A Nigerian lady has stirred controversy after she criticized the role of churches in the country, claiming that religious institutions only benefit pastors and their families.

In a viral video, the woman stated that despite years of attending church and contributing financially, she has seen no tangible benefit.

Lady.

According to her, only the pastors and their families benefits from churches.

She accused churches of hoarding wealth while many Nigerians struggle, alleging that religious institutions have become profit-driven rather than spiritual.

The woman further argued that religion, especially Christianity as practiced in Nigeria, was introduced by foreigners and has been commercialized over time.

She said …

“Church no benefit me anything. Nobody wey church benefit for this Nigeria. Make I tell you the only people wey church benefit for this Nigeria. You see pastors, their wives, their children, reverend fathers and their families, na them church dey benefit.

Church no benefit me anything. Somebody come my comment section dey say ‘if I like make I go church, if I like make I no go, na me lose’. Aunty wetin I lose? Abi na me dey go church go keep money, dey give money wey I suppose take buy children garri.

Ever since them born me na me dey carry money go dey give for church give money. As Nigeria dey so, na church keep am if not Africa.

Church no dey Nigeria. Na oyibo wey carry am come na dem carry am go back. Na tradition dey now. No be when person comes Church e go drop money, na so dem dey do am for traditional too.

Na church dey keep Nigeria hungry. If you think it’s a lie, go check all the church accounts see the money wey dey there. Na him make all the men in Nigeria dey do everything possible to open church.”

Watch video below …

“For Years, I Have Been Going To Church, But It Hasn’t Benefited Me In Any Way. It’s The Other Way Around. They Get My Money Through Donations, Tithes, And Offerings. In Nigeria, No One Benefits From Going To Church; The Only People Benefiting Are The Pastors, Reverend Fathers,… pic.twitter.com/OcYLyXSE1T

— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) December 24, 2025

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David-ChyddyEleke reports that Presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Keves Global Leasing, Chief Ikenna Okafor, are two brothers from Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State that have embarked on a silent revolution in the educational sector.

Ex-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi and Chief Executive Officer of Keves Global Leasing, Chief Ikenna Okafor, have for sometime  embarked on philanthropic journey. What is heartwarming about it is how seriously they take this task, and how much they are achieving, even though silently, not minding that none of them is currently holding any political office, or running for one.

Early this year, there was a report that Mr Peter Obi had given out over N1.5billion in philanthropy in the previous year (2024). These funds were mostly donated to supporting health education. Mostly to Colleges of Nursing Sciences, Schools of Midwifery and University Teaching Hospitals.

Responding to a journalist’s question about his decision to commit over N1.5billion to humanitarian causes in 2024, during a visit to the Anglican Bishop of Nnewi, Rt. Rev. Ndubisi Obi, Obi stressed that his acts of giving are not about self-promotion but are driven by a genuine concern for humanity.

Obi explained that his philanthropy is motivated by the visible impact of such efforts and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to people’s lives.

He said: “Even before my public life, I have always derived satisfaction from contributing to worthy causes that uplift humanity. For instance, I was in Haiti after the earthquake, where I contributed to its rebuilding. Similarly, even before I became Governor, I had extended help to places in need according to my capacity. When you witness such dedication to humanity, it is impossible not to contribute – not for personal recognition, but for the sake of humanity,” Obi remarked.

When asked if his philanthropy was an attempt to bolster his public image, Obi dismissed the notion, stating that giving back to society is his way of fulfilling not only his moral and spiritual obligations but also his duty to the society that nurtured him. He affirmed his commitment to continuing these efforts as long as God grants him the resources to do so.

This year alone, Obi has criss crossed the length and breadth of Nigeria, visiting over 50 health colleges, donating his hard earned money for the upgrade of facilities in such places. For each of the institutions he visited, he gave between N10million and N20 million each. The interventions are usually either after the management of such colleges complained about funds for generating plants, upgrade of students hostels, accreditation of new courses and so on and so forth.

What is amazing is that he is doing this, not in anticipation of any favour. He openly told management and students of the colleges he visited that he is not seeking any favour from him. He insisted that he stopped his visit during the 2023 election, so that it won’t seem as if he was engaging in such philanthropy for votes to boost his 2023 presidential bid. He only commenced again in 2024 after the election, and what was intriguing was that for some colleges, he issued double cheques, insisting that the first was one he wrote a year ago for the college, but couldn’t make it because of the election the previous year.

Signs that Obi isn’t in the philanthropy for any gains came during a visit to Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ihiala, Anambra State in early November, when the management of the college, announced in excitement after receiving N15million cheque from Obi that it would name its new administrative building after him.

The Administrator of the College, Rev Fr ChidiebereUghaerumba said: “Considering your continued support to us, when the school’s administrative building (a five-floor edifice) is completed, we will name it after you. We thank you for always coming and always donating. You are always interested in helping to build humanity.”

When Obi protested the decision through a strong wave of both hands, Ughaerumba adjusted and went further: “Then we may have to consider naming it after your wife, but we need to appreciate what you have been doing here.”

This time, seeing that the management had made up its mind, Obi seized the microphone and protested the decision, saying it wasn’t right to name a building after him or his family, when he was only working to help humanity within his own conviction.

He said: “I’m against such plans. When I was governor, every community wanted to give me a chieftaincy title, but I rejected. Even the school where I passed through wanted to honour me with a honourary doctorate title. I was also given a national award and I said that would be after being governor. Even local government chairmen wanted to name a street against my name, but I said no. Any day I want to be addressed as doctor, I will go and read for a PhD. Whatever I need, God has always given me, so if there is anything one wants to give me as favour, I suggest you look for anyone who wants it and give it to them. This week alone I have been to five schools, and I have donated between N5million and N15million each. I can use the money I am giving to buy a new car for myself or throw a party, but I think it is better to use it to support you. It is an unpurposeful life for me if I use this money to throw a party, while a school in the somewhere needs just N10 million to buy a generating set.” that is vintage Obi for you.

If you think Obi is doing this because he has ambition to run for office in 2027, then you need to think of another silent revolutionary individual; Obi’s brother from same Anaocha in Anambra who has never held any political office and has no intention to hold one either. He is Chief Ikenna Okafor, a knight of the Catholic Church, a titled Chief from Akwaeze community, with the traditional title of Ide Akwaeze, who is the founder of Idi EzeaniNzekwuabuo Foundation.

Okafor is known for massive philanthropy and has the strong belief that every privileged person should help others to rise. Beyond his philanthropic gestures in other areas of life, his endeavours in helping educational institutions stand out. Like Obi, Okafor believes that education is the bedrock of success, and advocates strongly for good and sound educational sector in Nigeria.

From Port Harcourt in Rivers State where his companies are headquartered to Anambra where he hails, there are visible signatures of Okafor’s works in schools across.

For Chief Okafor, this is a man who is a strong lover of education and believes that his rise in life is as a result of the opportunity offered him because of the education he acquired through the sponsorship of his father. For that reason, Ide Akwaeze has an unspoken vow to not only develop schools in his community, but ensure that children in his community, Akwaeze and other neighbouring communities get the opportunity of not just going to school, but studying in comfortable environment. For this, he has several schools within his community and others which he has adopted, refurbished with state of the art facilities, and also taking up the scholarship of students in the schools.

A good example of this is his adoption of Community High School, Akwaeze. Last year December, Ide Akwaeze handed over a newly built administrative block, classroom blocks, refectory block and kitchen block to the school. As at the time, Idi EzeaniNzekwuabuo Foundation had over 60 students on its scholarship from the same school, just as it has 50 others in a primary school in the community, and 40 in various tertiary institutions across Nigeria, with several others giving testimonies of being graduates through the gesture of the foundation.

During the event: he said: “I’m intentional about what I want to do for this community, and we have started with education, health and agriculture. What my father gave me, which helped my foundation to this day was education. I want to do same for every child born in this community. We started by ensuring the community secondary school is up to date, so far, we spent N650million to donate three buildings and equipping them, and it’s is looking like a university today.

“We have also given scholarships to students of all cadre, and this year we added a medical mission. When we have education, good health and can meet our food needs, I wonder what else we should be asking for. We want to be the big shoulder that people in this community can lean on when they need succour.”

In the previous year, Ide Akwaeze had crossed over to Akpo community in Orumba South LGA, donating a multimillion-naira laboratory and ICT complex to St. Dominic Savio Seminary, Akpo, a faith-based institution. The complex was named Ide Akwaeze Laboratories and ICT Complex and handed over to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia, His Eminence Peter Ebere Cardinal Okpaleke.

His donations are not only to secondary schools, as he has been known to donate to tertiary institutions, countless times.

Ide Akwaeze in 2023 performed the foundation laying ceremony of the UNIZIK Business School (UBS) ultra-modern building providing N100million for the take-off of the building, which has already been completed. He is also a pillar of Peter University, Onne/Achina in Anambra State, which is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Awka.

Like Obi, Ide Akwaeze; a successful businessman, technocrat, and entrepreneur, Managing Director and CEO of Keves Global Leasing Limited, Keves Inn and Suites, and Arthur Services Limited, among others, education is the key to success.

And just as Bishop Jonas-Benson Okoye, the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, said during Obi’s cheque donation to his school; Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing Sciences, Ihiala, what Obi is sowing today in healthcare education will be massive when it germinates in the future. So too did his counterpart, Bishop PaulinusEzeokafor of the Awka Catholic Diocese echo at Akwaeze while receiving four gigantic buildings from Idi EzeaniNzekwuabuo Foundation, saying that the result of Ide Akwaeze’s contributions to education in the community and everywhere else will be massive.

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No fewer than 45,000 eligible voters have been registered as new members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) across four local governments of Taraba State.

A member of the ADC Membership Mobilisation, Revalidation and Registration (MMRR) committee, Hon. Iliya Ezekiel, who disclosed this in a telephone interview in Jalingo, said the feat was a major boost for the party in the state.

He described the development as a reflection of growing public confidence in the party’s commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and grassroots development.

According to him, the new members were drawn from Donga, Takum and Ussa Local Government Areas, adding that a few days earlier, over 10,000 people had defected to the party in Gassol Local Government Area.

“Today, we received and registered additional members from Donga, Takum and Ussa LGAs who have chosen to join the African Democratic Congress movement,” Ezekiel said.

He noted that the ADC leadership in the state is united and non-biased, and stressed that the ongoing MMRR drive is aimed at attracting Nigerians who are dissatisfied with their current political platforms.

“As leaders of this great party, we are open to all. Anyone who wishes to join us is welcome. The ADC is ready to accommodate those committed to bringing positive change to Taraba State and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.

Ezekiel further stressed that the ADC in Taraba State is currently witnessing an unprecedented surge in membership and assured that the party would not relent in its ongoing registration and mobilisation efforts.

He attributed the growing acceptability of the party to effective grassroots engagement and inclusive leadership, and assured the newly registered members that the ADC would continue to uphold unity, fairness and internal democracy.

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A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Farouk Aliyu, has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to urgently fix its internal problems or consider a merger with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the interest of Nigeria’s democracy.

Aliyu, a former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, made the call during an interview on national television.

He warned that a weak and divided opposition poses a danger to democratic growth and political balance in the country.

“I call on my brothers and sisters in the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress to put their acts together. In my opinion, the PDP should merge with the ADC,” he said.

He explained that the PDP is clearly struggling with leadership disputes and internal divisions. According to him, if the party continues on its current path, it risks losing relevance as a major opposition force.

Aliyu noted that strong opposition parties are critical to democracy. He said they help check the excesses of those in power and offer Nigerians alternative political choices.

He reminded Nigerians that the APC itself was born out of a merger. He listed parties such as the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as groups that came together to form the ruling party.

According to him, mergers are not a sign of weakness but a strategic move to achieve a common political goal.

The APC chieftain also dismissed claims that the ruling party is working to weaken the opposition. He insisted that it is not the duty of the APC to unite rival parties.

He said respected leaders within the PDP and ADC must take responsibility and make sacrifices to reposition their parties.

Aliyu stressed that the APC is not afraid of competition. He added that Nigeria belongs to all citizens and not to any single party or political figure.

His comments come at a time when the PDP is battling prolonged leadership crises at both national and state levels.

The party has also suffered a wave of defections, with several governors, lawmakers, and key stakeholders recently crossing over to the APC.

These developments have raised concerns about the future of the PDP as Nigeria’s main opposition party.

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The Nigerian Army has confirmed that four persons were killed and 32 others injured in a bomb explosion at a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening during the Maghrib prayer.

The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), through its Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba.

According to Uba, the explosion happened at about 6:00 p.m. while worshippers were observing prayers at the mosque.

He said preliminary investigations indicated that the blast was caused by a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device (IED).

“Initial findings show that the explosion was caused by a suspected Boko Haram terrorist suicide bomber who detonated an IED, killing himself and two civilians at the scene,” Uba stated.

He added that troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), responded promptly to the incident.

“The area was immediately secured and cordoned off to forestall further danger, while the injured were evacuated to the General Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment,” he said.

Uba disclosed that although 32 civilians initially sustained injuries, two later died in hospital, bringing the total number of civilian deaths to four.

He noted that two of the injured victims remain in critical condition, while others are stable and responding to treatment.

Following the attack, Uba said security had been reinforced across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent further incidents, particularly during the festive period.

He urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, advising them to avoid crowded areas and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

The OPHK spokesman also expressed condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the North-East.

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has issued an update on the fire incident that engulfed the Great Nigeria Insurance GNI Building on Martins Street, Lagos, while calling for calm.

The Governor, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, on Thursday, assured Lagosians that the situation is under control.

He added that no casualty has been recorded as emergency responders continue containment and safety operations at the scene.

What the government is saying 

According to the Lagos State Government, the distress call was received at about 4:41 p.m. on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, prompting an immediate response from fire crews at the Ebute Elefun and Dolphin Fire Stations.

• Additional reinforcement was later deployed from the Sari Iganmu Fire Station and the Alausa Headquarters.
• Firefighters reportedly arrived at the scene within 12 minutes, at about 4:53 p.m., and commenced coordinated efforts to contain the blaze and prevent its spread to adjoining structures.
• Preliminary findings indicate that the fire originated from the fifth floor of the building before spreading to other levels.

“Governor Sanwo Olu, who has been personally monitoring the incident since it was reported, directed the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to intensify response efforts and ensure the evacuation of surrounding buildings to safeguard public safety,” the statement read in part.

“He also maintained constant communication with emergency responders and security agencies well into the early hours of the morning.  

“As at about 3:40 a.m., when the fire had largely subsided, the governor was still receiving updates and issuing directives,” it added.

The governor specifically instructed emergency personnel to ensure that no individual was left behind in the building, stressing that the protection of human life must take precedence over property.

Building now used for warehousing and retail 

The government disclosed that the affected structure, which was formerly used as corporate office space, currently serves mainly as a warehouse and retail outlet for clothing materials.

Security agencies have since been deployed to cordon off the area, while first responders continue conducting safety assessments to prevent secondary incidents.

Governor Sanwo Olu commended firefighters and first responders for their swift and courageous intervention, while reassuring residents that the state government remains fully on top of the situation.

“Our priority is the safety of lives. I have directed that the building and its surroundings be thoroughly secured and that emergency personnel must ensure that no one is left inside. Lagosians should remain calm; the situation is under control,” the governor said.

Backstory 

Nairametrics earlier reported that a massive fire had broken out at the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House.

According to a situation report from the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the fire reportedly started from an apartment on the fourth floor.

It quickly spread to other parts of the floor, later reaching the sixth floor with rapid upward momentum.

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• …flags off Phase 2 of Bola Tinubu Barracks in Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has pledged to tackle accomodations challenge of the Nigerian Army personnel.

The COAS made the pledged when he flagged off the construction of the Phase 2 of the Bola Tinubu Barracks in Asokoro, Abuja.

He said the move was in line with his “Soldier First” concept, which prioritises the welfare and living conditions of troops.

General Shaibu said the project marked a significant step toward sustainable housing solutions for Nigerian Army personnel.

He noted that the initiative reflects a strategic shift from short-term interventions to long-term, sustainable solutions, and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to addressing troops’ accommodation challenges across the country.

According to a statement by the Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS said the foundation of Phase 2 of the project was laid following the successful commissioning of Phase 1 in January 2025, explaining that Phase 2 is an entirely new barracks, distinct from Phase 1 which was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He noted that the project comes at a time when the Nigerian Army is intensifying efforts to address the acute accommodation challenges faced by its personnel, in line with its resolve to complete all ongoing residential projects while initiating new ones.

“Upon completion, the barracks will provide secure and dignified accommodation for personnel and their families, enhance unit cohesion and strengthen the Army’s operational effectiveness,” he said. 

The COAS said troops’ welfare and robust administration formed the foundation for building a professional and combat-ready force.

General Shaibu thanked President Tinubu for his “relentless support and funding of the project”, and reaffirmed the unalloyed loyalty of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army to the Constitution.

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Christmas is a perfect time to see movies. It is the perfect time to slow down, gather with loved ones and lose yourself in stories that spark laughter, warmth and a little nostalgia.

Whether you’re spending the holidays curled up indoors or hosting friends and family, a good movie can set the tone for a truly memorable festive season.

From serious to humorous movies to series, these films offer the needed respite during Christmas.

Here are five movies guaranteed to add colour, comfort and festive cheer to your holiday watchlist this season.

King of Boys 3

With more power battles, betrayals, and high-stakes drama, the eagerly awaited continuation of Kemi Adetiba’s political crime epic is back. For lovers of Nigerian political thrillers, King of Boys 3 promises to provide compelling entertainment this Christmas with its trademark crisp dialogue and powerful acting.

A Very Dirty Christmas

This comedy, which combines humor, family drama, and surprising turns, leans into the craziness that frequently accompanies the holiday season. A Very Dirty Christmas is an obvious choice for viewers seeking humor and relatable holiday disasters because it provides lighthearted entertainment.

Colours of Fire

Colours of Fire is a powerful drama that delves into themes of love, resiliency, and self-transformation. For those who want something introspective and profoundly human during the holidays, the film’s compelling narrative and powerful imagery make it a contemplative watch.

Avatar: Fire and Ash

In the Avatar series, James Cameron returns with yet another breathtakingly beautiful chapter. Fire & Ash is an immersive movie experience perfect for big-screen holiday viewing as it explores the world of Pandora with new cultures, conflicts, and breathtaking effects.

Wake Up Dead Man

Detective Benoit Blanc returns in the upcoming Knives Out series to solve yet another intricate case. Wake Up Dead Man is a great option for those who like brilliant, captivating thrillers over Christmas because of its blend of suspense, cunning twists, and dark humour.

Vanguard News

The post 5 movies to watch this Christmas appeared first on Vanguard News.

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The president and chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Oluropo Dada, has urged Nigerian students to position themselves for the future of finance by embracing professional certification and emerging opportunities in the capital market, particularly in digital assets and cryptocurrency.

Dada made this call in his opening remarks at the CIS-Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) Career Talk, held in Lagos.

He explained that, “the Nigerian capital market is at a defining moment, going by the recent amendments to the Investments and Securities Act (ISA). The formal recognition of digital assets and cryptocurrency as Exchange-Traded Products have come as a landmark reform that integrates digital finance into Nigeria’s mainstream capital market and aligns the country with global best practices.”

The rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Engineer Abdul, represented by the deputy rector (Academic), Dr. Engineer Badmus, commended the Institute for its initiative in encouraging students to acquire practical knowledge of finance and investment at an early stage, and assured the Institute of a stronger collaboration in advancing this objective

Dada expressed appreciation to the Management of Yabatech for its sustained partnership and institutional support, describing the college as ‘a pride of Nigeria’s educational system’ with a long-standing reputation for excellence, innovation, and the production of industry-ready graduates.
He noted that, the collaboration with CIS is strategically focused on preparing young Nigerians for the future of work and wealth creation.

Speaking on the mandate of the Institute, he stated that the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers is the statutory professional body responsible for the training and certification of securities and investment professionals in Nigeria.

According to him, the Institute’s role extends beyond examinations to building competence, ethical standards, and global relevance within the Nigerian capital market.

He explained that, under the amended law, CIS members are now professionally empowered to trade, manage, and advise on digital assets and cryptocurrency products, positioning CIS-certified professionals at the centre of one of the fastest-growing segments of global finance.

These opportunities, he noted, span digital asset trading, blockchain-enabled investment products, tokenised securities, and fintech innovation.

Dada encouraged them to take advantage of the Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist (CSISS) programme, which allows undergraduates to begin their professional journey in the securities and investment industry while still in school. He described the programme as flexible, fully digitized, and designed to provide a strong foundation in capital market operations, investment support services, and emerging areas such as digital assets.

Group executive director, Assets Management, CardinalStone Partners Limited, Elile Olutimayin, spoke on ‘Diverse Investment Opportunities in the Nigerian Capital Market with Smart Assets’ Tool’, the registrar and chief executive, CIS, Ayorinde Adeonipekun, addressed the students on ‘Prospects for young undergraduate students in the securities and investment Profession through Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist (CSISS) Certification’.

Head of Banking and Finance Department, Dr Adebola Adebisi made remarks on the benefits of Investment Club.

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A pro-President Bola Ahmed Tinubu group, operating under the banner of the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), has organised a statewide celebration tagged Asiwaju Christmas Fiesta for residents and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State.

The fiesta, held across the three senatorial districts of the state, brought together party members, stakeholders, and supporters in a show of unity, fellowship, and goodwill, in line with the group’s core values.

Speaking on the event, the Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Chief Olumuyiwa Asagunla, described the celebration as a demonstration of unity, loyalty, and appreciation for the unwavering commitment of members across Ondo State.

Asagunla commended participants for their dedication and urged them to remain united, focused, and steadfast as the group continues to promote the progressive governance agenda and people-centred leadership of President Tinubu’s administration.

He also paid glowing tribute to the Convener of the group and Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing him as a committed progressive leader whose vision and leadership have continued to inspire grassroots mobilisation and purposeful governance.

According to Asagunla, the Minister’s support and encouragement have remained central to the growth, cohesion, and expansion of the Asiwaju Mandate Group across the state, noting that the Christmas Fiesta reflected Tunji-Ojo’s people-centred philosophy and commitment to unity, empowerment, and inclusive political engagement.

The events across the senatorial districts were attended by prominent leaders and stakeholders of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, as well as party and community leaders.

In Ondo North Senatorial District, dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Ife Ehindero, Member of the House of Representatives representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West; Hon. Fatai Atere, Member of the Ondo State House of Assembly representing Akoko North West Constituency I; alongside several party chieftains and community leaders.

The Ondo Central edition was graced by former commissioners Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, Hon. Tobi Ogunleye, and Dr. Lawrence Ibukun, as well as the former Accountant-General of Ondo State, Chief Kelly Agboola, and other party leaders.

In Ondo South Senatorial District, notable attendees included Ondo State representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and leader of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Hon. Otito Atikase; Alhaji Olurimisi, a prominent Islamic leader in the state; the wife of Senator Yele Omogunwa; Hon. Yele Akinya; and former Commissioner Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, among others.

During the fiesta, various gift items including blenders, electric fans, gas stoves, and Android televisions were distributed to selected residents, while all attendees received Christmas gift packs from the organisers.

A 14-year-old performer who thrilled the audience during the celebration was also rewarded with a cash gift of ₦250,000, following the directive of the Minister of Interior, as part of efforts to encourage creativity and youth empowerment in the state.

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Ministry of Petroleum Resources on Wednesday announced plans to fully automate its operations, setting the stage for paperless interactions across its departments as part of a push to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

The initiative coming under the federal government’s Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system “Go Live”, according to the government, will digitise internal workflows, approvals and correspondence, while also migrating engagements with operators, regulators, and other stakeholders to secure electronic platforms.

Akelicious learnt that the move was expected to reduce bureaucratic delays, minimise human discretion in routine processes, and cut operational costs associated with manual documentation.
Speaking during the launch in Abuja, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, said the project, a brainchild of the Head of Service of the Federation (HOSF), was a bold initiative.

Lokpobiri stressed that it will ensure that government business was done in a seamless manner.
According to him, apart from being transformational, changing from analogue to digital processes, it will also enhance the way communication is carried out in the petroleum ministry.
Supported by Galaxy Backbone Limited (GBB), Nigeria’s national digital infrastructure and shared ICT provider, Lokpobiri stated that rather than some departments and agencies paying for flights to get documents signed, they could now be carried out seamlessly online.

“And so this is one initiative that is transformative. This is one initiative that aligns with the general public and the world. I think this should have come perhaps 10, 15 years ago. But I’m very proud that this is coming from the organisation,” Lokpobiri said.

Describing the petroleum sector as the most critical sector “in our national life”, Lokpobiri stated that if the oil and gas sector was successful, then every other sector will feel the impact.

In her keynote, the Head of Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, explained that the initiative strengthened the effectiveness of the public service by enabling faster work processes, secure record management, and reduced reliance on paper.

For a ministry that played a strategic role in Nigeria’s economic stability and energy security, Walson-Jack said the milestone was both timely and significant.

She stated, “The Ministry of Petroleum Resources occupies a critical position in national development, with responsibility for policy formulation, coordination, and oversight in the oil and gas sector. Its efficiency directly impacts revenue generation, investment confidence, and national planning.

“Today’s launch, therefore, represents a deliberate shift in how work is organised, records are managed, and decisions are supported. Given the ministry’s constant engagement with regulatory agencies, operators, and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, manual processes can no longer meet operational demands.”

With the deployment, Walson-Jack stated that the ministry joined institutions across the Federal Civil Service using the Enterprise Content Management System, ensuring secure records, clear audit trails, efficient workflows, and reliable institutional memory.

Deployed on the 1Gov Cloud platform, she explained that ECMS enabled electronic approvals, automated workflows, and interoperability across government, shifting decision-making from the movement of files to timely access to accurate information.

She added, “This development places the ministry on track to comply with the federal government’s directive on the full digitalisation of work processes by 31 December 2025 and advances Pillar Five of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP25), which prioritises digitalisation across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.”
However, Walson-Jack said digital transformation did not end with the launch of a system, stressing that its success depends on consistent use, adherence to established processes, and sustained digital discipline.

According to her, “Going forward, paper-based processing within the Ministry of Petroleum Resources should progressively give way to disciplined digital practice, with official correspondence routed through [email protected], [email protected] (HM Oil) and [email protected] (HM Gas).”

Earlier, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Patience Oyekunle, said the event signified the transition from manual, paper-based processes to a modern digital platform that will enhance efficiency, transparency, and service delivery.

“This achievement aligns with the ongoing public service reforms championed by the federal government,” Oyekunle stressed.

Meanwhile, the new chief executive of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, assumed office with a clear message to advance the country’s upstream oil and gas sector in line with the mandate of the commission as enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

Eyesan said spoke on Tuesday during her first town hall meeting with the management and staff of the agency, according to a statement by Head of Media and Strategic Communication of the commission, Mr. Eniola Akinkuotu, which was obtained on Wednesday by THISDAY.

Eyesan was appointed NUPRC chief executive last Wednesday by President Bola Tinubu in replacement of Gbenga Komolafe, who had resigned the same day, together with his counterpart at Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed.
Taking over from her predecessor, Eyesan further disclosed plans to make the commission a business enabler and reignite investments in the upstream sector. She also set a firm production ambition of growing Nigeria’s output and increasing gas production.

The NUPRC boss said, “The goal is that we must enable the industry; we are regulators. We must enable the industry from our interactions with the stakeholders, from our interactions with everybody.

“My main objective is to ensure that we make a difference. I believe the NUPRC is at the centre of the industry.”

Eyesan, who had served for over three decades in the oil and gas sector, promised to entrench digitisation, transparency, and efficiency in operations.
She said with the support of staff and management, NUPRC would become the gold-standard regulator in Africa.

Eyesan also promised capacity development, stronger technical depth, and sustained engagement with stakeholders, unions, and professional teams.

On leadership style, she promised an open-door policy and frequent staff engagement.
Eyesan solicited support and cooperation as the industry embarked on the next phase of transformation.

“If we work together, we can unleash opportunities, I don’t see impediments only opportunities,” she added.

Source: Thisday

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The Nigerian Army has confirmed that four people were killed and 32 others injured following a bomb explosion at a mosque inside Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The incident happened on Tuesday evening during Maghrib prayers.

The confirmation was made by the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), through its Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, in a statement issued on Wednesday.

Uba said the explosion occurred at about 6:00 p.m. while worshippers were observing prayers at the mosque.

According to him, initial investigations showed that the blast was caused by a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the explosion was caused by a suspected Boko Haram terrorist suicide bomber who detonated an IED, killing himself and two civilians at the scene,” Uba said.

He explained that troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), responded immediately to the attack.

“The affected area was quickly secured and cordoned off to prevent further harm, while casualties were evacuated to the General Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment,” he added.

Uba said that although 32 civilians sustained injuries, two of them later died at the hospital, bringing the total number of civilian deaths to four.

He noted that two of the injured victims were in critical condition, while the remaining patients were stable and responding to medical care.

Following the attack, the OPHK spokesman said security had been tightened across Maiduguri and surrounding areas to prevent further incidents, especially during the festive season.

He urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, advising them to avoid crowded places and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.

Uba also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reassured residents of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the North-East.

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Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has called on residents of the state to celebrate Christmas with joy, gratitude, and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that safety and peace must remain paramount during the festive period.

In his Christmas broadcast on Thursday, in Wukari council, the governor said the season offers an opportunity for reflection on love, sacrifice, hope, and peace, as well as a time to strengthen unity among families, communities, and the people of Taraba State.

He urged citizens to conduct themselves responsibly in their homes, on the roads, in markets, places of worship, and other public spaces, noting that celebrations should never endanger lives or disrupt public peace.

Governor Kefas reassured residents that the state government has placed security at the top of its priorities, announcing that security agencies have been fully deployed across the state.

According to him, the agencies are working in collaboration with community leaders, traditional institutions, and local vigilance groups to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free festive season.

He called on the public to cooperate with security personnel by remaining law-abiding, staying vigilant, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

Addressing farmers, traders, workers, youths, women, elders, and children, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, creating opportunities for prosperity, and maintaining Taraba as a peaceful state where residents can work, worship, and conduct business without fear.

The governor also encouraged residents to use the Christmas season to forgive, reconcile, support the vulnerable, and show kindness to one another irrespective of tribe, religion, or social status, emphasizing that peace is a collective responsibility.

While wishing the people of Taraba State a peaceful, safe, and joyful Christmas, he expressed hope that the New Year will bring greater unity, renewed hope and continued progress to the state and the nation.

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has congratulated all Nigerians on the occasion of another Christmas celebration.

The CAN message, in a statement released by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, called for the celebration to be done with wisdom, vigilance, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Okoh acknowledged the security and economic challenges facing the country, but said the Christmas celebration is a reminder that God has not forgotten Nigeria and His abiding love, and the gift of hope triumphs over darkness

The CAN president urged church leaders, particularly those in remote areas, to practically ensure worshippers are safe as they gather to celebrate Christmas.

“The message of Christmas calls us to live out the values Christ represents—love, peace, patience, sacrifice, and compassion. Even in the face of economic difficulties and security concerns confronting our nation, the birth of Christ reassures us that God has not abandoned His people and that hope remains alive.

“As churches gather to worship and rejoice during this festive season, I urge Christian leaders and congregations to do so with wisdom, vigilance and a deep sense of responsibility. The protection of human life is sacred and must remain paramount. Churches, especially those located in areas prone to security threats, are encouraged to take practical steps to ensure the safety of worshippers,” he said.

In areas where adequate security presence is lacking, the CAN President advised church leaders to prayerfully consider holding services in safer locations or organising smaller gatherings that would allow for better protection of members.

He also appealed to security agencies to enhance their presence around places of worship during the Christmas season and encouraged churches to maintain close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure peaceful and hitch-free celebrations.

In the spirit of Christmas, Okoh urged that thoughts be spared for those who may be affected by the security challenges affecting parts of the country.

“As we celebrate, let us remember all Nigerians who are grieving, displaced, or affected by violence and hardship. At this season of goodwill, I call on all Nigerians to work together in the spirit of peace, justice, and unity.

“United by our shared humanity and common destiny, we must renew our commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national cohesion, mindful that Nigeria is our only home and that its future depends on our collective resolve.

“May the joy, peace, and hope of Christmas fill our homes, our churches, and our land. I pray that the New Year will usher in renewed faith, healing, and lasting peace for Nigeria,” Archbishop Okoh added.

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A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Farouk Aliyu, has advised the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to resolve its internal crisis or consider merging with the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Aliyu gave the advice during an interview on a national television programme, stressing that unity and concessions within the PDP were necessary for the survival of the party and the health of Nigeria’s democracy.

“I call on my brothers and sisters in the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress to put their acts together. In my opinion, the PDP should merge with the ADC,” he said.

According to him, if the PDP is truly facing decline, a merger could help revive the opposition and strengthen democratic governance in the country.

He noted that vibrant opposition parties are essential to holding the government accountable.

Aliyu recalled that the APC itself emerged from a merger of several political parties, including the All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP, Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, and Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN.

He maintained that it was not the responsibility of the APC to unite opposition parties, adding that respected political actors within the PDP and ADC must take steps to reposition themselves.

The APC chieftain said the ruling party was not afraid of opposition, stressing that Nigeria belongs to all citizens and not to any individual or political party.

His remarks come amid ongoing leadership crises within the PDP and the recent defection of several key party stalwarts, including governors and National Assembly members, to the APC.

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