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The Borno State Police Command has announced a temporary restriction on the movement of tricycles, popularly known as Keke Napep, as part of security measures for this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, the restriction will be in effect from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on March 20, 2026.

The police said the move forms part of a broader security arrangement designed to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration across the state.

“In furtherance of its constitutional mandate to protect lives and property, the Command has emplaced a comprehensive security architecture to ensure a peaceful, safe, and hitch-free Eid celebration across the State.

“As part of these measures, the Command hereby announces the restriction on the movement of tricycles (Keke Napep) from 6am to 12pm on 20/03/2026. This directive is aimed at enhancing security coordination, ease crowd management, and prevent any potential security threats. Members of the public are enjoined to comply strictly,” the statement said.

The Command also advised Muslim faithful to observe prayers at designated Eid grounds nearest to their homes to reduce movement and avoid overcrowding.

It added that security personnel have been strategically deployed to key locations, including prayer grounds, markets, and motor parks, to manage crowds, regulate access, and ensure overall safety.

The police further disclosed that operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit have been stationed at major venues to conduct thorough screening of persons and items entering designated areas.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, has directed all area commanders and operational units to intensify patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and visibility policing throughout the festive period, while maintaining professionalism and respect for human rights.

The Command urged residents to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly, and promptly report any suspicious activities, while also advising parents and guardians to closely monitor their children in crowded environments.

It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order before, during, and after the Eid festivities.

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A Sokoto-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Musa Lukuwa, on Thursday led members of his congregation in observing Eid al-Fitr prayers, going against the directive issued by the Sultan of Sokoto,  Saad Abubakar, who had declared Friday as the official Sallah celebration.

The cleric presided over the two-unit Eid prayer at his mosque in Mabera at about 9:10 a.m.

Earlier, he had addressed his followers following the Sultan’s announcement that the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted anywhere across Nigeria.

In a message that later made rounds on social media, Lukuwa explained the basis for his action, pointing to reports indicating that the moon had been sighted in neighbouring Niger Republic.

According to him, reliable contacts in the country confirmed the sighting, which informed the decision by his group to proceed with the Eid observance.

“Niger Republic is very close to us—about 100 kilometres away,” he said. “If we accept reports from cities like Kano or even Lagos, which are farther away, there is no reason to reject confirmed sightings from a neighbouring country.”

He emphasized that the decision was not an act of disregard for the Sultan’s authority but rather adherence to religious teachings.

“We usually follow the Sultan’s directive in starting and ending Ramadan. However, when it is clear that the moon has been sighted, we must act in accordance with the teachings of the Prophet, even if it differs from the Sultan’s declaration,” he stated.

Lukuwa also referenced the historical role of the late Abubakar Mahmoud Gummi in announcing moon sightings before the responsibility was centralized under the Sultan for the sake of unity within the Muslim community.

He maintained that the Sultan’s decision in this instance was incorrect and insisted that his followers would not comply.

Separate reports indicated that Lukuwa had notified his followers around midnight about the reported moon sighting and directed them to assemble for Eid prayers the next morning.

This is not the first time the cleric and his followers have gone against the Sultan’s official position regarding the timing of Eid celebrations.


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Concern is mounting over the economic toll of insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East, as a civil society organisation has warned that continued public passivity could worsen both security and livelihood conditions in the region.

The Peace, Security Focus Group, a North-East-based organisation, made the observation while calling on residents of Borno and Yobe States to play a more active role in addressing terrorism within their communities.

At a community forum held in Maiduguri on Thursday, the Convener of the Group, Ismail Mohammed, stressed that the persistence of insurgency is closely tied to the ability of terrorist elements to blend into local populations.

“For too long, some insurgents have hidden among us, carrying out attacks while ordinary citizens suffer. This is a fight we cannot leave solely to the military. You—the residents—must take ownership to reclaim our towns, markets, and livelihoods,” he said.

The organisation noted that while military operations remain critical, community collaboration is essential to achieving lasting results, urging residents to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.

“The military is working tirelessly to protect us, but they cannot succeed without our cooperation. By providing timely information, assisting in community vigilance, and collaborating with security initiatives, we can help them dismantle insurgents hiding in our midst,”he said.

Highlighting the broader implications, Mohammed warned that the insurgency is already disrupting key economic activities across the region, affecting agriculture, trade, and youth opportunities.

“Every attack disrupts trade, agriculture, and small businesses. Farmers cannot harvest, traders cannot sell, and young people cannot access opportunities. Our economy—the backbone of North-East recovery—is at stake. If we do not act together, the cost will only grow.”

The group further encouraged residents to strengthen local vigilance by reporting suspicious activities and supporting community-based security efforts.

“Your information saves lives. Silence only empowers the enemy. By standing together with our soldiers, we secure not just our safety but the future of our communities,”he stressed.

Reinforcing the urgency of collective responsibility, Mohammed concluded with a call for unity in safeguarding both lives and economic prospects in the region.

“This is our home, our children, our businesses, and our future. We cannot leave this fight to others. Support the Armed Forces under Gen. Oluyede, share information, and refuse to give insurgents a foothold. Together, we will protect our economy and secure a safer, more prosperous Borno for generations to come.”

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The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), with the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, assuring that President Bola Tinubu will continue to fund the initiative to advance socio-economic development in the Niger Delta and across the country.

Idris gave the assurance in London during an interactive session between PAP officials and foreign scholarship beneficiaries. The event, organised by the PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro, took place on the sidelines of President Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom on Wednesday.

During the session, beneficiaries of the programme presented an Award of Appreciation to the President in recognition of his strong support, which has facilitated large-scale placements of students in both local and international undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Special Assistant on Media to the PAP Administrator, Mr Igoniko Oduma, the event was attended by several dignitaries. Among them were the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; the Special Assistant on Diaspora Matters to the Delta State Governor, Olorogun (Mrs) Gloria Aghaghovia; representatives of the Ijaw People’s Association in Great Britain and Ireland; and other Niger Delta stakeholders.

Receiving the award on behalf of the President, Idris described the programme under Dr Otuaro’s leadership as transformative, noting that it is “building a community of intellectuals.”

He emphasised the importance of sustained funding for the programme, pointing out that it has helped to reshape the narrative of the Niger Delta.

Addressing the students, he said, “At this moment that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is paying a state visit to the United Kingdom, the first of its kind in nearly four decades, this (interactive session) is one side event that the President is really proud of.

“I have received the plaque from you on behalf of the President. I am going to deliver this plaque to him. I am going to tell him what I have seen here, and that there is the need for him to continue to support the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“All of you young men and women that are benefiting from the Presidential Amnesty Programme here in the UK are over 223, undergoing various undergraduate and post-graduate studies; this is very heartwarming.

“This is a programme that is producing a community of intellectuals that are not only interested in the development of the Niger Delta, but also Nigeria as a whole.”

The minister also praised Dr Otuaro for his efforts in repositioning the programme and impacting youths and communities in the region.

He urged the beneficiaries studying abroad to represent Nigeria positively and remain focused on academic excellence.

“I am sure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be proud to see all of you here participating proudly, and benefiting from the programme that is aimed towards not just the restoration of the Niger Delta region, but also having to close the human capital development gap that we so dearly need in our dear country.

“Mr President is committed to ensuring that all parts of Nigeria are benefiting from the dividends of democracy, and for the prosperity that he promised Nigerians when he took office”, he added.

In his goodwill message, Senator Lokpobiri commended President Tinubu for his “love for Ijaw and the Niger Delta people,” while also acknowledging the contributions of the PAP Administrator and thanking the President for his appointment.

Idris further described Nigeria as one of the safest countries globally, adding that the Niger Delta has provided the stability required for the oil and gas sector since the current administration took office.

He cautioned the students against being influenced by political propaganda ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that the President remains committed to the region’s development.

In his remarks, Dr Otuaro stated that President Tinubu has consistently supported the programme, including backing reforms aimed at improving its effectiveness.

He revealed that the deployment of 8,205 scholarship beneficiaries within the last two years was made possible through the President’s support, noting that the London engagement was also a show of appreciation.

Dr Otuaro said, “Since coming to power, our dear President has embraced the programme wholly and expanded it, thereby providing opportunities for many young men and women from the Niger Delta to study in institutions of higher learning at both home and abroad.

“The programme has, over the years, engendered sustainable peace, security and development in the Niger Delta as well as served as a key catalyst for the socio-economic transformation of the region.

“We are therefore firmly committed to creating more opportunities for our youths to have greater access to higher education. The overriding objective, like I have stated, is to empower our youths with the requisite education and knowledge that will enable them compete favourably with their peers, and explore the job market to be gainfully engaged.”

He added that vocational training initiatives would be expanded and expressed appreciation to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his supervisory role in ensuring the programme’s success in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The PAP Administrator also called on Niger Delta stakeholders to support the President’s re-election, expressing confidence that more benefits would accrue to the region.


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A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Kenneth Okonkwo, has faulted President Bola Tinubu’s decision to proceed with a state visit to the United Kingdom in the wake of deadly terrorist bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Okonkwo described the trip as an act of disrespect to the victims and soldiers killed in the attacks.

The opposition chieftain made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, accusing the president of dancing on the graves of fallen Nigerians by embarking on the London visit despite the coordinated suicide bombings that tore through a busy market and other areas of Maiduguri on Monday, killing at least 23 people and leaving over 100 others injured.

“It’s about telling the world that you prefer to respect the blood of your martyrs to riding on their blood and dancing on their graves in the United Kingdom. That red carpet there is the blood of the martyrs that Tinubu is treading upon. He should have cancelled it, cancelled it without equivocation,” Okonkwo said.

The ADC chieftain argued that cancelling the trip would have sent a powerful message to both Nigerians and the international community about the president’s regard for the lives of his citizens and the sacrifices of the country’s military.

Okonkwo also questioned why the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, accompanied Tinubu to London while Vice President Kashim Shettima was simultaneously attending the inauguration of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

“Why go with your minister of defence? Why would the vice president be celebrating in Anambra State? I can’t believe it, I feel embarrassed. You don’t understand that the death of one military man is a hit to a nation because their morale is boosted when you at least recognise. As they are going to fight, it can be any of them, so they derive their morale from how you treat the one that has fallen,” he said.

Going further, Okonkwo accused the Tinubu administration of politicising security and expressed doubt about the president’s capacity to resolve the country’s deepening insecurity crisis.

“Tinubu is incapable of solving the security problems and that is why it is metastasising all over the nation. You don’t have enough boots on the ground, you have a lot of ungoverned spaces, hunger and hardship is increasing, suffering of people is increasing, they are easy to be recruited, criminality is not being punished,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s service chiefs have arrived in Maiduguri following a directive by President Tinubu to relocate to the state and address the security situation.

In response to the presidential order, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, have arrived in the Borno State capital.


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King Charles III says he has been assured that Nigerian jollof is the best on the African continent.

The monarch spoke while delivering a speech at the state banquet hosted in honour of President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu.

Tinubu is currently in the United Kingdom on a historic two-day state visit.

Jollof is a spicy West African dish made by cooking rice in tomato, onion, and pepper sauce — with thyme and curry powder as seasoning. It is served at celebrations and parties with meat, fried plantains, or salad.

King Charles praised Nigerians residing in the UK for their contributions to British society.

“We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of Nigerian heritage, having chosen Britain as their home, are now at the heart of British life through excelling at the highest levels of business, technology, academia, law, science, sport, literature, and the arts,” he said.

King Charles said he has encountered many Nigerians who are contributing significantly across key institutions in the country.

The monarch added that he recently hosted a group of Nigerians at St James’s Palace.

“I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools, businesses, National Health Service and universities, including countless young people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last fifty years,” he said.

“Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of them for a ‘Jollof and Tea’ party at St. James’s Palace. I was firmly assured that the jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember!”

Earlier, King Charles set aside royal protocol by greeting Tinubu and the Nigerian delegation in Yoruba.

“Ẹ káàbọ̀, şé dáadáa ni,” King Charles said to the 160 guests in Yoruba, which translates to “Welcome, how are you doing?”

Proposing a toast during the banquet, King Charles said: “I can only wish you and the millions of Muslims in our countries Eid Mubarak. Let me propose a toast to the president and people of Nigeria. Naija no dey carry last.”


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The creative industry in West Africa is entering an exciting new chapter following the official launch, fundraising and induction ceremony of the West African Fashion Consortium Ghana, held in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.

The prestigious event, themed “Uniting the Creative Value Chain: Together We Rise,” will take place on 24 March 2026 at the distinguished Lancaster Hotel, bringing together fashion leaders, designers, policymakers, investors, and media stakeholders from across the region.

Organized by the West African Fashion Consortium, the event represents a strategic move to strengthen the entire fashion value chain in West Africa — from textile production and garment manufacturing to branding, global marketing, and export.

A New Era for West African Fashion

The launch signals a strong collaboration between the creative industry and government institutions in Ghana, demonstrating a shared commitment to positioning West Africa as a powerful contributor to the global fashion economy.

Through this initiative, the consortium aims to:
• Empower emerging and established designers
• Support textile and garment manufacturers
• Connect creatives with investors and global markets
• Promote African heritage through fashion innovation

Industry leaders believe that strengthening the fashion ecosystem will create employment opportunities, export revenue, and cultural influence for the region.

Media and Industry Support

The launch event will feature participation from major media partners including Gold FM, Joy Online, Graphic Online, Woezor TV, 5D Studios, and Iconic TV, ensuring the initiative receives strong coverage across Ghana and beyond.

The ceremony will also include fundraising activities, membership inductions, and presentations outlining the consortium’s long-term vision for West African fashion development.

Global Vision: West Africa Fashion Week London 2027

Building on the momentum of the Ghana launch, the consortium is also preparing to take West African fashion to a global stage with the upcoming West Africa Fashion Week London (WAFW London).

The international fashion event will be organized by Candie McKeefer, Executive Director for the West African Fashion Council UK/USA chapter.

Scheduled for September 2027 in London, the event will take place during the global fashion season surrounding London Fashion Week.

WAFW London aims to present the authentic creativity of West African designers to international buyers, media, investors, and cultural leaders.

The platform will showcase:
• Original African textiles and craftsmanship
• Contemporary African design innovation
• Emerging and established West African designers
• Cultural storytelling through fashion

Connecting Africa to the Global Fashion Industry

According to organizers, the vision behind West Africa Fashion Week London is simple yet powerful:

“To create a global runway where West African fashion is presented by its original creators to the world.”

By hosting the event in London, one of the world’s most influential fashion capitals, the initiative seeks to create direct access for African designers to the international marketplace.

A Growing Movement

The launch of the consortium in Ghana and the upcoming London fashion week signal a broader movement aimed at elevating African creativity within the global fashion industry.

With growing international interest in African textiles, craftsmanship, and design innovation, initiatives like these are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the continent’s fashion sector.

As the creative community gathers in Accra this March, the event marks not only the beginning of a new consortium but also the start of an ambitious journey that will culminate on the global runway in London in 2027.
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Vice -President Kashim Shettima and the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Hajiya Zubaida Umar on Wednesday paid a sympathy visit to the victims of Monday’s bomb blasts in Maiduguri.

Shettima, who spoke to newsmen shortly after the visit, commiserated with the government, the people of Borno and the North-east, especially families of those who lost their loved ones during the triple suicide attacks at Post Office, Monday Market and the main entrance of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).

The Vice-President and the DG, who interacted with some of the victims at the Trauma Centre, also prayed to God to grant Eternal Rest to the Souls of those killed and grant a quick recovery to the injured ones.

“We are here to commiserate with the Government, the people of Borno state and the North East, especially families of those who lost their loved ones during the triple suicide attacks at Post Office, Monday Market and the main entrance of UMTH last Monday evening.

“In these unfortunate incidents, I want to assure the people that the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not rest on his oars until peace and sanity are restored in all parts of the country.

“It’s a tragedy, because no religion sanctioned the killings of the innocent. But this madness called Boko Haram would not live to see the light of day.

“I don’t even consider them as members of the human race. But be assured that no matter how long the night is, it must give way to the light of the dawn.

“Government, through the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), who is here with me. She’s a mother. She’s a housewife, and she has abandoned her home to render succour and support.

“Likewise, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) team are also on board, and of course, the energetic Deputy Governor, who is also here on behalf of Gov. Babagana Zulum, all with a view to rendering the needed support. I want to thank the media for your support, also, thank you very much.

“Let me assure you that NEMA will by tomorrow (Thursday) start the distribution of medical consumables and relief items to the victims and their families,” Shettima said. (NAN)


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In commemoration of the 2026 International Women’s Day, 50 outstanding Nigerian women and notable personalities who have demonstrated exceptional support for women empowerment were honoured at a colourful ceremony in Abuja.

The award ceremony, organised under the Her Excellence Conference and Awards (HECA), held at the prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel & Apartments, where women from various professional backgrounds converged to celebrate achievements, leadership, and contributions toward advancing gender equality.

Among the honourees was the first lady of Jigawa State Her Excellency Amina Umar Namadi and immediate past Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, who was recognised as Women Empowerment Champion of the Year for his contributions to the development and welfare of women across the country.

Speaking at the event, the convener of the awards and Chief Executive Officer of Aso Multi Media, Desmond Agboola, said the initiative was designed to spotlight women who are making meaningful contributions to society while also recognising individuals supporting the advancement of women.

“Her Excellence Conference and Awards was created to celebrate women who are breaking barriers in their various fields and to encourage more support for initiatives that promote women empowerment and leadership in Nigeria,” he said.

Also speaking, the Project Coordinator of HECA, Kingsley Tolulope Agboola, emphasised that the platform serves as a motivation for women to continue striving for excellence.

“This platform is not only about honouring outstanding women but also about inspiring the next generation of female leaders to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he noted.

Notable personalities honoured at the event included Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives; Julie Donli, Founder of Roost Foundation; Kehinde Adelaja and Toyin Kolade.

Others recognised were Omolara Egungbohun; Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu; Ginika Tor Ijeomah; Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife; and Hafiza Bello.

Also honoured were Natasha Osawaru Idibia; Sophie Uzodinma Ozono; Jumoke Abegunde; and Daisy Jaja, among several other distinguished personalities.

The organisers noted that the awards aim to recognise individuals whose efforts continue to promote women's rights, empowerment, and leadership across Nigeria.

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Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu has said the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has the required competence towards making Nigeria great again, stating that the Institute’s current reputation projects will reposition the nation for global competitiveness. 

Stressing the importance of perception and reputation in nation-building during his investiture as Patron of NIPR in Calabar on Tuesday, Gov. Otu commended the Institute for the establishment of Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG), first University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL), and winning of the hosting right for 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).

“Your investiture is completely different from others and the difference is clear. I will be a very active patron because what you are doing is apt and good. For the events you have mentioned, we will participate in all of them. The challenge of manning our reputation gate as a nation is a very serious one, but when you move in as an Institute and with the calibre of people I am seeing here, the story will change and our nation will be on a path of visible growth.”

Earlier, NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku said the Institute as part of efforts to achieving its mandate of regulating the practice of public relations in Nigeria is presently seeking collaboration with credible leaders and institutions to build solid reputational asset for the country.

Dr. Neliaku applauded Gov.  Otu for his commitment to quality service delivery, noting that his human-centred projects across the state, covering education, agriculture, roads and other developmental infrastructure demonstrate leadership capacity.

 

Stanley Ogadigo 

Director, Public Relations 

17-3-2026

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APICES Finance Company Limited has officially launched, promising innovative financial solutions and inclusive opportunities targeted at small and medium enterprises and Nigerian youths. 

Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, Group Managing Director of APICES Finance Company Limited, Chief Daniel Oniko said the firm seeks to bridge gaps in the financial sector while fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.

He emphasised that it also aims to empower lower, middle, and upper segments of the market through tailored savings and investment products, adding that its strategies also include nurturing the next generation of leaders in the financial sector through practical experience and skills development.

He explained the vision behind the establishment, saying his 24 years of banking experience motivated him to create a platform that contributes to Nigeria’s economic growth.

He highlighted the firm’s focus on youth development, stating that the company is grooming young employees to become future captains of industry by immersing them in financial transactions and operational processes, adding that the company stands out through knowledge, experience, and unique products that are not widely available in Nigeria.

He detailed two key offerings for the market, saying: "I just talked about the gold-for-cash facility. I don't think any bank in Nigeria is doing that. And that is something we are bringing to the market; to uplift people who have the wealth that is tied in their pillow, that we can actually exploit that to make them trade and understand that they can trade with that even when they still own the value of gold. So we are coming back.

“We are also doing debt factoring. Debt factoring, of course, is a legal framework where funds are actually released for some contractors and other contractors and companies who are doing supplies and all that to various companies where their payment circle is being withheld and all that. And we are ready to come and play on that field to actually release such funds to boost the economy and create more wealth for people."

He noted that a strong work ethic and profitability analysis remain crucial, saying many opportunities exist in Nigeria that are often overlooked. He said APICES Finance intends to lift businesses from lower levels to higher operational and financial success.

Board Director at APICES Finance, Chief Moses Chukwu, who represented the Board Chairman Mrs. Evie Ukodiko at the launch described the opening as the first step in a long-term plan to build a financial powerhouse that contributes to national economic growth and empowers stakeholders across sectors.

Chukwu highlighted APICES’ mission to support customers, partners, farmers, businesses, and youths, emphasising shared prosperity and wealth creation.

He explained the firm’s commitment to digitalisation, stating that all applications and processes are technology-driven to efficiently reach underserved communities.

Chukwu highlighted investment opportunities for Nigerian youths, saying, "We have so many youths that have skills that can convert their skills into money. But because they lack opportunity and they lack access to finance, most of those dreams remain a mirage. And that is why we say, we are intentional and it is a partnership for prosperity. When we discover such youths who have skills, have talents, we will partner with them to bring that dream to reality and convert it into money."

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The Ebem Ohafia community in Abia State is set to host a grand celebration in honour of its Paramount Ruler, His Royal Highness Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP), as he marks his 35th Coronation Anniversary and 89th Birthday.

The event, organised by the Ezie Ebem In-Council in collaboration with the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU), is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Ohafia LGA Pavilion by 10:00 AM prompt.

A major highlight of the celebration will be the installation of chieftaincy titles on deserving sons, daughters, and friends of Ebem Ohafia, in recognition of their contributions to the development of the community.

The ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from within and outside the state, including the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti (OFR), who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.

Also expected at the event is Chief Barrister Anaga Kalu Anaga (Oduo Mba of Ebem Ohafia), who will preside as the Chairman of the Day.

Organisers say the celebration will not only honour the monarch’s decades of impactful leadership but also serve as a platform to strengthen unity and promote the rich cultural heritage of Ebem Ohafia.

Members of the community, both at home and in the diaspora, have been urged to attend and be part of the historic celebration.

The press statement announcing the event was made available to newsmen by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Ebem Ohafia, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali.

The event is expected to showcase the rich cultural heritage and strong communal spirit of the Ebem Ohafia people.

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The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid al-Fitr across Nigeria, following the non-sighting of the crescent moon.

The announcement was conveyed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Council’s Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee.

The statement was signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.

According to the statement, no credible reports were received from any part of the country confirming the sighting of the Shawwal crescent on Wednesday, March 18, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan.

“Thursday, March 19, 2026, shall therefore be observed as the 30th day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the committee stated, in line with Islamic lunar calendar provisions.

Acting on the report, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, approved the declaration of Friday as Eid-el-Fitr day.

His Eminence has accepted the report and accordingly declared Friday, 20th March 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH,” the statement read.

In his message to the Muslim faithful, the Sultan congratulated the Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and urged Nigerians to sustain the spirit of devotion beyond the holy month.

He called on Muslims and all citizens to continue offering prayers for peace, unity, and national development, especially at a time when the country faces socio-economic and security challenges.

The declaration ensures uniformity in the observance of Eid-el-Fitr across Nigeria, reinforcing the coordinating role of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in harmonising religious practices nationwide.

The Islamic calendar, which is based on lunar observations, requires the physical sighting of the new crescent to signal the end of Ramadan. In Nigeria, this process is centrally coordinated through committees across the country under the leadership of the Sultanate.

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The Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has called on Bola Tinubu to either release Nasir El-Rufai or formally charge him in court, stressing the need to uphold due process.

In a sermon video circulating on X, Islamic scholar Sanusi Khalil said the Sultan insisted El-Rufai should be arraigned before a competent court or granted bail while investigations continue. He emphasized that the call is not to shield any wrongdoing but to ensure justice follows legal procedures.

The Sultan also questioned the deployment of American troops to Northern Nigeria, seeking clarity on whether their mission is for military training or the establishment of a permanent base. He further asked why such a base, if planned, would be located in the region.

Khalil expressed support for the Sultan’s stance, noting that such critical questions are often difficult for others to raise without fear of backlash.

Meanwhile, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) maintained that El-Rufai’s detention is based on a valid court order, not a new directive.

ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey stated that the commission appeared in court to respond to an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, challenging a remand order issued a day earlier. He added that all actions taken so far comply with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, noting that the initial 14-day detention period was extended by the court.


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