Subscribe to our newsletter

advertisement

NiMet Predicts Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms Across Nigeria From Sunday
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted thunderstorms across parts of the country from Sunday to Tuesday. In its weather outlook released Saturday in Abuja, NiMet indicated possible localised thunderstorms in parts of Taraba, Adamawa, and southern Kaduna States during the afternoon and evening hours on Sunday. The agency also projected partly cloudy skies over the North Central region in the morning. “Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Kwara, Niger, and Kogi States. “Over the southern region, a cloudy morning is expected with chances of localised thunderstorms over parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Delta States. “Later in the day, localised thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of Anambra, Oyo, Ondo, Edo, Imo, Abia, Ekiti, Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Delta States,” it stated. The agency predicted sunny skies on Monday across the northern region throughout the forecast period, with the exception of some parts of Adamawa, Kaduna, and Taraba States, where isolated thunderstorms are expected during the afternoon or evening hours. “Sunny skies with few clouds are expected across the North Central region during the morning. Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, and Nasarawa States. “In the southern region, cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine are anticipated, with prospects of morning thunderstorms over parts of Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Cross River States. “In the afternoon and evening hours, localised thunderstorms are expected over parts of Ondo, Oyo, Edo, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Lagos, Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Delta States,” it added. On Tuesday morning, sunny skies with a few clouds are expected over the northern region, with slim chances of isolated thunderstorms over parts of Taraba State. Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of Taraba, Adamawa, and Kaduna States. “Sunny skies with few clouds are expected across the North Central region during the morning, with chances of isolated thunderstorms over parts of Benue and Kogi States. “Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Nasarawa States. “In the southern region, cloudy skies are expected in the morning, with chances of isolated thunderstorms over parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Lagos States,” the agency said. It further forecast isolated thunderstorms later in the day over parts of Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Anambra, Oyo, Ekiti, Edo, Ondo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa States. NiMet advised people to stay in well-ventilated and cool spaces and drink plenty of water, as temperatures may be high in many parts of the country, increasing the risk of heat stress. “Get vaccinated against meningitis, practise good hygiene by washing hands regularly, avoid overcrowding in small spaces, use a nose mask to reduce the risk of infection, and avoid close contact with those affected. “Avoid peak sun hours (noon to 3 p.m.) and protect yourselves from direct sunlight. Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur. “The public should take adequate precautions. Airline operators are advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective operational planning.”
4/20/2025, 3:16:17 PM
views 4698
Easter: Don’t Betray Nigeria Like Judas lscariot~ CAN To Public Office Holders
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and Abuja, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has stated that betrayal has long caused significant setbacks in Nigeria's affairs. Speaking on Sunday in Kaduna on the theme: “Overcoming betrayer at Easter”, Hayab said, “Nigerians are betraying the country, people betray one another, which all culminates in the challenges the country is facing today. “The security agencies cannot succeed in their official engagements in trying to curb the activities of bandits that are terrorising different parts of the country because of betrayers that easily leak every effort being made by the security personnel to bring an end the activities of bandits killing, rustling animals and destroying properties in billions of naira.” According to him, “When Judas Iscariot agreed to betray Jesus by collecting money, in return later hanged himself because he understood that he betrayed an innocent soul, Jesus Christ.” He added that anybody who betrayes the trust of another person, people, community, state or country does not end well in his or her life, stressing that those who betrayed the trust put in them by giving them any responsibility do not end well because they have betrayed the trust assigned to them. Hayab said, “Those who betrayed Jesus and humanity ended up destroying themselves.” He noted that those who choose the path of destroying others should stop it because their end is always disastrous. He said, “If this country trusts you and gives you a responsibility, it is expected that you will be found faithful. Lack of faithfulness in keeping our responsibilities and keeping the treasury of the country is betraying the trust bestowed on an individual.” The chairman then appealed to those who chose the path of destroying others to stop it, assuring them that their end will not be good. “We should work together with the security agencies to keep the country safe and united.”
4/20/2025, 3:09:01 PM
views 3005
Easter: Otuaro Calls For Unity, Prayer
In a powerful Easter message, His Excellency, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, Esq. the immediate past deputy governor of Delta State, has called on Christians across Nigeria to embrace unity, holiness, and commitment to the faith as they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In his message on Sunday, Otuaro described Easter as more than a religious celebration, but a divine declaration that "light will always triumph over darkness," and a reminder that the power which raised Christ from the dead is alive within believers today. He emphasized the need for Christians to transcend denominational, ethnic, and geographical divisions, urging the Church to present a united front grounded in holiness, humility, and service. Read the full message below: EASTER MESSAGE By His Excellency, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, Esq. Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, As we commemorate the glorious resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, I bring you heartfelt greetings of hope, renewal, and divine purpose. Easter is not just a celebration of a risen King; it is the eternal reminder that light will always triumph over darkness, that love will always conquer hate, and that life—true life—can never be buried. The empty tomb is our victory cry. It is God's declaration that no grave can hold down those who are in Christ. In these sacred days, we are reminded that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us—calling us to live not as divided tribes, but as one united Body, bound together by faith, grace, and love. Let us, therefore, as Christians, stand together, across denominations, ethnicities, and borders—united in our shared calling. The world needs a Church that is not fractured by pride or distracted by strife. The world needs a people who are deeply committed to the things of God—who will not only preach Christ, but live Christ. I urge us to use this season to return to the altar of consecration. Let us rekindle our commitment to holiness, humility, and service. Let our homes, our communities, and our nation see the reflection of the risen Christ in our words and deeds. And as we kneel in prayer during this holy season, let us not forget our dear nation, Nigeria. Let every believer rise and intercede for our land—for wisdom upon our leaders, for healing upon our economy, and for divine intervention upon every troubled region. Nigeria shall rise. Our hope shall not be cut off. But it begins with a praying Church. A united Church. A committed Church. May the joy of the Resurrection fill your hearts. May your homes be touched by the peace of Christ. And may we, as one people under God, walk boldly into the new life that Easter offers. He is Risen! He reigns forever! Happy Easter. God bless you, God bless the Church, And God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
4/20/2025, 12:40:53 PM
views 3726
NDLEA Advocates Mandatory Drug Tests For Corps Members
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is pushing for mandatory drug testing for all incoming National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), said the agency is intensifying efforts to curb drug abuse through widespread testing in universities, communities, and families. Speaking at a “Training the Trainer” programme held in Abuja on Saturday—organised in collaboration with Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries—Marwa, represented by NDLEA’s Director of Drug Demand Reduction, Mrs. Ngozi Madubuike, stressed the importance of early intervention. He noted that drug testing in NYSC orientation camps would discourage substance use and allow for timely support to those who test positive. The initiative, part of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, seeks to reduce drug demand while empowering community leaders and religious figures to educate youths and assist families battling addiction. Already embraced by some universities and state governments, the drug testing policy is gaining momentum nationwide. NDLEA supports this effort by providing affordable test kits to schools and deploying trained personnel to conduct the screenings. Marwa also revealed the agency's broader goal of introducing drug testing across other sectors, including the public service, despite facing resistance in some quarters. “When youths are aware of drug tests at camps, they’re less likely to indulge. The aim is early help for those in need,” he said. While enforcement remains a core part of NDLEA’s work, Marwa emphasised that the agency is equally committed to education, rehabilitation, and addressing the deeper social and economic drivers of drug abuse.
4/20/2025, 9:16:42 AM
views 3023
JAMB Shifts 2025 UTME Commencement Date To Thursday, April 24
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially rescheduled the start date of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Thursday, April 24, 2025—one day earlier than the previously announced Friday, April 25. The change was confirmed in a statement issued by JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, and posted on the Board’s official X handle on Saturday. “The 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is now set to commence on Thursday, April 24, 2025, instead of the previously scheduled date of Friday, April 25, 2025. This adjustment has been made to accommodate essential commitments by the Board and its partner agencies,” the statement partly read. In preparation for the exam, JAMB also announced that prospective candidates can now print their Notification Slips, which contain crucial details such as the examination date, venue (centre), time, and other instructions necessary for a smooth examination experience. “What’s included in the Notification Slip: Examination date, venue (centre), time, other essential details necessary for successfully sitting for the examination,” the statement further explained. Candidates are encouraged to begin printing their Notification Slips starting Saturday, April 19, 2025 (Today). “Candidates are encouraged to print their Notification Slips starting today, Saturday, April 19, 2025. This will provide ample time for logistical arrangements to access their assigned centres within the chosen examination towns,” it added. To print the examination slip, candidates are required to: “Visit www.jamb.gov.ng, click on ‘2025 UTME Slip Printing.’ Enter your registration number and click on ‘Print Examination Slip”, the statement advised. JAMB strongly urged candidates to visit their assigned centres ahead of time. “It is strongly advised that candidates print their slips and familiarise themselves with their examination centres at least one or two days before the examination date. This preparation will help ensure a smooth experience on exam day,” the Board said. “Examination Schedule: To reiterate, the 2025 UTME will begin on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Candidates are advised to print their Examination Notification Slips at least a day before the exam to confirm their examination dates and locations, making it easier to access their centres on the day of the examination. Please note that candidates will be assigned to centres within their chosen examination towns; no candidate will be placed in a centre outside their selected town”, the statement concluded.
4/19/2025, 1:26:16 PM
views 2488
Presidency Denies Shettima Was Barred From Villa
The Presidency has dismissed claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima was barred from entering the Presidential Villa. In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, labeled the report a “deliberate and well-orchestrated falsehood.” Nkwocha stated that the story was completely detached from reality, adding that such misinformation could only be believed by those unfamiliar with how the Nigerian government operates. He urged the public to ignore the false reports and called on the media to rely on credible sources and treat sensational stories with appropriate skepticism. “This we owe ourselves collectively as a nation,” he added. He said that in recent times, there has been deliberate and well-planned orchestration of falsehood against the vice president’s person and office in many multidimensional forms. ”These mischievous and totally fabricated reports are all in a bid to cause confusion and insinuate total clash in the presidency. ”These reports seek to mislead the public into believing there’s discord at the highest levels of government. ”The latest in this string of disinformation is a report claiming that the vice president has been refused entry to the villa. ”The latest in this string of disinformation is a report claiming that the vice president has been refused entry to the villa. ”This is a feeble attempt to traduce the person and office of His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima. For the record, NOTHING OF THE SORT EVER HAPPENED. ”The recent publication by some obscure blogs alleging that armed military units have barricaded the vice president from accessing the presidential villa is not only the wildest expression of wishful thinking. “(It’s) a clear indication that the purveyors of these tales have exhausted both ink and imagination.”
4/19/2025, 12:30:38 PM
views 2591
New Terror Group, Mahmuda, Emerges In North Central
A new terror group known as Mahmuda has surfaced in North Central Nigeria, targeting rural communities with frequent attacks, according to SaharaReporters. According to sources, the group operates around the Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP), which spans parts of Kwara and Niger States. In Kwara, affected areas include communities in Kaiama Local Government Area—such as Kemaanji, Tenebo, Baabete, Nuku, and Nanu—as well as villages in the Yashikira District of Baruten Local Government Area. The group is also said to have seized control of communities in Babana and Wawa Districts within Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. On Wednesday, militants reportedly launched an attack in Kemanji, killing over 15 members of a local vigilante group and some villagers. “They called themselves Mahmuda group. Their leader in a voice note is threatening all the communities. They kill and kidnap victims and also demand ransom,” one of the sources said. Another source added, “The surge of insecurity in Nigeria has been a source of concern to the citizenry because of its destructive factor to livelihood, and unfortunately, new militant groups continue to emerge and occupy the ungoverned spaces in the country. “With the Kainji Lake National Park left unguarded, the loggers, fishermen, and hunter groups take the opportunity and start enjoying the common good of the citizens for their personal gain,” the source said. “At the beginning there was a clash between the loggers and the militants as well as the vigilantes, but the loggers negotiated with the militants, and the loggers gained access to the forest to harvest trees without any hitches and this as well serves as the biggest opportunity for the militant to make money through the logging activities. “Currently, the community of Kainji National Park (KLNP), which includes Kaiama LGA (Kemaanji, Tenebo, Baabete, Nuku, Nanu) and Barutein LGA (villages in Yashikira District that share a border with the park), all in Kwara State, part of Babana and Wawa District in Borgu LGA in Niger State, have been under siege for years, and the world does not know what is happening to the Borgawas (Borgu people). “The militants occupied the park visibly over five years ago when they raided the park and chased the Range Guard out of the park. They migrated from Mokwa LGA when they were chased away by the then Governor of Niger State, Muazu Babangida Aliyu. He accused them of being members of Boko Haram. “Upon their eviction from Mokwa LGA, they relocated to a village called Welele in Kaiama LGA. The local government authority, with the collaboration of the security forces, forced them out of Kaiama LGA. Following their eviction from Kaiama, they relocated to the Kaduna State forest. The same group, well-armed, resurfaced in the national park, and became a monster. “Thus, who are these new militant groups? Some people claim that the militant group came from the Benin Republic or Niger Republic. This claim is also similar to a report from BBC Radio that there was an influx of militant groups to Kainji Lake National Park. Further study of them will reveal the true identity of this faceless group. “However, a recent audiotape record from the militant claims to be a moderate Islamist, this assertion confirms that they are a sect of Boko haram that broke away from the Shekau-led extremist group. Regrettably, the locals are gradually being recruited into their ranks as informants. They referred to themselves as the Mahmuda Group or Mallam Group, their leader's name and a jihadist fighting to promote the cause of the Sunni group. “The militant group mainly speaks Hausa. The saddened reality is that the activities of these militants, controlling a vast territory of 3970.29 sq. km of the Nigerian state, have resulted in the community members living at the mercy and dictates of the non-state actor. Living at the mercy and dictates of the militants manifests in a number of ways. “First, the herders within the park pay dues (zakah) to the militants to allow them to graze their cattle. Second, the farmers to whom the militant allocates farmland within the forest also pay farming levies to the militants. Third, the militants forced the residents to work on their farm as sadaka. Fourth, members of the community are kidnapped and made to pay ransom. Fifth, illegal mounting of roadblocks along the community, and regulating the social activities, particularly the sale of alcohol and all forms of smoking, and even settling disputes among the community’s members. “Sixth, the militants threaten the existence of herbalists that they assume are fortifying the community vigilante members to confront them. Unconfirmed reports also have it that the Mahmuda Group or Mallam Group is into illegal mining in the park environment. “In their ploy to deceive the people with religion, they timely gather community members to preach about Islamic ethics as well as persuade community members to be disloyal to the Nigerian state and also instruct that any disputes within the community must be reported to them. “The loss of trust in the security agent to address the insecurity challenges in the area makes the vigilante group work hand in hand with the Mahmuda Group to rescue kidnapped victims from the bandits. The group was able to force out all the bandits from the park area, and their collaborators within the communities were kidnapped to their place, and ransom was collected, or those judged to be more involved in the act of banditry were slaughtered. “The assumption among the locals is that the militant group present in the National Park is known to the authority above, but by whom? Guess time will tell. To some, it’s simply because of the sophisticated weapons in their possession, which makes it practically difficult for them to be dislodged from the national asset.”
4/18/2025, 11:56:20 AM
views 6025
Tinubu Working Remotely From France, Says Presidency
The Presidency has affirmed that President Bola Tinubu continues to steer the country's affairs from Europe, despite being away for nearly two weeks. According to a statement released on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu—who recently moved from Paris to London—remains actively involved in governance and is in regular contact with key officials. “President Tinubu has issued directives to security chiefs to address emerging security concerns in parts of the country,” Onanuga stated in the release titled ‘Statement on President Tinubu’s Return to Nigeria.’ The Presidency emphasized that the President’s absence is temporary and aligns with the earlier communicated two-week timeframe. He is expected to return to Abuja on Monday, April 21, after the Easter holidays. “The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership,” Onanuga said, urging the public to remain calm and assuring citizens that “governance proceeds without interruption.” “The President left Paris for London at the weekend and has maintained constant communication with key government officials, overseeing critical national matters, including directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats in some parts of the country. “His return to Abuja and the resumption of duties at Aso Villa will follow the conclusion of the Easter holiday. “We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption,” the statement read. While the Presidency did not disclose the specific reason for President Tinubu’s stay in Paris and London, it appears consistent with the pattern of working visits he has made since taking office nearly two years ago. Thursday’s statement seemed aimed at addressing growing criticism from the opposition, who have questioned the President’s time abroad amid escalating violence in parts of the country, particularly in Plateau and Benue states. Notably, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have both expressed concern over Tinubu’s absence as the nation battles worsening insecurity.
4/18/2025, 7:50:58 AM
views 2250
150 Million Nigerians Now Have Access To Adequate Electricity~ Adelabu
The Minister of Power, Adedayo Adelabu, revealed that around 150 million Nigerians currently enjoy adequate electricity access, while 80 million still face unreliable power supply. He shared this information on Thursday at the 2025 Ministerial Sectoral Update Conference in Abuja, where he spoke alongside the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, and other key stakeholders. Adelabu stated that the progress stems from Nigeria’s participation in the “Mission 300” initiative—an ambitious joint effort by the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) aimed at providing electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030. “The compact sets ambitious goals to enhance electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians — that is Mission 300, and we are making good progress on this,” he said. He continued, “I’m happy to tell you that out of the 300 million Africans that the World Bank and AfDB aim to reach, Nigeria is on course to account for no less than 25 per cent, which translates to about 75 million Nigerians. When we presented our compact, they agreed with us.” According to Adelabu, Nigeria, with a population of over 240 million, currently provides adequate electricity access to 150 million people. However, he emphasised that the issue is not merely access but the ‘reliability’ of that access. “As it is today, Nigeria—a country with about 240 million people—has access for 150 million people already, while about 80 million lack access to adequate electricity in Nigeria. “The real challenge lies in the stability and affordability of electricity. That’s how we measure reliability. We must ensure that those who have access enjoy consistent and affordable power,” he said. The minister urged global financiers to prioritise strengthening Nigeria’s power grid alongside off-grid solutions, warning that over-reliance on renewables risks leaving urban areas and industries behind. “When you’re extending access to the 300 million people under this initiative, let’s not concentrate solely on renewable energy—which is more appropriate for rural communities. “Strengthening grid infrastructure is equally crucial so that those connected to the grid can enjoy reliable power. Otherwise, how do we explain the growing number of Nigerian companies opting out of the national grid to generate captive power?”
4/17/2025, 6:47:22 PM
views 2568
News on the go. Anytime, anywhere!