President Tinubu Relaxes Emergency Rule In Rivers State

 STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, ON THE CESSATION OF THE STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE

My Fellow countrymen and, in particular, the good people of Rivers State.

I am happy to address you today on the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. You will recall that on 18th March, 2025, I proclaimed a state of emergency in the state. In my proclamation address, I highlighted the reasons for the declaration. The summary of it for context is that there was a total paralysis of governance in Rivers State, which had led to the Governor of Rivers State and the House of Assembly being unable to work together. 

Critical economic assets of the State, including oil pipelines, were being vandalised. The State House of Assembly was crisis-ridden, such that members of the House were divided into two groups. Four members worked with the Governor, while 27 members opposed the Governor. The latter group supported the Speaker. 

As a result, the Governor could not present any Appropriation Bill to the House, to enable him to access funds to run Rivers State's affairs. 

That serious constitutional impasse brought governance in the State to a standstill. Even the Supreme Court, in one of its judgments in a series of cases filed by the Executive and the Legislative arms of Rivers State against each other, held that there was no government in Rivers State. 

My intervention and that of other well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the conflict proved abortive as both sides stuck rigidly to their positions to the detriment of peace and development of the State.

It therefore became painfully inevitable that to arrest the drift towards anarchy in Rivers State, I was obligated to invoke the powers conferred on me by Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to proclaim the state of emergency. 

The Offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months in the first instance. The six months expire today, September 17th, 2025. 

I thank the National Assembly, which, after critically evaluating the justification for the proclamation, took steps immediately, as required by the Constitution, to approve the declaration in the interest of peace and order in Rivers State. I also thank our traditional rulers and the good people of Rivers State for their support from the date of the declaration of the state of emergency until now. 

I am not unaware that there were a few voices of dissent against the proclamation, which led to their instituting over 40 cases in the courts in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa, to invalidate the declaration. That is the way it should be in a democratic setting.

 Some cases are still pending in the courts as of today. 

But what needs to be said is that the power to declare a state of emergency is an inbuilt constitutional tool to address situations of actual or threatened breakdown of public order and public safety, which require extraordinary measures to return the State to peace, order and security. 

Considered objectively, we had reached that situation of total breakdown of public order and public safety in Rivers State, as shown in the judgment of the Supreme Court on the disputes between the Executive and the Legislative arm of Rivers State.

 It would have been a colossal failure on my part as President not to have made that proclamation.

As a stakeholder in democratic governance, I believe that the need for a harmonious existence and relationship between the executive and the legislature is key to a successful government, whether at the state or national level. The people who voted us into power expect to reap the fruits of democracy. 

However, that expectation will remain unrealizable in an atmosphere of violence, anarchy, and insecurity borne by misguided political activism and Machiavellian manipulations among the stakeholders.

I am happy today that, from the intelligence available to me, there is a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm on the part of all the stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance. 

This is undoubtedly a welcome development for me and a remarkable achievement for us. I therefore do not see why the state of emergency should exist a day longer than the six months I had pronounced at the beginning of it.

It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from 18 September 2025. 

I take this opportunity to remind the Governors and the Houses of Assembly of all the States of our country to continue to appreciate that it is only in an atmosphere of peace, order, and good government that we can deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. I implore all of you to let this realisation drive your actions at all times. 

I thank you all. 

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 UNGA 80

CEO Sterling One Foundation Olapeju Ibekwe 

Joins Board of UN Global Compact Network Nigeria 

The Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation Olapeju Ibekwe, has been appointed to the Board of the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria (UNGCNN) an appointment which underscores her contributions to shaping Africa’s sustainable development agenda.

The announcement made via UN Global Compact Network Nigeria’s official channels, comes ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly UNGA high-level general debate where Olapeju Ibekwe is expected to engage with thought leaders from the government, private sector and civil society to further help forge more effective partnerships that accelerate Africa’s progress towards Agenda 2030.

Her appointment, highlights Olapeju Ibekwe’s track record in advancing sustainable solutions across education, health access and women and youth empowerment.

 Under her leadership, Sterling One Foundation has built global affiliations and local impact, reaching thousands of beneficiaries while influencing policy and partnerships across Africa.

Experts noted that the appointment comes at a critical time with only 15% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on track globally. 

Africa faces a $200 billion annual financing gap. The challenges extend beyond funding — requiring political will, intentional private sector engagements, courage to execute decisions, and effective cross-sector collaboration.

Commenting on the appointment, she described it as an opportunity to further strengthen the localisation of the SDGs, a cause she has championed through the Sterling One Foundation. 

The development also strengthens ties to the UN Global Compact Principles, as well as the African Union’s Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) 2030 initiative — both of which emphasize inclusive growth and responsible private sector engagement.

Observers say the appointment underscores the importance of convenings like the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), where Olapeju Ibekwe plays a central role in mobilizing governments, businesses, and civil society to forge partnerships that unlock Africa’s potential.

With this new role, Olapeju Ibekwe is poised to bring grassroots experience and continental insights into global conversations, reinforcing the view that Africa is not just a recipient of aid but a driver of innovation and solutions for sustainable development.

The UN Global Compact Network Nigeria is a local chapter of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, mobilising businesses and organisations to align their strategies and operations with universal principles and to take action to advance the SDGs.

 Food Bank Warm Gesture

Fidelity Bank PLC Donates Food Items To  Residents Of Ilaje Ondo State

Leading banking institution Fidelity Bank PLC has extended its warm gesture to the people of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas of Ondo State; as part of the bank's commitment to improving lives and supporting communities. 

The Regional Bank Head, Southwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Folaranmi Jemirin while speaking during the donation exercise which took place at Igbokoda, Headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area, emphasised that the Fidelity Food Bank initiative was launched as part of the bank’s commitment to reducing hunger and providing relief for disadvantaged communities across Nigeria.

L-R: Branch Leader, Akure, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Angela Akeju; Team Lead, CSR, Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; Regional Bank Head, Southwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, Folaranmi Jemirin; and Chairman, Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, at the Fidelity Food Bank distribution event recently held in Igbokoda Community, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

L-R: Branch Leader, Akure, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Angela Akeju; Team Lead, CSR, Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; Regional Bank Head, Southwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, Folaranmi Jemirin; and Chairman, Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, at the Fidelity Food Bank distribution event held in Igbokoda Community, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, recently.

“We are honored to be in Ondo State to continue this impactful initiative,

 and we hope that today’s donation brings the much-needed relief and comfort to the beneficiaries”.

 

In her appreciation the Vice Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Mrs. Olurantimi Esejuwon, praised Fidelity Bank for its generosity, especially towards the aged and people living with disabilities.

 She described the gesture by the bank as a lifeline for many people in the communities who are struggling with daily basic needs; adding that it shows the bank truly cares about people’s welfare beyond banking services. 

 

Also the Chairman, Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) Hon. Biyi Poroye, lauded Fidelity Bank for its generosity and encouraged the bank to establish a branch in Ilaje Local Government, citing the region’s vast economic potential.

 

One of the beneficiaries, Pastor Ikudehinbu Ademola, expressed gratitude on behalf of the communities.

 

“We sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank for remembering us at this time. Many families here will sleep with joy tonight because of this kind gesture. I also appeal to the bank to consider establishing a branch in Ilaje so we can enjoy closer access to their services,”.

 

The Fidelity Food Bank distribution in Ondo State is the most recent of its ongoing outreaches to make a difference in the lives of Nigerians. 

INEC: Continuous Voter Registration

4.45m Nigerians Register In One Month As Osun, Lagos, Borno Take Lead In Exercise

The electoral umpire the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC says over 4.45 million Nigerians have pre-registered online in the first month of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration, CVR exercise.

In a Statement by INEC as signed by its National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the exercise which commenced on August 18, 2025 and now in its fifth week indicated that Osun, Lagos and Borno States are taking the lead in the registration exercise. 

The breakdown shows that women constituted 51.83 per cent of registrants while men accounted for 48.17 per cent.

Young people between ages 18 and 34 years make up the majority with 2,924,643.

By occupation, students represented the single largest bloc with 1,112,344.

Osun State led the register with 552,045, followed closely by Lagos with 488,523 and Borno with 439,426.

Other top-performing states include Ogun (396,799), Kebbi (287,059), Kaduna (240,357), Kogi (218,397), Federal Capital Territory (213,732) and Yobe (212,840).

At the lower end, Adamawa (12,474), Enugu (1,839), Edo (8,615), Abia (3,532), and Ebonyi (4,024) posted some of the weakest numbers.

While over 4.4 million Nigerians have begun the process online, Olumekun clarified that only 509,929 registrations have been fully completed.

He said this is combining both online pre-registration and in-person capture.

Of this number, he disclosed that 280,171 are female and 229,758 are male.

Olumekun also noted that the on-line voter pre-registration in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT ends Monday September 15, 2025 and for the next two weeks the physical (in-person) option would be at the designated venues.

 Thereafter, the commission would devolve the registration to all the 62 Wards in the FCT from September 29 to October 8, 2025. 

Senator Natasha Resumption

NASS Clerk Replies Legal Counsel To Lawmaker On Suspension Tussle

The clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana has expressed disappointment concerning the letter received from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representatives accusing his office of overreach threatening legal and disciplinary action against the clerk. 

In a statement made available by the Director of Information Bullah Bi-Allah explained that while the office of the national assembly clerk respects the right of all parties to seek legal redress the Clerk has at all times acted within the lawful administrative limits and in faithful observance of due process.

Bi-Allah stated that the resumption of legislative duties by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan solely depended on a resolution of the Senate following the expiration of her six-months suspension and not with the Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly.

Bi-Allah said the office of the clerk serves strictly as an administrative arm, providing support to the senate in accordance with their resolutions, standing orders and the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and does not possess the authority to review, reverse, or interpret the Senate's decisions; neither is it in a position to facilitate the resumption of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. 

The statement maintained that the Federal High Court did not invalidate the Senate’s resolution on the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, insisting that no binding order has been issued to reverse or modify Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. 

Sterling HoldCo Growth Momentum

Bank Builds On Upward Trajectory With Robust Q4, 2025 Outlook

Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc has sustained its growth momentum projecting gross earnings of N149.27 billion for the fourth quarter ending December 31st 2025.

 This projection builds on the Group’s performance in the first half of the year, when profit after tax rose by 157 percent, gross earnings climbed 39.7 percent to N212.61 billion and earnings per share rose to 89 kobo from 56 kobo.

These results highlight a strong 

year-to-date trajectory reinforcing profitability and boosting investor confidence in the Group’s long-term outlook.

According to the filing on the Nigerian Exchange, Sterling HoldCo expects interest 

income of N116.73 billion and interest expenses of N42.88 billion; resulting in net 

revenue from funds of N73.85 billion.

The Group also anticipates credit impairment charges of N16.84 billion with other income projected at N28.37 billion bringing net operating income to N85.37 billion.

Operating expenses are forecast at N67.24 billion, leaving a profit before tax of 

N18.13 billion. After accounting for a projected tax of N1.88 billion, profit after tax 

is estimated at N16.25 billion for the quarter.

Sterling’s cash flow outlook underscores the strength of its balance sheet.

The Group projects N13.56 billion in net cash generated from operating activities, 

alongside N266.16 billion in financing inflows and N187.93 billion in investing 

activities. 

This is expected to deliver a net increase of N91.79 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with the cash and bank balance closing at N549.90 billion by year-end, compared to N458.11 billion at the start of the quarter.

These forecasts build on the Group’s performance earlier in the year, reflecting the continuation of this momentum, supported by a disciplined focus on cost 

management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth.

Beyond financial performance, the outlook highlights the Group’s capacity to 

channel its financial strength into broader impact. 

Sterling HoldCo is positioned to 

support key growth sectors of the Nigerian economy, invest in innovation, and 

continue creating value for shareholders, customers, and communities.

The Group noted that its ability to generate strong operating cashflows while 

maintaining significant liquidity positions provides a foundation for resilience. This 

strength ensures that Sterling HoldCo is not only positioned to deliver value to its 

shareholders but also equipped to deepen its participation in Nigeria’s growth 

sectors, drive innovation, and support broader economic progress.

These projections are forward-looking and based on current assumptions about 

market conditions and regulatory developments. Actual results may differ 

materially.

About Sterling Financial Holdings Company

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC is a leading Nigerian financial services group 

committed to enriching lives through innovation and impact with a diversified portfolio that includes Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited, SterlingFI Wealth Management among others. 

As a HoldCo, Sterling provides strategic direction, governance, and resources 

across its subsidiaries, enabling each to focus on its core mandate while benefiting from group wide expertise, technology, and oversight.

With a heritage of trust built over six decades, Sterling HoldCo is committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy.

Lagos Police Command

 

Abimbola Adebisi Resumes As New PPRO

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the appointment of Superintendent of Police Abimbola Adebisi as the new Police Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Command. 

Adebisi's appointment followed the elevation of the former PPRO Benjamin Hundeyin as the Force PPRO by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

SP Adebisi who holds a Bachelor of Arts in (Ed) in English Language and Literature from the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ogun state; a post graduate Diploma in Peace and Conflct Resolution and Masters of Arts (MA) in English Language from the National Open University of Nigeria is expected to bring to bare a wealth of academic, professional and operational experience in discharging her responsibilities. 

Her past postings include serving as a Staff Officer to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Operations and as a Personal Assistant to the Commissioner of Police Special Protection Unit( SPU).

She was the Police Public Relations Liaison officer at the SPU,Force Headquarters in Abuja before her appointment. 

Fidelity Food Bank Gesture

Two Thousand Residents Of Anambra State Receive Food Items

Leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc, has extended its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, the Fidelity Food Bank Initiative to the people of Anambra State; providing essential food supplies to over 2,000 vulnerable residents in Awka, the state capital.

A two-day outreach held at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Catholic Diocese, Awka and at the Emmaus House, in the Anglican Diocese of Awka. 

This warm gesture saw the distribution of relief materials to the elderly, widows and other vulnerable members of the community.

While speaking during the distribution exercise, Fidelity Bank Plc's Regional Head in Awka, Dr. Nosa Orumwense, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to addressing hunger and improving the welfare of communities across Nigeria.

The Fidelity Food Bank was launched as part of commitment to the well-being of its host communities, hence the bank is delighted to bring the initiative to Anambra State in collaboration with its partners to ensure the most vulnerable in the society receive support during these difficult times.

 Lauding the bank’s efforts Rev. Father Levi Ukor, the Director, Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) Catholic Diocese of Awka, highlighted the importance of collaborations in tackling hunger.

“We are truly excited to partner with Fidelity Bank on this noble cause. Hunger remains a pressing issue for many households and the bank’s decision to provide food support to this large number of vulnerable people shows genuine compassion and social responsibility,” Rev. Father Ukor noted.

L-R: Chairman, Awka South Local Government Area, Chinedu Okafor; Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Awka, Reverend Charles Ndubuisi; Regional Bank Head, Awka, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nosa Orumwense; and Team Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; at the Fidelity Food Bank distribution event held in Awka, Anambra State recently.

The Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese described food as a basic necessity of life urging other corporate organisations to emulate Fidelity Bank in addressing the plight of the poor.

Similarly, Chinedu Okafor, Chairman, Awka South Local Government Area, applauded the bank’s intervention and support to the community.

Okafor explained that Fidelity Bank’s intervention could not have come at a better time for the people of Awka as several residents are faced with difficult economic realities. 

Okafor said the gesture brings real relief to families in need and expressed appreciation for the bank’s commitment to giving back to the community; pledging our administration’s continued support for initiatives that improve the welfare of our people. 

The beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for the bank’s gesture; saying the foodstuff will go a long way in supporting their family. 

The Fidelity Food Bank Initiative is one of several community-focused programs through which the bank demonstrates its commitment to improving the quality of life for Nigerians, while fostering sustainable development in its host communities. Since its launch in April 2023, the initiative has witnessed the distribution of over 250,000 food packs across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, reaching more than 300 communities nationwide.

Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect FNITCC

Fidelity Bank Deepens Push for Non-Oil Exports

Nigeria’s diversification drive has gathered momentum in recent years as government initiatives push to reduce dependence on crude oil and strengthen non-oil sectors as engines of growth.

From the Central Bank of Nigeria’s RT200 programme to incentives offered by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) the country has implemented policies designed to encourage exporters, boost foreign exchange inflows, and integrate local enterprises into global value chains.

Sterling Bank "SeaBaaS" Initiative

Bank Celebrates Zero Downtime, Surpasses 2 Billion Transactions

Nigeria's Number one Best Workplace in Banking and recognised as Africa’s most agile financial institution Sterling Bank Limited has marked the first anniversary of its SeaBaas initiative; a revolutionary core banking system designed and built in Africa.

SeaBaaS launched in 2024, is a system which leverages on advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to deliver enhanced customer experiences, greater operational efficiency, zero downtime, and scalability. 

DNA TEST

 By Anu Awojobi 

Lagos Court Orders Paternity Test On Late "Mohbad's" Son

A Lagos State Magistrate Court in Ikorodu has ordered the conduct of two Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) tests to determine the paternity of Liam Aloba; the son of the late Nigerian rapper songwriter Ilerioluwa Aloba popularly known as Mohbad.

Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga on Tuesday September 2, 2025 issued the order while ruling on an application filed by Joseph Aloba; the late singer’s father.

Bank Merger

Union Bank of Nigeria Completes Merger with Titan Trust Bank

Union Bank of Nigeria, one of the age-long and waxing stronger financial institutions in Nigeria has successful completes its merger with Titan Trust Bank Limited following a final approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The milestone feat has concluded a process that began with the signing of a Share Sale Agreement in 2021 which positions Union Bank as an even stronger force within Nigeria’s financial services sector.

 Under the terms of the merger Union Bank has fully absorbed Titan Trust Bank’s operations and assets; the combined institution will continue to operate under the Union Bank brand while Titan Trust Bank ceases to exist as a separate entity.

With an expanded footprint of over 293 service centres and 937 ATMs nationwide, supported by strengthened digital channels,l Union Bank is poised to deliver enhanced value across retail, SME and corporate segments.

The merger combines Union Bank’s trusted heritage with Titan Trust’s agility and innovation, creating a platform for sustainable growth and broader financial inclusion.

Union Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mrs Yetunde Oni described the development as a pivotal moment in the 108-year journey of the bank and a launchpad for delivering greater value to our its customers.

Blending stability with innovation Union Bank is better positioned to meet the evolving needs of Nigerians as well be their most trusted financial partner.

Also speaking on the transaction, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bayo Adeleke, said it is a new era of growth, collaboration and shared prosperity; which brings together the strengths of both institutions.

Adeleke emphasised the bank's commitment to creating lasting value for customers, shareholders and communities; while advancing Nigeria’s financial inclusion agenda.

The Bank has assured customers that there will be no disruption to existing services; as their account details remain unchanged and customers would continue to access a full suite of products and services seamlessly with an accelerated push towards enhanced digital solutions.

A strategic consolidation that strengthens Union Bank’s market position, unlocks operational synergies and underscores its ambition to deliver a modern, robust and inclusive banking experience for all.

Ogudu/Ifako Bridge Repairs

Lagos State Govt. Begins 2nd Phase Repair Works

The Lagos State Government has announced the resumption of the second phase of repair works on the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge (inbound Lagos Island) which is scheduled to commence on Wednesday September 3rd 2025.

This was disclosed Tuesday in a statement  signed by the Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi; who said the traffic advisory issued by the ministry has provided alternative routes for inbound motorists.

Vehicles heading to Oshodi from the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway or Toll Gate can make use of the Ojota Slip Road to connect Ikorodu Road (inward Anthony, by Taxi Park).

Motorists going to Victoria Island may link through Ojota Slip Road to Ikorodu Road (inward Anthony, by Town Planning Way) to  link Gbagada, to access the Third Mainland Bridge inbound Lagos Island.

Drivers from Ikeja and its environs can proceed via Maryland to Ikorodu Road/Funsho Williams Avenue, to make use of the Eko Bridge to Outer Marina.

The commissioner explained that the repair works followed a review of the traffic management plan to ease the congestion experienced during the first phase of the project.

Osiyemi appealed to motorists to cooperate with the Traffic Management Officers to maintain lane discipline while making use of the provided alternative routes.

The Commissioner for Transportation emphasised that the partial closure of the bridge had become necessary as part of the maintenance programme.

Osiyemi urged motorists to plan their journeys accordingly as well cooperate with officers on the ground to minimise delays during the repair works.

LASG Warns Against Incentives For Touts

The Lagos State Government has advised celebrities, influencers and the residents of the state not to give money to touts saying such gestures only worsen insecurity and environmental challenges.

State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab who stated this on Tuesday September 2, 2025 via a post on his "X" handle cautioned celebrities, influencers and other well-meaning Lagosians to desist from giving money to miscreants.

Wahab said: “Each time you hand them cash, you are not solving their problem; you are encouraging them to stay on the streets, emboldening them to multiply and reinforcing a cycle of lawlessness.”

He added that what many people regard as kindness often makes enforcement harder.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources remarks followed a video shared by a Lagos resident, Olukayode Ajenifuja on his X, showing touts and luxury car content creators running after a convoy believed to be conveying Afrobeats star Burna Boy along the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

While the touts attempted to solicit money from the artiste others around were filming him for content but were prevented by the singer's security details from reaching his car.

The commissioner therefore maintained that the government is committed to addressing the menace urging residents to support his efforts by not enticing miscreants with money.

Sexual Assault

Jamaican-British Actor Michael Ward Faces Rape Charges

Jamaican born British actor Michael Ward has been charged with rape and sexual assault.

The 27 year old Top Boy and Eddington actor Ward; appeared at the Thames Magistrates' Court in London to face a two count rape charge and sexual assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault against a lady in January 2023.

In July 2025 Ward had denied all charges in a statement saying he had cooperated with police throughout their investigation.

He has been granted conditional bail and he is to appear at the Snaresbrook Crown Court come September 25th 2025.

Notting Hill Carnival 2025

The Jamboree: The Good, The Ugly Sides Of The Caribbean Carnival.

Though the 2025 edition of the Notting Hill Carnival; an annual Caribbean jamboree which is the largest street party in Europe might have come and gone.

The London street carnival which has been held on the streets of the Notting Hill area of Kensington since 1966 represents the "five disciplines of carnival": masquerade, calypso, soca, steelpan and sound systems.

The Notting Hill Carnival aimed at celebrating the uniqueness of the Caribbean culture which is being led by members of the British Caribbean community attracts millions of people globally; including Nigerians. And it's never a dull moment at the Naija corner of the carnival.

The annual jamboree also had its ugly side. 

Four people were reported to have been stabbed during the 2025 Notting Hill Carnival; the least knife attacks since 2017.

In 2017 there were 12 cases of stabbings; though non fatal. In 2018 there were seven knife attacks while in 2019 there were 18 cases of non fatal stabbings.

Not to forget, in 2022 there were seven cases of non fatal stabbings and 10 cases of knife attacks in 2023. While eight stabbings were reported in 2024.

Kashim Shettima @59

‎President Tinubu Lauds Vice President Shettima On His Birthday 

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima on the occasion of his 59th birthday celebration.

In a statement the President lauded Vice President Shettima's courage, doggedness and tenacity to nation building.

Tinubu emphasised on the celebrant's  excellent service as Governor of Borno State for eight years and later as Senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly; describing his leadership style as service to humanity and not a privilege.

The ‎President expressed his deep appreciation to Vice President Shettima's vibrancy loyalty partnership and support as his vice while acknowledging Shettima's passion for democracy good governance.and economic development.

MISS UNIVERSE NIGERIA 2025

 By Anu Awojobi          

Miss Anambra Onyinyechi Basil Emerges Winner Of "Miss Universe Nigeria" Beauty Pageant

Abia State born Nigerian beauty queen 

Onyinyechi Basil; representing "Miss Anambra" has emerged winner at the 2025 Miss Universe Nigeria beauty contest held Saturday August 30th in Lagos.

Onyinyechi alongside 21 other beauty queens slugged it out from the onset of the competition before advancing to the grand finale with 9 other contestants.