• Gov meets with APC chieftains

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano has appealed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to stay with the party, warning that defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) would betray the mandate given to him by the people who voted him into office on the party’s ticket.

Speaking with newsmen in Kano on Monday, the party chairman Hashimu Dungurawa warned that any move to defect to the APC would not have their support, and should be resisted by all the party faithful in the state.

He said the party structure had exhausted all avenues to ensure its togetherness, but to no avail, and was still using all available channels to reach out to them and appeal to them not to leave the NNPP.
He added, “Information reaching us indicated certain elements in NNPP are hell-bent on leaving our party, but I would like to make it categorically clear that our party and our national leader, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have no hand in what’s going on.”

“We’ve convinced them not to decamp to APC, and we’re still convincing them to stay with us and carry on with the good work of helping the people, especially in the areas of agriculture and small businesses, as stipulated in our constitution.”

“I want to issue a stern warning to those creating a rift between the governor and his political mentor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Senator Rufai Hanga, Sanusi Surajo Kwankwaso, and myself, Hashimu Dungurawa to desist from it.”

“It’s unfortunate that some people are pointing accusing fingers at us regarding the current happenings, citing our close relationship with Kwankwaso. But I want to make it clear to all that on no occasion have we ever participated in any evil doing against anyone.”

The NNPP’s declaration came on the heels of an emergency meeting between the governor and two APC chieftains from Kano: Alhaji Kabir Alhassan Rurum, a member representing Rano, Kibiya, and Bunkure Federal Constituency, and the Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, Dr. Baffa Babba Dan’agundi, from Kano Municipal local government.
According to sources, the late-night meeting may not be unconnected to Governor Yusuf’s planned defection from the party and the selection of a Deputy Governor from Kano South Senatorial District, a zone that has never produced a Deputy Governor in the state’s history.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu has significantly increased the funds available to state governments.

Wike made the remark on Monday during his end-of-the-year live broadcast, monitored in Port Harcourt. He described the subsidy removal as a bold and courageous decision, noting that it has enabled several states to prepare annual budgets exceeding N1 trillion.

According to him, the increased flow of funds has also attracted the attention of “smart Nigerians” who are seeking ways to access their share of the “national cake” through various means.

Wike noted that with more resources now available to state governments, the quality of life of citizens should improve, urging residents to demand accountability from their governors.

He added that during his eight years as governor of Rivers State, he never had access to the level of funds currently available to state governments, stressing that his administration never received more than N200 billion in any single year.

“In all my life, as governor for eight years in Rivers, I never received from the Federation Account more than N200 billion in a year. The records are there.

“States are now making a budget of over a trillion because the removal of fuel subsidy has now made money available to the states and so most of them are blindfolded,” he said.

The minister said that he would do wonders if he had N500 billion in FCT account, stressing that FCT gets only one per cent of the share of the Federal Government (FG) from the federation account.    

“Take for example, if FG gets N1 trillion, 1 percent is N10 million and that is not enough to pay salary. I will have to go back to Internally Generated Revenue, but look at what is happening in Abuja?   

“With the little we have got, we have been able to do the best that we can for the residents of FCT,” he said.   

He, however, cautioned that money has its own limitations, adding that there were areas where money could go but goodwill would take someone there.

He expressed confidence that the candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC) would win the FCT Area Councils’ election, scheduled for February due to Tinubu’s goodwill.

He added that no President had done what Tinubu did in the FCT Area Councils, which he said will give the APC candidates an upper hand. 

The minister equally added that beyond infrastructure, the FCT Administration had intervened in education, health, and the agricultural sectors.

“This, in the long run, will improve the standard of living of the people,” he said.

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The two fatalities in the road accident involving Anthony Joshua in Nigeria on Monday were identified as “two close friends and team members” Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele by the former world heavyweight champion’s promoter.

“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation,” the promoter’s statement added.

“With profound sadness, it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away,” Matchroom confirmed.

Police said the tragic accident occurred around 11:00 am local time (1000 GMT), in the town of Makun, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said in a statement that the Lexus SUV Joshua was riding in “was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck… by the side of the road”.

Joshua’s family hails from the southwest Nigerian city and he is known to visit there when he is in the country.

Earlier this month, the former Olympic champion knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed bout in Miami.

AFP

The post Anthony Joshua’s promoter reveals identities of road accident victims appeared first on Vanguard News.

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The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has confirmed that the national grid suffered partial disturbances on Monday, following lingering effects from the vandalism of the Lagos–Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline on December 10.

According to NISO, this incident tripped several generating units and critical 330kV transmission lines, causing widespread power disruptions across parts of the country.

The system operator noted that the Delta generation complex isolated successfully in island mode, sustaining 114 megawatts to key substations, including Oghara, Amukpe, Benin, and Efunrun.

It also said swift action from the National Control Centre in Osogbo, Osun State, restored full supply nationwide, with investigations ongoing to prevent future occurrences.

NISO said investigations into the cause and sequence of events leading to the system disturbance are currently ongoing, adding that appropriate measures shall be put in place to forestall future reoccurrence of such major system incidents.

It also reassured Nigerians of its continued commitment to proactive grid management and the application of best operational practices to ensure the stability and reliability of the National Grid

“The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) wishes to inform the general public and relevant stakeholders that the National Grid experienced a system disturbance at 14:01 hours on Monday, 29 December 2025 that led to a partial collapse.

“It would be recalled that the Lagos–Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline was vandalized on 10 December 2025 which led to the shortage in power generation in the country. This has further led to the fragility and weakness of the national grid.

“Preliminary reports indicate that the disturbance involved the tripping of several generating units and critical 330kV transmission lines, resulting in a widespread impact on electricity supply across parts of the country.

“However, the Delta generation complex successfully operated on island mode at the 132kV sub-transmission voltage level. This enabled the continued supply of electricity to Oghara, Amukpe, Benin, and Efunrun 132kV substations, with a total generation of 114 megawatts from four units at the Delta Thermal Power Station.

“In line with established Operational Procedures, NISO promptly initiated system response measures using its dispatch and monitoring tools at the National Control Centre (NCC), Osogbo.

“Supply has been fully restored to all parts of the country and the system stability normalised,” NISO stated.

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President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is receiving the best treatment in Nigeria following an accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday.

President Tinubu disclosed this in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday.
The statement said the president had a telephone conversation with AJ and his mother.

“I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital.

“I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call.

“Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention,” the President said.

Earlier, in a statement on X, President Tinubu—who is currently abroad—expressed profound sympathy for the boxer over the accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

The statement read: “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.

“In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.

“I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

DAILY POST reports that AJ was involved in an accident in Nigeria which claimed two lives.

The Federal Road Safety Corps blamed overspeeding for the accident.

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Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has signed the 2026 appropriation bill into law with a vow to ensure full implementation and with highlights of the deliveries of the last three years budgets.

Accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; House Speaker, Adewale Egbedun; the Chief of Staff, Hon Kazeem Akinleye; the Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina and members of the cabinet, Governor Adeleke said he signed into law the 2026 Appropriation bill to consolidate and expand governance and service deliveries in line with the five point agenda of our administration.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, the governor, according to his spokesperson in a statement, said the occasion launched into “The final year of our first term with expanded ambitions to complete ongoing projects and launch new initiatives for the good of our people”, reaffirming that his administration has delivered to the admiration of the public.

“Our administration has in the last three budget years laid solid foundation for the sustainable development of our dear state. We completed many abandoned projects and launched new ones.

“We paid billions of naira in pension and salary debt. We targeted workers welfare and approved and implemented payments of promotions arrears and paid many allowances which the previous government neglected.

“Our government touched previously neglected sectors, pouring funding into agricultural mechanisation, health and school rehabilitation, new five star stadium at Osogbo, over 250 kilometers of roads across the state, six different road dualisation in five major towns, three major flyover bridges to ease traffic congestion, innovations in energy, science and climate change among others.

“We ensure value for money in project selection and execution; we moderate the cost of project implementation and reform the procurement process in line with global best practices.

“We implemented local content policy. We stop capital flight which ensures Osun money service Osun people.

“We approved close to Four Billion Naira for disbursement into the cooperative movement. This is deepening the grassroots economy and fostering inclusive financing.

“We boost the domestic economy through an improved business environment. Ease of doing business was enhanced through tax harmonization to avoid multiple taxation, through a 45 days window for acquisition of Certificate of Occupancy.

“Our moribund free trade zones were reactivated and investment inflow has tripled from almost zero in 2022 to almost 40 percent increase under three years. Osun is today attracting multiple business delegations from all over the world.

“The outcome and outputs of our three years appropriation processes have been very positive. Our state came first in the South West on Primary Health care access for both 2024 and 2025.

“Osun performance in national examinations has improved from number 33 in 2022 to number seven for both 2024 and 2025.

“Osun debt profile has reduced by over 40 percent according to the federal Debt Management Office.

“Osun infrastructure deficit which was almost 80 percent as of 2022 is now reduced by 45 percent. Osun economy is under a responsible, transparent and accountable leadership.

“We have garnered several unsolicited local and international awards in recognition of our performance in office.

“Our good work is an open book which many observers acknowledge. We thank the public for their praises and acknowledgement of our contributions for state development”, the governor told the audience.

Speaking on the importance of Budget 2026, the governor said his team has resolved to consolidate our achievements across the sectors”, adding that “the year 2026 is a dual year of renewal of mandate and rolling out of a new agenda for the next four years.

“The consolidation for 2026 is a year of continuation, of further good governance and of continuity for sustainable governance.

“2026 is a loaded era as an election year when by God and people, our mandate will be renewed. But we should not allow governance to suffer. We must multi-task.

We promise Osun people full implementation of the new appropriation act. I charge each ministries and agencies to follow the established timelines for the budget execution.

“We will continue to focus on people’s welfare and complete all ongoing projects and programmes” , the governor posited.

He expressed profound gratitude to Osun people and residents for their unshaken faith in our leadership, declaring “I am personally overwhelmed by the deep love prayers and support from all segments of our society.

“This strong goodwill strengthens our resolve to work only for public interest and public good.

“I won’t disappoint the mass of our people, the artisans, the workers, the labour movement, the youth, the students, the women, our royal fathers and opinion leaders.

I remain faithful in service of the people, for the people and by the people”, the governor was quoted as saying in the press statement.

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At least seven journalists have died, while four others sustained injuries in a single fatal road accident involving a Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ bus in Gombe State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday evening as the journalists were returning from a wedding ceremony in Gombe South senatorial district.

The victims were part of a delegation that had travelled to honour a colleague, an employee of the Nigerian Television Authority, who was getting married.

Confirming the incident, the Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps l, Samson Kaura, said, “From the information available to us, 11 people were involved in the crash. Sadly, seven of them died on the spot, while four others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”

According to him, preliminary findings indicate that the accident was a lone crash, likely caused by a tyre burst.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will Tuesday arraign former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami on money laundering charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He will be arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Malami, and Bashir Asabe, an employee of a firm linked to the former minister, Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the trio will be arranged before trial judge Emeka Nwite on 16 counts brought against them by the EFCC.

Mr Malami, who has been detained by the EFCC since 8 December, will be attending Tuesday’s proceedings from custody.

The anti-corruption agency accused the defendants of carrying out various suspicious transactions and attempting to conceal the unlawful origin of billions of naira through bank accounts and property acquisitions across Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi.

They allegedly committed the offences between 2015 and 2025, a period that includes the eight years he served as the AGF during the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Details of charges

The EFCC alleges that Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to disguise the origin of funds, acquire properties indirectly, and retain sums they allegedly knew were proceeds of unlawful activity, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Acts of 2011 (as amended) and 2022.

In count one, the EFCC alleged that between July 2022 and June 2025, Mr Malami and his son directed Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal over N1 billion (N1,014,848,500) in a Sterling Bank account, knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count two states that between September 2020 and February 2021, the duo allegedly concealed more than N600 million (N600,013,460.40) through the same company.

In count three, the commission alleged that in March 2021, Mr Malami and his son retained N600 million as cash collateral for a N500 million Sterling Bank loan to Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, despite knowing the funds were illicit.

Count four alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe disguised N500 million used to purchase a luxury duplex in Maitama, Abuja.

In count five, the EFCC claimed that between November 2022 and September 2024, the trio conspired to conceal N1,049,173,926.13 paid through Meethaq Hotels Ltd’s Union Bank account.

Count six states that between November 2022 and October 2025, Mr Malami and his son allegedly took control of N1,362,887,872.96 from the same account, knowing it was illicit.

Count seven alleges that in November–December 2018, Mr Malami and Mrs Asabe concealed N700 million used to purchase No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki, Abuja (Hamonia Hotels Ltd).

In count eight, between September and December 2020, the duo and Mrs Asabe allegedly concealed N850 million to buy a property in Jabi District, Abuja (Meethaq Hotels Ltd).

Count nine states that in February 2018, Malami and Hajia Bashir acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja, for N430 million, allegedly from unlawful sources.

In count 10, the pair allegedly concealed N210 million in February 2018 to purchase a property in Asokoro District, Abuja.

Count 11 alleges that between March and June 2021, they concealed N325 million used to acquire No. 1241B Asokoro District, Abuja.

In count 12, the EFCC stated that between November 2015 and January 2016, the duo concealed N120 million used to purchase No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarimpa, Abuja.

Count 13 alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to hide funds used to acquire a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

In count 14, between December 2016 and April 2022, Malami, Mrs Asabe, and others allegedly conspired to acquire additional properties for Mr Malami with proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count 15 states that between June 2023 and January 2023, Mr Malami allegedly concealed N537 million used to purchase multiple properties across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Finally, in count 16, the EFCC alleged that between October 2018 and December 2021, Mr Malami concealed N415 million used to acquire several properties in Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Proposed witnesses

The EFCC plans to call several witnesses, including commission staff, bank representatives, Bureau de Change operators, and other financial experts. Key witnesses include Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, Sani Lukeman, Abdulrahman Musa Basheer, Jamilu Mohammed, and representatives of Zenith Bank Plc and Sterling Bank Plc.

Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, and Sani Lukeman are expected to testify on how the EFCC received intelligence and petitions of alleged monumental corruption against Mr Malami. Abdulrahman Musa Basheer is to provide evidence on Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd’s role in allegedly purchasing properties for Malami.

Multi-billion naira properties linked to Malami

Documents obtained by PREMIUM TIMES indicate that Mr Malami is linked to 41 properties across Kebbi, Kano, and Abuja, with a combined estimated value of N212.89 billion. The properties, which include hotels, schools, factories, and residences, were part of EFCC searches conducted at his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State on 17 December.

The revelations came amid an ongoing investigation of Mr Malami by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

READ ALSO: EFCC reacts to court order granting Malami bail

This newspaper had reported that the former attorney general raised the alarm over what he described as raids on his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State by EFCC operatives.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Mohammed Doka, and shared on Mr Malami’s Facebook page, the former minister said EFCC operatives carried out “coordinated raids” on 17 December, allegedly without prior notice.

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The internal crisis rocking the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) escalated on Monday after the Senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Sani Hanga, described the reported plan by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a deep betrayal.

Speaking in Hausa, Hanga who is the only NNPP Senator from Kano, warned that Kano people have never supported leaders who turn against those who helped them rise.

He said those encouraging the governor to move to the APC do not have his best interests at heart.

“In truth, all those gathering to call on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to join the APC are not his friends,” Hanga said.

“Anyone who truly loves him would not ask Abba to betray the people of Kano, the North, and Nigeria especially at this time of fuel subsidy removal and new tax reforms.”

The Senator also reminded the governor of his long political relationship with NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stressing that Abba Yusuf’s political rise was built under his mentorship.

“Anyone who loves Abba would not ask him to be ungrateful to Kwankwaso” Hanga stated.

“He mentored him from when he ‘had no teeth’ until he became what he is today… Is he so desperate for a position that he would allow everyone to perish?”

Hanga warned that defecting to the APC would not sit well with Kano voters, whom he said value loyalty.

He dismissed claims that Kwankwaso might secretly support the move, describing such reports as “theatre”.

“In Kano, we don’t cheer for betrayal; we pity the betrayed. You cannot betray someone and impress the people of Kano. If I see Abba, I will advise him to punish everyone seeking for him to betray Kwankwaso,” he said.

Reaffirming his own loyalty, the senator added: “I am with Kwankwaso 1,000%, until death. No elected official would be as foolish right now as those planning to join the APC.”

The fresh warning comes hours after the NNPP chairman in Kano, Hashim Dungurawa, publicly appealed to Governor Yusuf to remain in the party, admitting that holding the party together had become difficult.

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• Pastor Adeboye’s son is trending over the prayers he made for himself and his wife during their wedding anniversary
• His prayer sparked mixed reactions, as some shared what they observed about the kind of prayer points that he had raised
• Netizens took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the prayers as the video went viral on social media

Leke Adeboye, the son of the General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, is trending for his prayers.

The G.O’s son and his wife, Titi, celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary on Sunday, and a video from the event was shared online.

Leke Adeboye’s prayer for himself and his wife is trending online. Photo: @dammiedammie35, Instagram/ @rccgyp1
Source: UGC

In an X video reposted by @dammiedammie35, Leke Adeboye was seen praying for himself and his wife, who knelt beside him.

He prayed:

“Pray for us, that any woman that wants to look finer than my wife that the person will not make it anywhere near me in Jesus name.

Read also

“20 times at night”: Rare clip shows Pastor Chris Okafor disclosing what newlywed wife did

“Any brother with any six packs that want to be packer than my own will miss all the services that my wife will attend in Jesus name.

Watch the X video below:

Reactions trail Adeboye’s son prayers for wife

@callme_Riken said:

“I’m sure the wife too is wondering what kind of prayer is. So if a lady finer than his wife comes close to him baba will cheat? Wonderful.”

@Engrvirus1 said:

“Lmao… You and I both know that’s impossible. The prayer should be that you and your wife have the necessary respect and self control.”

@WomenRightsOrg said:

“That your god should make every man that has six packs to miss church in any service your wife is attending? Like father like son always talking n0nsense.”

@iya_samu_son said:

“The reality of this prayer is most women and men don’t cheat because someone else is finer than their wife or has a six-pack compared to their husband lol. Cheating is rarely about looks. Only insecurity would make someone pray like that. Just my opinion though.”

Read also

Man shares observations about Chris Okafor’s daughter’s body language while addressing allegations

@caryorday00 said:

“The comments are funny. Y’all dont know Pst Leke. . Dude is as funny and as jovial as jovial comes. It shows in his prayers as well. Just check his youtube page for his podcasts with ministers, you’ll see the real LEKE ADEBOYE. Shalom.”

@blakraz said:

“He is not praying to any of your family members He and his wife are praying It’s not your business to put mouth on marriage issues If you are t comfortable with that prayer, go and carry your wife and pray any prayer you want!!!!”

@Amy_beke said:

“This is so weird. What’s wrong with these pastors.”Leke Adeboye is trending over the prayers he made for his wife during their anniversary. Photo: @rccgyp1
Source: UGC

In related stories, Bishop David Oyedepo’s son shared a surprising fact about his marriage, while a video of how his father introduced him at Shiloh caught people’s attention.

Man reacts to Oyedepo’s son’s preaching at Shiloh

Read also

Pastor Chris Okafor presents younger brother as witness to what they caught his ex-wife doing

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a man posted a clip of Bishop Oyedepo’s first son preaching at Shiloh 2025 and shared his observations about the sermon

The man also mentioned what he noticed about Bishop Abioye since he retired from his post as vice president at Winners Chapel

Source: Legit.ng

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Tinubu has made more money available to state governments.

Wike, who stated this during his End-of-the-Year Media Chat in Port Harcourt on Monday, argued that owing to the bold and courageous step of President Tinubu by removing the subsidy, some state governments now make an annual budget of more than N1trillion.

He, however, added that smart Nigerians, who know that so much money was in the states, have taken steps to get their share of the “national cake” through different means.

He pointed out that with so much money in the states, the quality of life of the people would generally improve, urging residents to demand accountability from their state governors.

He said he never got the kind of money that state governors now have in his eight years as governor of Rivers States, stressing that he never received more than N200 billion in a year.

“In all my life, as governor for eight years in Rivers, I never received from the Federation Account more than N200 billion in a year. The records are there.

“States are now making a budget of over a trillion because the removal of fuel subsidy has now made money available to the states and so most of them are blindfolded,” he said.

The minister said that he would do wonders if he had N500 billion in FCT accounts, stressing that FCT gets only one per cent of the share of the Federal Government from the federation account.

“Take for example, if FG gets N1 trillion, 1 per cent is N10 million and that is not enough to pay salary. I will have to go back to Internally Generated Revenue, but look at what is happening in Abuja?

“With the little we have got, we have been able to do the best that we can for the residents of FCT,” he said.

He, however, cautioned that money has its own limitations, adding that there were areas where money could not go but goodwill would take someone there.

He expressed confidence that the candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC) would win the FCT Area Council elections, scheduled for February, 2026, due to President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill.

He added that no President had done what Tinubu did in the FCT Area Councils, which he said will give the APC candidates an upper hand.

The minister equally added that beyond infrastructure, the FCT Administration had intervened in education, health, and the agricultural sectors.

“This, in the long run, will improve the standard of living of the people,” Wike added.

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There are years that pass quietly in governance, and there are years that redefine trajectory. For Lagos State, 2025 belongs firmly in the latter category. It is a year that demonstrated clearly and convincingly what focused leadership can achieve when policy is anchored on vision, discipline, and delivery.

This year, despite economic uncertainties and urban pressure, Lagos has charted a remarkable path of progress under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu. From the bustling streets of Ikeja to the serene waterways of Eko Atlantic, citizens have experienced the tangible impact of landmark reforms, completed projects, and ambitious initiatives. 

Sanwoolu’s 2025 agenda has not only focused on generating revenue but also on translating it into visible improvements in the daily lives of Lagosians.

Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has not merely expanded its economy; it has reordered its priorities, accelerated long delayed projects, and laid foundations whose impact will be felt well beyond the present political cycle. This year, Lagos moved decisively from planning to performance, from announcements to outcomes. 

This is not accidental progress. It is intentional governance. Governor Sanwoolu has moved Lagos From Revenue to Results, Turning Capacity into Capability

Lagos remains Nigeria’s economic nerve centre, contributing a significant share of national non oil GDP and sustaining one of the highest internally generated revenues in subSaharan Africa. But the defining feature of 2025 is not how much Lagos earned, it is how wisely that capacity was translated into outcomes.

Governor Sanwoolu’s administration made a deliberate choice to convert fiscal strength into visible, life improving infrastructure, while maintaining macro stability, institutional continuity, and social inclusion.

Across transportation, housing, health, education, energy, food systems, culture, and youth development, the story of 2025 is one of completion, consolidation, and courageous expansion. A story of Rail Revolution, Redefining Urban Mobility in Africa’s fastest growing megacity. 

Perhaps no sector better illustrates Lagos’ longterm thinking than rail transportation. In 2025, Lagos continued to consolidate gains from its rail investments while accelerating work on new rail corridors designed to fundamentally change how millions move across our city.

Our reality is that rail is no longer theoretical in Lagos, it is functional.

The Lagos Blue Line has now firmly established itself as a backbone of west – east mass transit, easing pressure on road networks, reducing commute times, and improving productivity for workers and businesses. It has moved firmly into operational normalcy, transporting thousands of commuters daily between Marina and Mile 2. For residents along this corridor, commute times that once stretched into hours have been significantly reduced.

Beyond passenger movement, the Blue Line has decongested major road arteries such as Lagos – Badagry Expressway, Improved productivity for workers and traders, Reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The Red Line project running along the Agbado –Oyingbo axis and integrated strategically with the Lagos – Ibadan railway corridor has advanced significantly, connecting densely populated areas and integrating Lagos’ transport ecosystem with national rail infrastructure. 

The Red Line now move hundreds of thousands of passengers daily, reducing logistics costs, and unlocking new residential and commercial clusters along its route. It has recorded major milestones in 2025, serving densely populated mainland communities. 

Passenger adoption has grown steadily, validating the state’s longterm bet on rail as the most sustainable solution to Lagos’ mobility challenge.

But that’s not all. Beyond these, planning and early works on additional rail lines such as the Green Line including corridors linking emerging growth centres signal a government not reacting to congestion, but anticipating population growth decades ahead.

The economic impact is clear: reduced transport costs, increased labour mobility, lower carbon emissions, and higher urban efficiency.  Transportation policy under Sanwo-Olu is no longer about managing chaos, it is about designing order.

Sanwoolu is investing in Roads, Bridges, and Urban Renewal, Infrastructure That Solves Problems. 2025 also marked the completion and commissioning of several critical road and bridge projects, alongside aggressive rehabilitation of inner city and arterial roads across Lagos’ five divisions. Importantly, these projects were executed alongside aggressive drainage expansion, addressing perennial flooding and protecting homes, markets, and businesses.

This Drainage upgrades, flood control projects, and urban regeneration initiatives have helped mitigate the effects of climate related flooding, an existential issue for a coastal megacity like Lagos.

These are not cosmetic interventions. They are risk-reduction investments, protecting lives, assets, and longterm economic value.

Governor Sanwoolu continued delivery under the Lagos State Affordable Housing Programme, completing and allocating housing units in multiple locations including Odo-Onosa/Ayandelu, Ibeshe, Sangotedo and Epe axis developments is worth commending. These estates are not merely buildings; they are integrated communities with supporting infrastructure, easing housing pressure and supporting urban expansion in a planned manner.

In 2025, Lagos deepened investments in healthcare through Upgrading of General Hospitals and Primary Health Centre, Expansion of diagnostic and specialist capacity, and Continued strengthening of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (ILERA EKO). The focus has been on access, affordability, and quality, ensuring that health outcomes improve across income levels. His continued investments in diagnostic capacity and specialist care has reduced the need for outbound medical tourism and improving access for ordinary citizens.

In education, school rehabilitation, teacher capacity development, digital learning initiatives, improved learning environments across primary and secondary levels and curriculum support reinforced the state’s belief that human capital is the ultimate infrastructure. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approach treats education as economic infrastructure, recognising its central role in productivity, innovation, and social mobility.

These investments may not always trend on social media, but they compound quietly and powerfully over time.

In 2025, Sanwoolu expanded Lagos capacity to Power Productivity. Lagos’ energy strategy this year continued to focus on decentralised power solutions, embedded generation, and public – private collaboration to improve electricity access for households, MSMEs, markets, and industrial clusters. Reliable power remains one of the strongest enablers of job creation and business competitiveness. By prioritising energy reforms, the Sanwoolu administration strengthened Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s most business friendly state. 

For thousands of MSMEs, the engine room of Lagos’ economy, unreliable electricity is often the single greatest cost driver. By expanding power access through embedded systems and partnerships, the Sanwo-Olu administration has helped Reduce energy-related operating costs, Improve business uptime and productivity, Enhance competitiveness for Lagos-based enterprises

This is not abstract reform; it is felt directly in markets, workshops, factories, and offices. Building on the passage of the Electricity Act, Lagos has taken concrete steps to assert sub national leadership in power regulation and market development. 

In 2025, the state accelerated work on establishing a structured Lagos electricity market, laying the groundwork for Independent power producers, Competitive distribution models and Private investment in generation and distribution infrastructure. 

This reform oriented approach positions Lagos to attract longterm capital into power generation and distribution, critical for sustaining a megacity economy.

In agriculture, the Lagos deepened its focus on food security and value chain development, supporting local production, aggregation, processing, and distribution. Strategic investments in rice, poultry, aquaculture, and vegetable production combined with logistics and market access have helped stabilise food supply and create jobs, particularly for young people. In a volatile global food environment, these policies are not optional; they are economic insurance.

Governor Sanwoolu’s administration has been unapologetic about positioning Lagos as Africa’s creative and cultural capital.

In 2025, Lagos strengthened its global brand through Investment in creative infrastructure, Support for festivals, museums, and cultural districts, Tourism promotion and destination marketing, and Strategic partnerships with global cultural institutions. 

The result is a sector that generates billions annually, employs hundreds of thousands mostly young people and projects Lagos’ identity confidently to the world.

This is soft power with hard economic returns.

As National Youth Leader, I have also been excited about Governor Sanwoolu’s Youth Development and Sports Initiatives, his effort in Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. Youth focused programmes in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, digital economy training, and sports development expanded significantly in 2025.

Sports infrastructure upgrades and talent development pipelines reinforced Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s leading sports hub while youth empowerment initiatives focused on capability building, not tokenism.

I see firsthand how these investments translate into confidence, competence, and civic engagement among young Lagosians.

One of the most underappreciated aspects of Governor Sanwoolu’s leadership is his strategic international engagement. Throughout 2025, the governor held high level meetings with foreign governments, development finance institutions, global investors, and multilateral partners. These engagements yielded Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) spanning Infrastructure financing, Transport and urban planning, Energy transition and renewables, Technology and innovation, Housing and urban development, Climate adaptation and resilience. 

While MOUs are not ends in themselves, they represent access, credibility, and optionality positioning Lagos to attract longterm capital, technical expertise, and global best practices. In a competitive global economy, cities not countries are increasingly the units of growth. Lagos is clearly playing that game with seriousness and sophistication.

The Sanwo-Olu administration has continued to strengthen the Lagos civil service through capacity building, welfare improvements, digitisation, and institutional reform ensuring continuity beyond personalities.

Equally important is the governor’s ability to manage politics without derailing governance carrying along stakeholders, maintaining party cohesion, and fostering stability. Development thrives where politics is predictable. Governor Sanwoolu is arguably the biggest financial supporter of the party in Southwest Nigeria, with the exception of our Father, the President. 

Governor Sanwoolu’s consistent alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ideals of the All Progressives Congress has ensured synergy between state and federal initiatives. This loyalty is rooted in shared philosophy, not convenience. It has enabled policy coherence, infrastructural alignment, and institutional respect benefiting Lagosians directly.

The recently presented 2026 Lagos State budget is bold, forward looking, and unmistakably legacy driven. With strong emphasis on infrastructure, transportation, human capital, climate resilience, and economic competitiveness, the budget signals a government preparing Lagos not just for the next election but for the next generation.

For Lagosians, 2025 is A Year That Changed the Curve. 2025 will be remembered as the year Lagos chose long-term impact over short term applause.

Let me also use the opportunity to commend Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat who has been a steadfast partner to Governor Sanwoolu, providing unwavering loyalty, strategic counsel, and hands-on leadership across the administration’s ambitious agenda. Dr Hamzat has consistently reinforced the governor’s vision, ensuring that policies translate into tangible results for Lagosians. His dedication, professionalism, and alignment with Governor Sanwoolu’s goals exemplify the kind of teamwork that has powered Lagos’s remarkable progress in 2025, making him not just a deputy but a trusted pillar of the administration.

Governor Babajide Sanwoolu’s has demonstrated that leadership is about Completing what others abandoned, Starting what the future demands, Governing with discipline, humility, and purpose. 

Lagos is not perfect. No megacity is. But Lagos is working, learning, and building with clarity about where it is going. That is what leadership looks like. And that is why 2025 stands as a landmark year for Lagos State.

As Lagos closes out a year of visible delivery, 2026 is shaping up to be the moment when progress becomes part of everyday life for more people. With the rail system moving from early success to wider coverage and efficiency, Lagosians should expect shorter commutes, less pressure on major roads, and a transport network that increasingly works to the rhythm of the city. In energy, the expansion of embedded power projects across markets, hospitals, and business clusters will continue to ease daily frustrations, helping traders, artisans, and small businesses stay open longer and operate at lower cost.

Infrastructure and housing is expected to remain front and centre in the year ahead. Ongoing road, drainage, and flood control projects are expected to reach completion in more communities, improving safety and liveability, especially during the rainy season. At the same time, additional homes under the state’s affordable housing programme will come on stream, opening new, well planned neighbourhoods and easing pressure on overcrowded areas of the city.

Perhaps most importantly, Lagosians should expect greater stability and continuity. Many of the partnerships and investment commitments secured in 2025 are expected to translate into real projects on the ground in 2026, creating jobs, strengthening public services, and positioning Lagos for longterm growth. 

The direction is clear: a government focused not on noise, but on results that touch daily life and endure beyond the moment.

…Dr Dayo Israel, the National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress writes from Kano Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the provisional list of governorship and deputy governorship candidates for the June 20, 2026, Ekiti state election.

INEC said the provisional list features candidates from 12 political parties, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) fielding Governor Biodun Oyebanji with Monisade Afuye as his running mate.

Other candidates include Opeyemi Falegan of the Accord Party, who is running with Omoyemi Olaleye. Akande Oluwasegun of the African Action Congress is contesting with Oluwasanmi Fajuyigbe as deputy.

Ayodeji Ojo of the Action Democratic Party is also on the list, with Itunu Ibitoye as his running mate. The African Democratic Congress is presenting Oluwadare Bejide and Paul Olowoyeye.

The Action People’s Party is fielding Bidemi Awogbemi and Akinyemi Adewumi. Other political parties listed include the Allied People’s Movement, Labour Party, New Nigeria People’s Party, People’s Redemption Party, Young Progressive Party and Zenith Labour Party.

However, candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party were absent from the provisional list.

INEC said it will update the provisional list on January 19, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act 2022, after parties conclude substitutions and resolve outstanding legal issues ahead of the election.

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Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has criticised what he described as the rush by Nigerians on social media to “de-market” the country following the road accident involving Anthony Joshua in Ogun state.

Joshua, a British-Nigerian former world heavyweight boxing champion, sustained injuries in a fatal accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway on Monday morning.

The incident has generated international headlines following unverified claims on social media alleging the absence of emergency response at the scene.

In a post on X on Monday, Omokri said foreign media outlets in countries such as India and Australia had quoted Nigerian social media users in portraying the incident as evidence of a “failed state”.

“Instead of de-marketing Nigeria, why don’t you and I wait for the full details of what occurred to our beloved boxing champion before making dramatic and damaging statements whose veracity we cannot be sure of?” he wrote.

Omokri said many of those criticising the country were not present at the accident scene and relied solely on online videos.

“You were not at the scene of the accident; you are relying on videos you see online; you don’t know the full details. But your first instincts are to attack Nigeria and paint the worst possible picture to the outside world,” he added.

Omokri said eyewitnesses began assisting Joshua within two minutes of the accident before professional responders arrived.

He said Joshua was already close to a hospital before an ambulance arrived, contrary to claims that help took an hour.

The former aide said the two people who died in the accident were foreign nationals who suffered immediate trauma from the collision.

“How is that the fault of emergency response personnel? I see no blame for Nigeria in this, but I will still wait for the full official statement,” he added.

Omokri urged Nigerians to exercise restraint and patriotism by waiting for official reports before drawing conclusions.

He compared the incident with global cases, noting that emergency response delays occur even in developed countries.

He cited the death of Princess Diana in Paris, where it reportedly took 101 minutes to transport her to hospital, and a Spanish football accident involving Diogo Jota.

“Please be patriotic and wait for an official statement before hastily crucifying Nigeria,” Omokri said.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness following news that world heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal car accident on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Ogun State.

The crash reportedly claimed the lives of two individuals, while Joshua sustained minor injuries.

Details of the Accident

Reports indicate that Joshua’s Lexus SUV collided with a stationary truck on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

While the exact circumstances are still under investigation, preliminary information suggests that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking may have contributed to the crash.

Authorities are currently examining the scene and speaking with witnesses to determine the full cause of the accident.

Casualties and Injuries

Although Joshua reportedly sustained only minor injuries, the accident claimed the lives of two people at the scene, highlighting the severity of the collision.

Personal Trainer Latz Among the Deceased

Adding to the tragedy, Joshua’s personal trainer, Latz, died in the accident barely 24 hours after arriving in Nigeria.

Three-division boxing world champion Badou Jack confirmed Latz’s passing on Instagram, expressing shock and mourning the loss.

Tinubu’s Message to Anthony Joshua

In reaction to the tragedy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sent a message of sympathy to Joshua.

He wrote:

“AJ

I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries.

This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season. I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.

As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.

In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.

I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

See below;

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