₦airaland Forum

Popular Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has sparked conversations on social media after revealing that she has gradually lost interest in the idea of marriage.

The actress made the statement during a recent interaction where she spoke candidly about relationships, personal growth, and changing priorities. According to Regina, her experiences and observations over time have influenced the way she now sees marriage and long-term commitments.

She explained that while marriage is often viewed as an important life goal, she no longer places it at the center of her happiness or future plans. The movie star noted that many people enter relationships with high expectations, only to become disappointed later due to misunderstandings, pressure, and emotional stress.

Regina Daniels said she has become more focused on peace of mind, self-development, and living a fulfilled life rather than chasing societal expectations about marriage. She added that emotional maturity and personal happiness are now more important to her than public perception.

Her comments have since generated mixed reactions online. While some fans praised her honesty and confidence in speaking about personal issues, others expressed surprise at her remarks considering her high-profile marriage.

Social media users also debated the challenges many young couples face in modern relationships, with some agreeing that marriage today comes with increasing pressure from society and the internet.

Despite the reactions trailing her statement, Regina Daniels remains one of the most talked-about actresses in the Nigerian entertainment industry, known for her acting career, lifestyle, and strong social media presence.

The actress has yet to provide further clarification on the statement, but her comments continue to stir discussions among fans and followers.

Financial institutions, including banks and insurance firms, recorded an 8.5 per cent growth in real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), contributing N1.93 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, compared to N1.78 trillion posted in the corresponding period of 2025.

This was revealed in the latest Q1 2026 GDP report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

According to the report, the financial institutions sub-sector remained the largest contributor within the Finance and Insurance sector, accounting for N1.75 trillion in Q1 2026, up from N1.61 trillion in Q1 2025. The growth of about 8.4 per cent reflects sustained expansion in banking operations, credit financing, and other financial intermediation activities.

The insurance sub-sector also maintained positive growth momentum, rising to N180.95 billion during the quarter from N164.58 billion recorded a year earlier. This represents an increase of approximately 9.9 per cent, driven by improved premium generation, stronger underwriting activities, and increased market penetration.

The NBS noted that the Finance and Insurance sector consists of two major components — Financial Institutions and Insurance. Financial institutions accounted for 90.62 per cent of the sector in real terms, while insurance contributed 9.38 per cent in Q1 2026.

The report further stated that the sector grew by 46.91 per cent in nominal terms on a year-on-year basis. Financial institutions recorded 46.71 per cent growth, while the insurance segment posted a higher growth rate of 48.80 per cent.

According to the bureau, the overall nominal growth rate was 25.89 percentage points higher than the level recorded in Q1 2025 and 20.33 percentage points above the preceding quarter.

Quarter-on-quarter, the sector expanded by 18.86 per cent in nominal terms. Its contribution to nominal GDP stood at 3.83 per cent in Q1 2026, higher than the 3.07 per cent recorded in the same period last year and above the 2.91 per cent posted in the previous quarter.

In real terms, the Finance and Insurance sector recorded an 8.54 per cent growth rate, though this was 6.49 percentage points lower than the figure reported in Q1 2025. However, it was slightly higher by 0.24 percentage points compared to the preceding quarter.

On a quarter-on-quarter basis, real growth stood at 17.77 per cent, while the sector’s contribution to real GDP increased to 3.76 per cent, compared to 3.60 per cent in Q1 2025 and 2.56 per cent in Q4 2025.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s overall GDP growth slowed to 3.8 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, highlighting ongoing economic pressures despite the strong performance recorded in the banking and insurance industries.

Global fuel prices may see a downward adjustment in the coming days as crude oil prices continue to decline amid renewed diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran.
On Monday morning, crude oil prices fell sharply from about $111 last week to $97.48 per barrel, driven by rising optimism that ongoing negotiations could lead to improved stability in the Middle East and possible reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The development has strengthened expectations that petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel prices may begin to ease if the downward trend in crude prices persists.

Earlier projections had suggested that any breakthrough between Washington and Tehran could significantly ease pressure on global oil supply routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of the world’s crude oil is transported.

Before Monday’s decline, Brent crude had traded between $103 and $105 per barrel over the weekend, following signals of progress in diplomatic discussions. However, by early Monday, prices slipped to $97.48, raising speculation of further reductions if supply conditions stabilise.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil transit corridors, accounting for roughly 20 percent of global crude shipments. Any disruption or reopening of the route has a direct impact on international energy prices.

Crude Oil Surge Previously Triggered Fuel Hike
Crude oil prices had surged significantly since tensions escalated between the United States and Iran in late February. At the peak of the crisis, prices climbed above $100 per barrel and at some point exceeded $115.

Before the conflict, oil traded below $70 per barrel, but the escalation led to a sharp increase in global energy costs.

In Nigeria, the impact was felt through higher pump prices, with petrol rising from about ₦830 per litre to around ₦1,300 per litre. Diesel and aviation fuel also recorded steep increases, forcing airlines and transport operators to warn of possible operational disruptions.

Dangote Refinery and Market Expectations
With crude prices now easing, industry analysts say there is growing speculation that domestic refiners, including the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, may review fuel pricing downward if the trend continues.

However, they stressed that any reduction would depend on multiple factors, including crude sourcing costs, foreign exchange rates, logistics expenses, and competitive market dynamics within Nigeria’s downstream sector.

US–Iran Negotiations Show Progress
Reports indicate that the United States and Iran have made progress toward a preliminary understanding aimed at de-escalating tensions and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump stated that discussions were advancing and that the waterway could be reopened under a broader regional agreement involving several Middle Eastern countries.

He added that he had engaged leaders across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and Israel as part of the diplomatic efforts.

Trump also noted that while progress was being made, final details of the agreement were still under negotiation.

Iran Cautions Against Premature Conclusions
Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that talks with the United States were ongoing but cautioned that no final agreement had been reached.

Spokesperson Esmail Baqai stated that while significant progress had been made on several issues, it was too early to suggest that a formal deal was imminent.

He emphasized that discussions were still underway and that concluding otherwise would be premature.

His remarks followed comments from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who suggested that a deal could potentially be reached soon.

Possible Impact on Global Oil Market
The proposed framework reportedly includes a temporary ceasefire extension, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and continued negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme.

If successfully implemented, the agreement could ease global supply concerns and place further downward pressure on crude oil prices.

For Nigeria and other oil-dependent economies, a sustained drop in crude prices may bring some relief to consumers who have faced months of high fuel costs.

However, analysts caution that any reduction at the pump will depend on domestic factors such as exchange rate stability, landing costs, and pricing decisions by fuel importers and refiners.

Zenith Bank Plc has officially launched its subsidiary in Côte d’Ivoire, marking a significant step in its ongoing expansion across Africa and entry into Francophone West Africa.

The new subsidiary, Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire, received regulatory approval in December 2025 from the country’s Ministry of Finance and Budget and operates under the supervision of the West African Monetary Union (UMOA) Banking Commission. The bank will operate from its headquarters in Plateau, Abidjan’s main business district.

The official opening ceremony, held on April 29, 2026, drew senior government officials, regulators from both Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, and business leaders, reflecting the growing economic ties between Anglophone and Francophone markets in the region.

The launch positions Zenith Bank – the first Nigerian bank to cross the ₦5 trillion market capitalisation mark – to play a more active role in facilitating cross-border trade and investment within the West African Economic and Monetary Union. The subsidiary will focus on corporate banking, trade finance, and structured financial solutions tailored to businesses operating across Africa and globally.

Group Managing Director and CEO, Adaora Umeoji, described the move as a strategic step toward building a truly pan-African financial institution, noting that the expansion opens a new corridor into Francophone markets while reinforcing the bank’s role in connecting African businesses to global opportunities.

The subsidiary will be led by Managing Director and CEO Cédric Tano, who brings over two decades of banking experience. He stated that the bank aims to combine global standards with local expertise to support businesses, drive innovation in financing, and contribute to economic growth in Côte d’Ivoire and the wider region.

Zenith Bank’s entry into Côte d’Ivoire forms part of a wider expansion strategy targeting new African markets, particularly in Francophone regions. The bank has also signaled plans to expand into Central Africa, with Cameroon identified as a key next step.

With an existing presence across multiple African countries and global financial hubs, the latest move reinforces Zenith Bank’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading African financial institution while supporting regional economic integration and trade.

This expansion comes at a time when Côte d’Ivoire’s banking sector continues to grow, making it an attractive destination for regional and international financial institutions seeking to tap into West Africa’s evolving economic landscape.

The lingering feud between the Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Otunba Kehinde Almaroof-Oloyede, and the President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya popularly known as MC Oluomo has been resolved with both parties promising to bury their hatchet and work toward the success of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections especially the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The two warring factions pledged to cease all hostilities and foster peace for the benefit of Oshodi-Isolo, Lagos State, and Nigeria as a whole.

The peace accord, which was brokered by the President’s son, Ambassador Seyi took place in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, where a few Chieftains of the NURTW were present as well as the Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman.

Speaking after the peace accord, Otunba Almarrof-Oloyede stated that the unnecessary bickering has been put behind them and that all hands will be on deck to ensure that peace and harmonious relationships continue to exist in Oshodi-Isolo.

The council boss also reiterated commitment to maintaining the peace accords and promised overwhelming victory for candidates of the All Progressives Congress APC from the President to other candidates in the 2027 general elections.

He commended Ambassador Seyi Tinubu for his consistent intervention and support, promising to continue to appreciate him.

Otunba Almarrof-Oloyede further appealed to political gladiators in the council area to continue to mobilize for Mr. President and the party as the 2027 general elections approach.

Media Office of the Executive Chairman,
Oshodi-Isolo Local Government

Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Nsukka, and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) are set to forge a strategic partnership aimed at promoting creativity, industrial growth, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

This was the focus on Wednesday when the President of ICAN, Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, led a high-powered delegation to the university to explore collaborative opportunities that would deepen academic excellence and professional relevance.

Yahaya, accompanied by Council members, the Registrar, and other officials of the Institute, was at the university as part of activities marking the 20th Eastern Zonal Accountants’ Conference held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Receiving the delegation, the Vice-Chancellor of Maduka University, Professor Charles Ogbulogo, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and significant for a university he said is “on a journey of discovery” with a clear focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and national development.

Speaking on the theme “Entrenching Industrial Training at Maduka University,” Ogbulogo emphasized the institution’s commitment to hands-on learning, noting that the university prioritizes practical exposure to prepare students for real-world challenges, alongside the development of both technical and soft skills across diverse fields including publishing, medicine, petroleum, and mechanical industries.

The Vice-Chancellor further highlighted the university’s four cardinal pillars—Academic Excellence, Estate Development, Teaching Hospital, and Industrial Entrepreneurship—while reiterating the vision of the Founder and Chancellor, Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi, to positively impact society through education, agriculture, healthcare, and technology.

Ogbulogo stressed the importance of partnering with ICAN, assuring the Institute of the university’s readiness for meaningful collaboration.

He also underscored the need to promote ICAN-related activities on campus to foster creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurial capacity among students.

Commending ICAN for its role in producing highly skilled professionals, he acknowledged the Institute’s contributions to governance, accountability, and national development, pledging the university’s support in encouraging staff and students to actively participate in ICAN programmes as part of its vision to build a purpose-driven institution.

Responding, ICAN President Yahaya expressed appreciation for the warm reception and commended the university’s rapid development, noting that its achievements in infrastructure, learning environment, and institutional integrity within less than three years demonstrate purposeful leadership.

“Maduka University stands as a compelling reminder that impact is not a function of age, but of purpose,” he said, adding that “wealth finds its true meaning when invested in people.”


Yahaya emphasized ICAN’s role as a driver of professionalism, accountability, and transparency, describing the Institute as “a pillar of national development.” He noted a strong alignment between ICAN and Maduka University, particularly in their shared commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation.

He outlined potential areas of collaboration to include curriculum development aligned with global standards, integration of emerging fields such as digital finance, sustainability reporting, and forensic accounting, as well as structured mentorship and industry exposure for students.

The ICAN President also encouraged the university to leverage the Institute’s expertise in areas such as the development of its Accountancy programme, accreditation processes, and broader academic and professional partnerships.

Journalists were on Monday, April 27, 2026, prevented from covering the bail hearing of six individuals accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot against the administration of President Bola Tinubu at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Court officials, backed by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), instructed reporters to leave the courtroom shortly before the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, commenced proceedings.

An unidentified court official said the directive came from the judge, while a DSS operative also told journalists that an explanation would be provided later, though none was immediately given.

Reporters, who had arrived at about 8:00 a.m. to cover the proceedings, were compelled to exit the courtroom by 9:07 a.m.

The case, which has attracted significant public attention, involves six defendants arraigned last Wednesday by the Federal Government over an alleged failed coup attempt.

The accused include Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, a retired major-general; Erasmus Victor, a retired navy captain; Ahmed Ibrahim, a police inspector; Zekeri Umoru, an electrician at the Presidential Villa; as well as Bukar Goni and Abdulkadir Sani, a Zaria-based Islamic cleric.

They are facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. All six defendants pleaded not guilty.

Following their arraignment, Justice Abdulmalik ordered an accelerated hearing of the case and fixed April 27 for the determination of their bail applications. She also directed that they remain in DSS custody pending the hearing.

In a related development, former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva was mentioned in seven of the charges but is not listed as a defendant. Sources claim he is currently at large.

Earlier reports indicate that about 40 suspects, including serving and retired military officers as well as civilians, were arrested in connection with the alleged plot. While 36 serving officers have been arraigned before a court-martial in Abuja, others remain under investigation.

Monday’s restriction of journalists is not the first of such incidents in Justice Abdulmalik’s courtroom, as reporters and observers have on previous occasions been asked to leave sittings, often due to space limitations.

A tragic wildlife incident has shaken Innayin Community in Oyo State after a wild elephant reportedly killed one resident and left another missing.

The attack occurred around 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, throwing residents into fear as the animal suddenly appeared in the area.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said officers responded quickly after receiving a distress call about the invasion.

According to him, police operatives, working with local hunters and vigilantes, were immediately deployed to the scene. On arrival, they discovered the lifeless body of a 45-year-old man, Ibrahim Tijani, in a nearby bush with injuries believed to have been inflicted by the animal.

His remains have been taken to the General Hospital in Iwere-Ile for further examination.

The police also revealed that another resident, 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, is still missing after reportedly encountering the same elephant. Search efforts are ongoing to locate him.

Authorities have since reinforced security in the area, with additional personnel, hunters, and vigilantes working to contain the situation and prevent further harm.

Residents have been urged to stay calm, avoid affected areas, and promptly report any sighting of the animal.

Police authorities noted that the situation would be handled in accordance with wildlife conservation laws, adding that relevant agencies, including the National Park Service, have been contacted for expert support.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Olugbenga, assured residents that efforts are underway to restore normalcy and ensure public safety, calling for continued cooperation with security agencies.

A High Court in Abuja has struck out all charges brought against Zainab Duke-Abiola, ruling that the actions of the Nigeria Police Force violated her fundamental human rights.

Delivering judgment, Justice E. Okpe condemned the conduct of the police as “inhuman and degrading,” stating that it amounted to a serious breach of her constitutional rights.

The court subsequently awarded ₦100 million in damages against the police, former Inspector-General Usman Alkali Baba, and four other defendants.

Duke-Abiola had filed the suit over alleged harassment and what she described as a media trial by the police following accusations that she assaulted a police orderly. Other parties named in the case included Inspector Teju Moses and the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Umar.

In her defence, she firmly denied the allegation, insisting no such incident ever occurred in her residence. She pointed to the presence of CCTV cameras in her home as evidence that could disprove the claim and maintained that she was the victim of a deliberate setup.

Justice Okpe, in his ruling, described the incident as a “forceful abduction” and a calculated attempt to frame her, adding that she was unlawfully detained and publicly humiliated without due process.

The court not only dismissed all charges but also ordered the police to issue a public apology in two national newspapers. It further granted a perpetual injunction restraining the authorities from any future harassment or intimidation of Duke-Abiola.

Soludo Urges South-East to Back Tinubu in 2027, Warns Against Wasting Votes#ProgresivesworkingTogether#AnambraIsRising#SouthEastStakeholders pic.twitter.com/CkF9GitfSA

— Anambra State New Media (@AnambraNewMedia) April 18, 2026

If you’ve traveled the Ibadan-Ife-Ilesa road recently, you’ll know this isn't just a "patch-up" job. We are witnessing a total transformation as the Federal Government’s 108km concrete road revolution hits high gear!
I’ve been on the ground to track exactly how far we’ve come. Here is the latest update you need to know:

📍 THE ILESA/IWARAJA END: Construction has advanced significantly from the Iwaraja Junction. We are now over 40 kilometers in, and the concrete paving is almost at the Ile-Ife Junction!
Clearing is currently ongoing at the Ife end to make way for the pavers.

📍 THE IBADAN/IKIRE END: It’s happening at both ends! Work is pushing hard from Ibadan toward Ife. Concrete paving is already achieved on several sections, and clearing has reached all the way to Ikire on one carriageway.

Why this matters? We are moving away from asphalt that washes away after one rainy season. This is Rigid Pavement (Concrete), built to last 50 years! No more deep potholes, just smooth, durable road for our traders, students, and travelers.

The Ondo State Police Command has thwarted a deadly bomb attack targeting Akure, the state capital, with six suspects now in custody and materials linked to improvised explosive devices recovered from their hideout.
State Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal announced the development during a press briefing in Akure, calling it a landmark operational success for the command.

Acting on credible intelligence about a criminal syndicate operating across state boundaries, officers were tactically deployed to a rented apartment in the Oke-Odu area the group’s alleged base of operations — where they moved in and neutralised the threat before any attack could be launched.

The six suspects arrested are Adekunle Prosper, 56; Ojo Olumide, 39; Tope Kolawole, 40; Ahmed Salihu, 40; Bolaji Adebowale, 46; and Gbadebo Abidemi, 43.

A search of the premises yielded bottles, sugar, mobile phones, cash, laptops, weapons, identity cards and motorcycles. Investigators say preliminary assessments confirm some of these items were earmarked for building explosive devices. Authorities also recovered a document charting potential target locations — pointing to a carefully planned and coordinated operation.

Lawal stressed that the swift intervention almost certainly saved lives and prevented significant destruction of property.

Ten Suspected Cultists Also Arrested

In a separate operation, the command’s Special Anti-Cultism Squad arrested ten suspected cultists during a crackdown in Ondo Town, following intelligence reports of resurgent cult activity in the area.

Among those apprehended was a suspected kingpin identified as Oluwatosin Temitope, commonly known as “T-Money,” who is linked to the shooting of a man identified as “Primo” at Oka Junction in March 2026. Items seized included a firearm, cutlasses, a battle axe, cult insignia and charms.

Lawal reaffirmed the command’s unwavering commitment to public safety, confirming that all suspects remain in detention and will be formally charged upon conclusion of investigations. He also called on residents to stay alert and share useful information with security agencies, while urging landlords to thoroughly vet prospective tenants before renting out their properties.

Jigawa, Kano, and Lagos states are leading Nigeria’s ongoing second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), based on the latest figures released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the data, Jigawa recorded the highest number of new voters with 210,868 registrations. Kano followed with 196,486, while Lagos posted 192,075.

At the opposite end, Ekiti had the lowest turnout with 32,475 registrants. Anambra recorded 33,826, while Ondo, Enugu, and Plateau registered 35,280, 40,178, and 52,564 voters respectively.

A breakdown by region shows the Northwest leading with 1,116,770 registrations. The Northcentral recorded 632,055, followed by the Southwest with 600,583. The Northeast accounted for 545,037, the Southsouth 535,204, while the Southeast had the lowest regional total at 321,690.

The data also highlights a significant gender gap, with women making up the majority of new registrants. Female voters accounted for 2,082,361, representing 55.55 per cent, while male registrants stood at 1,666,343, or 44.45 per cent.

The CVR exercise, which began last August in preparation for the 2027 general elections, is expected to run until August this year. INEC has encouraged eligible Nigerians, especially those who have turned 18 since the 2023 elections or are yet to register, to participate before the deadline.

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi threw down the gauntlet at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national convention in Abuja on Tuesday, calling on the opposition party to unite and rally around a formidable candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking bluntly to party faithful, Amaechi made clear that the ruling administration has no intention of yielding ground voluntarily. “ADC must decide on a viable candidate. President Tinubu will not give us power,” he declared.

The outspoken politician also took aim at what he described as government efforts to suppress opposition gatherings, questioning the legitimacy of such moves. “Why would government officials deny you the right to gather when the constitution guarantees it?” he asked.

Amaechi went further, accusing the current administration of paying lip service to democratic values while undermining them in practice. “How can a man who claimed to be a democrat be stopping democracy? Tell me what to tell President Tinubu,” he charged.

On the security crisis gripping the nation, Amaechi painted a grim picture, lamenting the thousands of Nigerians killed, displaced, or abducted under the watch of the present government — and faulting its leadership priorities.

In perhaps his sharpest remarks of the evening, he turned his fire on public officials he accused of looting the system with zero remorse. “These guys do not care at all. What they care about is money. They don’t deny that they are thieves and land grabbers,” he said.

Amaechi closed by urging ADC stakeholders to close ranks, insisting that only a credible, united front stands any chance of ending the current administration’s grip on power in 2027.

Maduka Okoye has been named in the Serie A Team of the Week after delivering an outstanding performance in Udinese Calcio’s emphatic 3-0 victory over AC Milan.

The 26-year-old goalkeeper secured a clean sheet in a confident and composed display, standing out among several goalkeepers who also recorded shutouts during matchweek 32. His commanding presence played a crucial role in helping Udinese seal a dominant win.

Okoye’s inclusion in the prestigious weekly lineup sees him featured alongside teammates Arthur Atta and Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, as well as notable performers such as Robin Gosens, Rafael Obrador, Denzel Dumfries, Scott McTominay, Riccardo Orsolini, Marcus Thuram, Sebastiano Esposito and Donyell Malen.

The recognition highlights Okoye’s growing influence this season. He has now registered eight clean sheets in 24 league appearances and recently achieved three consecutive shutouts for the first time since joining Udinese in 2023.

His impressive club form has also earned him a return to the Super Eagles setup after missing out on the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025. He featured during the March international window, playing in Nigeria’s 2-1 friendly win over Iran in Antalya, before a thigh injury ruled him out of the subsequent 2-2 draw against Jordan.

Despite the injury setback, Okoye remains determined to solidify his place in the national team.

“I was very happy to be invited back to the national team,” he said via the club’s official platform. “It means a lot to me both professionally and personally, and I hope to earn many more call-ups.”

Since making his debut against Brazil in 2019, Okoye has earned 19 caps for Nigeria. However, he continues to face stiff competition for the number one jersey, with Arthur Okonkwo impressing at Wrexham AFC and Stanley Nwabali also pushing for a regular starting role.

FLASHBACK: How @PeterObi “supported” Opposition during his tenure in Anambra State. pic.twitter.com/Wkq7nU60BL

— Jubril A. Gawat (@Mr_JAGs) April 14, 2026

Rt. Hon. Olusegun Bolanle Gbeleyi (OBG) has commended the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the successful adoption and installation of a consensus candidate as the party’s flag bearer ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The incoming Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District Rt.Hon.Olusegun Bolanle Gbeleyi (OBG) warmly congratulated Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), the party’s flag bearer, on his emergence, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, proven leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Ogun State. He noted that the consensus decision reflects the unity, maturity, and collective resolve of the party to move forward with a shared vision and common purpose.

Rt. Hon. Gbeleyi further expressed his unwavering readiness to work hand-in-hand with the flag bearer, party leaders, and all stakeholders to ensure sustained growth, unity, and inclusive development across Ogun State. He emphasized that collaboration and a shared vision remain critical to achieving meaningful and lasting progress for the people.

Reaffirming his commitment to effective and people-oriented representation, Gbeleyi assured constituents of his dedication to promoting policies and initiatives that will uplift the standard of living, particularly in Ogun West Senatorial District. He stressed the importance of inclusiveness, grassroots engagement, and collective responsibility in building a more prosperous and progressive Ogun State for all.

Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, has stated that he does not believe in the God of either Christianity or Islam, describing himself instead as an atheist with strong spiritual awareness.
He made the remark during an interview with Larry Madowo on CNN, where he spoke about his personal beliefs and religious background.

Soyinka explained that he finds traditional Orisa worship more appealing than Christianity and Islam, citing its artistic, creative, and mysterious qualities. According to him, the traditional belief system is also more open and less associated with violence compared to the other two religions.

The renowned playwright noted that he was raised with exposure to both Christianity and indigenous Orisa practices, but found himself more drawn to the latter due to its depth and cultural richness.

He added that the inclusive nature of Orisa worship allowed foreign religions to gain influence over it, sometimes altering its original essence.

Speaking further, Soyinka said that while he does not subscribe to the Christian or Islamic concept of God, he believes every human possesses a spiritual core and considers himself highly sensitive to spiritual experiences.

Born in Portugal with fair skin and unmistakable European features, Tiago Ishola could easily have lived a typical life abroad. However, his path took a different turn at the age of 10 in 2010 when he moved to Nigeria and was welcomed into the royal palace of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who gave him the Yoruba name “Ishola.”

Now widely known as Oyinbo Ibile or Unique Tiago, he has grown into a comedian, actor, and cultural advocate. Fluent in Yoruba and deeply rooted in traditional customs, Tiago proudly wears native attire and promotes Yoruba heritage, proving that identity can be shaped as much by experience as by origin.

Tiago Ishola, also known as Oyinbo Ibile or Unique Tiago, is a Nigerian-Portuguese comedian, actor, and content creator. He is popular for his humorous skits delivered in fluent Yoruba and for showcasing traditional culture, earning a strong following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Though born in Portugal to Portuguese parents, Tiago strongly identifies with Yoruba culture. Despite his European background and appearance, he actively promotes the preservation and teaching of the Yoruba language and traditions.

He relocated to Nigeria in 2010 at age 10 and was raised in the Oyo royal palace. Adopted by Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, he was given the name “Ishola.” His mother reportedly brought him to the palace, where he fully embraced life within the Yoruba royal and cultural setting.

Tiago completed both his secondary and university education in Ibadan, where daily interaction with locals helped him master the Yoruba language and way of life.

His rise to fame came through social media, where his comedy skits—blending Yoruba humor, slang, and everyday experiences—resonate widely. His popularity was further boosted through collaborations and exposure from influencers such as Tunde Ednut.

He has also made his mark in Nollywood, featuring in the second season of the Netflix series Aníkúlápó: A Ghoul Awakens, directed by Kunle Afolayan.

Tiago Ishola’s journey from Portugal to the heart of Yoruba royalty highlights a unique cultural transformation, making him a standout figure in Nigeria’s entertainment and cultural landscape.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has scheduled May 12 for the inauguration of its newly elected state executive committees, signaling its determination to continue party activities despite ongoing legal hurdles.

The decision comes amid a dispute involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which on April 1 removed the party’s leadership from its official records. If upheld by the courts, the move could invalidate actions taken by the party.

However, in a statement issued on Sunday, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi confirmed that the party would proceed with inaugurating the executives elected during state congresses held on Saturday.

The party praised the smooth conduct of the congresses, describing them as a demonstration of its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law.

ADC also called on the newly elected officials to stay aligned with the leadership of its National Chairman, David Mark, and to remain focused on strengthening the party’s presence nationwide.

According to the statement, party members and stakeholders were commended for participating responsibly in the electoral process, while the incoming executives were urged to uphold unity, discipline, and dedication to the party’s vision.

The ADC reaffirmed its confidence in the new state leaders, expressing optimism about expanding its structures and deepening engagement with Nigerians. It added that stakeholders would be duly informed if any changes are made to the planned inauguration date.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) recorded a revenue of N2.68 trillion in February 2026, marking a 4.2 per cent increase from the N2.57 trillion posted in January, despite a decline in crude oil production.

According to the company’s latest monthly report, crude output fell to 1.51 million barrels per day (mbpd) from 1.64mbpd in January, largely due to pipeline outages and operational disruptions across key assets.

While revenue rose, profit after tax dropped significantly by 64.67 per cent to N136 billion, compared to N385 billion in the previous month. The decline was linked to increased remittances to the Federation Account following a presidential directive that scrapped the 30 per cent profit retention in the oil and gas sector.

As a result, NNPC’s statutory payments to the Federal Government surged by 148.48 per cent, rising from N726 billion in January to N1.8 trillion in February, highlighting the company’s continued role as a major revenue contributor.

A breakdown of production figures showed crude oil output at 1.27mbpd and condensate at 0.24mbpd. The company attributed the overall drop in production to several challenges, including outages on the Trans Forcados Pipeline, start-up issues at the Agbami GTC facilities after maintenance, delays at the Sterling Oguali flow station, and operational constraints at Enyie wells.

In contrast, gas production remained strong, reaching 7,458 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), one of the highest levels in recent months. However, gas sales stood at 4,893mmscf/d on a two-month lag, slightly below earlier peaks.

Total crude oil and condensate sales for February were recorded at 23.08 million barrels, down from 28.64 million barrels in October 2025, reflecting ongoing production and evacuation challenges.

On the downstream side, fuel availability at NNPC Retail Limited stations dropped to 58 per cent, raising concerns about supply efficiency and possible shortages in some areas.

Meanwhile, progress continues on key gas infrastructure projects. The Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipeline is now 93 per cent complete, while the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben pipeline has reached 96 per cent completion, with work ongoing to boost gas supply across the country.

NNPC said it remains focused on improving production stability through better asset management, faster resolution of operational issues, and stronger collaboration with industry stakeholders.

E no go better for all the Peter Obi supporters.... See the frãud they package for us 👇😭🙆 pic.twitter.com/rvYS6Bx4Vr

— A. Ayofe (@abdullahayofel) April 12, 2026