₦airaland Forum

Comedian Mr Odey Bags Brand Ambassadorial Deal with Doppel Homes, Gets A Car.

Popular Nigerian comedian, Mr Odey Jacobs, better known as Mr Odey D Uncommon, has been unveiled as the new brand ambassador of Doppel Homes Limited, a move the company said is aimed at strengthening its brand visibility and expanding its reach in the real estate market.

The unveiling ceremony was held on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the company's office in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Doppel Homes Limited, Chief Dr Dominic Olim, said the company chose Mr Odey because of his humility, passion for excellence and integrity.

According to him, integrity remains one of the company's core values, making the comedian a natural fit for the brand.

"One of our core values as a company is integrity, and we believe that Mr Odey coming on board is going to have a great impact on our business," Olim said.

He also spoke about his longstanding personal relationship with the comedian, describing their relationship as effortless and saying that endorsing Mr Odey as the corporate face of the company was an easy decision.

Responding, the newly unveiled ambassador expressed appreciation to the management of Doppel Homes for the confidence reposed in him, saying the partnership would create greater awareness for the company and contribute to a new direction in the real estate sector.

Mr Odey said he was excited about the partnership and the opportunity to work with a company whose values, according to him, align with his own.

"I am proud to go on this incredible adventure with Doppel Homes, as I know we are pursuing the same goal: opening the way for others, each within our own creative field. We share the same idea that we rise by lifting others," he said.

The comedian assured prospective clients that the partnership was based on confidence in the company's 6 be rest assured that everything is by the book," he said.

Mr Odey further disclosed that he and his team conducted background checks on Doppel Homes before accepting the ambassadorial role, adding that they found no blemish in the company's business dealings or corporate image.

He said the findings further strengthened his conviction to associate with the company and take on the responsibility of representing its brand.

To ease the comedian's movement with regards to real estate engagements and other businesses, Doppel Homes presented him with a car for easy mobility.

FarahAideed:
Well he is right, Obidients are his indirect voters na

NIMENA Launches Trend Report for the Advancement of Shipbuilding.

.....Seeks Nigeria's Emergence as Africa's Maritime Hub

The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) has launched a landmark Trend Report on the Advancement of Shipbuilding in Nigeria, unveiling a strategic roadmap aimed at positioning the country as Africa's leading hub for shipbuilding, ship repair, offshore engineering and maritime innovation.

Developed in collaboration with Plug and Play Singapore, the report provides a forward-looking assessment of Nigeria's readiness to compete in the global shipbuilding industry. It outlines practical strategies for building a globally competitive maritime manufacturing ecosystem through engineering excellence, technological innovation, digital transformation and policy reforms.

According to the report, Nigeria is well positioned to take advantage of the evolving global maritime industry due to its status as Africa's largest maritime economy, a growing offshore energy sector, expanding local content initiatives, an emerging innovation ecosystem and increasing government support. It notes that the country's focus should be on developing a technology-driven and innovation-led maritime industry rather than competing with established global shipbuilding giants on production volume.

The publication examines global trends shaping the shipbuilding industry, compares Nigeria's maritime sector with those of countries such as China, Singapore and South Africa, and identifies emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital twins, robotics, blockchain-enabled supply chains and smart shipyard, as critical to accelerating indigenous shipbuilding and maritime industrialisation.

Speaking at the launch, NIMENA National Chairman, Engr. Dr. Eferebo I. Sylvanus, described the report as a defining milestone in Nigeria's maritime industrial development.

He said the future of maritime leadership would be determined not only by the size of shipyards or the number of vessels built but also by the ability of nations to innovate, engineer and sustainably transform their maritime ecosystems. He added that the report represents a national call to action for building a resilient, technology-driven maritime industry capable of positioning Nigeria as Africa's foremost centre for shipbuilding, ship repair, offshore innovation and maritime industrial development.

The report also reveals that Nigeria currently has 27 accredited shipyards with strong capabilities in vessel repair, maintenance and offshore support services, while highlighting digital technologies, engineering innovation and smart manufacturing as the country's greatest opportunities for closing competitiveness gaps. It recommends a phased development strategy beginning with digital technologies, followed by engineering capability development and eventually advanced manufacturing and automation.

As part of efforts to drive policy implementation, NIMENA said the report would be transmitted to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, relevant committees of the National Assembly, the Ship Owners Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Shippers' Council and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), among other stakeholders.

The institution expressed confidence that the recommendations contained in the report would deepen local content, strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capacity, promote engineering innovation, create high-value employment and support Nigeria's emergence as Africa's leading maritime industrial hub. It also called on government agencies, investors, financial institutions, research institutions, universities and private sector players to collaborate in implementing the report's recommendations.

NDC Edo South Nomination Controversy Deepens as INEC Publication Raises Fresh Questions

Fresh developments surrounding the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Edo South Senatorial nomination have sparked renewed debate after documents published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reportedly contained conflicting candidate information.

At the centre of the controversy is Hon. Sunny “BIBI” Aguebor, JP, who emerged as the winner of the NDC Edo South Senatorial Primary Election. According to his campaign, Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the primary election records, obtained through the appropriate legal channels, identify Hon. Sunny Aguebor as the successful candidate from the party’s concluded primary.

However, attention has now shifted to documents reportedly published by INEC on Saturday, 1 August, which allegedly display the passport photograph and personal credentials of Hon. Sunny Aguebor, while one of the nomination forms, EC9, bears the name of another individual, Bridget Epelle Asemota.

If confirmed, the discrepancy raises significant questions that deserve clear and transparent answers.

The issue is no longer about who won the primary. According to the campaign, the Certified True Copies already in its possession establish the declared winner of the election. The concern now is how nomination documents could contain the identity of one individual while carrying the name of another.

Several questions naturally arise.

* How did such a discrepancy occur in an official nomination process?
* Was this merely an administrative error?
* Was there an internal attempt within the party to substitute the duly elected candidate?
* Why would documents reportedly contain Hon. Sunny Aguebor’s photograph, educational qualifications, employment history and party credentials, yet bear another person’s name?
* Who authorised the submission of such documents?

These are questions that only the leadership of the NDC and those responsible for the nomination process can answer.

The development has also fuelled public speculation over whether powerful interests within the party attempted to alter the outcome of the primary after the election had been concluded. Some political observers have questioned whether there was an effort to impose a different candidate, while others have revived previous allegations made in the public domain concerning the transparency of the party’s nomination process.

These remain matters of public speculation and should be addressed through facts and official explanations rather than assumptions.

Equally concerning is the implication for Nigeria’s electoral process. Every nomination document submitted to INEC is expected to accurately identify the candidate it represents. Any inconsistency involving the identity of a candidate deserves immediate clarification in the interest of transparency, public confidence and the integrity of the electoral system.

Political analysts say the controversy is unlikely to disappear until the NDC provides a comprehensive explanation of how such an apparent mismatch occurred and whether the documents submitted truly reflected the decision reached by delegates at the primary election.

Despite the controversy, supporters of Hon. Sunny “BIBI” Aguebor remain confident that the documentary record favours their candidate. They point to the Certified True Copies obtained through lawful channels and maintain that the official records of the primary clearly recognise Hon. Sunny Aguebor as the authentic winner of the NDC Edo South Senatorial Primary Election.

As legal and political scrutiny continues, many believe one fact remains central to the dispute:

The outcome of the primary election itself is not what is in question. The real question is how conflicting nomination records came into existence after a winner had already emerged.

For now, attention remains on the NDC leadership and the relevant electoral authorities to provide the clarification that party members, supporters and the Nigerian public deserve.

Her Royal Majesty and the Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, Amb. Lois Andrew Ihwo, has joined distinguished personalities at the official commissioning of the newly renovated Jiwa Central Mosque in Jiwa, Abuja, reaffirming her unwavering commitment to religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and community development.

A devout Christian and respected member of the Jiwa Emirate Council, HRM. Ihwo participated in the ceremony alongside traditional leaders, government officials, and members of the community in celebrating the successful completion of the mosque's renovation.

She commended the traditional ruler of Jiwa, His Royal Highness, Baba, HRH Alhaji Dr. Idris Musa, MFR, for providing purposeful leadership that ensured the timely renovation and completion of the important religious edifice, describing the project as a reflection of the unity and shared aspirations of the Jiwa people.

Expressing her appreciation to those who contributed to the success of the project, Amb. Ihwo said: "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, and Amb. Dr. Alhaji Yahaya Muhammad Kyabo Fagge for their prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support.

"To my fellow Council Members and the entire Jiwa community, thank you for your commitment to unity, peace, and progress."

Further demonstrating her dedication to interfaith harmony, Amb. Ihwo personally contributed to the floor interior décor of the mosque, a gesture appreciated by the community members.

The renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, who holds the revered traditional title of Trauraruwan Matan Kasar Jiwa (The Shining Star of Jiwa Land), has consistently championed initiatives that promote unity, humanitarian service, and inclusive community development.

She has in the past contributed immensely in capacity building and empowerment of youths and women of Jiwa, demonstrating her commitment to make meaningful impact.

The Vickyheldan Empowerment Foundation has announced plans for the 2026 edition of its flagship Her Health, Her Power Conference Africa, a dynamic annual gathering dedicated to advancing women's health and leadership across the African continent, ABUJAPRESS reports.

The conference is scheduled to hold on August 21, 2026, at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja, Nigeria, and will bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, advocates, community leaders, students, activists, and women from diverse backgrounds to explore the critical role of women's wellbeing in driving sustainable development across Africa.

With the theme, "Leading With Wellness for a Sustainable Africa," the conference seeks to provide a comprehensive and inclusive platform for addressing some of the most pressing issues affecting women's health.

It will also serve as a timely opportunity to bridge knowledge gaps, tackle emerging challenges, and identify evidence-based solutions as women's health continues to receive increasing attention within global health agendas.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Founder and Convener of the conference, Dr. Victory I. Njoku, emphasized that the theme reflects the indispensable role of women in Africa's sustainable development.

According to her, "Africa's journey towards sustainable social, economic and institutional development must be led by healthy women. The continent's sustainability depends largely on the health and wellbeing of its women, yet significant gaps still exist in access, prioritization, financing and policy implementation."

She explained that the vision of the conference is to build a future where every African woman enjoys equitable access to quality healthcare, informed health choices, and systems that safeguard her dignity, wellbeing and productivity.

Dr. Njoku outlined the major objectives of the conference, which include amplifying women's voices in conversations around health equity and access, advancing knowledge on critical health issues affecting women and girls, inspiring action through stories of resilience and innovation, mobilizing resources and partnerships for sustainable impact, and breaking the stigma surrounding sensitive health issues while advocating for women's rights and dignity within healthcare systems.

Participants at the conference are expected to engage in policy-driven conversations on women's health and wellness, build strategic partnerships and cross-sector collaborations, contribute to sustainable solutions aligned with global development goals, and become part of a continental movement promoting improved healthcare outcomes for women.

Highlighting the focus areas for this year's edition, Dr. Njoku said the conference will prioritize maternal and reproductive health, mental health and emotional wellbeing, preventive healthcare and healthy lifestyles, expanding access to healthcare for women in rural and underserved communities through community outreach programmes across Africa, strengthening women's leadership and economic participation, and fostering partnerships capable of delivering lasting social impact.

Activities lined up for the conference include high-level keynote sessions, policy dialogues, panel discussions, advocacy workshops, networking and collaboration sessions, as well as wellness and empowerment experiences, particularly targeted at women in underserved communities.

Among the distinguished keynote speakers expected at the conference are Her Excellency Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of Mauritius, and Her Excellency Ambassador Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, First Lady of Kwara State, alongside renowned health experts from Africa, Europe and the United States.

Notable healthcare practitioners and partners present at the press conference included Princess Akauor D., Founder, Chuks Anyaduba, President of HASDG Africa, and Pharmacist Piwa Peka.

The conference is expected to further strengthen advocacy efforts and partnerships aimed at improving healthcare outcomes for women and accelerating sustainable development across Africa.

Jessie Eddy Foundation, Offer Scholarships, Doles Out Relief Material to 600 Residents in FCT Community Outreach


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27xczDsiS3A

More than 600 residents, including children, women, community leaders and young entrepreneurs benefited from a community outreach programme organised by a non-governmental organisation, Jessie Eddy Foundation in collaboration with L2D International and other partners at Waru Community in Apo, Abuja, the nation's capital.

The outreach at Waru Primary School held on May 30 and was aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable families through education support, women's empowerment, talent development, and the distribution of relief materials.

Speaking on the impact of the programme, founder of the Foundation, Jesse Eddy said the initiative was designed to provide immediate assistance to disadvantaged households while creating long-term opportunities for women and children through educational interventions and economic empowerment.

As part of the educational support package, school fees were paid for 50 children to enable them return to school, while examination fees were also settled for another 50 students who could not afford registration for Junior and Senior WAEC examinations.

Educational materials, including exercise books, pens, pencils, rulers, erasers, sharpeners, and child development books, were distributed to beneficiaries.

The outreach also featured women empowerment activities. Five women received business support grants to strengthen and expand their enterprises, while mothers participated in competitions and interactive sessions with winners receiving cash prizes. Additional cash gifts were distributed to parents to support household needs.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of a 15-year old young fashion designer who produced costumes used by children during stage performances. In recognition of her creativity and entrepreneurial potential, a partner of the Foundation awarded her a ₦500,000 business support grant.

Similarly, a coordinator responsible for mentoring and nurturing children who showcased their talents through music, dance, fashion parades, and other creative activities received a cash gift of ₦200,000 in appreciation of her contributions to child development.

Hundreds of welfare items were also distributed during the programme. Beneficiaries received personal care products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary pads, bathing soap, and sponges. Food items distributed included rice, noodles, spaghetti, groundnut oil, tomato paste, sugar, salt, seasoning cubes, beverages, biscuits, drinks, packed meals, and other household supplies.

Children entertained participants with dance performances, music presentations, fashion parades, and other creative showcases, while parents actively participated in community engagement activities designed to strengthen family bonding and social cohesion.

The outreach helped remove barriers to education, empowered women economically, rewarded exceptional talent, provided welfare support to vulnerable households, and restored hope to families facing economic hardship.

The Jessie Eddy Foundation expressed appreciation to its partners, donors, volunteers, and supporters for contributing to the success of the programme and called on individuals, corporate organisations, development agencies, and philanthropists to partner with it in expanding support for vulnerable women and children across communities.

The signing of the Electoral Act 2026 feels like a recurring fever in the Nigerian body politic. Just as the nation begins to catch its breath and look towards the 2027 horizon, the goalposts have been moved yet again. While the National Democratic Congress (NDC) takes its grievances before Justice Mohammed Umar in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/635/2026, the rest of us are left to wonder: is this reform, or a tactical retreat from accountability?

Nigeria’s democratic history is littered with these eleventh-hour legislative ‘upgrades.’ From 2002 to 2022, and now in 2026, we have seen a consistent and troubling habit of altering the electoral architecture just as the candidates are taking their marks. Reform is necessary for any evolving state, but when the rules are rewritten on the eve of an election, the law ceases to look like a neutral foundation and begins to resemble a political instrument. We must be honest: manipulation rarely starts at the polling unit. It begins in the quiet halls of the legislature, where the grounds for challenge are narrowed and the gates to participation are locked.

The heart of the current controversy lies in a chilling legislative erasure. By removing ‘qualification’ as an express ground for an election petition under Section 138, the new Act appears to suggest that the constitutional requirements for office – age, education and integrity – may be treated as negotiable. That is a dangerous precedent. If a candidate who is constitutionally unfit to lead can hide behind a statutory shield once the results are announced, the 1999 Constitution risks being reduced from the supreme law of the land to a mere suggestion. Nigerians are essentially being asked to accept that illegality, once inaugurated, becomes untouchable.

Furthermore, the administrative ‘order’ promised by Section 77(5), regarding digital party registers, feels like a Trojan horse. In a perfect world, a 21-day deadline for submitting membership lists to INEC would prevent fraud. In our world, it may provide a perfect mechanism for party bosses to ‘delete’ dissent. By turning membership into a closed-door privilege managed through an opaque digital gatekeeper, we risk wounding democracy in the cradle of the primary election. If an aspirant is excluded by a list before reaching the voters, the general election becomes a choice between pre-selected shadows rather than a true competition of ideas.

Nigeria is the heavyweight of African democracy, and its stability is the continent’s anchor. We cannot afford to treat electoral laws as disposable tactics. The court will eventually rule on the legality of these provisions, and that process must be respected. But the court of public opinion must already confront their democratic morality. A democracy dies a slow death when the law is used to shrink the people’s choices and insulate the powerful from scrutiny. Nigeria does not need a more complex legal code; it needs a system stable enough to be trusted and constitutional enough to be legitimate. We must demand that the law remains a shield for the voter, not a weapon for the politician.

Dr Festus Ifeanyi Anagwu is a Nigerian scientist, researcher and public affairs commentator. He writes on governance, democracy, innovation and national development.

_The views expressed in this article are those of the author and are offered as public interest commentary on constitutional democracy and electoral governance. They do not seek to prejudge any matter before the court._