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Nigeria at 65: Anambra Gov’s Wife Urges Citizens to Be Proud, Build a Better Nation

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By Prosper Mene 

‎As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary today, Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has issued a passionate call for Nigerians to reclaim their sense of national pride and actively contribute to the country’s progress, even amid ongoing challenges.

‎In a heartfelt statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Soludo, who also serves as the founder of the “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo” initiative, emphasized the untapped potential of Nigeria’s diverse heritage and rich history. “God has blessed this country beyond what the eyes can see. We only have to find strength around our diversity and rich history,” she declared. “I believe that Nigeria is still bound for greater heights. I still believe that our dear Nation has a lot more to give. I’m proud to be a Nigerian.”

‎The Anambra First Lady’s message comes at a pivotal moment for the nation, reflecting on 65 years of sovereignty since independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960.

‎Her appeal underscores a collective responsibility to foster unity and law-abiding citizenship, urging every Nigerian to “give up what you have to for the betterment of this great country.”

‎She added a spiritual dimension to her exhortation, reminding citizens: “There’s a reason God has made you a Nigerian. Be a proud Nigerian.”

‎Dr. Soludo highlighted Anambra State’s commitment to creating a secure environment where residents can thrive without fear, aligning her vision with her husband’s administration’s focus on justice, equity, and opportunity. “Anambra is committed to building a state where citizens can live and work without fear and where opportunities for potential and growth thrive under a secure environment,” she noted, tying the state’s aspirations to Nigeria’s broader journey toward nationhood.

‎Nigeria’s 65th anniversary celebrations across the country include parades, cultural events, and reflections on milestones like economic reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as challenges such as infrastructure gaps and security concerns. Dr. Soludo’s words serve as a unifying thread, encouraging Nigerians to look beyond hurdles and invest in a future defined by ambition and inclusivity.”

‎Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria,” Dr. Soludo concluded, extending her well-wishes to all citizens.

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Nigeria Needs Accountable Leadership for Real Transformation: Senator Natasha Uduaghan

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a prominent Nigerian lawmaker, has called for a paradigm shift in the country’s leadership, stressing that accountability is the cornerstone of meaningful transformation.

‎Speaking at a recent public forum, Natasha emphasized that Nigeria’s progress hinges on leaders who prioritize transparency, integrity, and the welfare of citizens over personal gain.“Nigeria is at a critical juncture. Our challenges, poverty, insecurity, and infrastructure decay, require leaders who are not only visionary but accountable to the people,” Natasha said.

‎She highlighted the need for governance that bridges the gap between policy promises and tangible results, urging leaders to adopt a people-centric approach to address systemic issues like unemployment and economic instability.

‎Drawing from her experience as a senator, Natasha pointed to the disconnect between government initiatives and their implementation. “Policies are only as good as their execution. Without accountability, even the best plans remain mere rhetoric,” she noted.

‎She advocated for stronger institutional frameworks to ensure public funds are used effectively and public servants are held responsible for their actions.

‎Natasha also called for greater citizen participation in governance, encouraging Nigerians to demand transparency and engage in the democratic process. “Transformation begins when the people hold leaders accountable. We must move beyond apathy and actively shape the future we want,” she urged.

‎Natasha’s advocacy for accountable leadership offers a clarion call for systemic change.

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YCTA Supports Women with Mother-Baby Kits and Cooking Gas Cylinders

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Youth Community Transformation Agency (YCTA) brought smiles to many women in the city by giving out mother-baby kits and cooking gas cylinders.

‎The event which took place at the Federal Capital Territory, had women gathered with their children to receive these helpful items. This effort shows YCTA’s dedication to supporting mothers and families who need a little extra help.The mother-baby kits are packed with useful items like diapers, baby wipes, creams, blankets, and nutritional supplements. These supplies help new mothers care for their babies without worrying about the high costs of these essentials.

‎The cooking gas cylinders are a big help too, making it easier and safer for families to cook meals at home. Many women said these gifts will make their daily lives much easier.“This is more than just supplies, it’s about giving women a chance to feel supported,” said Aisha Rahman, YCTA’s Program Director. “We want to help mothers focus on their families and their futures without struggling for basic needs.” The event was filled with happy faces as women thanked YCTA for thinking of them during tough times.

‎For many families, buying things like baby supplies or cooking gas can be hard because prices keep going up. Some women have had to use firewood or other unsafe ways to cook, which can be harmful. The gas cylinders from YCTA mean safer cooking and more time for mothers to work or spend with their children. One mother, Maryam Idris, said, “This kit and gas cylinder will help me take care of my baby and cook without stress. I’m so grateful.”

‎YCTA plans to keep helping more women through their “Women Rise” campaign. They’ve already supported over 500 families and hope to reach even more in rural areas soon.

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Kaduna Nurses Praise Governor for New Salary Structure ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Nurses and midwives in Kaduna State are celebrating Governor Uba Sani for approving the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), a significant pay upgrade for healthcare workers.

‎The move has drawn widespread appreciation among the state’s medical community, who see it as a lifeline for a sector strained by low wages and tough working conditions.

‎The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in Kaduna expressed their gratitude in a letter signed by Chairman Ishaku Yakubu and Secretary Christiana Bawa. They hailed the governor’s decision as a bold and fair step that boosts morale, enhances productivity, and sets Kaduna apart as a worker-friendly state. The nurses pledged to double their efforts in healthcare delivery to support Governor Sani’s vision for a stronger Kaduna.

‎These salary structures, part of a national framework to improve pay for health workers, aim to curb the recent issue of professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

‎While many states hesitate to implement them due to budget constraints, Kaduna’s swift action has been widely praised.

‎ Social media buzzed with excitement, as outlets like TheCable and THISDAY LIVE shared the news, and users like @habibidris49‎ joined the chorus of approval online.

‎However, the joy is not universal across Kaduna’s public sector. Staff at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic and Kaduna State College of Education launched an indefinite strike this week, demanding their own salary and pension reforms.

‎This contrast shows the delicate balancing act Governor Sani faces in addressing worker demands amid limited resources. For now, nurses remain optimistic, with one stating, “This is more than a paycheck, it’s about dignity and a brighter future for healthcare.”

‎According to nurses, the salary boost will not only improve their livelihoods but also attract new talent to the profession, potentially reducing the strain on hospitals and clinics across the state.

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‎Fans Shower Love on Nollywood Icon Joke Silva as She Turns 64 ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Veteran Nollywood actress, director, and businesswoman Joke Silva marked her 64th birthday today, drawing an outpouring of affection from fans, colleagues, and admirers across social media.

‎The celebrated star, known for her timeless elegance and trailblazing contributions to Nigerian cinema, was hailed as a “pillar of grace” and an “eternal queen” in a series of tributes that trended nationwide.

‎Born on September 29, 1961, in Lagos to a family of four, Silva’s journey to stardom began early. A graduate of the University of Lagos and the prestigious Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London, she defied her parents’ initial reservations about a career in the arts to become one of Nollywood’s most enduring figures.

‎Her breakout international role came in 1998’s The Secret Laughter of Women, where she starred opposite Hollywood heavyweights Colin Firth and Nia Long, showcasing her versatility on a global stage.

‎Over three decades, Silva has amassed an impressive resume, including a Best Actress win at the 2006 Africa Movie Academy Awards for her lead role in Sit Down, Call God. Memorable performances in films like 30 Days (2006), Phone Swap (2011), and the TV series Battleground (2017–2019) have cemented her as a mentor to younger actors.

‎Bimbo Akintola, who co-starred with her in Keeping Faith (2002), once credited Silva as a profound influence, calling her “Aunty Joke” and praising her for the “things she didn’t realize she did” to shape careers.

‎Beyond the screen, Silva’s impact extends to advocacy and education. In 2020, she spearheaded the Actors Guild of Nigeria’s (AGN) campaign for health insurance amid the industry’s struggles with medical bills for ailing stars.

‎She also serves as Director of Studies at the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, co-founded with her husband, the legendary Olu Jacobs.

‎The couple’s Lufodo Group oversees film production, distribution, and the innovative Malete Film Village in partnership with Kwara State University. In 2014, her contributions earned her the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) honor.

‎Married to Jacobs since 1985, Silva has been a steadfast pillar during his public battle with dementia with Lewy bodies, which she openly discussed in a 2021 interview. Just two months ago, on his 83rd birthday in July, she penned a poignant tribute: “The wisdom etched upon your face is a testament to a life embraced… I ask for peace in these twilight years.”

‎Their 40-year union remains a beacon of enduring love in Nollywood’s often turbulent landscape.

‎Today’s celebrations lit up platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with #JokeSilvaAt64 emerging as a top trend.

‎ Fans shared nostalgic clips from her iconic roles, elegant throwback photos, and heartfelt prayers. “Happy birthday to the woman who taught us grace under fire. May your light never dim, Mummy J!” wrote one admirer.

‎Colleagues, including younger stars like Osas Ighodaro, posted videos of on-set memories, while media outlets like Punch Newspapers and The Nation highlighted her as “Nollywood’s evergreen matriarch.”The Eagle Online shared a festive montage captioned, “Happy Birthday to the Veteran Nigerian Actress, Director, and Business Woman, Joke Silva!!” while IMJA Lifestyle urged, “A prayer for her is a prayer for you.” Even international nods surfaced, with J.O. Comms grouping her birthday alongside British actor Ian McShane’s 83rd and Zachary Levi’s 44th in a global “legendary stars” shoutout.

‎ As one fan summed it up: “64 looks like 40 on you, Aunty Joke. Here’s to more decades of slaying!”Her milestone comes at a reflective time for Nollywood, as the industry continues to evolve amid streaming booms and global festivals.

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Anambra State Rejects Claims Linking First Lady to ₦38m University Contract Scandal

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Anambra State Government has categorically dismissed social media allegations implicating Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, in a ₦38 million contract at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), labeling the claims as “malicious fabrications” aimed at undermining her reputation and the administration’s credibility.

‎In a statement released on Monday, Daniel Ezeigwe, Senior Media Aide to Dr. Soludo, debunked reports that the First Lady influenced the award of a ₦38 million contract at COOU’s Igbariam campus through a supposed Senior Special Assistant (SSA) named Mrs. Chinwe Umerie.

‎Ezeigwe clarified that Anambra State has no formal Office of the First Lady, and no such aide exists. “Dr. Nonye Soludo has no involvement in government contracts, including any alleged project at Ojukwu University,” he said. “These claims are the work of mischief-makers desperate to distract from the state’s progress.”The allegations, which gained traction over the weekend on platforms like X, suggested Dr. Soludo facilitated the contract through intermediaries, causing public debate.

‎Ezeigwe emphasized that the First Lady’s activities are limited to voluntary initiatives, such as her “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” campaign, which promotes nutrition and wellness, and empowerment programs for women and youths.

‎ In June 2025, she empowered over 1,000 female traders in Dunukofia with grants, and in August, she launched the Renewed Hope Initiative, benefiting 1,000 women with business support.

‎This is not the first time COOU has faced scrutiny. In February 2025, the university refuted similar accusations of contract fraud against its acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, dismissing them as attempts to discredit her leadership.

‎Dr. Soludo, a trained pharmacist, was honored by COOU in May 2025 with an honorary Doctor of Public Health and Nutrition for her contributions to community health. She also received a Compassionate Service Award from the Nigeria Labour Congress in Anambra earlier this year for her advocacy.

‎The timing of the allegations has raised suspicions of political motives, with the 2025 governorship election looming.

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ARISE News Anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu Killed in Abuja Armed Robbery ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Nigerian media landscape is in pain from the shocking death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old news anchor, reporter, and producer at ARISE News Channel, who was fatally shot during an armed robbery at her residence in the upscale Katampe district of Abuja in the early hours of Monday.

‎Maduagwu, affectionately known as “Sommie” to colleagues and viewers, was ambushed by unidentified gunmen who stormed her home around 2 a.m., local time. According to police reports, the assailants ransacked the property, making off with valuables including electronics and cash, before fleeing the scene. Despite prompt medical attention, Maduagwu succumbed to gunshot wounds at a nearby hospital.

‎The Nigeria Police Force’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command has launched a full-scale investigation, deploying tactical teams to track down the perpetrators and recover stolen items.

‎In a somber statement released by ARISE News management, signed by spokesperson Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, the channel described Maduagwu as “a vibrant voice on air, a professional lawyer, and a supportive friend” whose passion for journalism “connected deeply with audiences across the globe.”

‎ ‎ “Sommie’s tragic passing has left the entire ARISE family in profound shock and grief,” the statement read. “Her spirit, passion, and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We extend our deepest condolences to her parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones.”

‎ ‎Born on December 26, 1995, in Lagos, Maduagwu was a trained lawyer who transitioned into broadcast journalism, bringing her analytical acumen and eloquence to ARISE News. She rose as a fixture on the channel’s prime-time segments, covering critical issues from politics and economy to human rights and social justice.

‎Colleagues remembered her as “a cherished member whose energy lit up the newsroom,” with one anonymous producer telling reporters, “Sommie wasn’t just a colleague; she was the heartbeat of our team, always ready with a laugh or a sharp insight.”

‎ ‎The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) issued joint condemnations, labeling the killing “a brazen assault on press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria’s capital.”

‎ ‎Civil society groups, including the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, demanded “swift and transparent justice,” warning that such violence erodes public trust in law enforcement.

‎FCT Police Commissioner Bennett Igwe vowed in a press briefing that “no stone will be left unturned” in the manhunt, assuring the public of forensic leads and community intelligence driving the probe. ARISE News has pledged support for Maduagwu’s family and called for immediate prosecution of those responsible, while planning a memorial broadcast to honor her contributions.

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Nigerian Judiciary Gains Ground in Rebuilding Public Trust, Says CJN Kekere-Ekun ‎ ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun announced on Monday that the judiciary is making significant progress in restoring public confidence, driven by sweeping reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

‎Addressing stakeholders at the Supreme Court in Abuja, Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that her administration’s focus on modernization and integrity is yielding results. “We are not just reforming systems; we are rebuilding trust,” she said. “From digital case management to tackling corruption head-on, the judiciary is becoming a beacon of hope for Nigerians.”The CJN’s remarks align with recent endorsements from various quarters.

‎In July 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking at a Securities and Exchange Commission workshop, praised the judiciary’s efforts to expedite capital market cases, describing it as vital for economic growth. “A trusted judiciary strengthens investor confidence,” he noted.

‎Civil society groups have also commended the CJN’s initiatives. The Judiciary Watch Initiative, in a March 2025 statement, lauded her for advancing digital tools like e-filing and strengthening anti-corruption measures under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. “Her leadership is steering the judiciary toward equity and efficiency,” said Chairman Alhaji Abdullahi Sulaiman.

‎Key achievements highlighted by Justice Kekere-Ekun include:

‎Digital Transformation: Over 70% of federal high courts now use e-filing, cutting case processing times by 40% in pilot regions.

‎Anti-Corruption Measures: A Judicial Integrity Panel has disciplined 15 judicial officers for misconduct since January 2025.

‎Judicial Training: Over 2,000 judges and court staff trained on modern legal challenges, including financial crimes.

‎Public Access: Quarterly “Justice Open Forums” launched to engage citizens and clarify court processes.

‎Despite the progress, challenges remain. The Nigerian Bar Association has urged deeper reforms, including mandatory asset declarations for judges. “The judiciary must continue to earn the people’s trust,” said NBA President Yakubu Maikyau last year.

‎ Justice Kekere-Ekun called for collective commitment: “These strides are a foundation for a judiciary that serves all Nigerians.”The Supreme Court will host a national judicial conference in November 2025 to outline further reforms, including expanding alternative dispute resolution.

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‎Nigeria Bolsters Fight Against Gender-Based Violence with dRPC Partnership

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has strengthened its alliance with the Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) to tackle gender-based violence (GBV), a pervasive issue affecting women and girls across the country.

‎ The partnership, unveiled during a high-level event in Abuja, synce with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and focuses on leveraging religious leaders, civil society, and community networks to curb GBV, particularly in northern Nigeria.

‎The initiative, titled “Muslim Opinion Leaders for GBV Prevention in Northern Nigeria,” was launched by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with dRPC.

‎ It targets the alarming prevalence of GBV, with data indicating that 25% of married Nigerian women have experienced physical or sexual violence, a figure exacerbated by post-COVID-19 socioeconomic challenges.

‎ Forms of abuse include intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and technology-facilitated harassment, disproportionately impacting northern communities where cultural and religious norms often intersect with systemic gaps.

‎Minister of Women Affairs, Aisha Suleiman-Ibrahim, underscored the initiative’s alignment with national priorities, stating, “This partnership ensures no woman or girl suffers in silence due to harmful cultural misinterpretations.”

‎The project equips Islamic scholars, imams, and Hisbah (Sharia morality police) officials with training to promote women’s rights through Islamic principles of mercy and non-oppression. Iliyasu Usman, Imam of the National Mosque, emphasized, “Islam prohibits all forms of oppression. We must replace harmful distortions with teachings that empower and protect women.”

‎dRPC, a non-profit focused on women’s empowerment, has been a key player in GBV prevention since 2019. Its efforts include training over 40 imams in Kaduna and Kano to address sexual, domestic, and psychological abuse from an Islamic perspective.

‎ In 2022, dRPC held workshops for Hisbah commanders across six northwestern states, securing commitments to prioritize survivor protection. The organization also conducts policy research on technology-facilitated GBV and collaborates with partners like the Ford Foundation and the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN).Dr.

‎Judith-Ann Walker, dRPC’s Executive Director, described the partnership as “a game-changer,” adding, “By empowering faith leaders and aligning with federal initiatives, we’re addressing GBV at its roots and fostering inclusive justice.”

‎ The FG has committed to providing technical support, funding, and integration into national GBV frameworks, including the 2020 state of emergency on GBV.

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‎Ogun Monarch Demands Arrest of Influencer Mandy Kiss Over ‘Sex Marathon’ Plan

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Oba Ebenezer Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Ogun State, has called for the arrest of social media influencer Mandy Kiss (Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi) after she announced plans for a 24-hour “sex marathon” with 100 men in Lagos to break a Guinness World Record.

The 29-year-old’s Instagram post, featuring a flyer with the GWR logo, caused outrage despite GWR rejecting the proposal as unethical and unverifiable.

‎In an open letter to Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the monarch condemned the stunt as a “disgrace” to Nigerian values, urging Mandy’s detention, a drug test, and psychiatric evaluation. He warned of moral decay and risks to public health, citing potential physical and psychological harm.

‎Mandy, a controversial figure from Ogun State, defended her plan as a statement on female sexuality, but critics, including health experts, highlight severe health risks.

‎The announcement has divided social media, with #ArrestMandyKiss and #FreeMandyKiss trending.

‎Some advocate counseling over criminalization, while others demand stricter social media regulations.

‎Lagos authorities have yet to respond, and Mandy vows to proceed on September 30 in Ikorodu. The controversy shows the tensions between Nigeria’s digital culture and traditional values, raising questions about free expression and public decency.

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