NIGERIA NEWS
First Lady Disburses N50m To Elderly In Oyo
The elderly in Oyo State received financial and healthcare support under the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) on Tuesday, as the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, unveiled a ₦50 million intervention aimed at enhancing the welfare and wellbeing of senior citizens in the state.
The event, held at the Local Government Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan, is part of the nationwide rollout of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme, themed “Finding Joy in Old Age.” Senator Tinubu, who is also the National Chairman of the RHI, was represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Mrs Ajibike Lawal.
Under the scheme, 250 elderly citizens aged 65 and above are benefiting from financial assistance, in line with the national programme implemented across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, including veterans of the Armed Forces and Police.
Speaking through her representative, the First Lady emphasized that the initiative was designed to remind elderly Nigerians that they are valued and appreciated, especially during the festive season.
“Our elderly citizens deserve care, dignity, and appreciation for their years of contribution to nation-building. This programme is one of the ways we are saying that you matter and that you are not forgotten,” she said.
Mrs Tinubu explained that the Oyo State intervention forms part of a ₦1.9 billion nationwide disbursement under the third edition of the scheme. “A total of One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira is being disbursed across the country this year. Each state, including Oyo State, receives Fifty Million Naira to support 250 elderly beneficiaries, with each person receiving ₦200,000,” she stated.
She added that the initiative extends beyond financial support, providing beneficiaries with free medical check-ups and essential health services, highlighting the programme’s focus on holistic wellbeing. “This programme is not only about money; it is about promoting a happy, healthy, and prosperous lifestyle for our senior citizens.
We encourage you to prioritise your health and spend quality time with your loved ones,” the First Lady added.
She further reiterated the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to the welfare of Nigerians, noting that the Renewed Hope Initiative complements the Federal Government’s broader social protection policies.
In her welcome address, the Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Toyin Balogun, described the programme as a demonstration of compassionate and people-centred governance.
“Today’s programme reflects our shared belief that our elderly citizens deserve dignity, quality healthcare, and continuous support. We are deeply honoured by the concern shown by Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative,” Balogun said.
She also commended the First Lady of Oyo State, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, for strengthening the initiative by funding an expanded healthcare component.
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Leaders and traditional rulers in communities across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, have vowed to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration, noting that the appointment of an Abuja indigene as a minister and to other strategic national roles has strengthened the people’s sense of belonging and purpose within the federation.
During visits to Karshi, Karu, Garki and Bwari on Tuesday by the FCT Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the traditional rulers and community leaders expressed satisfaction with the performance of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, maintaining that President Tinubu made a sound and strategic choice in appointing him to drive development in the territory.
The FCT Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Hon. Adamu Abdullahi, who led the delegation, described President Tinubu’s administration as one that history would judge fairly for its inclusive approach to governance.
He noted that the appointment of an indigenous son of the FCT as minister reflected President Tinubu’s commitment to fairness, national integration and confidence in the capacity of the people of the territory to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors visited the Emir of Karshi, Alhaji Ismaila Danladi Muhammad, where representatives of the Emir affirmed the community’s support for President Tinubu. They also described Karshi as the second home of Hon. Adamu Abdullahi, assuring that the community would not disappoint the President for finding their son worthy of the responsibility of coordinating the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in the FCT.
Speaking on behalf of the Emir, the Hakimin Karshi, Alhaji Jibrin Danladi Adanda, acknowledged ongoing infrastructural development in the FCT while appealing for sustained government attention to further address community needs.
While receiving the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the Sa’karuyi of Karu, Joseph Danfulani Narai, described the coordinator as a man whose contributions to community development are visibly evident, commending his longstanding record of service and commitment to grassroots progress.
Commending President Tinubu for finding FCT natives worthy of key national appointments, the Sapeyi of Garki, Alhaji (Dr.) Usman Nga Kupi, reaffirmed his community’s commitment to President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, saying that the administration’s developmental strides in the FCT place a moral obligation on the people to reciprocate with loyalty and electoral support for the APC-led government.
The Sarkin Bwari, Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijakoro, assured that the traditional institution would fully support the return of President Tinubu, citing the choice of a minister whose interventions have opened up Bwari to increased development, including improved road networks, the presence of the Law School and greater recognition of traditional rulers in governance.
Also, the Esu of Bwari, Dr. Ibrahim Yaro, congratulated the Renewed Hope Ambassadors coordinator, describing him as a man of integrity, and pledged to mobilise all tribal chiefs within his domain to ensure massive support for President Tinubu’s re-election.
In the past week, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors have sustained their grassroots mobilisation drive across the FCT, engaging traditional institutions and local communities in a coordinated effort to galvanise support for President Tinubu’s re-election.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed the receipt of a petition from serial businessman, Aliko Dangote, against the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed.
The commission, in a statement on Tuesday, said it has received the petition and an investigation into the claims would commence.
The response of the ICPC was contained in a statement signed by its spokesperson, John Okor Odey.
“The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to confirm that it received a formal petition today Tuesday 16th December, 2025 from Alhaji Aliko Dangote through his lawyer. The petition is against the CEO of the NMDPRA, Alhaji Farouk Ahmed.
“The ICPC wishes to state that the petition will be duly investigated,” the ICPC stated.
Naija News recalls that Dangote accused Farouk of corruption and financial impropriety.
In the petition submitted on December 16, Dangote demanded the arrest, investigation and prosecution of Ahmed for allegedly living above his means as a public servant.
The petition was received by the office of the Chairman of the ICPC, Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN).
Dangote accused the NMDPRA MD of spending without evidence of lawful means of income amounting to over $7 million for the education of his four children in different schools in Switzerland for a period of six years upfront.
Dangote, in the petition, named the four children and their schools in Switzerland, including the amount paid for each of them, to establish his allegations and verification by the anti-graft Agency.
Egypt claimed a 2–1 win over Nigeria on Tuesday night at the Cairo International Stadium, handing the Super Eagles a narrow defeat in a friendly match used by both teams to fine-tune preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The encounter was Nigeria’s final test before travelling to Fès, where the three-time champions will begin their Group C campaign later this month.
Both coaches made use of the friendly nature of the fixture to rotate players and assess squad depth, with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle fielding a mix of regular starters and new faces from his final 28-man squad.
Egypt strike first
The hosts opened the scoring in the 28th minute after sustained pressure from a corner kick. Nigeria initially dealt with the danger, but Egypt recycled possession calmly.
Right-back Mohamed Hany released Ahmed Zizo down the flank, and the winger delivered a low cross across the face of the goal. Saber arrived unmarked and tapped into an empty net to give the Pharaohs the lead.
Nigeria struggled to settle after the goal, as Egypt enjoyed more control in midfield, with Zizo in particular causing problems on the right side.
Eagles respond after the break
Nigeria came out with greater intent in the second half and were rewarded just two minutes after the restart.
A free kick into the Egyptian box caused confusion, with numerous physical contacts delaying the restart. When play resumed, Zaidu Sanusi fired a low shot straight at goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy. The ball slipped under the keeper and rolled towards the far post, where Chidozie Awaziem reacted quickest to head home from close range.
The equaliser lifted the Super Eagles, who briefly looked more organised and confident, especially in midfield.
Mohamed seals it for Egypt
That momentum was short-lived. In the 53rd minute, Egypt regained the lead through striker Mostafa Mohamed.
Once again, Zizo was central to the move, creating space with a clever run before supplying his teammate. Mohamed finished clinically, a goal that goalkeeper Amas Obasogie will be disappointed to concede.
Despite further substitutions and some late pressure from Nigeria, Egypt held firm to see out the win.
Chelle tests options ahead of Morocco
The result mattered less than the lessons for Chelle, who used the match to assess several players ahead of AFCON 2025. Nigeria were without full sharpness, but the game provided valuable minutes for players still settling into camp after arriving in Cairo over the weekend.
READ ALSO: 2026 FIFA World Cup: Super Eagles get another “lifeline”
The Super Eagles opened camp on Sunday, with coaches and backroom staff arriving early. Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was the first player in camp, followed by Stanley Nwabali and others, before the squad trained at the Cairo International Stadium on Monday night.
Nigeria will now fly to Fès on Thursday aboard a chartered flight to focus fully on the tournament.
Eyes on AFCON opener
The Super Eagles will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign on Tuesday, 23 December, against Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. They will also face Tunisia on 27 December and Uganda on 30 December in what is seen as a tricky Group C.
For Egypt, seven-time champions and winners of the tournament three times in a row between 2006 and 2010, the friendly offered encouragement as they prepare for Group B clashes against South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Ararume, an astute politician and accomplished businessman, on his 67th birthday.
Senator Ararume’s odyssey in politics began in the late 1980s, when he served as the State Treasurer of the Liberal Convention in old Imo State. He later joined the National Finance Committee of the defunct National Republican Convention.
He represented Imo North in the 9th National Assembly. He was first elected in May 1999 and re-elected in April 2003. He also served on several committees and held other official roles.
In a statement signed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President Information & Strategy and made available to newsmen,
President Tinubu commended the former senator for his years of service to the nation and contributions to its peace, unity, and progress.
The statement further reads “The President describes Senator Ararume as a resolute and shrewd politician, highlighting his courageous and remarkable political journey through the years.
“President Tinubu wishes Senator Ararume a happy 67th birthday and prays that God Almighty will grant him more years of good health and strength”
NIGERIA NEWS
Was Bishop Abioye Banned From Winners? Man Analyses Retired Preacher’s Absence at Shiloh 2025
A Nigerian man came online to address rumours about Bishop Abioye being banned from attending church events at Winners chapel
His post got people talking as he spoke about Abioye’s new church and the reason behind Abioye’s absence at Shiloh 2025
The man’s post went viral as many noticed the absence of Bishop David Abioye, who retired as the church’s vice president in 2024
See his post below:
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian man has shared an update on Peller’s Mercedes‑Benz after a crash that occurred during a livestream.
It would be recalled that Peller was involved in a car crash on December 14, 2025, along the Lekki‑Eko Expressway.
However, bystanders rushed to the scene to take Peller to the hospital.
Man Shares Update On Peller’s Mercedes Benz
According to the man identified as @obattrekking on TikTok, Peller geniuely loves Jarvis.
In the viral video that has garned over 400,000 views, he shared that while passing the crash scene, he saw Peller’s Mercedes‑Benz being towed.
“I was passing lately today and saw peller’s car by the roadside, people are toeing the car. This boy need you now. Everybody tag Jarvis”, He stated.
Reacting to this, a TikTok user, @JP remarked ,PELLER needs EDUCATION to his fame and wealth.Some people no fit understand the kind personality WEY PELLER BE, a guy that cannot be controlled by his MANAGER’.
Another user, @Blesyn:Nah, “If you see a girl does not love you , is for him to leave the relationship. Make una no start to force any relationship”.
@𝓢𝓜 𝓕𝓐𝓜𝓘𝓛𝓨 𝟜𝓟𝓕 🇺🇸⚓:He’s right, but if you think he’s wrong, you’re right. In fact, all these comments are right; nobody is wrong. If you think I’m right or wrong, you’re right”.
While, @VeryWickedMan added, “Geh Geh don advice the werey tire 😂 me now ah dey wait for Geh Geh video patiently”.
Watch video below…..
@_obatrekking
Guys pls let us pray for peller 🤲📿
♬ original sound – @_obatrekking
An All Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dr. Ladan Salihu has accused the Federal Government of using anti-graft agencies to harass and intimidate political opponents, citing what he described as selective justice.
Speaking on Daily Trust TV news, Dr. Ladan argued that former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, should be released, insisting that others facing similar allegations have been treated differently because of their political affiliations.
He referenced the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, noting that Bello “is free and walking on the streets today because he is still in the APC,” and recalled a remark credited to former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, during the Buhari administration that membership of the ruling party often guaranteed protection.
According to Dr. Ladan, the current situation reflects what he called the “incubation period” of such political practices, alleging that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been turned into an instrument of coercion, harassment and intimidation against opposition figures.
“There is no literature anywhere that can change the reality on the ground,” he said, adding that his position would only change if a sitting minister or a high-profile APC official were subjected to the same treatment as Malami.
He maintained that the continued detention of opposition figures while prominent ruling party members remain untouched raises serious concerns about the credibility and independence of the anti-corruption fight.
Brigadier-General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), former Nigerian Army spokesperson, has commended President Bola Tinubu for shelving the proposed accelerated promotion of Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf, his Aide-De-Camp (ADC).
Usman expressed the view in a Facebook post on Tuesday, describing the reported decision as a demonstration of statesmanship, responsiveness and respect for military professionalism.
He said the president’s decision showed that leadership requires restraint and sound judgment rather than the mere exercise of power.
According to Usman, the proposed promotion had raised concerns within security and policy circles over fairness, due process and long-standing promotion procedures in the Nigerian army.
He said by allowing established systems to prevail, the president had reinforced confidence in merit, discipline and equity within the armed forces.
Usman added that the decision sent a reassuring message to officers and men that diligence, patience and adherence to defined career pathways remained the legitimate routes to advancement.
He also acknowledged Nigerians who publicly opposed the accelerated promotion, describing their actions as patriotic and motivated by a shared commitment to institutional integrity.
Usman commended Yusuf for maintaining calm and professionalism amid the public debate, saying such conduct reflected the discipline and honour expected of a senior officer.
He warned that presidential aides and advisers must offer counsel grounded in established rules and the national interest rather than political expediency.
“As Nigeria continues to confront complex security and governance challenges, it is imperative that presidential aides and advisers consistently offer counsel that is honest, dispassionate and firmly grounded in established rules, institutional order and the best interests of the nation.
“Advice driven by political expediency or narrow personal considerations does a grave disservice to both the President and the country.
“Finally, I would like to reiterate that I will not relent in speaking truth to power or in pointing out observed misnomers whenever they arise, always in the overall interest of the nation, the military and all those concerned.
“If this reported decision stands, it will remain a notable example of leadership that listens, reflects, and acts wisely, further reinforcing President Tinubu’s standing as a leader committed to fairness, professionalism, and the enduring strength of Nigeria’s national institutions. I salute him for that,” he stated.
Transcorp Hotels Plc (NGX: TRANSCOHOT), the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group), has announced the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Awele Vivien Elumelu, OFR, as Chair of its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026.
This is according to a statement filed on Tuesday, Dec 16, 2025, by the company on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and signed by Atinuke Kolade, Group Company Secretary, which indicated that Dr. Elumelu’s appointment is part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen board leadership and align governance with its long-term growth strategy in Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
Dr. Elumelu brings extensive leadership experience spanning healthcare, insurance, corporate governance, and philanthropy. She currently serves as Chair of Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO), one of Nigeria’s leading health maintenance organisations, as well as Avon Medical Practice, a growing network of hospitals and clinics.
What the company said
The appointment follows the retirement of the current Chair, Mr. Emmanuel N. Nnorom, who will step down on the same date. Commenting on the appointment, Group Chair of Transcorp Group, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, said,
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Awele Elumelu as the Board Chair of Transcorp Hotels. Her distinguished track record perfectly aligns with our ambition to redefine hospitality through innovation, wellness integration, and responsible business practices. Her strategic insight will be invaluable, as we continue to elevate guest experiences and deliver sustainable value to all stakeholders.”
A trained medical doctor, Dr. Elumelu holds an MBBS degree from the University of Benin and has practiced clinically in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Her medical background is complemented by executive education from leading global institutions, including Harvard Business School, IMD Switzerland, and the London School of Economics, positioning her at the intersection of healthcare, business strategy, and corporate leadership.
What you should know
At the moment she chairs Heirs Insurance Brokers and is a founding Director of Heirs Holdings Limited, the investment company with interests across financial services, power, energy, and hospitality.
Beyond her corporate roles, Dr. Elumelu is widely recognised for her work in philanthropy and social impact. She is a Trustee and Co-Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), which focuses on empowering young African entrepreneurs.
Through the Foundation, more than 24,000 young men and women across the continent have received seed capital, business training, and mentorship, with a strong emphasis on gender inclusion and sustainable enterprise development.
Transcorp Hotels Plc is the hospitality arm of Transcorp Group, one of Africa’s leading listed conglomerates with strategic investments in power, hospitality, and energy. The company continues to position itself as a key player in Nigeria’s hospitality industry, focusing on premium offerings, large-scale event infrastructure, and service excellence.
Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted undeclared foreign currencies worth about N2.28 billion from an Austrian national at the Lagos airport.
The Customs Area Controller, MMIA Command, Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie, disclosed this on Tuesday in Lagos while briefing newsmen on the seizure.
Nwokorie said the suspect, identified as Mr Kavlak Onal, an Austrian citizen, was arrested by officers of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit on Saturday, Dec. 13, while attempting to board an Emirates Airlines flight to Dubai.
According to him, Customs officers asked the passenger if he had any currency to declare, but he answered in the negative.
A subsequent search of his luggage, however, revealed 651,505 euros and 800,575 dollars concealed in his travelling bag.
He said the seized amounts, when converted to Naira, were valued at N2.28 billion and exceeded the legally permitted declaration threshold of 10,000 dollars or its equivalent.
Nwokorie said the interception was in line with extant laws empowering the Customs Service to prevent illicit financial flows and enforce anti-money laundering regulations at the nation’s borders.
“These include Section 12 of the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1995; Sections 3(3 to 5) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; and Section 55(1) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023,” he said.
The controller noted that officers of the command resisted attempts at compromise and successfully stopped the funds from being smuggled out of the country.
He warned that failure to declare foreign currency above the approved threshold attracts prosecution and forfeiture.
He clarified that carrying foreign currency above 10,000 dollars was not an offence, but failure to declare, false declaration or under-declaration constituted a violation of the law.
Nwokorie urged travellers engaged in legitimate business to make honest declarations at designated currency declaration desks in airport arrival and departure halls to avoid legal consequences.
He announced that the suspect, his international passport and the seized currencies had been formally handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
Responding, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Mr Richard Adejumo, commended the Customs Service for the effective inter-agency collaboration.
He said the commission would continue investigations from where Customs stopped and ensure the matter was thoroughly handled.
“We will pick up the investigation from where the Nigeria Customs Service stopped. We will do justice to the case and ensure a thorough investigation.
“I appreciate the Customs Service for the synergy that led to the interception of this huge sum of undeclared foreign currencies at the airport,” Adejumo said.
Vanguard News
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