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‎Wike Appoints Nancy Sabanti Nathan as Acting Head of Service of FCTA

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By Prosper Mene 

‎In a bid to ensure continuity in the administration of Nigeria’s capital city, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the appointment of Mrs Nancy Sabanti Nathan as the Acting Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

‎The announcement, made public on Tuesday, comes just over a week after the sudden passing of the previous Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, leaving a critical leadership vacuum in the FCT’s civil service.

‎The appointment was disclosed in a statement issued by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister.

‎Olayinka emphasized that Nathan’s role is in an acting capacity, pending the selection and confirmation of a substantive Head of Service. “The appointment takes immediate effect,” the statement read, pointing the urgency to maintain seamless operations in the FCTA, which oversees the governance, infrastructure, and public services in Abuja and surrounding areas.

‎Mrs. Adayilo, who served as the FCTA’s Head of Service until her death on September 1, 2025, was a veteran administrator whose contributions to the territory’s development were widely acknowledged.

‎Her untimely demise has prompted this interim leadership transition to avoid any disruptions in policy implementation and administrative functions.

‎Prior to her elevation, Mrs. Nancy Sabanti Nathan, mni (Member of the National Institute), held the position of Permanent Secretary in the FCTA’s Youth Development Secretariat. She brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Director of Finance and Administration in the office of the FCT Minister.

‎Nathan’s career journey highlights her expertise in financial management, youth empowerment programs, and administrative oversight, qualities deemed essential for steering the FCTA through this transitional period.

‎The FCTA, as the administrative arm of the Federal Capital Territory, plays a pivotal role in urban planning, security, education, health, and economic development for over 3 million residents in Abuja.

‎ Nathan’s interim leadership is expected to focus on sustaining ongoing initiatives, including Wike’s ambitious infrastructure projects and efforts to enhance youth engagement in the capital.

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‎National Assembly Bars Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Resuming Duties Despite Suspension’s Expiration

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The National Assembly (NASS) has formally rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bid to return to her legislative role, citing an ongoing appeal at the Court of Appeal as the primary reason.

‎ The Kogi Central representative, suspended for six months earlier this year amid allegations of misconduct, had notified NASS of her intention to resume on September 4, 2025, claiming the penalty period had lapsed.

‎The decision, outlined in a letter dated September 4, 2025, from Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, shows the delicate balance between parliamentary autonomy and judicial oversight. Danzaria acknowledged receipt of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification but emphasized that the matter remains “sub judice,” meaning it is under active judicial consideration. “Until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter stated.

‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s troubles began in March 2025, when the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on her following a heated dispute over seating arrangements during a plenary session. The altercation reportedly escalated into accusations of gross misconduct and a violation of Senate rules. The senator, one of only four female senators in the 109-member upper chamber, has linked the suspension to a prior petition she filed accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment a claim Akpabio has vehemently denied.

‎The suspension, effective from March 6, 2025, barred her from participating in legislative activities and accessing Senate facilities. In July 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted an early return, citing a Federal High Court ruling by Justice Binta Nyako that described the suspension as “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her recall. However, security personnel denied her entry to the National Assembly complex, forcing her to walk in on foot accompanied by activists like Aisha Yesufu.

‎The Senate dismissed the ruling as advisory rather than binding, arguing that courts cannot interfere in internal parliamentary procedures.

‎Subsequently, the Federal High Court found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for a social media post that allegedly violated a court order, fining her N5 million and requiring a public apology. Dissatisfied with these developments, she appealed to the Court of Appeal in Abuja, where the case remains pending.

‎On August 28, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan wrote to Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, asserting that September 4 marked the end of her suspension and requesting confirmation of arrangements for her return. She highlighted the need to catch up on committee assignments, review pending legislation, and address constituency matters accumulated during her absence. NASS’s response, however, was unequivocal. While confirming the suspension’s timeline, Danzaria noted that the appellate process halts any immediate action. The letter assured the senator that she would be notified of the Senate’s final decision once the Court of Appeal rules.

‎This stance has drawn criticism from supporters who view it as an extension of political vendetta, particularly given Akpoti-Uduaghan’s vocal advocacy for gender equity and her status as a rare female voice in the male-dominated Senate.

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Africa Must Lead Its Own Security, Says UN’s Amina Mohammed

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Amina Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General, urged African leaders to take charge of the continent’s security at the first African Chiefs of Defence Forum in Abuja. She called the event a historic step toward uniting African nations to tackle growing threats like terrorism, cyberattacks, and climate-related crises.

‎Mohammed, a former Nigerian minister, highlighted Africa’s serious challenges, noting it has the highest number of terrorism deaths worldwide. She said attacks in West Africa’s coastal areas have risen by 250% in two years, and 14,000 schools in the Sahel closed by 2024 due to violence, putting children’s futures at risk.

‎She also warned that social media is fueling division and hate, calling it a new “battleground.”She spoke about artificial intelligence (AI), which can help with things like predicting food shortages or finding landmines but warned it could harm human rights if used for critical decisions. Mohammed also linked climate change to conflict, pointing to the shrinking of Lake Chad, which has displaced over three million people.

‎Mohammed stressed that security, development, and human rights must work together. “Africa will not sit back,” she said. “We will take control of our security and use technology for peace.” She called for unity to protect Africa’s 1.5 billion people.The forum, attended by defense leaders from 52 of Africa’s 54 countries, was a major event. Former Guinea Prime Minister Lansana Kouyate said peace is essential for progress and suggested new ways to fund security.

‎Burkina Faso and Mali did not attend due to tensions with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after forming a new alliance with Niger.Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, called for modernizing African forces with better cyber defenses and local technology. He said Africa must unite to create a safer continent and highlighted Nigeria’s efforts in peacekeeping and fighting terrorism.

‎The summit, running through Wednesday, aims to build a new plan for African security cooperation. The message from Abuja is clear: Africa must lead its own path to peace.

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‎Jarvis Defends Peller Over Public Backlash: With Time, He Will Change

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Popular Nigerian TikTok content creator, Jarvis, has come to the defense of her partner, Peller, following intense criticism caused by a viral video showing a public altercation between the two. The video, which captured Peller pushing Jarvis into a car, ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, with many accusing him of abusive behavior.

‎Jarvis, however, has dismissed these claims, urging Nigerians to stop spreading false narratives and expressing confidence that Peller will grow from the incident.

‎In a response shared on August 25, 2025, Jarvis clarified that the altercation was not indicative of abuse, emphasizing her autonomy in the relationship. “I’m old enough to take up my responsibilities and know what I want,” she said. “The pushing was a no-no, but I believe he will change.” Jarvis further explained that the incident stemmed from Peller’s attempt to protect her from street touts, known locally as “agberos,” and that both are still “a work in progress.”

‎‎Peller, who faced significant backlash after the video surfaced, issued a statement acknowledging his mistake and expressing regret. He insisted that his actions were not abusive, stating, “I can never beat a woman. I was only trying to protect her from agberos, and she wasn’t listening to me.” Jarvis amplified this sentiment, dismissing speculations that her relationship with Peller is driven by fame or money. “I’m in a relationship with him because I love him, not because of fame or money. We are both coming up. Which fame? Which money?” she said, addressing critics directly.

‎The couple’s response has sparked mixed reactions across social media platforms, where some users support Jarvis’s stance, while others remain skeptical, questioning her defense of Peller’s actions.

‎Jarvis also addressed her personal growth, admitting that she, too, is learning to control her reactions. “If it was before, as he pushed me, I would have raised my hand back. But I’m trying to act like a lady,” she said, citing her belief in mutual growth within their relationship. She urged fans and critics alike to respect her choices, stating, “I decide what I want. I know what I want, and I go for it.”

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Fuel Subsidy Removal: A Good Reform Gone Wrong, Says Ezekwesili

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Former Nigerian Minister of Education and prominent economist, Oby Ezekwesili, has described the removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria as a “good reform” that was poorly executed.

‎Speaking recently, Ezekwesili criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu for its handling of the policy, labeling the approach as flawed and marked by “arrogance.”

‎The decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, which has been a long-standing economic policy in Nigeria, was intended to redirect funds toward critical sectors like infrastructure and social services. However, the abrupt implementation has caused widespread discontent, with citizens grappling with soaring fuel prices and heightened economic hardship.

‎Ezekwesili, a vocal advocate for economic reforms, argued that while the subsidy removal was necessary to address fiscal inefficiencies, the lack of a clear strategy and communication exacerbated its negative impact on Nigerians.“Removing fuel subsidies is a sound economic move, but it was done the wrong way,” Ezekwesili stated, “The arrogance in the execution ignored the real-time consequences on ordinary citizens.” She cited the need for a more inclusive and transparent approach, including robust safety nets to cushion the policy’s immediate effects on vulnerable populations.

‎The subsidy removal, announced in 2023, under the Tinubu led administration caised a sharp increase in fuel prices, triggering inflation and protests across the country.

‎Critics, like Ezekwesili, have pointed to the absence of adequate palliative measures and poor stakeholder engagement as key failures in the policy’s rollout.

‎Supporters of the administration, however, argue that the reform was a bold step to curb corruption and stabilize the economy in the long term.

‎The Tinubu administration has yet to respond directly to her critique, but the debate continues to dominate public discourse as Nigerians demand solutions to the ongoing economic challenges.

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‎Nollywood Star Iyabo Ojo’s Newborn Grandson Gains 100K Instagram Followers in Hours

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By Prosper Mene

‎The newborn grandson of renowned Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, Baby Rakeem Ayomide Mkambala has taken the internet by storm, amassing over 100,000 Instagram followers within hours of his account’s launch. 

‎Born to Nigerian influencer Priscilla Ojo and Tanzanian music star Juma Jux, Rakeem’s rapid rise to fame has taken fans across Nigeria, Tanzania, and beyond by surprise.

‎The excitement began when Iyabo Ojo announced Rakeem’s birth on Sunday, August 24, 2025, via a heartfelt Instagram post. She shared a photo of herself cradling the newborn in the delivery room alongside her daughter Priscilla, Iyabo proudly declared herself the “sexiest grandma in town”.

‎The post, which concealed Rakeem’s face for privacy, garnered congratulatory messages from fans, celebrities, and family friends. Alongside the announcement, Iyabo revealed Rakeem’s official Instagram handle, @rakeem_mk, managed by his parents, which quickly gained traction.

‎By Monday morning, the account had surged past 100,000 followers. Currently, the page features a single collaborative post with Priscilla, showcasing blurred images and clips of the newborn, yet the limited content has done little to dampen the enthusiasm of fans eagerly awaiting a full reveal.

‎Rakeem’s rise was fueled by the combined star power of his family. Priscilla, a prominent fashion influencer, and Juma Jux, a celebrated Tanzanian singer, announced their pregnancy in a joint Instagram post on July 4, 2025, followed by a vibrant gender reveal in Tanzania that confirmed they were expecting a boy. The couple, who tied the knot in a series of lavish ceremonies across Nigeria and Tanzania earlier this year, have garnered significant attention for their multinational love story, further amplifying interest in their son’s arrival.“

‎The baby’s unique heritage, blending Nigerian, Tanzanian, and Canadian roots has added to his appeal, with fans from both nations leading the charge in boosting his social media presence.

‎While the family celebrates in Canada, where Priscilla gave birth, Iyabo Ojo has announced plans for a traditional naming ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria, in the coming weeks.

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AXA Mansard’s CCO, Adebisi Calls for Excellence in Execution of NIIRA 2025 Reforms

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Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, has called on Nigeria’s insurance industry to ensure that the implementation of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025 is matched with disciplined and effective execution. She emphasized that the industry’s credibility will be judged not solely by its financial strength but by its capacity to protect Nigerians.

Speaking on BusinessDay TV’s Morning Show, Adebisi highlighted that recapitalization and the adoption of risk-based capital standards present a historic opportunity to reposition the sector. However, she cautioned that reforms around capital and digitization, without a focus on execution excellence, will fall short of improving customer experience or boosting investor confidence.

Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s banking sector recapitalization in 2004, which reduced the number of banks from 89 to 25 but tripled industry capitalization and enhanced customer trust, she urged the industry to pursue a similar trajectory. “NIIRA offers an opportunity for the insurance sector to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy,” she said. “The reform addresses critical issues related to demand, supply, and operational dynamics, empowering us to do more and build greater trust among customers.”

Regarding the new risk-based capital framework, Adebisi described it as primarily a customer protection mechanism as well as a regulatory tool. By aligning capital reserves with underwriting risks, insurers will need to pay closer attention to product design, pricing discipline, and prudent investment. “Policyholders can be more confident that their insurers are not overextending themselves,” she explained.

Addressing concerns that industry consolidation might marginalize smaller firms, Adebisi clarified that mergers and acquisitions are natural pathways to a more resilient and competitive industry. “Consolidation shouldn’t be viewed as a loss but as a rebirth — leading to fewer, stronger insurers with the capacity to invest in technology, improve claims processing, expand distribution, and compete regionally.”

She also pointed out that insurance penetration in Nigeria remains below 1%, compared to 17% in South Africa, 3% in Kenya, and 2% in Ghana. If NIIRA is properly executed, the sector could unlock long-term funding for infrastructure projects, provide risk coverage for MSMEs — which constitute over 90% of Nigeria’s businesses — and enhance investor confidence in the financial system.

Adebisi concluded by urging regulators and industry operators to work together: “The regulatory framework is in place. Now, it’s on us to rebuild trust with customers, invest in digital transformation, and deliver inclusive, innovative products.”

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Hilda Baci Aims to Break Guinness World Record with Largest Pot of Jollof Rice cooked

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By Prosper Mene

‎Nigerian celebrity chef and Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci is set to make history once again by attempting to cook the world’s largest pot of Jollof rice on September 12, 2025. 

‎The ambitious event which was announced via Baci’s Instagram, will take place at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, in collaboration with seasoning giant Gino.The record-breaking attempt will feature a colossal pot measuring six meters wide and six meters tall, a feat Baci has been planning for nearly two years. “Almost two years ago, I had the dream to cook the largest pot of Jollof rice ever made. And now, with @ginonaija and YOU, that dream is coming alive,” Baci shared in her post. She described the event, tagged #GinoworldJollofFestwithHildaBaci, as more than a culinary challenge but a celebration of Nigerian food, music, and community spirit.

‎Baci, rose to global fame in 2023 after her record-breaking 100-hour cook-a-thon, she emphasized the cultural significance of Jollof rice, calling it “the heartbeat of West Africa.” The event is expected to draw thousands of food enthusiasts, music lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, showcasing Nigerian cuisine on a global stage. “This is more than cooking. It’s a celebration of our food, our culture, music, and us,” she added.

‎Will Hilda Baci succeed in etching her name in the Guinness World Records once more? Food lovers and supporters will gather on September 12 to witness this historic moment.

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‎Sandra Benede Credits TikTok Live Streaming for Staying Relevant

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Nigerian-born influencer and model Sandra Ebipade Benede, widely known as Sandra Benede (SB), has attributed her continued relevance in the digital space to her active use of TikTok’s live-streaming feature.

‎Having over 1.2 million followers, Benede has become one of TikTok’s leading live streamers in 2025, earning the platform’s prestigious LivePro badge for her consistent engagement and interactive broadcasts.

‎In a recent statement shared via social media, Benede said, “The live feature allows me to connect with people in real time, and that’s what makes the bond with my audience stronger.” Her live sessions, which range from casual chats to entertainment-focused content, regularly attract thousands of viewers, with some clips garnering between 3 million and 4.7 million views, according to Pulse Nigeria. Benede has also reached Level 44 on TikTok’s gifting system, showing the strong support she receives from fans through virtual gifts during her streams.

‎Starting her career in modeling and beauty pageants, Benede, originally from Delta State, Nigeria, and now based in Atlanta, Georgia, moved into digital content creation, leveraging her charisma and authenticity. She has appeared in music videos for artists like Phyno and Timaya and was crowned Miss Peace Day Bayelsa State. “Modelling gave me the platform, but live content is what keeps me connected and relevant today,” she told her followers.

‎Her approach has set her apart, mixing humor, relatability, and social impact, including initiatives to support the less privileged through financial aid and business empowerment.

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‎Bishop David Oyedepo and Wife Celebrate 43rd Wedding Anniversary

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners’ Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, and his wife, Pastor Faith Oyedepo, joyously marked their 43rd wedding anniversary on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

‎The milestone was celebrated with heartfelt messages and radiant photos shared on the official Instagram page of David Oyedepo Ministries International, which in turn drew widespread admiration from followers and well-wishers.

‎The couple, who tied the knot in 1982, have become one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian couples, co-leading one of the largest church networks on the continent. Their enduring marriage and ministry partnership have inspired millions, with many praising their commitment as a model of faith and unity. The post read, “Happy 43rd Wedding Anniversary to our parents Bishop David and Pastor Mrs. Faith Oyedepo, We give God glory for your marriage! Thank you for showing us that a lasting hitch-free marriage is possible. We pray that the Lord would continue to uphold you and your home shall continue to reflect His glory and beauty, drawing multitudes to the kingdom, in Jesus’ name, amen! Congratulations Sir & Ma”.

‎Their children, including David Oyedepo Jr. and others, took to social media to share touching tributes. David Jr. wrote, “Happy 43rd Anniversary, Mummy and Daddy! Thank you for being THE EXAMPLE. You’ve truly exemplified THE STANDARD. Soo blessed to be of Your Loins.” The couple’s four children, David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce have followed in their parents’ footsteps, contributing to the ministry and beyond.

‎Fans and church members flooded social media with congratulatory messages, with comments like, “Happy Anniversary to my spiritual parents. Keep enjoying bliss in your marriage in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen ,” and “To God be all the glory .

‎The couple’s journey began when they met in 1976 at a motor park and has been a testament to their shared faith and dedication, having courted for six years before their marriage.

‎Bishop Oyedepo, a prominent figure in the Christian charismatic movement, and Pastor Faith have built a global ministry that spans over 300 cities, alongside initiatives like Covenant University, Landmark University, and various humanitarian projects. Their 43 years of marriage is an inspiration and it continues to inspire countless individuals, proving that a enduring, faith-filled union is possible.

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