Author: Merit Ugolo

Infamous Nigerian businessman, Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Huspuppi, is celebrating his 42nd birthday in stark contrast to his previous lavish celebrations. Once known for his extravagant lifestyle and luxury purchases, Huspuppi’s birthday was met with silence from his former associates, fans, and even luxury brand Gucci. Social commentator Ossai Ovie Success highlighted the stark difference between Huspuppi’s 38th birthday in 2020 and his 42nd birthday in 2024. In 2020, Gucci surprised Huspuppi with a branded cake, recognizing him as a regular buyer of their luxury products. Over 100,000 people flooded his Instagram page with wishes and gifts. However, following…

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The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), on Thursday, sensitized students of Baze University on the growing vices of sextortion and trafficking. The exercise was held at the ongoing 6th Baze University Career Week Program (BaCWeP) with the theme, “Cyberbullying Menace: A Mental Health Issue to Career Growth. Depression and Anxiety Amongst Youth in Nigeria”. Held at the university’s Faculty of Law, the event gathered students, dignitaries, and experts to discuss the impact of cyberbullying and its relation to mental health challenges among Youth in Nigeria. NACAT’s Operations Manager, Stanley Ugagbe, presented a detailed session on sextortion and trafficking, unveiling…

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Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate and outspoken activist, has sounded the alarm on the cyclical pattern of Nigerian elderly leaders creating problems and then expecting the youth to fix them. In a recent post, Sowore expressed his frustration with this dynamic, highlighting how these same leaders then question the youth’s ability to lead due to lack of experience. Sowore’s comments were sparked by former Governor and Minister Rotimi Amaechi’s statement that he expected Nigerian youth to take to the streets and protest the country’s growing hardship. Sowore sees this as a classic example of elderly leaders passing the buck…

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The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has called on members of the creative community to stay attuned to the ever-evolving societal dynamics to remain relevant and impactful. She made the remark while delivering the keynote address at the Opening Ceremony of the Quramo Festival of Words held recently at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The annual festival, which attracted over 1,000 participants, celebrates creativity and cultural exchange among artists, writers, and other members of the creative industry. In her speech, the Commissioner stressed that creativity and storytelling are essential tools for driving…

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Governor Hyacinth Alia has hailed the people of Benue State for their “peaceful and orderly conduct, active participation and overwhelming support for the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC),” during the just concluded Local Government elections in the State. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, the governor described the successful outcome of the elections, which were “devoid of violence, as a reflection of the maturity of the Benue people to engage in a democratic process with respect and dignity, upholding peace and unity which are critical to the progress of the state.” “I extend my heartfelt gratitude…

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The leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Isoko North Local Government Area, Friday, pledged to remain united in moving the party forward.  At a stakeholders’ meeting held at the party’s secretariat in Ozoro, the leaders of the party led by the member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko enjoined members aggrieved over one issue or another to put the past behind them and work for the unity and progress of the party. Speaking to the leaders and members of the PDP, House of Representatives member, Hon Ukodhiko said, “we will do everything to make everyone in the…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday, said his administration would continue to ensure even development of all parts of the state including riverine communities.  Governor Oborevwori disclosed this at the inauguration of Model Secondary School, Ogulagha, Burutu Local Government Area of the state and inauguration of Faculty Building and Lecture Halls at the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state. The Governor appreciated riverine communities for the prevailing peace which had paved way for development of the communities, adding that peace was imperative in the development of any community. He assured that his administration…

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Real Madrid has demonstrated its commitment to 17-year-old prodigy Joan Martínez, signing the talented center-back to a new contract until June 2026. This move comes as a show of support following Martínez’s ACL injury. According to reports by Marca, the new agreement includes a significant release clause valued at over €50 million. Sources close to the negotiation reveal that Real Madrid plans to extend Martínez’s contract further when he turns 18. This strategic move aims to secure Martínez’s position as a key player in the team’s future. The signing of the new contract today solidifies Martínez’s place within the Real…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has written to the State House of Assembly, notifying the Lawmakers of his intention to proceed on a two-week vacation from Monday 7th October 2024. The Governor’s letter was read at plenary by the Presiding Officer and Speaker of the House, Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. Oborevwori in the four-paragraph letter, stated that in accordance with section 190 of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, shall perform the duties of his office as Acting Governor during the period of the leave. The Governor said he will greatly…

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Delta State Government, Wednesday, approved the building of a College of Medical Sciences at the Delta State University of Science and Technology, (DSUST) Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state.  Briefing journalists in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, said the approval was part of the decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba. Osuoza, flanked by Commissioners for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze; his counterpart in Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu; Higher Education, Professor Nyerovwo Tonukari and Chief Press…

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Operatives of the Gombe Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,   have arrested 21(twenty one) suspected internet fraudsters in Yola, Adamawa state.   In a statement on its Facebook page today, the commission said they were  arrested at different locations around Modobo Adamawa University, Yola. According to the commission, items recovered at the points of arrest include 13 iphones, 12 Android phones, one laptop and one tablet phone. The suspects would soon be charged to court, the commission said.

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has emphasised the need for Nigerians to embrace both their rights and responsibilities to build a stronger and more united country. Speaking during a Thanksgiving Service, held to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary at the Chapel of Christ The Light in Alausa, Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube, called on citizens to shift their focus from solely demanding their rights and instead prioritise fulfilling their civic duties. The Governor noted that while citizens are rightfully entitled to certain freedoms and protections, the nation’s progress depends equally on…

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Five hundred and thirty-four undergraduates of different institutions of higher learning on Saturday, received more than N100 million for emerging successful in the year 2024 edition of Monday Onyeme Foundation’s scholarship scheme. The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, who is the initiator of the scholarship scheme personally presented the cheques to the beneficiaries at the well-attended occasion which took place at Asaba. Each of the successful students got the sum of N200,000 each with the overall best receiving the sum of N600,000, second best, N500,000 and overall third position, N400,000. The deputy governor, charged students always…

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The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has met with the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Africa Development Bank (AFDB) to explore ways of strengthening the sustainability of health systems project preparation in Lagos State. The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide said that physical planning was critical to any meaningful development and should be the first port of call as far as project preparation was concerned. He noted that the relevance of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to all development projects in the State was signified by its important…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for the deepening of women economic empowerment and financial inclusion programmes across the country to enhance sustainable national development.  Oborevwori made the call during the inauguration of Chairman, Co-Chairman and members of the Steering Committee of Nigeria for Women Project, NFWP, (A World Bank Initiative) on Wednesday, in Asaba. The State Focal Person and Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sunny Ekedayen is Chairman, while the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Community and Social Development, Mrs Pat Ajudua, is Co-Chairman. Other members include the Commissioners for Primary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogwu; Water Resources Development, Dr…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, provided agricultural inputs to 6,020 farmers to boost agricultural production and food security in the state. Speaking during the flag-off of the disbursement of agricultural inputs to beneficiaries under the Result Area 2 – FADAMA (Food Security) of the Delta Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, D-CARES, at the Events Centre, Asaba, Oborevwori announced the release of N1billion counterpart funding for the Africa Union Development Agency, New Partnership for African Development (AUDA NEPAD), to empower 2,000 farmers for food production, livestock and aquaculture. He said the state government took steps to boost agricultural…

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to skit makers and social media influencers, condemning the unauthorized use of its operational gear for comedic purposes. This warning comes after an old skit, titled “EFCC and Army Wahala”, resurfaced on social media, reigniting concerns over the misrepresentation of the Commission’s operatives. The video, which presents a caricature of EFCC’s operational conduct, portrays agents terrorizing supposed suspects in a manner the Commission describes as “shameful” and “embarrassing.” According to the EFCC, this depiction is not only a gross mischaracterization but also a deliberate attempt to tarnish its…

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The Lagos State Civil Service Commission (CSC) has emphasised the importance of integrating sustainable practices into its operations in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as part of efforts to enhance service delivery and tackle prevailing economic challenges. This resolution was the key outcome of a two-day retreat held for the Commission’s management staff and directors, themed: “Navigating Current Economic Challenges and Integrating Sustainable Practices for Optimal Service Delivery”. In her remarks, the Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo highlighted the urgency of embracing sustainability to ensure that government operations are not only responsive…

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The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede has tasked tax practitioners under the aegis of Federal Capital Territory Tax Practitioners Association on appropriate tax assessment and clearance. He gave the challenge while hosting members of the Association, at the Commission’s headquarters in, Jabi, Abuja. Olukoyede who spoke through the Commission’s Secretary, Mohammed Hammajoda noted that the job of the EFCC and that of tax practitioners align in ensuring probity and accountability in the system and urged the tax practitioners to always provide credible information that can help the Commission fight tax fraud. “We cannot work if…

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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has disclosed that it recovered nearly N4 billion in public funds within 24 hours, from September 18 to 19, 2024.  This significant recovery, which involved funds illegally diverted into private accounts, was announced by ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu during a National Anti-corruption Coalition (NACC) Members Interactive Forum held in Abuja. In his address, Dr. Aliyu highlighted the commission’s dedication to reclaiming more public funds and emphasized Nigeria’s growing challenge of corruption. The ICPC Boss while advocating for a united front to tackle the issue, stated, “Corruption remains one…

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In its continued bid to maximise the nation’s abundant gas resources for economic development and prosperity, NNPC Ltd. has begun discussions with investors towards bringing back two Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects, Brass and Olokola LNG projects. NNPC Ltd.’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr. Umar Ajiya disclosed this on the sidelines of the ongoing 2024 Gas Technology Conference and Exhibition (Gastech), in Houston, United States. Brass LNG and OK LNG are two LNG projects with the potential of manifold economic benefits for the country which include job creation, power generation, revenue generation and economic diversification. The multi-billion-dollar projects were however…

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Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia today, departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for New York to attend the Seventy-Ninth United Nations General Assembly. A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula said the Governor is part of the delegation selected by President Bola Tinubu to accompany him to the meeting. “The General Assembly is expected to commence tomorrow, Saturday, 21st September 2024 to Sunday, 28th September 2024. “This assembly is an opportunity for world leaders to come together to discuss progress on interconnected global challenges. “President Tinubu has also delegated Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima to lead the…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Thursday, restated his administration’s commitment to the prompt and sustainable payment of pensions and other emoluments of its employees.  Governor Oborevwori, who disclosed that his administration had paid over N14.5 billion in view of various pension obligations, stated this during an interactive meeting with Permanent Secretaries, Directors and Heads of Parastatals, Departments and Agencies at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba. The Governor, who said the meeting was apt, called on the top bureaucrats to work closely with his administration in order to seamlessly deliver on his MORE Agenda for the benefit of the people.…

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The 8th edition of the National Youth Games, ‘Asaba 2024’, has ended with the defending champions, Team Delta, emerging the overall winner with 46 gold, 31 silver and 34 bronze medals. Lagos State placed second with 26 gold, 20 silver and 19 bronze, while Edo State emerged the second runner-up with 18 gold, 13 silver and 28 bronze medals. With this victory, Delta remains the only state that has won the competition since inception in 2013. The state hosted the games in 2023 and still has two more editions to host. 35 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) participated…

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, on his Diamond birthday, describing him as “a trusted, committed and dedicated partner.” He said Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, who clocks 60 today, Thursday, is a brother, friend and partner in the Greater Lagos agenda. The Governor noted that the cordial relationship between him and his deputy has led to good governance and the delivery of dividends of democracy to millions of Lagosians State in the last five years. Dr. Hazmat, a former Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, as well as Commissioner for Works during former…

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The Lagos State Government has stated that it is committed to investing and re-training its workforce without sparing any expenses. The Commissioner, Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo made this remark during a courtesy visit by the International Association of Research Scholars and Administrators to the Ministry. The visit was aimed at collaborating with the Ministry in the area of research and training development programmes as well as to officially confer the Honorary Fellowship, the highest recognition of the Association, on the Commissioner. Whilst appreciating the team for the honorary fellowship, Ayantayo reiterated the importance of research for…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has said his administration was determined to ensure that residents of the state do not unduly suffer from the economic hardship bedeviling the country.  Governor Oborevwori, disclosed this at the flag-off of the 4th disbursement of the Delta State Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, D-CARES, held at the Events Centre, Asaba, at which 97,365 persons benefitted. The tally of beneficiaries on Tuesday brought the grand sum of beneficiaries of D- CARES to over 208, 000. Oborevwori said the gesture in D- CARES was in furtherance of his administration’s desire to meet the component…

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The Lagos State Government has completed and reopened the Ojota and Maryland sections of the Odo Iya Alaro  Bridge which will allow motorists to use both sides of the bridge immediately. Speaking during the official reopening of the Bridge to motorists, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the readiness of the bridge for public use. He added that his administration focussed on road and bridge infrastructure to reduce travel time – save important man-hours that would have been otherwise lost to traffic, boost interconnectivity, provide better riding surface, eliminate traffic gridlock and generally make life more meaningful to Commuters in Lagos State.…

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President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with the people and Government of Zamfara State over recent floods in Gummi Local Government Area and the death of over 40 farmers in a boat accident on their way to their farms at the weekend.   The President in a statement by his special adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed the government and the people of Nigeria’s commiseration over the twin tragedies in the Zamfara community. He promised support for the victims. The President directed emergency agencies to comprehensively assess the two incidents to address the root of the calamity. President Tinubu also…

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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede has called on Nigerians across the country to rise up to the task of monitoring constituency projects being embarked upon by their elected leaders in order to drive positive changes and development in their environment. He gave the charge in Kano while speaking at a “One -Day Stakeholders’ Consultative Meeting on Fostering Transparency, Accountability and Citizens’ Participation In The Implementation Of Constituency Projects In Nigeria” hosted by the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies According to him, sustainable development can only come when Nigerians take initiatives to…

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