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Asake
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Asake Mourns Fan Killed in Nairobi Concert Stampede

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has expressed deep sadness over the death of a young woman who reportedly lost her life during a stampede at his concert in Nairobi, Kenya. In an emotional message shared on his Instagram page, the award-winning singer described the incident as heartbreaking and said it occurred at a festival held in the Kenyan capital on December 20. Asake said he was devastated that a show meant to bring joy through music ended in tragedy. “I am devastated by the tragic incident that took place at the festival on Dec 20th in Nairobi,” he wrote. The singer extended his condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, identified as Karen Lojore, and assured them of his support as efforts continue to understand what went wrong. “My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore, and I pledge to support and do my best to understand what happened,” Asake said. He also called for accountability, stressing that those responsible for the tragedy must be held answerable. According to him, music has always been his way of spreading love and happiness, which made the incident even more painful. “Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss,” he added. Asake ended his message with prayers for the bereaved family and the people of Kenya, saying, “My thoughts are with everyone grieving, and I pray that Karen rests in peace. God bless Kenya.” The tragic incident has since reignited conversations around crowd control, safety planning and emergency response at large-scale entertainment events.

Events, Exclusive News, Politics

Local Government Autonomy Will Fast-Track Grassroots Development — Onuigbo

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A member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) representing the South-East, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has said President Bola Tinubu’s firm stance on the full implementation of local government autonomy will unlock faster development at the grassroots. In a statement on Tuesday, Onuigbo described the President’s intervention as timely, bold and critical to strengthening local governance and national stability. He said Tinubu’s recent comments at the National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings of the All Progressives Congress (APC) clearly showed his commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians. According to Onuigbo, state governors have allegedly withheld more than ₦4.5 trillion meant for local government councils, despite a Supreme Court judgment delivered in July 2024 that ordered direct payment of council allocations from the Federation Account. The landmark ruling declared the joint state–local government account unconstitutional and barred states from acting as intermediaries for funds meant for councils. Onuigbo praised President Tinubu for initiating the legal process that led to the judgment and for backing it up with decisive administrative action. “I want to publicly commend Mr President for remaining firm on this issue,” Onuigbo said. “Supreme Court rulings are final and binding, not optional. By insisting that local government funds go directly to councils, the President has shown uncommon political will.” He stressed that when Tinubu raised the issue at party meetings, he spoke not just as a party leader but as a statesman who understands that national development begins at the grassroots. Onuigbo argued that delays in implementing local government autonomy are mainly due to resistance from state governors. “The federal government has done its part legally, administratively and politically. The bottleneck is clearly with the governors. What remains is for states to respect the Constitution and obey the Supreme Court judgment,” he said. Reflecting on past experience, Onuigbo noted that local governments performed better in the early years of the Fourth Republic, when councils had greater financial independence. “At that time, chairmen could build rural roads, provide electricity, develop markets and run youth empowerment programmes. When local governments are allowed to function properly, they deliver because they understand their communities,” he said. He warned that withholding council funds weakens governance at the grassroots and worsens insecurity, youth unemployment and rural neglect. “When councils are financially empowered, they can address local security issues, engage youths productively and reduce social unrest,” Onuigbo added. While acknowledging constitutional challenges, particularly those linked to Section 162 on joint accounts, he expressed confidence that the federal government’s committee would find lawful and practical ways to enforce the Supreme Court judgment. Onuigbo also urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from both local government chairmen and state governors. “In a democracy, the citizen is the most important office holder. People must ask questions how much came to their local government and how was it spent? That pressure will end impunity and promote accountability,” he said. He further commended President Tinubu’s broader reform efforts, citing fuel pricing reforms, easing inflation and signs of economic recovery. With most governors now in the ruling party, Onuigbo expressed optimism that the President’s call would be heeded and that long-standing obstacles to local government autonomy would finally be removed.

Seyi Makinde
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Makinde: We Empower People to Escape Poverty, Not Through Handouts

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said his administration is more focused on creating opportunities that help people lift themselves out of poverty, rather than relying on handouts and cash giveaways. The governor made this known during a media chat with journalists at the Government House in Ibadan, where he explained the thinking behind his government’s social and economic policies. “For us in Oyo State, we don’t believe in handouts,” Makinde said. “Our focus is to create a conducive environment where people can access opportunities and, through their own efforts, move themselves out of poverty.” He argued that cash transfers and welfare handouts often provide only short-term relief and rarely lead to lasting change. Recalling an experience from earlier in his career, Makinde said he once witnessed how well-intended resettlement efforts failed over time. “I was at the Shell Bonny Terminal during the Nigerian LNG project. Fishermen were relocated and decent houses were built for them. In less than five years, the area had turned into a shanty town again,” he said. According to the governor, that experience shaped his views on poverty alleviation and explains why he disagrees with some development partners on strategy. “I’ve had this argument with the World Bank,” Makinde revealed. “Their preference is conditional cash transfers  give people money. But I said no.” Instead, he said Oyo State chose a different path by supporting people’s ability to work, earn and remain productive. “When the country hit economic headwinds, many states focused on palliatives sharing food and relief items. We did that too, but we went further,” he explained. Makinde said the state introduced the SEFA programme Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery to provide structured, long-term support rather than temporary relief. One of SEFA’s key interventions, he said, is in public transportation. The state-owned Pacesetter Transport Service, which carries about 20,000 passengers daily, offers discounted fares to vulnerable groups. “For students, the elderly and people with disabilities, fares are reduced by 50 per cent,” Makinde said. He disclosed that the state spends about ₦100 million every month on the transport subsidy, describing it as an investment in productivity, not a giveaway. “That ₦100 million is not just spent; it’s invested in productivity,” he said. The governor stressed that the goal is not to encourage unnecessary travel, but to help people get to places where they can earn a living or improve their wellbeing. “You’re not entering the bus just for a ride because it’s cheaper,” he said. “You’re going somewhere important somewhere that can lead to something productive.” Makinde said the approach reflects his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and building long-term economic resilience in Oyo State, rather than quick fixes that fade with time.

Wayne Rooney
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Wayne Rooney Tips Declan Rice as England’s Next Captain

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Former England striker Wayne Rooney has backed Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as a future captain of the Three Lions, hailing the 26-year-old’s leadership qualities and all-round performance. Rooney’s comments came after he watched Rice play a key role in Arsenal’s hard-earned 1–0 Premier League win over Everton on Saturday evening, a result that took the Gunners back to the top of the table. The former England captain was in the stands at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and was full of praise for Rice’s influence on the game. Rice, who has already earned 72 caps for England, has captained the national team twice in the absence of Harry Kane during a 2–2 draw against Belgium in March 2024 and a 3–0 victory over Wales in October. Speaking on BBC Sport’s The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney suggested Rice is the natural successor to Kane whenever the current skipper steps aside. “For me, he’s the one who’s probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point,” Rooney said. “He was all over the pitch against Everton. His decision-making when to pass, where to pass, what foot to use the detail in his game was a pleasure to watch. He was absolutely incredible.” Rooney highlighted Rice’s versatility and intelligence, noting how seamlessly he shifted roles during the match. “He was splitting centre-backs, dropping in to take the ball, acting like a third centre-back, and the next minute he’s in the box trying to score. Some of the things he does are underrated,” he added. The former Manchester United star also praised Rice’s character, insisting his personality and drive make him the ideal leader for England. “He’s the right one to take over because of his drive and his personality. Everyone who knows him seems to love him. For England, he’s irreplaceable,” Rooney concluded.

Entertainment, Events, Sports

“It’s Our Dream”: Tanzania Coach Backs Taifa Stars to Shock Nigeria at AFCON 2025

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Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi believes his side can finally make history by recording their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory when they take on Nigeria at AFCON 2025 in Morocco on Tuesday. The Taifa Stars have yet to taste victory at the continental tournament, having appeared in three previous editions 1980, 2019 and 2023 without a win. Their Group C opener against the Super Eagles at the Complexe Sportif de Fès will be Tanzania’s 10th AFCON match and another chance to end that long wait. Tuesday’s encounter will also be only the second AFCON meeting between both nations, coming 45 years after their first clash. Back in 1980, on home soil, Nigeria opened their campaign with a 3–1 win over Tanzania. The teams last faced each other during the qualifiers for the 2017 AFCON. Tanzania held Nigeria to a goalless draw in Dar es Salaam before the Super Eagles edged the return leg 1–0 in Uyo in September 2016. Despite acknowledging Nigeria’s pedigree and status as favourites, Gamondi insists his players have no intention of rolling over. “It’s our dream, and nobody can stop us from believing,” the Argentine coach said during his pre-match press conference. “If you don’t have a dream, there’s no reason to sleep too much. I respect Nigeria a lot, but in football, anything is possible. We are here to put up a good performance.” Tanzania will face Uganda on Friday before wrapping up their Group C fixtures against Tunisia next Tuesday. The Taifa Stars first appeared at AFCON in 1980 in Nigeria, where they lost all three group matches to Nigeria, Egypt and Ivory Coast. They returned in 2019 under former Super Eagles winger Emmanuel Amuneke after a 39-year absence, but again exited without a win following defeats to Senegal, Kenya and Algeria. At the 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast, however, Tanzania showed encouraging signs of progress. After losing their opener to hosts Morocco, they held Zambia and DR Congo to draws results that have strengthened belief within the camp as they prepare for another shot at history in Morocco.

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FCT Task Force Intensifies Security Sweep Ahead of Christmas, New Year

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) task force, known as Operation Sweep, has intensified efforts to rid Abuja of criminal elements as residents prepare for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Leading the exercise, the Director of the Department of Security Services at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Adamu Gwary, said the move was aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for residents and visitors. Gwary, who was represented by Dr Olumiji Peter, visited key locations including Apo Bridge, Area 1 Roundabout, Julius Berger Junction and Utako Motor Park to sensitise transport operators and other stakeholders. He explained that the FCT Administration, in collaboration with security agencies, has deployed personnel to identified black spots across the city to tighten security during the yuletide period. According to him, operators of motor parks and event centres have been directed not to allow individuals without proper identification especially motorists to operate within their premises. “We are going round the city as part of the ongoing Operation Sweep to ensure the FCT is free of miscreants and criminal elements. This festive season is meant for families and friends to come together and celebrate, but unfortunately, some criminal elements try to cause trouble. We are here to prevent that,” he said. Gwary added that the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has issued firm directives to all security agencies under Operation Sweep to decisively tackle all forms of criminality. He noted that the monitoring of motor parks would be sustained, while illegal parks often used by ‘one-chance’ syndicates would be dismantled. “The FCT Police Command has also carried out massive deployment. Officers have been stationed at strategic locations following the commissioner of police’s directive,” he added. Speaking on other security-related measures, the Head of the Enforcement Unit of the FCT Social Development Secretariat, Ukachi Adebayo, disclosed that 481 beggars have been evacuated from the city within the last two weeks. “The individuals arrested are taken to our holding centre, where we profile them and cater for their welfare. Those willing to learn skills are also trained,” she explained. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Utako Motor Park, Adamu Abubakar, assured authorities that motorists without valid identification are not allowed to operate in the park. He pledged that the union would continue profiling all members, particularly new entrants, to support the ongoing security efforts in the FCT.

Entertainment, Events, Politics

Kwara Deputy Governor, Clerics Pray for Nigeria’s Peace and Unity at Christmas Carol

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The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr Kayode Alabi, alongside Christian clerics, has offered prayers for Nigeria to overcome its current challenges and enjoy lasting peace and progress. The prayers were said in Ilorin during the 15th annual Christmas Carol organised by KAM Holding Limited, an event that brought together religious leaders, government officials and notable personalities. Speaking at the gathering, Alabi urged Nigerians to remain patient, prayerful and firm in their faith, stressing that the nation’s challenges can only be surmounted through unity, collective resolve and trust in God. He called on citizens to continue praying for the country and its leaders at both federal and state levels, noting that difficult times demand deeper reliance on divine guidance. The deputy governor, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religion (Christianity), Reverend Timothy Akangbe, also commended KAM Holding Limited for sustaining the Christmas carol for 15 years. He described the event as a meaningful corporate initiative that promotes gratitude, moral reflection and peaceful coexistence. “We give glory to God for the gift of life. Christmas is a season we must never take for granted. The carol brings joy that touches the soul, and we rejoice with KAM Holding for sustaining this noble event over the past 15 years,” he said. The event attracted several prominent guests, including the Vice Chairman of KAM Holding Limited and convener of the carol, Erelu Bolanle Yusuf; the wife of the Olofa of Offa, Hajia Mistura Gbadamosi; Mrs Jumoke Faysal Harb; and Hajia Bola Gold. Earlier, Erelu Bolanle Yusuf described Christmas as a season of joy, love and hope, calling on Nigerians to show kindness, generosity and compassion to one another. She said the true essence of the season goes beyond celebration, emphasising care for the less privileged and the need to promote harmony within communities. “Christmas reminds us that the real spirit of the season is about giving from the heart and being grateful for what we have,” she said.

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Nigeria’s Economy Records Year-Long Growth in 2025, Says FG

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The Federal Government says Nigeria’s economy recorded steady growth throughout 2025, expanding consistently for 12 straight months despite global and local economic pressures. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed this on Monday in Abuja while presenting the government’s end-of-year performance scorecard. According to Idris, data from the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) a key measure of business confidence showed uninterrupted expansion in economic activities across the country all through the year. “The latest PMI figures clearly indicate that Nigeria has experienced 12 consecutive months of expansion in economic activity,” he said. He explained that the performance highlights the resilience of the non-oil sector, even as the economy contends with inflation and global uncertainties. The minister disclosed that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.98 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, driven mainly by growth in the services, trade and manufacturing sectors. He also noted that headline inflation eased for eight straight months, dropping to 14.45 per cent in November 2025. In addition, Idris said the country’s external reserves improved significantly, rising to about $44.56 billion. “Our external reserves now stand at approximately $44.56 billion. This provides a strong buffer for currency stability and boosts confidence among international investors,” he said. He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains focused on strengthening macroeconomic stability and ensuring that economic growth leads to better living conditions for citizens. Looking ahead, Idris said the 2026 budget would focus on security, infrastructure, youth empowerment and social welfare to sustain the positive momentum. “The mission for 2026 is to build a secure, competitive and prosperous Nigeria,” he said, adding that reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration are beginning to deliver long-term gains. Describing President Bola Tinubu’s economic vision as bold and purposeful, the minister said the country is firmly on the path towards inclusive and sustainable growth.

President Bola Tinubu
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What Tinubu’s ₦58.18 Trillion 2026 Budget Could Mean for Nigerians’ Daily Lives

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Expectations are rising across the country following President Bola Tinubu’s proposed ₦58.18 trillion national budget for 2026, which experts believe could ease pressures on households, support small businesses and improve the overall business environment if properly implemented. Presented to the National Assembly last week, the 2026 spending plan is one of the largest in Nigeria’s history. A closer look shows a strong focus on security, with ₦5.41 trillion earmarked for defence and internal security, up from ₦4.91 trillion in 2025. Analysts say this increase signals the government’s determination to tackle insecurity that has disrupted farming, trade and daily life in many parts of the country. Education and health allocations remain unchanged at ₦3.52 trillion and ₦2.48 trillion respectively, while infrastructure spending dropped slightly from ₦4.06 trillion in 2025 to ₦3.56 trillion in the proposed budget. Despite the reduction, economists say investment in transport, energy and ports could still improve connectivity, create jobs and reduce living costs by cutting logistics and energy expenses. Beyond the figures, experts say the real test of the budget lies in how it affects ordinary Nigerians. Improved security could mean safer travel, more stable farming seasons and fewer disruptions to local businesses. Better roads and power supply could lower transport costs, reduce reliance on generators and make goods cheaper in the markets. The Director of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf, described the emphasis on security as both “necessary and commendable,” noting that no meaningful economic or social progress can occur without safety. He added that sustained investment in education, health and infrastructure is critical for productivity, human capital development and inclusive growth. However, Yusuf and other analysts stressed that the success of the 2026 budget depends largely on execution. Past budgets, including 2025, suffered from under-implementation due to revenue shortfalls and rising debt servicing. “A budget only has value when it is implemented,” Yusuf said, calling for timely, transparent and disciplined execution. Economists also warned that while increased spending brings hope, funding the budget could place pressure on citizens through stricter tax enforcement and higher levies, especially for small businesses and professionals. With revenue performance in 2025 falling well below targets, concerns remain about how much of the 2026 plan will be realised. For small and medium-sized enterprises, the stakes are high. Effective infrastructure spending could lower operating costs and boost profits, while poor execution could leave businesses struggling with high energy bills, bad roads and multiple taxes. Still, many analysts see the 2026 budget as an opportunity. If capital projects are delivered, public services strengthened and social spending protected, households could enjoy lower living costs, communities could benefit from better connectivity, and businesses could operate in a more stable environment. In the end, experts agree that the ₦58.18 trillion budget represents both hope and risk. Its true impact will not be measured by its size, but by how much of it translates into safer streets, better roads, reliable power, quality schools and affordable healthcare for everyday Nigerians.

Davido
Entertainment, Events, Sports

AFCON 2025 Kicks Off in Style as Davido, French Montana Light Up Opening Ceremony

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The TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 officially gets underway on Sunday night with a colourful opening ceremony at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, setting the stage for a month-long celebration of African football and culture. The ceremony, scheduled for 6:00 pm WAT, drew major excitement after Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido shared a video of himself and his team arriving at the stadium ahead of his performance. His post quickly went viral, with fans across the continent eagerly anticipating the show. Earlier, the singer had announced, “Performing at the opening ceremony for AFCON! 6:30 PM WAT.” Davido thrilled the crowd with a performance alongside international star French Montana. They were joined on stage by other artistes, including Douaa Lahyaoui, Lartiste and Says’z, adding diverse musical flavours to the night. Adding to the spectacle, music legends Angélique Kidjo, Jaylann and L’Artiste were scheduled to unveil the official AFCON 2025 anthem a song designed to capture the spirit of unity, pride and shared identity across Africa. AFCON 2025, the 35th edition of the continent’s premier football tournament, will run until January 18, 2026. A total of 24 national teams will compete across six host cities in Morocco. Organisers say this year’s tournament is not just about football, but also about showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage and creative talent both on and off the pitch.

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