Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has moved its corporate headquarters from Abuja to Lagos to cut costs, following the directive of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Kayamo. The decision, supported by stakeholders and unions, was made due to the lack of adequate office space in Abuja. Over 60% of FAAN’s activities are centered in Lagos, where it will manage its existing building until concessionaires build suitable offices in both Lagos and Abuja. The final decision on the permanent headquarters will be determined in the future based on evolving circumstances.
2. EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern over investigators demanding bribes, warning of consequences for those not following guidelines. Appointed in October 2023, he emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity within the agency. Olukoyede urged staff to uphold the rule of law and work towards economic development, announcing a review of arrest and bail guidelines. The EFCC is currently investigating alleged fraud under the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Saddiya Umar Faruq.
3. The Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council (AGEAC) has been inaugurated with three Co-Chairs, including former CBN Governor and Emir of Kano, His Highness Khaleefa Muhammad Sanusi II. Former Minister of Finance and Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, is among the Honourary Advisors. The council, initiated by Abia State Governor Alex Otti, consists of 14 members and aims to position Abia State as a preferred investment destination in Africa. The advisory board comprises international experts dedicated to promoting economic growth in the state.
4. A 400-level student of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi State was arrested for illegal possession of firearms, including a locally-made gun, pistol, and 9mm live ammunition. The arrest followed a tip-off by a vigilante group, and the student admitted to the offense, claiming the weapons belonged to someone else previously arrested in 2021. In a separate case, a 28-year-old business café operator in Bauchi was arrested for defrauding ATBU students of N663,000 in school registration fees by providing fake registration slips. Investigations are ongoing, and both suspects will be arraigned.
5. Atletico Madrid secured a thrilling 4-2 victory in extra time against rivals Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey last-16 clash. Samuel Lino and Alvaro Morata scored for Atletico, while Jan Oblak’s own goal and Joselu’s header for Real took the game to extra time. Antoine Griezmann and Rodrigo Riquelme’s goals in extra time secured Atletico’s spot in the quarter-finals and ended Real’s 21-match unbeaten streak. The match featured several key moments, including Bellingham’s strike hitting the crossbar. Griezmann, honored as Atletico’s all-time top scorer, also played a crucial role in the victory.
6. Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles striker, was awarded the Man-of-The-Match in Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The decisive goal was scored by William Troost-Ekong from a penalty, which Osimhen earned after being fouled in the penalty box. Osimhen expressed pride in the team’s win and emphasized the importance of converting the penalty opportunity. The victory enhances Nigeria’s chances of advancing from Group A in the tournament.
7. Nigerian singer Tems, in an interview with The Beat 99.9 FM, clarified that she is not romantically interested in Asake, despite admiring his artistic talent. Tems expressed her desire to direct a video for Asake because of his artistic and unconventional approach. When the interviewer jokingly suggested a romantic interest in Asake, Tems emphasized that her admiration is solely professional, and she appreciates him as a cool guy.
