Upshotreports

15/02/2025

LG poll: APC inaugurates campaign council in Ose LG. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State has inaugurated its campaign council for the Jan. 18 local government election in the state.

It was reported that

Mr Babatunde Gbalajobi was inaugurated as the Director-General of the Campaign Council to execute strategies to ensure the party’s victory at the polls.

At the inauguration on Thursday in Ifon , the local government headquarters, Mr Babatunde Gbalajobi, took oath of office as the Director-General

Speaking at the ceremony in the council headquarters, Ifon, on Thursday, the APC Chairman in Ose, Mr Ladi Tenabe, commended the cooperation of party members and their generous donation towards the campaign.

Tenabe described the development as a new dawn in the history of Ose politics, saying that all the candidates of the party were not just well accepted, but capable and qualified.



He therefore urged the candidates not to betray the confidence reposed in them by the people of the local government area.

Also speaking, Chairman of APC in the Northern Senatorial District of the state, Mr Jacob Oredola, congratulated the candidates, saying they were all eminently qualified to make APC proud during and after the election.

Oredola said that APC was known for objectivity, quality service delivery and its organisational skills.

In his acceptance speech, the campaign council chairman assured of a well coordinated, peaceful, credible campaign leading to the election.

According to him, the council would take advantage of cohesion, tolerance and peaceful coexistence within the party to deliver credible results.

He immediately performed his first official assignment by inaugurating members of other sub committees.

Responding on behalf of the candidates, the APC chairmanship candidate in the local government area, Mr C. K. Ojo, commended Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the leaders of the party for their unflinching support to the party.

Ojo promised to run an all inclusive administration that would be fair and just to all regardless of any sentiment, if elected.

The APC chairmanship candidate also promised to immediately address the issue of insecurity in the local government area.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State has inaugurated its campaign council for the Jan. 18 local government election in

14/02/2025

Nigerian Doctor Egwuatu Chronicles His Journey from SGU to US Residency

Dr. Ifeatu Egwuatu, a 2023 graduate of St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, has shared his inspiring journey from studying medicine in Grenada to securing a coveted internal medicine residency at Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey.

His story serves as a beacon of hope for young Nigerians aspiring to excel in global medical practice.

Born in Anambra State, Nigeria, Dr. Egwuatu’s passion for medicine was ignited by a tragic personal experience—the loss of a young cousin. Determined to make a difference, he set his sights on becoming a doctor.

However, Nigeria’s challenging medical education system prompted him to explore opportunities abroad.

“In Nigeria, you have the passion and the drive, but numerous obstacles remain, which add an extra layer of challenge to the already demanding field of medicine,” Dr. Egwuatu reflected. “I was fortunate enough to find another path that allowed me to pursue my dreams.”

Although securing admission into top medical schools in the UK and US proved difficult, SGU offered Dr. Egwuatu a lifeline.

“The pathway to getting into medical school in either the UK or the US can be challenging,” he said.

“Despite doing well on both the MCAT and UKCAT (now UCAT), I was unable to gain admission. SGU was an excellent decision—it provided me the opportunity to study medicine, build lifelong connections, and match into my first-choice residency program in internal medicine.”

SGU’s curriculum, advanced facilities, and global reputation prepared Dr. Egwuatu for the rigors of medical practice.

The institution, known as the largest provider of first-year US residency doctors for over a decade, helped him navigate clinical rotations in high-patient-volume hospitals in New York, honing his diagnostic and preventive care skills.

“SGU gave me a solid foundation during my basic sciences and USMLE Step 1 exam preparation,” Dr. Egwuatu explained. “As I progressed, my clinical academic advisor supported me during my clinical years, guiding me through shelf exams, Step 2 CK, and the residency match process.”

The support extended to SGU’s Office of Career Guidance, which organized seminars, offered practical tips, and provided personalized advice. These resources played a pivotal role in helping Dr. Egwuatu successfully match into a US residency. “Matching felt like beating the odds and being rewarded for staying focused on my end goal,” he said.

Dr. Egwuatu’s journey is a testament to the importance of choosing the right medical school for aspiring doctors. His success underscores the vital role international institutions like SGU play in shaping the future of medical professionals, especially for Africans seeking global opportunities.

As he embarks on his career in internal medicine, Dr. Egwuatu’s story is set to inspire countless young Nigerians striving to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams in medicine.

Dr. Ifeatu Egwuatu, a 2023 graduate of St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, has shared his inspiring journey from studying medicine in Grenada to securing a coveted internal medicine residency at Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey. His story serves as a...

14/02/2025

Minister Enoh Praises Coleman Wires, Reaffirms FG’s Commitment to Manufacturing Sector


The Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Enoh, has praised Coleman Wires and Cables Industries Limited for its impactful contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector during a recent visit to the Coleman Factory in Sagamu.

Expressing admiration for the company's achievements, Senator Enoh emphasized the government's dedication to fostering industrial growth.

“I’m simply wowed by what I’ve seen here today. If I had conducted a nationwide industry tour and skipped Coleman, it would have been incomplete. This company has been a key player in cabling and wiring across Nigeria, West Africa, and Africa as a whole,” he stated.

The Minister underscored the necessity of increased government involvement in supporting local industries, detailing ongoing efforts to finalize policies designed to protect and promote domestic manufacturers. Drawing a parallel to the "America First" policy of the former U.S. President Donald Trump, he articulated that Nigeria must give priority to its industries in order to unlock the potential of its burgeoning population.

“We must do everything to support companies like Coleman,” he affirmed. “Their reputation for quality and efficiency is well established, and the government will continue to encourage collaboration with the industry to drive economic development.”

Senator Enoh also praised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint ministers specifically dedicated to trade, investment, and industry. “This structure ensures a focused mandate for industrial development. As the Minister of State for Industry, I have committed to being a champion for this sector.”

He further emphasized the credence of Nigerian-made goods by sharing a personal anecdote: “When we promote Made in Nigeria, it’s not just a slogan—it's rooted in the quality of our products. Years ago, a friend experienced a fire due to faulty imported cables. Upon switching to locally manufactured cables, (Coleman) the issues were resolved.

This experience drives home the importance of promoting local industry.”
Responding to the Minister’s comments, Mr. George Onafowokan, Managing Director/CEO of Coleman Wires and Cables, expressed optimism for the future of the industry under the current administration.

“For us, it’s about focusing on supportive collaboration rather than obstacles,” he stated. “With our own minister advocating for the industry, we believe positive changes—such as fiscal policies benefiting manufacturers and sector protections—are on the horizon. This government has given us renewed hope.”

Senator Enoh reassured industry stakeholders of the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for industrial growth, job creation, and economic sustainability. “If the industry doesn’t grow, Nigeria won’t thrive. The President has demonstrated strong leadership in this area, and we will continue to support and partner with industry players like Coleman."
This visit highlights the government's determination to strengthen local manufacturing, reduce dependence on imports, and promote "Made in Nigeria" goods as competitive in the global market.

. The Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Enoh, has praised Coleman Wires and Cables Industries Limited for its impactful contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector during a recent visit to the Coleman Factory in Sagamu. Expressing admiration for the company's ...

14/02/2025

Jigawa Governor’s Son Dies in Road Accident a Day After Mother’s Passing

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has been struck by a second devastating loss within 24 hours, as his 24-year-old son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi, passed away in a tragic road accident on Thursday.

The governor’s spokesperson, Hamisu Gumel, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement that expressed deep sorrow and unwavering faith in God’s will.

“With a heavy heart and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, His Excellency Mallam Umar Namadi announces the passing of yet another member of his family: his dear son Abdulwahab Umar Namadi," the statement read.

The accident occurred along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa Road, claiming the young man's life on the afternoon of December 26, 2024.

Burial rites for Abdulwahab were held on the same day in Kafin Hausa town, in line with Islamic traditions. He is survived by his grieving parents and siblings.

This tragedy compounds the sorrow for the Namadi family, who are already mourning the recent loss of the governor’s mother.

In the statement, Governor Namadi reflected on the inevitability of life and death, quoting: “To Allah belongs that which He has taken, and to Him belongs that which He has given, and everything has an appointed time with Him.”

The people of Jigawa State have expressed their condolences and solidarity with the governor during this profoundly difficult time.

14/02/2025

Grid Collapse: Power Minister Orders Immediate Implementation Of Committee’s Report.

Grid Collapse: Power Minister Orders Immediate Implementation Of Committee's Report

• As TCN appeals for understanding on intermittent distruptions as grid repair begins.

The Minister for Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has ordered the Transition Company of Nigeria (TCN) and all other relevant agencies of the ministry to begin the immediate implementation of the recommendations of the inter-agency committee, set up to address the incessant grid collapses in the power sector.

The Minister's matching order came as the TCN reported that the national grid experienced a disturbance at approximately 11:29 am, on Thursday, November 7, 2024, which was caused by a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz.

The Special Adviser to the Minister on Strategic Communications and Media, Hon. Bolaji Tunji quoted the Minister as saying that all relevant agencies in the ministry must brace up for the immediate implementation of the recommendations of the committee, which was submitted on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

“The recommendations of the committee are far reaching and will proffer lasting solutions to the incessant power grid collapses that we have embarrassingly witnessed in the country in the immediate and long term”, Bolaji said.

Meanwhile, the TCN has assured consumers that efforts were being intensified to ensure uninterrupted power supply to them.

A statement by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs of TCN on Thursday said the agency was working to ensure the full and immediate implementation of the recommendations of the committee, to safe Nigeria from the incessant grid collapses.

“The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) wishes to inform the public that the national grid experienced a disturbance at approximately 11:29 am this morning, caused by a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz. Recovery efforts began immediately, and the Abuja Axis was restored within minutes. Recovery is still ongoing.

“The frequency spike was caused by issues encountered at one of TCN’s substations, which had to be shut down to prevent further complications.

“In addition to this, TCN is actively engaged in significant repair work on several critical transmission lines and substations. This includes the 330kV transmission line along the Shiroro–Mando axis, major upgrades at the Jebba Transmission Substation, and the restoration of the second Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.

“Furthermore, following the submission of the investigative report on the causes of previous grid collapses, TCN has begun addressing the identified weaknesses in the transmission system. Efforts are being made to close the gaps highlighted in the report, and to enhance the overall stability and resilience of the grid. These efforts include both technical upgrades and strategic interventions based on the committee’s recommendations”, Mba said, adding that. “however, it is important to note that while these repairs and improvements are underway, some degree of instability in the system is likely to persist until all major works are completed. TCN acknowledges the impact of these disruptions and kindly asks for the understanding and patience of the public during this challenging period.

“The company remains committed to improving the reliability of electricity supply, recognizing the vital role that stable power plays in Nigeria’s socio-economic development. TCN assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the grid's long-term stability, in line with the recommendations of the investigative committee, while also addressing infrastructure damage such as vandalized transmission lines”.

Grid Collapse: Power Minister Orders Immediate Implementation Of Committee's Report • As TCN appeals for understanding on intermittent distruptions as grid repair begins. The Minister for Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has ordered the Transition Company of Nigeria (TCN) and all other relevant agenci...

13/02/2025

Spend increased FAAC allowance responsibly, Presidency tells govs

The Presidency has urged state governors to prioritise responsible spending of the newly increased Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements, ensuring that the funds directly benefit citizens.

This call was shared by the Special Adviser on Policy Communication to the President Daniel Bwala, in a post on X.

Bwala revealed that the total revenue distributed in the latest FAAC allocation had reached an all-time high of N3.143 trillion, marking a historic record.

He wrote: “A gross total revenue of N3.143 Trillion is the highest ever recorded since FAAC allocations began. Kudos to President for blocking loopholes and freeing up funds for rapid development. States and Local governments are now receiving unprecedented allocations, and it's time for Nigerians to enjoy the dividends of these reforms.

“I enjoin our State Governors to make judicious use of these increments in allocations in service of our people.

“The time to harvest the different gains of the Renewed Hope is nigh; continue keeping faith with the Prophet of the Renewed Hope Prophecy.”

Source: X | BwalaDaniel
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The Presidency has urged state governors to prioritise responsible spending of the newly increased Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements, ensuring that the funds directly benefit citizens. This call was shared by the Special Adviser on Policy Communication to the President Daniel...

13/02/2025

POLICE ARREST TWO SUSPECTED CULTISTS IN LEKKI.







Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) have arrested two suspected cultists in the early hours of Sunday, February 10, 2025.



The suspects, identified as Okey Bright, popularly known as “B in Fine Boy,” 21, and Daniel Prince, alias "Rugged Promotion," 22, were apprehended around 4:00 a.m. on Monday while returning from their confraternity’s annual conference at a hotel (name withheld) in Lekki.



Preliminary investigations revealed that Bright, a resident of Ikoyi, joined the cult group in 2024. He is also a university student. Prince, a hairstylist and fellow university student, was found in possession of a cross bag containing caps associated with the confraternity, which led to their immediate arrest.



The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling cult-related activities and maintaining law and order. The suspects have been transferred to the Commissioner of Police’s Special Squad for further investigation.

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) have arrested two suspected cultists in the early hours of Sunday, February 10, 2025. The suspects, identified as Okey Bright, popularly known as “B in Fine Boy,” 21, and Daniel Prince, alias "Rugged Promotion," 22, were apprehended around 4:00 a.m. o...

13/02/2025

Lagos Assembly Tasks Sanwo-Olu On Completion Of Abandoned Projects.



recommends recall of contractor handling Bola Tinubu Road In Igbogbo Bayeku

BY TAIWO OGUNMOLA -OMILANI

Lagos State lawmakers on Thursday called for the urgent need to complete all abandoned roads in the state, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road in Igbogbo Bayeku, Ikorodu, which has been abandoned since it was awarded in 2017.



Hon. Aro Moshood (Ikorodu 2) raised the motion at the plenary session, highlighting the dangers posed by the neglected road.



He recalled that during the last rainy season, a viral video showed a student being swept away by floodwaters while trying to board a truck to cross the road. He also noted that the area has become a hotspot for robberies, making residents feel unsafe.



In his prayers, Hon. Aro called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to direct the contractors to resume work immediately.



He also said that the Governor should mandate government agencies to provide 60% of the required funds to the contractors.Ensure the security of contractors to facilitate prompt project completion. Assign the Acting Committee on Works to investigate and report back to the House within two weeks.



Supporting the motion, Hon. Sa’ad Olumo (Ajeromi-Ifelodun 1) revealed that the Lagos State government had allocated sufficient budgetary provisions for road projects.



He noted that while contractors cited rising material costs, budget adjustments had been made to accommodate them. He urged the House to summon the contractors to explain the project delay.



Hon. Ganiyu Okanlawon (Kosofe I) emphasized that abandoned roads had been discussed repeatedly in the House, stressing that it was time to enforce strict measures against contractors who fail to deliver. He called on the Commissioner for Works to provide a briefing on the state of roads across Lagos.



Similarly, Hon. Richard Kasumu, Ikeja 2, decried the neglect of Ikorodu, lamenting that the area had suffered both erratic electricity and bad roads for seven years. He demanded that all contractors handling abandoned projects across Lagos be summoned to account for their failures.



Hon. Bonu Solomon (Badagry 1) highlighted that Ikorodu played a crucial role in the last election through its voter support and deserved better infrastructure. He also pointed out that some roads in Badagry had been abandoned for over 15 years.



Hon. Abiodun Tobun (Epe 1) criticized the government’s handling of compensation for residents affected by road construction. He stressed that many grassroots roads in Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry remained untouched. He also proposed legislation to prevent successive administrations from abandoning ongoing projects.



Other lawmakers also raised concern over the fact that constituents are losing faith in the government due to unfulfilled infrastructure promises.



Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) attributed project delays to funding variations, urging the House to conduct oversight on all state government road projects over the past three years.



Majority Leader, Temitope Adewale, Ifako/Ijaiye 1, condemned the poor ex*****on of many road projects, arguing that any contractor who fails to complete a project after receiving funds should face imprisonment.

The House resolved to take immediate action, urging Governor Sanwo-Olu to ensure the swift completion of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road and other abandoned road projects across Lagos.

recommends recall of contractor handling Bola Tinubu Road In Igbogbo Bayeku BY TAIWO OGUNMOLA -OMILANI Lagos State lawmakers on Thursday called for the urgent need to complete all abandoned roads in the state, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road in Igbogbo Bayeku, Ikorodu, which has been abandoned....

13/02/2025

Housewife drags hubby to court seeking confirmation of her position in marriage.



A housewife, Naja’atu Sulaiman on Thursday dragged her husband, Tasi’u Umar before a Shari’a court sitting in Magajin Gari, Kaduna state to know her position in the marriage.

“We had a misunderstanding and I returned to my parents.
”He begged me to return to my matrimonial home but I refused. When I finally agreed to return, he denied knowing me and asked me to return to my parents.

”Right now I don’t know the position of our marriage, I want the court to help me ask him if he’s still interested in the marriage or not”,she said.

On his part, the defendant said he loves his wife and was still interested in the marriage.

” I sent her back to her parents because she refused to return to me when I needed her most,” he told the court.

The Judge, Malam Kabir Muhammad, asked the complainant if she was ready to return to her matrimonial home but she said no.

He dismissed the case saying the complainant has gotten the answers she needed.

A housewife, Naja’atu Sulaiman on Thursday dragged her husband, Tasi’u Umar before a Shari’a court sitting in Magajin Gari, Kaduna state to know her position in the marriage. “We had a misunderstanding and I returned to my parents. ”He begged me to return to my matrimonial home but I refus...

13/02/2025

Chinedu Ikedieze Opens Up on Divorce Struggles, Finding Love Again.





Nollywood actor Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly known as Aki, has shared a heartfelt message about his struggles after his first marriage ended in divorce and how finding love again transformed his life.

In an emotional statement, the veteran actor revealed that the separation from his first wife, Nneoma, deeply affected him, leading to depression and emotional distress. He admitted that the unexpected nature of the divorce left him broken, and he turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism.

"After the divorce with my first wife, Nneoma, I got depressed and hurt to the point it affected me mentally, physically, and emotionally. I turned to alcohol as a companion because I didn't see the divorce coming. I thought I would never find love again," he confessed.

However, Ikedieze expressed gratitude for a second chance at love, crediting his new wife, Stephanie, for bringing peace and blessings into his life. According to him, their union became even more complete after they welcomed a son.

"God sent me my second wife, Stephanie, and from that moment, everything turned around. She brought back that old part of me that I felt was lost, and she has been the one inspiring all my recent video ideas. Our life became complete after she gave me a son," he shared.

Encouraging others going through similar struggles, the actor urged people to remain open to love despite past heartbreaks.

"Give love another chance today," he advised.

Ikedieze's message has since resonated with many, sparking conversations about healing, second chances, and the importance of emotional support after a difficult breakup.

Nollywood actor Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly known as Aki, has shared a heartfelt message about his struggles after his first marriage ended in divorce and how finding love again transformed his life. In an emotional statement, the veteran actor revealed that the separation from his first wife, Nneom...

13/02/2025

Civil Society Groups Warn Against Moves to Oust Lagos Speaker, Meranda.



CHSR Calls for Protection of Legislative Independence, Democratic Principles

The Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights (CHSR) and other civil society groups have raised the alarm over what they describe as a renewed attempt to orchestrate the removal of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA), Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.

In a press briefing, CHSR President Alex Omotehinse condemned any efforts to reverse the leadership change that saw Meranda replace former Speaker Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Idowu Obasa on January 13, 2025. The group insisted that the decision was a constitutional and democratic exercise by the lawmakers, reflecting the will of the majority.Opposition to Obasa’s Return

CHSR highlighted allegations of corruption and abuse of office leveled against Obasa during his tenure. The organization recalled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had previously investigated Obasa under former chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa, with reports suggesting plans to press charges before Bawa’s removal.

"Given the serious allegations against him, it would be a betrayal of public trust for Rt. Hon. Obasa to return as Speaker," Omotehinse said. "He should instead focus on clearing his name rather than trying to reclaim a position he occupied for nearly a decade."

Support for Speaker Meranda

The group reiterated that the choice of Speaker is the prerogative of LAHA members and urged all stakeholders to protect Meranda from intimidation. As the first female Speaker in Lagos State’s history, CHSR believes her leadership signifies a step toward greater inclusivity and democratic progress.



"We call on all members of LAHA to rally behind the new Speaker and uphold the integrity of the Assembly," the group said. "Democracy must not be subverted by individuals seeking to impose their will over the majority."







CHSR pledged to continue monitoring the situation at LAHA, warning against any undemocratic moves to reinstate Obasa. The organization called on Lagosians to resist any attempts to undermine the independence of the legislature.



"LAHA must be allowed to function without undue influence. The Speaker, chosen by the majority, must be allowed to lead without harassment. Democracy must not be trampled upon," Omotehinse declared.



The group urged the new Speaker to remain focused on legislative duties and ignore distractions from political actors attempting to destabilize governance in Lagos State.

CHSR Calls for Protection of Legislative Independence, Democratic Principles The Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights (CHSR) and other civil society groups have raised the alarm over what they describe as a renewed attempt to orchestrate the removal of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of A...

13/02/2025

Paris summit to discuss the transition in Syria.



More than two months after the fall of former ruler Bashar al-Assad, an international conference in Paris will explore ways to achieve a political transition in Syria on Thursday.

In addition to the host, France, representatives from Germany, Turkey, the U.S., the Arab states, the United Nations and the European Union are expected to attend.

The French say the aim of the meeting is to coordinate the respective efforts for a peaceful transition, with the changes in the country ensuring representation and stability.

They also want to improve coordination in providing aid to the people of Syria after years of civil war.

The fight against impunity from justice is also on the agenda.

The Syrian transitional government is also concerned about the question of how the proposed easing of the sanctions that were imposed against the former Assad government is progressing.

More than two months after the fall of former ruler Bashar al-Assad, an international conference in Paris will explore ways to achieve a political transition in Syria on Thursday. In addition to the host, France, representatives from Germany, Turkey, the U.S., the Arab states, the United Nations and...