Author: Gbenga Oluranti Olaleye

Beirut, Lebanon- Prime Minister Najib Mikati has raised alarms over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, revealing that recent Israeli attacks may have displaced up to one million people. This alarming figure represents roughly one-sixth of Lebanon’s total population and marks the country’s worst displacement crisis in decades. The situation has intensified following the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, which has exacerbated fears of further regional instability. In his address to the nation, Mikati emphasized the urgent need for international support, stating, “We are witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe that we have not seen before. Our people are suffering, and…

Rights activist Deji Adeyanju has issued a stark warning ahead of the planned October 1 protests, suggesting that the government may resort to forceful measures to suppress dissent. Drawing parallels to previous violent crackdowns, Adeyanju urged Nigerians to remain resolute in their demonstrations against the prevailing economic hardships and rampant corruption plaguing the nation. In a statement released on social media, Adeyanju emphasized the critical need for citizens to assert their rights, despite the looming threat of arrest and violence. “The issues we face high fuel prices, crippling economic conditions, and pervasive corruption demand our urgent attention,” he stated. “We…

The Presidency has reiterated its support for the stance of Honourable Minister for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, regarding the ongoing pricing dispute between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery. In a statement released on Friday, September 27, by Nnaamaka Okafor, Special Assistant to the Minister, the government clarified that it cannot intervene in this matter as both entities are private enterprises operating within a deregulated market. The statement followed remarks made by Lokpobiri after a recent meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima. The minister had indicated that petrol prices could vary by location, but emphasized…

A former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to exercise caution when relying on his inner circle for recommendations regarding ministerial appointments. His comments come amidst reports of a potential cabinet reshuffle. The Oyo-born politician made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Thursday, September 26. He emphasized the importance of critically evaluating those who influence ministerial selections, warning that some members of the President’s “kitchen cabinet” may have vested interests that could cloud their judgment. “You cannot trust anybody, even if you are talking of the kitchen cabinet,” Shittu stated. …

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that Augustine Eguavoen will continue as the interim head coach of the Super Eagles as they prepare for the upcoming qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This decision was ratified following a recommendation from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee. In an official statement released on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, the NFF emphasized the importance of Eguavoen’s leadership in guiding the national team during this critical phase of qualification. “The Executive Committee of Nigeria Football Federation… approved the recommendation for Coach Augustine Eguavoen to continue in his role as…

As Nigeria approaches its 64th Independence Day, the Federal Government has celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, recognizing it as a testament to the resilience and commitment of the Nigerian people to uphold freedom and liberty. The announcement came during a World Press Briefing in Abuja on Thursday, September 26, led by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. Idris reflected on Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence in 1960, emphasizing the nation’s evolution into a leading force in Africa despite facing numerous challenges. He stated, “Our democracy, now unbroken for a quarter of a century, stands as a testament…

The Nigerian Senate passed the South-West Development Commission Establishment Bill 2024 on Thursday, September 26, marking a significant step toward enhancing the socio-economic development of the South-West region. The bill, presented by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan during plenary, aims to address infrastructural deficits and ecological challenges by securing funds from the Federation Account and donations from development partners. Following the third reading, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin commended the committee’s efforts, emphasizing that the commission is intended to accelerate development across the country. He expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu would grant his assent to the bill, similar to his…

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, will carry out the oath of office to 87 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) on Monday, September 30, 2024. The event marks the next step in the careers of these practitioners as it is in appreciation of their efforts towards the law. The venue for the event will be the Supreme Court in Abuja where members of the bench, lawyers and other invited dignitaries are expected to be present to mark this occasion. To be made a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is a prestigious title that is comparable to the…

The Nigerian Senate has officially passed legislation to create the South West Development Commission, a move aimed at addressing the pressing environmental, ecological, and developmental challenges faced by the southwestern region of the country. The new commission is designed to spearhead initiatives that will foster sustainable development and tackle issues such as environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities in the area. Senators emphasized the need for targeted interventions to improve living conditions and promote economic growth in the region. The legislation garnered widespread support, with lawmakers highlighting the unique challenges that the South West faces, including the impact of…

The Federal Government has proposed a significant shift in the payment practices of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), suggesting that these agencies start collecting all fees, charges, fines, and other payments in Naira rather than in foreign currencies. During a recent briefing at the State House in Abuja, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, announced that this initiative is part of an economic stabilization bill that will soon be submitted to the National Assembly (NASS). Onanuga explained, “The amendment in the economic stabilization bill stipulates…