₦airaland Forum

Watch Samuel Ogazi 🇳🇬 run a big PB & World Lead of 43.82s over 400m at the NCAA East Regionals!

Justin Braun 🇺🇸 2nd in a PB of 43.99s. pic.twitter.com/3Ru7QQCP87

— Track & Field Gazette (@TrackGazette) May 29, 2026

The Government of Barbados has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Air Peace’s newly launched direct flight service between Lagos and Barbados, promising to create the right conditions for the route to thrive and attract more passengers.

Air Peace officially commenced commercial direct flights between Nigeria and Barbados on May 24, 2026, operating the route with a Boeing 777 aircraft that carried more than 284 passengers on its inaugural journey.

Speaking during a formal welcome ceremony and media launch held at the Indigo Hotel in Barbados, government officials highlighted the significance of the new air link and pledged continued support for its success. The initiative is being backed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which has played a key role in promoting stronger economic and transportation ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

The event attracted several prominent dignitaries, including Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill; Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture, Shane Archer; Ambassador to CARICOM, David Commissiong; High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ghana and Liberia, Juliet Sutherland-Bynoe; Ambassador-Designate of Panama, Xiomara Pérez; Venezuela’s Chargé d’Affaires, Martha Ortega Peraza; Acting Chief Operating Officer of Afreximbank, Okechukwu Ihejirika; tourism consultant Shelly Williams; and officials of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

Addressing participants, Gooding-Edghill described the launch of the direct air service as a historic milestone for Barbados, the Caribbean region and Africa.

According to him, the route represents one of the strongest expressions of the growing partnership between Africa and the Caribbean and positions Barbados as a strategic gateway into the Caribbean market.

He noted that the arrival of Air Peace symbolizes years of collaboration aimed at strengthening cultural, economic and tourism connections between both regions.

The minister assured the airline that Barbados would not remain a passive beneficiary of the investment but would actively work with tourism agencies, trade and investment institutions, diplomatic missions and the private sector to increase passenger traffic and promote the route.

“We are committed to ensuring this service succeeds. We will work through every available channel to stimulate demand and create favourable conditions for sustained operations,” he said.

Gooding-Edghill also expressed confidence that the service would grow beyond its first year and serve as a model for future partnerships between African airlines and Caribbean nations.

Also speaking at the event, Afreximbank’s Acting Chief Operating Officer, Okechukwu Ihejirika, reiterated the bank’s commitment to initiatives that strengthen trade, investment and connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean.

He stressed that reliable and sustainable air transport links are critical to achieving deeper economic integration and expanding commercial opportunities across both regions.

Air Peace Chief Commercial Officer, Nowel Ngala, described the successful launch as the culmination of years of planning and collaboration.

According to him, the direct connection marks the beginning of a new chapter in relations between Africa and the Caribbean, creating fresh opportunities for tourism, business and travel.

Ngala thanked the Government of Barbados, Afreximbank, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., diplomatic representatives and other stakeholders whose support helped make the route a reality.

Meanwhile, Air Peace has continued to expand its fleet with the acquisition of another Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft.

The aircraft, registered as 5N-CGD, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on May 24, 2026, further strengthening the airline’s fleet modernization programme.

Configured with 189 Economy Class seats, the aircraft is expected to improve operational efficiency, increase scheduling flexibility and enhance passenger comfort on domestic and regional routes.

The Boeing 737-800 NG features a spacious cabin, larger overhead storage compartments, advanced avionics, modern safety technology and fuel-efficient engines, making it one of the most widely used and reliable narrow-body aircraft in commercial aviation.

Watch Kanyinsola Ajayi (Auburn) 🇳🇬 run a PB & World Lead of 9.84s (0.7) over 100m at the NCAA East Regionals!

He broke Olusoji Fasuba's National Record of 9.85s. pic.twitter.com/2lJ0VEpHSD

— Track & Field Gazette (@TrackGazette) May 29, 2026

🤷‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/RyVnSmnx0U

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) May 29, 2026

Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji has revealed that a career in acting was never part of her original plan, it was fashion that first captured her heart.

Speaking in a candid interview with Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria at Cannes 2026, the celebrated star reflected on her path into the entertainment industry and the broader role of women in film.

“My first experience on TV was at age 8. I think film chose me,” she said. “I didn’t think I was going to be an actor — that was not a dream. I knew I wanted to be in the creative space, but fashion was my first love.”

The actress also pushed back against familiar stereotypes that shadow women in the industry, noting that a woman who knows what she wants and how she wants it is too often dismissed as difficult.

Nnaji also challenged assumptions about actors as a whole, quipping that not every performer is the life of the party — some, she admitted, would rather stay home and sleep.

On the shifting landscape for women behind the camera, Nnaji was both celebratory and clear-eyed. She pointed to a growing wave of female filmmakers finally gaining the platform to tell stories from a woman’s perspective — stories she says have been silenced for centuries — while cautioning that the industry has barely begun to tap that potential.

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has revealed that he once rejected a ₦5 million bribe during the military rule of late General Sani Abacha.

Speaking on Saturday during the celebration of his 23rd coronation anniversary, the monarch recounted that the incident happened during the detention of former Lagos State governor, Michael Otedola, under the Abacha administration.

Oba Akiolu explained that he had appealed to the authorities at the time to secure the release of Otedola’s international passport, stressing that the military government needed the support and confidence of Nigerians.

According to the monarch, shortly after the passport was released, someone approached him with ₦5 million as a gesture of appreciation, but he refused to accept the money.

He noted that his decision was guided by integrity, discipline and the fear of God.

“It is not about money. Whatever you do in life, do it with the fear of God and always pray to Him,” the monarch stated.

Reflecting on his 32 years in the Nigeria Police Force, Oba Akiolu described policing as a respected profession that must be carried out with honesty and accountability.

The Lagos monarch also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism that the ongoing economic and infrastructure reforms by the Federal Government would eventually yield positive results.

He admitted that the process may be challenging but maintained that the country would overcome its current difficulties with patience and faith.

As daylight fades, Lagos comes alive with a unique blend of music, entertainment, food and social activities that make the city one of Africa’s top nightlife destinations. From lively clubs and rooftop lounges to beachside hangouts and street food spots, Lagos nightlife continues to attract residents, tourists and entertainment lovers from around the world.

Lagos is widely known for its fast-paced lifestyle, and the excitement only grows stronger at night. Popular areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja and Surulere become centers of entertainment where people gather to relax, enjoy music and connect with friends after a long day.

The city’s nightlife is heavily influenced by Nigeria’s booming music industry. Afrobeats, highlife and hip-hop dominate many clubs and lounges, while DJs and live bands keep partygoers entertained into the early hours of the morning. Lagos also serves as a major platform for rising musicians and celebrity performers.

Victoria Island remains one of the city’s most luxurious nightlife locations, offering premium lounges, rooftop bars and exclusive clubs. Lekki is famous for its beachside entertainment, cocktail spots and outdoor relaxation centers that attract younger crowds and tourists.

Ikeja has grown into a major nightlife hub with affordable lounges, karaoke bars and live entertainment venues, while Surulere is known for its energetic social scene and vibrant local nightlife culture.

Beyond clubs and bars, Lagos also provides quieter nighttime experiences through cinemas, seaside restaurants and cultural centers for people seeking a more relaxed evening.

Food is an important part of the Lagos nightlife experience. Across different parts of the city, food vendors and restaurants stay open late, serving popular Nigerian meals such as suya, pepper soup, grilled fish, shawarma and jollof rice.

Many Lagosians often end their evenings at roadside food spots where conversations, laughter and social interactions continue long after parties and events have ended.

Nightlife in Lagos also influences fashion, dance trends and social media culture, making the city a major center for entertainment and youth expression in Nigeria.

Although Lagos nightlife offers excitement and entertainment, safety remains important. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay in secure locations, avoid isolated areas late at night and use reliable transportation services.

Moving in groups, keeping personal belongings safe and planning transportation ahead of time can help people enjoy safer nightlife experiences, especially during busy weekends and major events.

The nightlife sector in Lagos continues to expand due to the city’s growing youth population and strong entertainment industry. Concerts, comedy shows, beach parties and cultural events regularly attract large crowds and contribute to the local economy.

Businesses such as hotels, restaurants, ride-hailing services, event planning companies and fashion brands also benefit from the city’s thriving nighttime economy.

Lagos nightlife represents more than entertainment. It showcases the city’s culture, creativity and social lifestyle. Whether through music, food, fashion or nightlife events, Lagos continues to stand out as one of Africa’s most exciting cities after dark.

When Bola Ahmed Tinubu stormed the presidential primary in June 2022 and wrestled the APC ticket from a field of heavyweights, he did so largely on the strength of his own political capital, his own calculations, and the muscle of a coalition he had spent decades cultivating. Many of the governors who climbed onto his bandwagon did not do so out of conviction. They did so because their second-term ambitions required a friend in Aso Rock. The outgoing governors, those finishing their constitutional limits, were never truly his people. Their enthusiasm was borrowed, their loyalty transactional, their departure from the stage barely concealed.

That context matters enormously now, because the political architecture around Tinubu’s second-term bid is being built on a dangerously flawed foundation, the assumption that departing governors will deliver for him in 2027 the way they delivered, however reluctantly, in 2023. It is a miscalculation of the first order. These men were already compensated. They got their return tickets in exchange for their 2023 support. To expect them to show up again, on demand, when they are transitioning out of executive power and into legislative ambition, is to misread the nature of political patronage entirely. Reward, in Nigerian politics, does not breed eternal gratitude. It breeds appetite.

The men who stood with Tinubu at the polls were not the governors but the senators, hungry, battle-tested legislators who needed a president aligned with their survival. That partnership was the real engine of his first-ballot victory. Yet that critical coalition is being overlooked now, sidelined in favour of an increasingly overbearing class of governors who are not building Tinubu’s second term, they are building their own.

There is something deeply troubling about the Asiwaju that Nigerians are watching today. The man they knew, the strategist, the political chess master who survived prison, persecution, and repeated attempts to reduce him, was never a man to be held hostage by circumstance or by lieutenants. He was decisive to the point of brutality, calculating to the point of cold elegance. But something has shifted. Somewhere between the State House and the palaces of his political allies, the levers of decision-making appear to have been quietly relocated. The president moves, but the movement carries the fingerprints of other hands. The question, asked in hushed tones in Abuja corridors and Lagos boardrooms alike, is who is actually driving.

The APC primaries have made this problem worse, not better. What was meant to be a clearing exercise has become a power demonstration. Nine governors, men who rode Tinubu’s coattails into office or renewed their tenures under his umbrella, have emerged as the loudest voices in the room. They are not merely advising, they are dictating. Their desperation to transit to the Senate is not about legislative service. It is about institutional survival and the continuation of executive power through a different corridor. And therein lies the danger.

The story of what Tinubu did for Nigeria’s governors is one that deserves more scrutiny than it has received. He came into office and removed the fuel subsidy in a single, audacious sentence. The naira floated. The economy absorbed the shock, and the states absorbed the windfall. The Federation Account allocation to states swelled dramatically. Governors who had been managing lean monthly disbursements suddenly found themselves awash in revenues that their predecessors never imagined. New roads were announced. Empowerment programmes were flagged. And while Nigerians on the streets absorbed the hardship of the transition, governors insulated themselves with the surplus and consolidated their political dominance.

Now those same governors are using that money, money that flowed from a presidential decision Tinubu made, to box him into a corner. The irony is almost Shakespearean. The benefactor is being encircled by his own beneficiaries. And the president, if the signals from the primaries are any indication, appears to lack either the will or the capacity to push back.

The transit of ambitious, executive-minded governors to the Senate is not a new story in Nigerian democracy, but its consequences are rarely examined with the seriousness they demand. These are not men who will arrive in the chamber and quietly learn the institution. They will arrive with the swagger of men who ran states, commanded security apparatuses, controlled party structures, and deployed billions at will. They will arrive knowing how power works, and more importantly, how to withhold it. Executive bills will not be passed on schedule. Presidential nominations will be delayed, queried, returned. Committees will be weaponised. Floor time will be traded. And all of it, every procedural manoeuvre, every strategic delay, will carry a price tag that leads back to Aso Rock.

The examples are already written into recent history, and Tinubu has no excuse for failing to read them. Goodluck Jonathan, a mild-mannered president who believed in the goodwill of his allies, was slowly bled out by a Senate that became an instrument of his political opposition. The legislature was not merely a check on his power, it became the launchpad from which his enemies built the 2015 coalition that removed him. Muhammadu Buhari, iron-willed on paper but administratively exhausted in practice, watched his second term dissolve into legislative warfare, ministerial gridlock, and the steady haemorrhage of political relevance. Both men, for all their differences, shared the same fatal vulnerability: they underestimated the Senate as a theatre of presidential destruction.

Tinubu should know better. He is a product of that theatre. He used it. He understands its pressure points. Which makes it all the more puzzling, and alarming, that he appears to be facilitating the very configuration that could consume his second term before it begins.

What makes the current set of governor-turned-senator aspirants particularly combustible is not just their ambition but their timing. A president’s second term, in the calculus of Nigerian politics, is a dead-duck period almost from inauguration day. The moment a president cannot seek re-election, the succession game begins. Loyalties fragment. Alliances calcify around potential inheritors. And those in the legislature, especially those with executive experience and independent political bases, do not wait for the president to finish his sentence before they begin rewriting the next chapter.

These nine governors will not enter the Senate as Tinubu’s men. They will enter as sovereigns in their own right, carrying the political weight of their states, the financial resources accumulated during their tenures, and the ambition of men who have never truly left the executive frame of mind. They will look at Tinubu’s second term not as a continuation but as a transition, and they will position themselves, and their preferred successors, accordingly. The floor of the Senate will become a negotiating table. Executive bills will become bargaining chips. And the president, unwinding toward retirement, will find himself increasingly dependent on the goodwill of men he once commanded.

There is still a window. Tinubu has not always been the man who bows to pressure, and this is precisely the moment that demands the decisive version of him to reassert itself. The coalition that won him the presidency was built on relationships with the National Assembly, with the senators and representatives who staked their political survival on his victory. Those relationships need to be the anchor of his second term, not the capricious loyalty of governors who are already transitioning their ambitions away from him.

The Jagaban built his legend by seeing further than his opponents. The question now is whether he can see past the men standing closest to him.

Greenlife Pharmaceuticals has issued an official clarification following misinformation circulating online concerning the packaging of Lonart-DS.

According to the company, Lonart-DS recently underwent an approved packaging update, which is why both the older and updated packs are currently in circulation.

The company further confirmed that both packs are authentic and advised members of the public to purchase medications only from trusted pharmacies and verify products using the mobile authentication short code provided on the pack.

Greenlife Pharmaceuticals also reiterated its commitment to public health safety and accurate health information.

https://www.tiktok.com/video/7642642028441980174?_r=1&_t=ZS-96ZRKya5xw5


Protesters caused a blaze at a health facility treating Ebola patients in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday, burning down two hospital tents, a local politician told CNN.

Tensions flared Thursday when the relatives of a young man who died of Ebola tried to take his body “by force” from the Rwampara Hospital, according to Luc Mambele, vice president of Congolese political party A2RC.

A lethal Ebola strain has ripped through local communities in the area, triggering a global health emergency. Tests show that the Bundibugyo strain — which has no specific treatment or vaccine — is behind the outbreak. The DRC said Thursday that at least 160 deaths are thought to be linked to the disease. The government said there were 13 new confirmed cases Thursday, and a further 78 suspected cases in Ituri province.

After health authorities refused access to the young man’s body, family members responded by lobbing projectiles at the hospital tents, causing a fire to break out, the local official said.

Six patients were receiving treatment in the medical tents from the Alliance for International Medical Action at the time of the attack and are now being cared for in the hospital, ALIMA said in a statement.

The medical humanitarian organization warned against the spread of “incorrect or unconfirmed information circulating on social media and the internet,” which is likely to fuel fear, misinformation and mistrust toward health facilities.

In a video shared with CNN, Mambele describes being locked down at the hospital as police fire warning shots to disperse protesters from the burning tents.

Video from Reuters news agency showed a large blaze engulfing the medical tents, with their scorched frames standing over blackened hospital beds in the aftermath of the attack.

Officers from the national police force who were deployed to the scene worked swiftly to restore order, Mambele told CNN.

A[b] spokesperson for the DRC, Patrick Muyaya, condemned the attack, telling CNN that the locals responded by doing “exactly what they shouldn’t do.”
[/b]
Mambele said the incident exemplified the dangers of rising misinformation within the community. Many residents in Ituri province believe that “Ebola is a lie,” he told CNN.

“The population is not sufficiently informed or made aware of what is happening. To members of the most remote communities, Ebola is a White man’s invention; it doesn’t exist,” Mambele remarked.

The World Health Organization has officially declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern,” but global risks remain low.

While only 64 Ebola cases have been officially confirmed, 671 cases are suspected, the DRC said Thursday. Health officials are also tracking more than 1,260 contacts in the country.

Arrival of the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and other major refinery completion components for the Azikel Refinery at the Onne Seaport in Rivers State has marked a significant milestone in the realization of one of Nigeria’s largest privately-owned refinery projects located at Obunagha-Gbarain in Yenagooa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The Crude Distillation Unit, regarded as the heart of every refinery, serves as the central processing facility through which petroleum products are distilled and refined. The massive components, measuring about 250 feet in length and weighing approximately 135 tonnes, arrived aboard a specially chartered vessel alongside other critical equipment, including Naphtha Reactors, gasoline distillation towers, crude heaters and other final installation components.

The development is seen as a major boost for Bayelsa State, which has for decades contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economy through crude oil production but has continued to experience limited industrial infrastructure.

The Azikel Refinery project is expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s local refining capacity. The project has also been described as a landmark indigenous industrial investment capable of transforming the economic landscape of the Niger Delta.

Commendations have continued to trail the resilience and commitment of Dr. Azibapu Eruani and the management of Azikel Group for driving the refinery project to its present stage, with many describing the refinery as a lasting legacy of indigenous enterprise and industrial development in the region.

As movement of the refinery components from the seaport to the Bayelsa project site begins in the coming weeks, expectations remain high among residents over the socio-economic benefits the refinery is expected to deliver upon completion.

12,000 barrels per day (BPD). Once fully operational, this modular refinery is engineered to produce approximately 1.3 to 1.5 million liters of petrol (Premium Motor Spirit) daily. It will also produce significant volumes of diesel, aviation fuel, and heavy fuel oil utilizing Bonny sweet light crude and Gbarain condensate as its primary feedstock.

The President also stressed Nigeria’s urgent need for modern helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to support security operations, logistics and other national development priorities.

President Bola Tinubu has welcomed a proposal by global aircraft manufacturer Airbus to establish aircraft maintenance and hangar facilities in Nigeria as part of efforts to position the country as a regional aerospace and aviation services hub.

The President also stressed Nigeria’s urgent need for modern helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to support security operations, logistics and other national development priorities amid ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity across parts of the country.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu spoke during a meeting with an Airbus delegation led by the company’s Head of Regional Business Growth for Africa and the Middle East, Thierry Cloutet, on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, on Thursday.

Tinubu told the delegation that his administration was committed to strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with Airbus by leveraging the company’s expertise in military aircraft and aerospace development.

He also called for the speedy delivery of the three Apache helicopters already ordered by Nigeria to support ongoing security and counterterrorism operations.

“Nigeria needs attack helicopters urgently that can be used to confront and overwhelm terrorists. That is my priority now,” the President said.

The meeting also featured discussions on Nigeria’s acquisition of the Airbus C-295 platform, broader defence aviation cooperation, and aircraft leasing and financing arrangements.

According to Onanuga, the discussions covered export credit arrangements, sale-and-lease-back structures, and long-term aircraft financing models aimed at improving access to aircraft for domestic airlines and easing financing constraints in the aviation sector.

Tinubu also explored the possibility of establishing an aviation leasing company in Nigeria to unlock opportunities within the country’s aviation value chain and improve financing access for local operators.

In his remarks, Cloutet commended Tinubu’s economic reforms and efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s aviation sector, reaffirming Airbus’ interest in supporting the country’s long-term aerospace development goals.

He proposed what he described as a “360-degree engagement” model with Nigeria, covering commercial aviation, military aircraft cooperation, human capital development, sustainability initiatives, operational hubs and maintenance infrastructure.

The proposed partnership would also include collaboration in satellite and Earth observation technology.

‘I’m sorry, my daddy’ – Desmond Elliot apologises to Gbajabiamila

Lagos lawmaker Desmond Elliot has publicly apologised to his political mentor and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, saying he may have offended him during the course of his political engagements.

Elliot made the apology during an appearance on TVC’s “Your View” programme on Friday, where he stated that any misunderstanding between them was unintentional and reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and development in his constituency.

The apology follows earlier political tensions connected to the Lagos State House of Assembly leadership crisis, during which Gbajabiamila disclosed that he nearly lost his position at the Presidency over allegations linked to Elliot’s political activities.

Gbajabiamila had claimed that President Bola Tinubu confronted him over intelligence reports suggesting Elliot’s involvement in moves to impeach Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, an allegation he denied at the time.

Speaking during the programme, Elliot said he entered politics under the guidance of Gbajabiamila, whom he described as his “egbon,” noting that emotions and misunderstandings may have contributed to their differences.

“I’m not saying, oh, yes, media will come out, oh yes, Desmond begs again. Yes, because he’s my egbon. And I grew up learning everything I knew in politics through him,” he said.

He added that mistakes were inevitable in political relationships.

“To err is human, to forgive is divine. So I’m sorry, my daddy, if I’ve offended you in any way,” he said.

Elliot also apologised to whom he described as the “matriarch of Surulere,” expressing regret over any offence caused.

“To the matriarch of Surulere, mama, I’m sorry if I’ve offended you,” he said.

Despite the apology, the lawmaker maintained that he remained focused on strengthening the party and delivering on his mandate to constituents.

“But I will keep keeping the party strong. And to all Surulerians, my scorecard is there. You know the things I’ve done to make Surulere a better place,” he added.

https://www.tiktok.com/video/7639866557627108626?_r=1&_t=ZS-96NPcdyGrvJ

Senator Gbenga Daniel has stated he will defer to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding his bid to return to the Senate.

Speaking on national television, Daniel, who represents Ogun East, acknowledged his ongoing friction with Governor Dapo Abiodun over the party ticket but insisted he would not oppose the President’s wishes.

Daniel criticised recent “endorsements” of Abiodun as the consensus candidate, describing them as coerced. “There was no consensus. Consensus means all parties agree.

“What we see are endorsements by government agents,” Daniel said.

While he called for a free and fair primary, he affirmed: “If the President asks me to step down for Abiodun, I will. He is the leader of the party.”

Both opposition figures recently exited the coalition under the ADC to join the NDC, a move Okonkwo described as insincere.


https://www.tiktok.com/video/7639907807411686677?_r=1&_t=ZS-96NMD65khjY

A member of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has criticised former governors Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso over their decision to leave the ADC coalition for the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).

Both opposition figures recently exited the coalition under the ADC to join the NDC, a move Okonkwo described as insincere.

"Let me say they are political conmen. I am talking about Peter Obi and Kwankwaso,” Okonkwo said while appearing as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday.

“They came into the coalition on their own and they said coalition is the best and only method to send Tinubu packing by their own words and on their own without any reason, they left for NDC, is that not being a conman?”

Okonkwo alleged that Obi and Kwankwaso left the ADC because they were unwilling to participate in the party’s primary election.

According to him, anyone who leaves the ADC coalition is indirectly supporting the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He, however, maintained that the exit of Obi and Kwankwaso would not significantly affect the coalition’s objective of unseating the ruling party in 2027.

‘South-East, South-South Will Align With Coalition’

The ADC chieftain also claimed that the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones would vote differently in 2027 in a way that would favour the coalition.

He said the two regions would align with the coalition and the North to vote against Tinubu.

“From 2015 when Goodluck Jonathan lost the election because of the South-South, South-East, they have been marginalized by successive presidents because they did not align with them.

“In 2027, the South-South and South-East will align with the coalition party, with the north and when they align, they will win Tinubu and when they win Tinubu, all the marginalisation will come to an end,” he said.

Okonkwo added that the ADC coalition would allow all aspirants to participate freely in its primary election and support whoever emerges as the candidate.

According to him, political parties that had adopted such an approach in the past had gone on to win general elections.

‘Why Obi Will Lose South-East’

Okonkwo also argued that Obi, who won overwhelmingly in the South-East under the Labour Party in the 2023 election, would not enjoy the same support in 2027.

“I am trying to tell you why Peter Obi will lose the entire South-East. Have you not heard of the slogan, Obi or nothing? First of all, that slogan is an abomination culturally in Igbo land.

“In Igbo land, there is something we call somadina, it means I will not be the only person that will thrive, I will not be the only person that will succeed, I will not be the only person that will live. And now, Peter Obi or nothing,” he said.

Okonkwo said he had nothing personal against Obi or any other presidential hopeful, stressing that his primary interest was ensuring that Nigeria gets a good president.

Gozi-Anyaokei was brought before Justice Y. Halilu of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on a two-count charge bordering on alleged illegal conversion and obtaining money under false pretence.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the defendant allegedly received N19 million from one Ernest Terkula Jor in 2022 for investment purposes while serving as the Managing Director of the bank.

The anti-graft agency accused her of diverting the funds for personal use, contrary to the provisions of the Penal Code Act.

In the second charge, the EFCC alleged that she also received $30,000 from the same individual for investment purposes but dishonestly converted the money for her personal benefit.

The commission stated that the alleged offences contravene Section 311 of the Penal Code Act Cap 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990, and are punishable under Section 312 of the same Act.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read before the court.

Following her plea, prosecution counsel, S.N. Robert, requested a date for the commencement of trial.

Justice Halilu subsequently granted the defendant bail with two sureties who must possess landed property within Abuja.

The court also ordered her to surrender her travel documents and barred her from travelling outside the country without court approval.

The matter was adjourned until July 19, 2026, for commencement of trial.

The Federal Government has announced plans to enforce compulsory drug testing for students in secondary schools across Nigeria as part of efforts to curb substance abuse among teenagers.
The new directive is contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, a policy designed to create a safer and healthier learning environment for students nationwide.

Under the guidelines, all newly admitted students will undergo mandatory drug screening before gaining admission, while returning students will also be subjected to routine drug tests at least once every academic session.

According to the government, the policy is aimed at reducing the growing rate of drug abuse among adolescents and improving students’ mental health, behaviour, and academic performance.

The guidelines also prohibit students from possessing or using narcotics, controlled drugs, or any banned substances without proper approval from school authorities.

To manage cases of drug abuse, the policy introduced a three-step intervention process for students who test positive.

Students who fail the first drug test will receive counselling and treatment recommended by school authorities. Those who test positive again will be referred to medical experts for further evaluation and treatment.

Students who continue to test positive after repeated interventions may be temporarily withdrawn from the school environment to undergo professional rehabilitation and recovery programmes.

The policy further makes counselling compulsory before and after every drug test. Pre-test counselling is expected to help students understand the screening process, reduce fear, and build trust, while post-test counselling will assist students in understanding their results and accessing support services where necessary.

In addition, all secondary schools are expected to establish disciplinary committees to ensure compliance with the new rules. Schools are also directed to report violent incidents connected to substance abuse to relevant law enforcement agencies.

The Federal Government added that students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation recommended by professionals could face temporary suspension until they are certified fit to return to school.

BREAKING: House of Representatives member Kingsley Chinda appears before the APC governorship screening committee ahead of the primaries.

Chinda, who is the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives (PDP), was said to have defected quietly to the APC a few days ago, but… pic.twitter.com/EOx9GjALeY

— Nigerian Affairs Journal (@NigAffairs) May 9, 2026

Passengers scheduled to travel aboard Delta Airlines flight DL055 from Lagos to Atlanta were left stranded at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, after the American carrier abruptly cancelled the flight scheduled to depart at 11:45 a.m. Also United (America) for for two days last week cancelled its flights consecutively. Last year British Airways cancelled its flights for three days and abandoned its passengers. It was a partner airline that eventually airlifted the stranded passengers. Yet there was no social media outrage.

According to information gathered from some of the affected passengers, Delta airline attributed the cancellation to a technical issue involving the operating aircraft in Atlanta, United States. In aviation, such situations are not unusual. Airlines across the world routinely delay or cancel flights whenever there are concerns about the airworthiness or safety of an aircraft. Safety, after all, remains the cornerstone of global aviation practice. No responsible airline is expected to operate equipment considered unsafe for passengers, crew, or cargo.

However, beyond safety, there is another critical obligation airlines owe passengers - communication, transparency, and care during disruptions.

What appeared striking in the Delta situation was not merely the cancellation itself, but the seeming absence of proper communication and passenger management. Some affected passengers alleged that they received little or no direct explanation from the airline and were simply advised to contact their booking agents. At the airport, the only visible personnel attending to passengers appeared to be staff of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), while Delta representatives remained largely invisible.

Premium passengers, according to one of them whom I was seeing off, were only contacted at the airport upon arrival for check-in. They were informed that they would be accommodated on subsequent flights subject to seat availability or be downgraded to Economy Class. Economy passengers, however, were reportedly left to fend for themselves, struggling in queues in search of information about what next to do.

Yet, despite the frustration, the atmosphere at the airport remained unusually calm.

There were no angry social media livestreams. No celebrities recording emotional videos. No trending hashtags calling for a boycott of Delta Airlines. No loud accusations that the airline was “wicked,” “insensitive,” or “incompetent.” The passengers simply endured the inconvenience quietly. If it was a Nigerian carrier many passengers would have been demanding to be flown first in subsequent flights and holding the airline staff “hostage.” But now they are silent.

That silence raises uncomfortable but important questions about public attitudes toward airlines in Nigeria.

If the same incident had involved a Nigerian carrier, particularly a major indigenous airline, social media would almost certainly have erupted in outrage. Videos would flood TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X within minutes. Influencers and celebrities would issue emotional condemnations. Commentators would portray the airline as evidence of everything allegedly wrong with Nigeria.


Why then do many Nigerian passengers react differently when foreign airlines are involved?

This is not an attempt to excuse delays or cancellations by local airlines. Passengers have every right to express dissatisfaction whenever airlines fail to meet their obligations. Flight disruptions can be stressful, expensive, and emotionally draining. Airlines - whether Nigerian or foreign - must be held accountable for how they treat passengers during such situations.

But fairness demands consistency.

Delays and cancellations are not uniquely Nigerian problems. They are part of global aviation realities. Weather conditions, technical faults, operational limitations, air traffic congestion, crew issues, and safety concerns disrupt flights daily across Europe, America, Asia, and Africa. What matters is how airlines manage the disruptions and how regulators enforce passenger rights.

Only recently, an Air Peace flight from London Gatwick to Lagos suffered a bird strike, forcing the airline to ground the aircraft for mandatory safety inspections and maintenance. The airline communicated with passengers, provided hotel accommodation, and rebooked affected travellers on subsequent flights. Yet the incident generated massive social media outrage, amplified by celebrities and influencers, including Nollywood actress Funke Akindele and an earlier video by reality TV personality Tacha.

The same level of public outrage is rarely directed at foreign carriers operating in Nigeria, even when passengers experience similar or worse treatment.

This double standard deserves serious reflection.

Why are Nigerian airlines subjected to intense public hostility while foreign operators often receive patience, understanding, or even silence? Is it an inferiority complex rooted in colonial mentality? Is it fear of visa implications or perceived repercussions from foreign countries? Or is it simply a deeply ingrained belief that foreign brands are automatically superior, regardless of how they behave?

These are uncomfortable questions, but they must be asked honestly.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) also has a responsibility to ensure fairness and accountability across the board. Regulatory oversight should not appear selective. Foreign airlines operating in Nigeria must be subjected to the same scrutiny and consumer protection standards applied to indigenous carriers. Passenger rights are universal and should not depend on the nationality of the airline involved.

At the same time, Nigerians must resist the growing culture of indiscriminate social media demarketing targeted almost exclusively at local operators. Constructive criticism is legitimate. Deliberate campaigns designed to damage indigenous airlines while excusing foreign carriers are not.

Nigeria cannot aspire to build globally competitive aviation brands if its own citizens consistently undermine them at every opportunity while romanticising foreign competitors that often operate under the same industry realities.

Aviation is a difficult business everywhere in the world. Delays happen. Technical faults happen. Cancellations happen. What should matter is professionalism, transparency, passenger care, and regulatory accountability — not the nationality of the airline involved.

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Engr. Mustafa Bello as the Chairman of its Board of Directors.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, has been approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and ratified by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting held on May 5, 2026.


Engr. Bello’s appointment represents a strategic step to ensure the continuity, stability, and sustained effectiveness of the Board, while reinforcing the high standards of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic oversight for which Zenith Bank is widely respected.

He joined the Board of Zenith Bank Plc on 29 December 2017 and has served on several Board committees, including the Board Audit and Compliance Committee, Board Governance, Nomination and Renumeration Committee and as Chairman of the Board Risk Management Committee until his appointment as Chairman of the Board of Directors.


He has extensive leadership experience at Board and executive levels, a strong understanding of corporate governance principles and regulatory expectations, and a proven track record in strategic oversight and organisational growth. He has consistently demonstrated integrity, independence and sound judgement, qualities that distinguished him as the natural choice to lead the Board into its next chapter.


Engr. Mustafa Bello is a distinguished engineer, statesman and corporate leader. His career spans more than four decades across the public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy. He served as Minister of Commerce of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 1999 to 2002 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, where he led the development of Nigeria’s WTO-consistent Trade Policy.

He also oversaw the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) online project of 2002, which modernised the way businesses register and operate in the country. From November 2003 to February 2014, he served as Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Investments Promotion Commission (NIPC), where he was instrumental in attracting foreign direct investment into Nigeria, building multilateral and bilateral partnerships, and representing the Federal Government at international conferences and missions.


He graduated from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 1978 with a B.Engr. in Civil Engineering (Second Class Upper Division), winning the Shell Prize for the best project and thesis in the Faculty of Engineering. He began his career with the Nigerian Army’s Directorate of Quartering and Engineering Service from 1978 to 1979, before joining the Niger State Housing Corporation as a Senior Civil Engineer from 1980 to 1983.

He is currently the Chairman of Invest-in-Northern Nigeria Limited, a special purpose vehicle for the economic and social transformation of the Northern Nigerian economy, and has previously served on the boards of Eskom Holdings Limited of the Republic of South Africa (2004 to 2008) and FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc as an Independent Non-Executive Director. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a Registered Member of Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) as well as Fellow of the Academy of Natural Sciences & Engineering in Nigeria (ANSEN).


Zenith Bank stands among Africa’s leading financial institutions, with a strong capital base and operations across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire.

https://www.tiktok.com/video/7635784990852205832?_r=1&_t=ZS-964aSfJJTk5

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has reacted to the resignation of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

In a statement posted on his verified X handle on Sunday, Bwala stated that he had already said it six months ago that Obi would not contest the 2027 presidential election under the ADC.

According to presidential spokesman, his statement has come to pass

“I[b] said it 6 months ago that Obi will not run under ADC, now it is coming to fruition. Not a single tweet from Obi’s propagandists about what they complain about.

“If it were a topic on Bwala, Oseni Rufai would have made 20 tweets,” he wrote.
[/b]
DAILY POST reports that Obi on Sunday announced his resignation from the ADC, citing internal battles and division as reasons.

Former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, has broken his long-standing silence on political matters to respond to claims made by incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun, describing the governor’s account as misleading and filled with inaccuracies.

Daniel explained that his restraint over the years was out of respect for the office of the governor and in the interest of preserving the Ijebu heritage. However, he said the recent comments by Abiodun compelled him to set the record straight.

Recounting events from the 2002 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primaries in Abeokuta, Daniel said he secured a decisive victory with over 70 percent of the votes, defeating Abiodun and other contenders despite what he described as coordinated attempts to stop him. He dismissed claims that Abiodun handed over any political structure to him, insisting instead that key support came from allies such as the late Senator Jubril Martins Kuye and other loyalists who later played significant roles in his administration.

Daniel further stated that after the primaries, while other aspirants accepted the outcome, Abiodun withdrew from the scene. He added that he still made efforts to accommodate Abiodun’s associates in his government and even gave him a role in the Olokola Free Trade Zone project.

Reflecting on the 2003 elections, Daniel described the political climate as intense, noting that former governor Ibikunle Amosun was initially an ally before their relationship later deteriorated, allegedly due to Abiodun’s involvement.

On the 2015 political developments, Daniel revealed that he supported Abiodun’s senatorial ambition despite prior disagreements and alleged actions taken against him. He claimed that Abiodun had previously worked against his own political aspirations but still received his backing. However, Abiodun eventually lost that election.

Daniel also revisited the 2019 elections, stating that Abiodun’s eventual victory as governor was narrow and came with support from key political figures, including Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He suggested that without such interventions, the outcome might have been different.

He recounted what he described as early signs of strained relations during Abiodun’s inauguration, including a protocol breach involving seating arrangements. According to him, tensions escalated after he reclaimed ownership of a hotel property in Abeokuta following multiple court rulings in his favour—an action that Abiodun allegedly criticized publicly.

Daniel also accused the current administration of withholding Certificates of Occupancy for his properties and overseeing the demolition of assets linked to his family, including his wife’s DATKEM Plaza in Ijebu Ode.

Addressing his move to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Daniel denied claims that Abiodun influenced his decision, attributing it instead to encouragement from prominent party leaders such as Mai Mala Buni, John Oyegun, Rotimi Akeredolu, and Nasir el-Rufai.

He further cited incidents involving meetings with former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, which he claimed caused friction with Abiodun’s camp.

On his legal battles with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Daniel clarified that he does not hold Abiodun responsible but noted that he received no relief at the state High Court. He was, however, later discharged and acquitted by the Court of Appeal, which ruled that the case should not have been brought against him.

Daniel concluded by saying he may provide further clarifications if necessary, emphasizing his commitment to preserving an accurate account of events for posterity.

This is what life is like aboard NNS Kada, recognized as one of the best designed LSTs in the world. pic.twitter.com/MBtqI7DxPH

— Defense News Nigeria (@DefenseNigeria) April 30, 2026

Twelve years after the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, 12 of the survivors are on the verge of graduating from the American University of Nigeria in Yola.

Speaking on Wednesday at the university campus, AUN President Dewayne Frazier described the milestone as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope on a global scale.

He said the upcoming graduation of the former captives, who were once held in the Sambisa Forest, represents far more than academic success. According to him, it stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the ability to overcome extreme adversity.

Frazier noted that their journey from captivity to earning university degrees—has drawn international attention as a remarkable story of triumph. He added that their achievement reflects the university’s commitment to transforming lives through education, proving that individuals can rise above trauma to achieve personal and academic success.

He further described the graduates as sources of inspiration for the North-East and beyond, stressing that their success underscores the role of education as a powerful tool for healing, rebuilding lives, and securing a better future for Nigeria.

The AUN president also commended the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for sponsoring the education of the students.

The Chibok abduction occurred on April 14, 2014, when 276 girls were kidnapped by insurgents. While 57 escaped on the night of the incident and many others have been freed over the years, more than 80 are still believed to be missing, according to recent figures.

The growing use of consensus candidacy in Nigeria’s political system is drawing increasing criticism, with analysts warning that it may be weakening the country’s democratic foundations rather than strengthening party unity.

Originally intended to reduce the cost of primaries, prevent internal conflicts, and foster cohesion within political parties, consensus arrangements are now being accused of sidelining party members and concentrating power in the hands of a few influential figures.

Across major parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), consensus has become a common method for selecting candidates. While party leaders often justify it as a practical solution to disputes, critics argue that it has increasingly become a tool for imposing preferred candidates rather than reflecting genuine agreement.

The issue has gained prominence following provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, which eliminated indirect primaries and limited parties to either direct primaries or consensus. Under Section 84(9), aspirants must willingly consent in writing to any consensus arrangement; otherwise, parties are required to conduct direct primaries.

Despite this legal safeguard, tensions are rising as the 2026 primary season unfolds. In many states, consensus efforts are triggering disputes among aspirants unwilling to step aside.

In Ogun State, for instance, a disagreement over the Ogun East senatorial ticket exposed deep divisions. Senator Gbenga Daniel was reportedly barred from a party caucus meeting where Governor Dapo Abiodun emerged as the consensus candidate. A widely circulated video showed Daniel’s convoy denied access to the venue in Ijebu Ode, prompting him to reject the outcome as invalid.

Similar tensions are emerging in Lagos State, a key APC stronghold. Indications that Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat may be favoured as a consensus candidate have been met with resistance from other aspirants, including Abdul-Azeez Adediran, who is demanding an open primary.

In Nasarawa State, controversy has also erupted following Governor Abdullahi Sule’s endorsement of Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu as a consensus gubernatorial candidate without broad consultation. The move has been strongly opposed by former governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, highlighting growing internal resistance.

Political observers warn that such developments could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process. Seun Okeowo, a political analyst, noted that consensus is not inherently problematic if the law is strictly followed. However, he cautioned that failure to respect dissenting aspirants could spark crises across states.

Other experts argue that the current practice of consensus often lacks transparency and inclusiveness. According to analyst Jide Ojo, the concept itself is not undemocratic, but becomes problematic when it is used to impose candidates rather than reflect the collective will of party members.

Public policy expert Temitope Musowo also questioned the suitability of consensus in Nigeria’s political environment, warning that it may give undue advantage to certain aspirants while limiting broader participation.

Concerns extend beyond internal party dynamics. Analysts say that when candidate selection is driven by elite negotiations rather than open competition, merit, credibility, and public support may be sidelined. This, they argue, risks producing leaders who are more accountable to political power brokers than to citizens.

Sam Amadi, director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, emphasized that democracy must begin within political parties, warning that compromised internal processes weaken the legitimacy of the broader system.

For many young Nigerians and first-time participants, the dominance of consensus politics is deepening feelings of exclusion. Limited access to competitive primaries reduces opportunities for new entrants and reinforces the influence of established political figures.

Ironically, a system designed to promote unity is often achieving the opposite. Analysts note that imposed consensus frequently leads to resentment, defections, and internal disputes rather than cohesion.

“Rather than resolving conflicts, imposed consensus can deepen divisions,” said Cheta Nwanze of SBM Intelligence. “When stakeholders feel excluded, they are more likely to challenge outcomes or withdraw support.”

As political parties prepare for upcoming primaries, observers warn that unless consensus arrangements are handled transparently and in line with the law, they could further strain party unity and undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress.