Who will win the final? Predictions, analysis, and match previews from MELBET experts
The tournament is entering its decisive stage. Spain and Argentina will face off for the trophy, while France and England will battle it out for […]
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Ogundipe sympathises with Oshodi flood Victims, renews flood control advocacy
Member representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Stephen Olukayode Ogundipe, has expressed sympathy to residents affected by the recent flooding that devastated parts of his constituency, assuring them of continued advocacy for lasting solutions to the recurring problem.
Ogundipe, in a statement on Monday, described the destruction caused by the flooding in the Sogunle and Mafoluku communities as heartbreaking, noting that many families had lost homes, property and means of livelihood, while others had been displaced.
CSOs back Akwa Ibom tax reform bill, seek key amendments
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Akwa Ibom State have endorsed the proposed Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service Bill but urged the State House of Assembly to amend some provisions to strengthen transparency, institutional independence and the protection of taxpayers’ rights.
The groups made the call after participating in a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the House of Assembly Committee on Appropriation and Finance to consider the proposed legislation titled, “A Bill for a Law to Establish the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service for Efficient Administration and Collection of Internally Generated Revenue and for Matters Connected Therewith.”
Alleged N2.2b fraud: Ngige’ ministry took over NSITF’s procurement department’s functions – Witnesses
The trial of the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, continued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, before Justice M.A. Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory, High Court, Gwarinpa, Abuja, with two prosecution witnesses affirming that the defendant transferred the functions of the procurement department of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund NSITF to his ministry.
Ngige is facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on an eight-count charge, bordering on abuse of office and fraudulent contract award to the tune of N2,261,722,535.84 (Two billion, Two Hundred and Sixty-one Million, Seven Hundred and Twenty-two Thousand, Five Hundred and Thirty-five naira, Eighty-four kobo).
Bayelsa communities embrace climate-smart agriculture initiative
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has intensified efforts to build climate resilience in Bayelsa State by promoting climate-smart agriculture, forest restoration and community-led conservation initiatives in three riverine communities.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on “Catalysing Local Action for Climate Justice in Nigeria” in Yenagoa on Friday, the Foundation’s Climate Change Lead, Mr Shittu Usman, said the initiative was helping vulnerable communities adapt to the growing impacts of climate change while improving livelihoods and protecting biodiversity.
NUJ condemns harassment of journalists, raises security, public welfare concerns
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned the recent harassment of journalists while carrying out their lawful duties within court premises, insisting that media practitioners must be allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation, obstruction or undue interference.
The union called on relevant authorities to uphold press freedom and guarantee the safety and protection of journalists at all times.
Recruitment: Competence, merit will prevail
Competence and merit will be the sole criteria guiding the ongoing recruitment exercise, the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has confirmed.
Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (retd) gave this assurance during an interview with journalists in Uyo.
He explained that physical screening and document verification are taking place at 14 centres nationwide, arranged to ensure easy access for all candidates.
Sanwo-Olu hails Tinubu as Senate passes state police bill
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu following the Senate’s passage of the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police, describing the development as a landmark step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
The Senate on Wednesday approved all 26 clauses of the bill during consideration in the Committee of the Whole, paving the way for one of the most significant constitutional reforms in the country’s security framework in recent decades.
Oyebanji re-elected Ekiti Governor in landslide
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been re-elected as governor of Ekiti State after securing a commanding victory in the 2026 governorship election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oyebanji the winner after he polled 319,224 votes, defeating his closest challengers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
PWDs demand inclusion in PIA benefits structure
Persons with disabilities (PWDs) from oil-producing communities in Delta State have called for their inclusion in the benefit structures established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, arguing that they have been excluded from key decision-making and development opportunities.
The demand was made during a two-day advocacy workshop organised by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) at Orhoro Community in Uvwie Local Government Area. The programme, supported by the Ford Foundation, was held under the theme, “Ending Barriers Against Niger Deltans with Disabilities (EBAND).”
Akwa Ibom raises alarm over terror threat
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Akwa Ibom State have called on residents to unite, speak out and take collective action against terrorism, describing it as one of the greatest threats to peace, security and national unity.
Speaking at a gathering convened to address growing security concerns, the Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), Franklyn Isong, said terrorism had destroyed homes, separated families and caused widespread suffering across religious, ethnic and social divides.
Over 100 inmates receive counselling, food support in Bayelsa
More than 100 inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Okaka, Bayelsa State, have benefited from a counselling outreach and food donation programme organised by the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON), Bayelsa State Chapter, in partnership with the Successful Motherhood Initiative (SMI).
The outreach combined professional counselling services with the donation of food items to support inmates’ welfare and rehabilitation. Items donated included 10 bags of garri, 2 bags of beans, 2 gallons of palm oil, and 1 gallon of vegetable oil.
Journalists humiliated, barred from A’Ibom court
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned the obstruction, humiliation and forcible removal of reporters from an open court by Magistrate Godwin Edemekong, his court clerk and police officers attached to Magistrate Court 7 on Fulga Street, Uyo.
Journalists were to cover proceedings in the matter between the Commissioner of Police and Abdullahi Yusuf, a herder; a case deemed to be of legitimate public interest.
NEMA launches flood preparedness campaign in A’Ibom
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched its 2026 National Preparedness and Response Campaign on Flood Disaster Risk Reduction in Akwa Ibom State, urging stakeholders to prioritise preventive measures against flooding.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Uyo on Monday, the Director-General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, said disaster management agencies and stakeholders must adopt a proactive approach to disaster risk reduction rather than merely responding to emergencies.
CHRAN demands state police, forest guards
The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish state police and a national forest guard system as part of urgent measures to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
The organisation also urged Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to fully implement the state’s Anti-Open Grazing Law to curb criminal activities linked to uncontrolled cattle grazing.
Tinubu celebrates democracy, promises economic growth
Etim Ekpimah President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced national honours for dozens of pro-democracy activists and military officers who played key roles in the June […]
Imota chairman engages Hausa, Fulani leaders to strengthen security
The Chairman of Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, has convened a strategic meeting with leaders of the Hausa and Fulani communities to strengthen security and sustain peaceful coexistence within the council area.
The high-level stakeholders’ meeting, held at the council secretariat on Wednesday, brought together key leaders of northern resident communities to discuss measures to enhance community vigilance, promote harmony, and prevent security threats.
Ita Enang arrives in Germany, begins ambassadorial assignment
Uduak Ikpat Senator Ita Enang has arrived in Berlin to begin his assignment as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to the Federal Republic of Germany, pledging to strengthen […]
APC chieftain calls for greater accountability among LGA chairmen
An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Akwa Ibom State, Mr UduakAbasi Ikpat, has called for greater accountability among local government chairmen, insisting that those who fail to translate public funds into tangible development should be held responsible for their actions.
Ikpat made the call amid growing national discussions on grassroots governance and local government autonomy, stressing that the performance of council administrations should be measured by the visible impact of their projects and programmes rather than the volume of funds they receive.
Nigeria’s democratic future depends on youth – NYCN
The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, Mr Adigun Ibrahim, has called on young people to take a more active role in governance and politics.
Adigun made the call during the council’s maiden media chat in Lagos ahead of the second edition of the Youth and Governance Symposium.
A’Ibom disability group begins registration for access to government opportunities
Persons with physical disabilities in Akwa Ibom State have commenced a statewide membership registration exercise following a directive from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
The National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD) stated that only registered and financially up-to-date members will be considered for government employment, empowerment programmes, and other intervention initiatives.
Bassey urges Nigerian universities to drive climate action
Renowned environmental activist Nnimmo Bassey has called on Nigerian universities to take the lead in addressing climate change, describing the crisis as an urgent threat that requires immediate action.
Speaking during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration at Igbinedion University, Okada, Bassey said climate action could no longer be delayed.
Akwa Ibom seeks tougher bail rules for GBV
The Akwa Ibom State Government has called on the judiciary to reconsider granting bail to offenders accused of severe gender-based violence (GBV), arguing that the practice often places victims and witnesses at greater risk.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom (SAN), said granting bail to GBV suspects creates the impression that the freedom of offenders is prioritised over the safety of victims.
Lagos assembly moves forward on wealth fund bill
Lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday adopted the recommendations of the House Committee on Finance on the Lagos State Wealth Fund Bill, 2025, with amendments during plenary.
The recommendations followed the presentation of the committee’s report by its Chairman, Obafemi Saheed.
Saheed presented the report on “A Bill for a Law to Establish the Lagos State Wealth Fund to Receive, Manage and Invest in a Diversified Portfolio of Medium and Long-Term Assets for the Benefit of Lagos State and Future Generations of Its Indigenes and Residents and for Connected Purposes.”
FRSC pushes cycling as safer urban alternative
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has intensified calls for the adoption of cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation, urging governments at all levels to prioritise bicycle infrastructure and safer roads as part of efforts to improve urban life and reduce environmental pollution.
Speaking at the flag-off of the 2026 United Nations World Bicycle Day celebration on Wednesday, FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, said cycling offers solutions to growing urban challenges, including traffic congestion, air pollution, road crashes and sedentary lifestyles.
Lagos targets 10,000 residents for skills training
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said his administration, through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), is set to train 10,000 residents in industry-relevant skills across technology, construction, fashion, health and business sectors as part of efforts to deepen human capital development.
Sanwo-Olu made this known at the Omniverse Africa Summit 3.0, organised by Omniverse Africa in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), with the theme, “Connected Future: Synergy for Impact,” held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (National Theatre), Iganmu, Lagos, on Tuesday.
Lagos expands workforce space by 19,525m²
The Lagos State Government says it has expanded office accommodation for public servants by an additional 19,525 square metres as part of efforts to improve operational efficiency, enhance service delivery, and reduce expenditure on rented office space.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Dr Adekunle Olayinka, disclosed this during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, to mark the third anniversary of the second term of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat.
Eno threatens to revoke delayed road contract
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has issued a July 2026 deadline for the completion of the long-delayed Tabernacle Road project in Itam, Itu Local Government Area, warning that the state government will revoke the contract if the project is not delivered on schedule.
The governor issued the ultimatum during a media briefing in Uyo on Saturday to mark the third anniversary of his administration, where he also warned contractors handling public projects across the state against delays and poor delivery.
FRSC deploys 720 personnel for Eid traffic
The Federal Road Safety Corps has deployed 720 personnel across major highways in Akwa Ibom State ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as part of intensified efforts to prevent crashes, ease traffic congestion and tackle reckless driving.
The Sector Commander, Felicia Kalu, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Tuesday, warning motorists against dangerous practices capable of causing gridlock and fatal accidents during the festive period.
Navy reaffirms commitment to maritime security
The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and protecting critical national assets as it inaugurated key infrastructure projects at Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, stated this on Tuesday during the inauguration ceremony, describing maritime security as vital to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and stability.