My Friend, But The Driver Absconded With Them. The Cameras Are Extremely Expensive. I Have Been Trying To Reach The Driver, But His Lines Are No Longer Available,”- Lady Calls Out inDrive. pic.twitter.com/36ooFesR5H

— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) December 23, 2025

In other news…. ontroversial musician and social media personality Speed Darlington has ignited a fresh debate online after opening up about his unconventional approach to romance and his refusal to practice monogamy.

At 41, the entertainer confessed that he has never experienced true love, despite currently maintaining relationships with multiple women.

Speaking on his current dating life, Darlington revealed his “strength in numbers” approach to relationships. “I’m 41 years now, I’ve never fallen in love, I’m talking to 6 different girls now, you can’t be the only one,” he stated. He further disclosed that a previous marriage plan collapsed when he was honest about his desire for multiple partners: “I almost got married to one but she left me because I told her I’m polygamous in nature”.

Following that experience, Darlington shared controversial advice he received from his brother regarding how to manage future partners:

“He said I should just bring them in, get them pregnant and then I can tell them afterwards”.

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Amnesty International Nigeria has raised concerns over the safety and freedom of Okechukwu Nwanguma, a human rights advocate and executive director of RULAAC, following threats linked to his efforts to expose alleged abuses at the Tiger Base police detention centre.

In a statement, Amnesty noted that Nonso Nkwa, an independent radio broadcaster and activist based in Owerri, is also facing similar threats for reporting on alleged human rights violations at the facility.

The rights group warned that these threats put both men’s safety and security at serious risk.

Amnesty described Nwanguma and Nkwa as “courageous human rights defenders fighting for justice and accountability,” stressing that targeting them for exposing alleged abuses is unacceptable.

The organisation called for a thorough investigation into the ongoing pattern of harassment and intimidation against human rights defenders, whistleblowers, and journalists.

It added that individuals who speak out against human rights violations, systemic corruption, or express dissenting views continue to face threats, harassment, and, in some cases, detention in Nigeria.

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The United States (US) government has announced a Christmas incentive programme offering illegal immigrants up to $3,000 to voluntarily leave the country, warning that those who fail to take advantage of the offer risk arrest and permanent deportation.

In a statement released on Monday, December 22, by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the US said illegal immigrants who enrol in the programme before the end of the year would receive a cash stipend alongside free flight tickets to their home countries.

According to the DHS, the initiative is being implemented through the CBP Home mobile application, which allows undocumented immigrants to register for voluntary departure.

The department stated, “Illegal aliens who sign up to self-deport through the CBP Home app by the end of the year will receive a $3,000 stipend in addition to a free flight home.”

The statement added that participants would also enjoy additional benefits, including the forgiveness of civil fines or penalties for overstaying or failing to leave the country earlier.

“Using the CBP Home app also qualifies recipients for forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties for failing to depart the country,” the DHS said.

The US government revealed that voluntary departures had increased significantly since the beginning of the year.

“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home programme,” the statement noted.

‘Take This Gift Or Face Arrest’

Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, described the initiative as a seasonal goodwill gesture, noting that the incentive had been tripled during the Christmas period.

“During the Christmas season, the US taxpayer is so generously tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally — offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,” Noem said.

She, however, issued a stern warning to those considering staying back.

“Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return,” she added.

Naija News reports that the DHS assured interested immigrants that the process would be seamless, urging them to download the app and submit their details.

“Self-deportation through the CBP Home app is the best gift that an illegal alien can give themselves and their families this holiday season,” the department said.

“It’s a fast, free, and easy process: Just download the app, fill out your information, and DHS will take care of the rest — including arranging and paying for your travel back home.”

The department reiterated that illegal immigrants who ignore the offer would face strict consequences.

“Those illegal aliens who don’t take advantage of this special offer today have only one alternative: They will be arrested, deported, and they will never be able to return to the United States,” the DHS warned.

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A leading People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Amb. Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has commenced the distribution of over one thousand bags of rice across the state’s 33 Local Government Areas, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots welfare and people-centred politics.

Ajadi announced the commencement of the distribution while addressing party stakeholders and community leaders during ongoing consultations across Oyo State.

He said the initiative is designed to cushion the impact of economic hardship on party members and vulnerable residents amid rising living costs.

According to him, the rice distribution cuts across all Local Government Areas and is not intended as a political gimmick, but rather a continuation of his long-standing tradition of social support, inclusive engagement and responsiveness to grassroots needs.

“Leadership is about feeling the pulse of the people and responding to their needs, not only during elections but at all times.

“This rice is being distributed across all local governments to ensure fairness, inclusiveness and unity within our party and communities,” Ajadi said.

He explained that beneficiaries are being drawn from PDP structures at the ward and local government levels, as well as vulnerable groups identified by community leaders, stressing that transparency, equity and accountability would guide the distribution process.

Ajadi further stated that food security, social welfare and economic empowerment remain core components of his policy agenda.

“When government works for the people, hunger reduces, hope is restored and trust in leadership grows. Our vision for Oyo State is anchored on people-oriented governance that prioritises welfare, security and sustainable development,” he added.

Strengthening Grassroots Ties
The rice distribution comes amid Ajadi’s intensified consultations across Oyo State, where he has been engaging party executives, ward chairmen, Local Government officials, traditional rulers and youth groups as part of efforts to complement the good governance agenda of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Political observers say the intervention further strengthens Ajadi’s grassroots presence, particularly within the PDP’s core structures across the 33 local governments of the state.

A PDP chieftain in Ibadan, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the initiative as “timely and thoughtful,” noting that it reflects a practical understanding of the prevailing socio-economic challenges faced by party members and ordinary citizens.

Ajadi’s Political Profile
Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo is a businessman, philanthropist and seasoned political actor with deep roots in Oyo State politics.

“Over the years, he has built a reputation for grassroots mobilisation, youth empowerment and consistent engagement with party faithful across the state.

As a PDP gubernatorial aspirant, Ajadi has positioned himself as a continuity-driven but people-focused political figure, pledging to build on existing development efforts while introducing policies aimed at expanding economic opportunities, strengthening local government administration and improving social infrastructure.

He has repeatedly called for unity within the PDP, urging members to place collective interest above personal ambition as the party prepares for the 2027 governorship election.

“Our strength as a party lies in unity, sincerity of purpose and our ability to present a candidate who truly understands the aspirations of the people,” Ajadi said.

Supporters believe the ongoing rice distribution further reinforces Ajadi’s image as a grassroots politician committed to translating promises into action as Oyo State steadily moves toward the 2027 elections.

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December 23, 2025December 23, 2025

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From John Silas

Simba TVS, the pioneer of the Queen Riders Programme Nigeria’s largest women-focused automobile empowerment initiative, has strengthened its partnership with the Consumer Credit Corporation of Nigeria (CREDICORP) and Gamma Mobility in support of the Federal Government-led Mobility Programme aimed at economically empowering 10,000 women nationwide.

The collaboration was officially launched in the Federal Capital Territory, where CREDICORP, in partnership with Gamma Mobility, Sub-city handed over a fleet of “TVS King Deluxe Plus” Tricycles (popularly known as Keke), alongside certificates of proficiency, to women trained by Simba TVS as professional riders under the Queen Riders initiative.

The Programme is designed to expand access to consumer credit while accelerating women’s participation in Nigeria’s commercial transport sector.

Speaking on the initiative, Simba TVS management emphasised that the company intentionally prioritises women due to their critical role as drivers of economic growth. The Queen Riders Programme was described as a transformative initiative that empowers women through comprehensive tricycle riding training, technical capacity building and entrepreneurship support.

“At Simba TVS, women’s empowerment means access to skills, reliable tools and real opportunities platform to express independence, confidence and dignity. These TVS Tricycles are not just vehicles, they are income-generating assets that will enable women build sustainable businesses, earn steady livelihoods and support their families.

“We are proud to lead the Queen Riders Programme alongside partners who share our commitment to inclusive growth.”

The management further reaffirmed that the Queen Riders initiative represents a broader societal movement that challenges long-standing barriers limiting women’s participation in the transportation sector.

Simba TVS reiterated its long-term commitment to ensuring that the programme continues to open pathways for women in traditionally male-dominated industries, noting that inclusive economic participation is critical to national development.

Also speaking at the event, CREDICORP Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba, highlighted the long-standing relationship between CREDICORP and Simba TVS, noting that the partnership has been built on trust, shared values and a commitment to delivering practical mobility solutions.

He revealed that the CREDICORP leadership has undertaken several visits to the Simba TVS assembly plant in Lagos which, according to him, reinforced confidence in the company’s manufacturing standards, local capacity and long-term commitment to Nigeria’s mobility and industrial development.

Nwagba explained that the initiative deliberately integrates consumer credit, asset provision, professional training and structured business support, adding that Gamma Mobility plays a critical role in programme execution and operational support, ensuring that beneficiaries are well-positioned for long-term success.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to Simba TVS, CREDICORP and Gamma Mobility, with one participant stating that the initiative gave her the confidence to pursue a livelihood she once believed was unattainable. She noted that the training and support received equipped her with essential riding and basic maintenance skills, enabling her to contribute meaningfully to her household income.

The Queen Riders Programme is a Simba TVS women-focused empowerment initiative that provides training, certification and access to tricycles for women from under-represented backgrounds, unlocking pathways to financial independence and economic resilience.

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