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ABUJA — If you have ever booked a hall, paid a DJ, printed flyers, watched your cousin post the artwork in three WhatsApp groups, and then opened your ticket page to find exactly three sales, you already know the silence Eventec.app is trying to kill. The new event management platform, already active in Abuja and Port Harcourt, is pitching itself as the antidote to the cold-start problem that has frustrated organisers for years: you have a good event, but nobody has heard of it yet, and you are starting from zero every single time.


Eventec’s answer is to stop organisers from launching into an empty room. Instead of handing users a blank page and wishing them luck, the platform pushes a new event to people who have already shown up for similar events. Comedy lovers see comedy shows. Conference regulars see summits. Concert-goers in Abuja see concerts in Abuja. The organiser sets up the event profile, and Eventec handles the first wave of reach, so the marketing does not begin with a cold list and weeks of chasing RSVPs or begging influencers for a repost.


The platform is also making a direct play for organisers who are tired of waiting on their money. According to Eventec, ticket purchases go straight into the organiser’s bank account immediately. The company does not hold the funds. It also sells in nine currencies, from naira and cedis to dollars, pounds and rand, which means diaspora audiences can pay in the currency they earn, whether they are buying a physical ticket or a stream ticket from Houston, London or anywhere else.


Where Eventec hopes to really separate itself is in replacing the messy stack of tools that most events run on. Organisers often juggle a ticketing site, a guest spreadsheet, a separate streaming setup, a design folder for sponsors, multiple WhatsApp groups and their own memory. Eventec puts ticketing with QR check-in, tiered tickets like Regular, VIP and Table for 10, live streaming through RTMP, YouTube or Vimeo, sponsor booths that capture leads, AI networking for conference attendees, live polls, Q&A and chat, and real-time analytics into one dashboard. That means an organiser can scan guests in at the gate, sell stream tickets to family abroad, show sponsors exactly who stopped by their virtual booth, and watch check-ins, revenue and engagement move in real time while the event is still running.

The platform has also built for the kind of chaos that organisers in Nigeria know too well. The venue manager “forgot” the booking. The headliner is stuck at the airport. It is rainy season and the event is outdoors. On most platforms, moving a date means refunds, confusion and a very long week. On Eventec, organisers can reschedule up to three days before the event for ₦0, and every ticket, registration, speaker and session stays exactly where it was. Buyers do not lose their tickets, and organisers do not lose their minds.


Eventec says it is already powering concerts, comedy nights and award ceremonies in Abuja and Port Harcourt, and it is built for the reality that one organiser might run a physical crusade on Saturday, a hybrid conference on Tuesday and a graduation livestream the week after. When help is needed, support runs on WhatsApp from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm WAT, rather than leaving users stuck with a ticket number and a bot.


For organisers who have ever stared at a ticket page showing three sold, the pitch is simple and pointed: there are people in your city right now looking for their next night out, their next conference and their next reason to dress up. The only question is whether they will find your event or someone else’s. Eventec wants you to list it, let the first 500 people hear about it, and fill the room before you have even posted the flyer.

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For Silas Gift Chinyere, fashion is more than just clothing; it is a language of stories, culture, and unexpected connections. As the founder and creative director of GICH Fashion, a contemporary brand established in March 2018, her journey is a testament to a lifelong fascination with fabrics and the art of creation.


Her exposure to the world of design began early in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, where she grew up observing her aunt, a fashion designer. Though she didn't know it then, this early introduction planted a seed. 


While her academic path led her to study Business Administration at Elizade University and internships at financial institutions like Skye Bank and Union Bank, her passion for fashion simmered alongside. It wasn't until she pursued practical training at Flair Academy in Abuja that she began to build the technical foundation for her true calling.


GICH Fashion was born from Chinyere’s personal creative identity. She discovered that her true fascination lay not just in silhouettes, but in textiles. An avid traveler, she found herself drawn to fabric markets worldwide, collecting unique prints that carried cultural identities or told stories. This love for discovery became the cornerstone of her brand.


Her appreciation for Nigerian indigenous textiles, particularly Adire and Kampala, deepened this interest, inspiring her to reinterpret them for contemporary wear. Today, GICH Fashion is a reflection of that curiosity. The brand is known for creating distinctive pieces that are not easily predictable, where contrasting patterns, textures, and fabrics are brought together to create a cohesive and beautiful whole. 


Her vision for GICH is to grow into a global fashion house that celebrates individuality, embraces diverse creative influences, and develops a recognisable design identity that transcends geographical boundaries. For Silas Gift Chinyere, it's about finding inspiration in unexpected places and transforming those experiences into tangible, wearable art.

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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said no survivor has been found following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.


Aiyedatiwa disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, saying local residents, security personnel and emergency responders had searched the crash site but had yet to find anyone alive.


He said the information about the crash reached him at about 10.30am after the chairman of the local government contacted him.


According to the governor, residents across the river from the Nigerian Navy base in Igbokoda heard a loud sound and later saw the aircraft dive into a swampy area.


He said the Nigerian Navy initially stayed back to ascertain whether there was any fire or explosion before moving towards the crash site.


“When they noticed that it’s just an accident, they didn’t see any sign of fire. So they moved in, trying to see if they could rescue the people,” Aiyedatiwa said.


He added that officials of the local emergency management agency, local residents and personnel of the Amotekun Corps also joined the search for possible survivors.


“But from the information we got, no single life was saved up to this moment. They could not see any living soul that was in that aircraft,” the governor said.


Aiyedatiwa said searchers found parts of the aircraft, including pieces of the wings, identification cards and uniforms, which helped confirm that the crashed aircraft was a military plane.


“But they saw the ruins, some of the wreckage from the wings of the aircraft, you know, some ID cards, I was told, and then uniform. That was when they knew it was a military aircraft,” he said.


The governor described the incident as a painful development, particularly because it occurred in his home state and local government.


“So it’s a sad situation today. And we’re all really, really agreed as a Nigerian. And also it happens in my own state, not just my state, even in my own local government where I’m from,” he said.


Aiyedatiwa expressed sympathy for the military personnel involved, describing them as officers assigned to protect the territorial integrity of the country.


“It happens to Nigerian military officers who are assigned to protect the territorial integrity of our country and, you know, involving such, you know, accidents. So, so painful. So painful, but so sad,” he added.


Recalls that the Nigerian Air Force confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft with tail number NGR 931 crashed in Igbokoda while on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos.


Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft.


The Nigerian Air Force said search and rescue efforts were ongoing following the crash.


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The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has given the Federal Government a 14-day ultimatum to pay outstanding salary arrears.


SSANU National President, Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, announced the ultimatum in a communique issued on Monday in Abuja, after the union’s 56th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.


Ibrahim said that the meeting, held at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom, from Sept. 30 to Oct. 1, deliberated on workers’ welfare, university funding and implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement.


He said failure to meet the demand within the stipulated period would compel the union to embark on an indefinite strike without further notice.


He said the NEC demanded immediate payment of all outstanding arrears arising from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU CONTTA salary structure, effective from Jan. 1, 2026.


“NEC categorically demanded the immediate release and payment of all outstanding arrears arising from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU CONTTA salary structure, calculated from the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026,” he said.


Ibrahim said some universities had implemented the salary structure largely through internally sourced funds, without direct financial backing from the Federal Government.


He urged Vice-Chancellors and Governing Councils of universities that were yet to implement the agreement to emulate institutions that had taken proactive steps toward compliance.


The SSANU president also demanded immediate payment of two months’ salaries withheld during the 2022 industrial action, alongside one-year arrears from the 25 per cent and 35 per cent salary increases.


Ibrahim described the outstanding payments as “legitimate entitlements” owed to affected workers, saying, “continued delay had worsened the financial hardship confronting members”.


He expressed concern over uneven implementation of the agreement in state-owned universities and called on state governments to provide the necessary funding for full compliance.


On university funding, Ibrahim called for increased investment in electricity, laboratories, workshops, libraries, ICT facilities, security systems and infrastructure maintenance, while rejecting virtual accreditation as a substitute for physical verification.


He also rejected any arrangement to concession, privatise or transfer management of King’s College, Lagos, or other public educational institutions to private bodies, urging government to preserve public ownership and accessibility.


Ibrahim further expressed concern over insecurity, rising living costs and food insecurity.


He called for stronger protection of farming communities and educational institutions, including policies to protect workers’ incomes. (NAN)


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President Bola Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in Monday’s military aircraft crash in Ondo State.


Tinubu also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for the deceased officers.


This was contained in a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday.


The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos.


The aircraft had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board.


In a condolence message to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, the President described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country.


“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said.


The President also directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately investigate the cause of the crash.


“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.


Tinubu commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating a search and rescue operation after the crash.


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Governors Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, Agbu Kefas of Taraba State and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State are among prominent Nigerians to be honoured at the 15th edition of the Democracy Heroes Award Africa, scheduled to hold on October 9, 2026.


The awards, organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria projects (FDN Projects), will take place at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, with the theme, “Elevate.”


The three governors are being recognised alongside other individuals for their contributions to good governance and efforts aimed at improving the lives of citizens through impactful policies and development projects.


The Democracy Heroes Award Africa is designed to celebrate Africans who have distinguished themselves through their contributions to the continent's democratic development. 


Over the years, the award has recognised political leaders for initiatives that strengthen democratic values and improve service delivery.


Beyond the political space, the award also honours entrepreneurs, business leaders and entertainers whose contributions to society have supported job creation, youth empowerment, economic growth and poverty reduction.


Speaking on the forthcoming ceremony, Project Director of FDN projects, Olufunsho Ajagbonna, popularly known as Fajag, congratulated the award recipients and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting excellence in public service.


Ajagbonna said the organisation would continue to recognise and encourage individuals who have distinguished themselves through meaningful contributions to society and service to the people.


The 2026 edition is expected to bring together political leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, entertainers, civil society actors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals contributing to Africa’s democratic journey and continental development.

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The Federal Government has announced a ₦250 million support package for the families of the 37 victims who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.


Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the support during a condolence visit to the Niger State Government and the people of the state over the deaths.


Shettima described the incident as unfortunate, saying the Federal Government shares in the pain of the bereaved families and remains committed to protecting every Nigerian without distinction.


He said the death of the 37 young men in NSCDC custody was a matter of national concern, stressing that every citizen deprived of liberty remains entitled to the protection of the state.


According to him, no allegation should diminish that entitlement, while those responsible must be held accountable through due process.


Shettima said the Federal Government owes the bereaved families justice and answers over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.


While commiserating with the families, the Vice President commended Governor Umaru Bago for his efforts in seeking justice for the victims.


He, however, appealed to the people of Niger State not to politicise the tragedy or demonise the Governor, urging citizens to remain fair to one another at a time of mourning.


Responding, Governor Umaru Bago thanked the Vice President for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and national solidarity with the people of Niger State.


Bago said the State Government’s demand for justice was not an act of vengeance but a moral responsibility to ensure that citizens do not lose their lives in the hands of those entrusted with their protection.


He assured the Federal Government of the state’s cooperation with the investigative team constituted to unravel the circumstances surrounding the deaths, stressing that the people of Niger State deserve answers and the families deserve justice.


Shettima promised that those responsible must be held accountable through due process.


The governor also pledged the state’s support for Federal Government efforts to regulate mining activities and protect national assets, while calling for greater investment in safe, legal and dignified economic opportunities for young Nigerians.


Meanwhile, the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Emmanuel Umar, has thanked the Vice President for the visit, saying his presence demonstrated solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Niger State.


He said the Federal Government’s intervention had renewed the hope of the affected families that their welfare and quest for justice were being taken seriously.


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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the implementation of promotions for 18,984 teaching and non-teaching staff of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) for January and July 2026.


According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday in Kano, the approval follows a request submitted by the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Yusuf Kabir, seeking the release of ₦235,116,339.09 for the implementation of the promotions across the 44 Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs).


In the letter dated 2nd September 2026, SUBEB said the affected staff comprised eligible teaching and non-teaching personnel whose promotions for the January and July 2026 cycles had been processed, including the corresponding salary adjustment calculations.


The Board said timely implementation of promotions was essential to staff motivation, career development, capacity strengthening and improved service delivery within the basic education sector.


It noted that SUBEB, one of the largest public institutions in the state, has approximately 60,000 teaching and non-teaching personnel serving across the 44 LGEAs.


According to the Board, the administration inherited outstanding promotion backlogs, including arrears spanning seven years and another backlog of one-and-a-half years. It said Governor Yusuf had previously approved and ensured the implementation of the outstanding promotions.


SUBEB said the intervention had significantly boosted staff morale, restored confidence in the service and demonstrated the administration’s commitment to the welfare of public servants.


The Board explained that it had completed all necessary arrangements and processes for the January and July 2026 promotions, including staff eligibility verification and salary adjustment computations.


Governor Yusuf has approved the request, which was ratified at the recent State Executive Council, paving the way for the release of the approved funds for the implementation of the promotions.

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Governors Monday Okpebholo of Edo State and Uba Sani of Kaduna State are among prominent Nigerians to be honoured at the 15th edition of the Democracy Heroes Award Africa, scheduled to hold on October 9, 2026.


The awards, organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria projects (FDN Projects), will take place at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, with the theme, “Elevate.”


The two governors are being recognised alongside other individuals for their contributions to good governance and efforts aimed at improving the lives of citizens through impactful policies and development projects.


The Democracy Heroes Award Africa is designed to celebrate Africans who have distinguished themselves through their contributions to the country’s democratic development. 


Over the years, the award has recognised political leaders for initiatives that strengthen democratic values and improve service delivery.


Beyond the political space, the award also honours entrepreneurs, business leaders and entertainers whose contributions to society have supported job creation, youth empowerment, economic growth and poverty reduction.


Speaking on the forthcoming ceremony, Project Director of FDN projects, Olufunsho Ajagbonna, popularly known as Fajag, congratulated the award recipients and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting excellence in public service.


Ajagbonna said the organisation would continue to recognise and encourage individuals who have distinguished themselves through meaningful contributions to society and service to the people.


The 2026 edition is expected to bring together political leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, entertainers, civil society actors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals contributing to Africa’s democratic journey and national development.

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Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi, says the economic reforms and security efforts of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration have made huge impacts in his state and beyond.


The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) governor spoke on Monday when he received Taiwo Oyedele, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, and Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, during their courtesy visit to Bauchi.


Mohammed expressed appreciation to Tinubu, particularly for the federal government’s intervention in tackling insecurity in the state.


“I want to really affirm our gratitude to President Tinubu, especially in the area of security. He has just established two battalions, one in Alkaleri and another one in Tafawa Balewa,” he said.


“The people of Bauchi are very proud of him. When we were almost overrun by bandits, nobody was coming to our aid. I went to him, and he responded in spite of my being in the opposition.


“He sent a high-powered military contingent under the national security adviser, the military services, and all security organisations.


“They really removed all the over 100,000 people who were trying to destroy our peace, and today, all those who were overrun have returned to their places, and they have found this farming season.


“We will never forget this. Tell him we will never forget this goodwill he has done to us.”


The governor also commended the federal government for the newly completed health infrastructure established under the health sector expansion programme in Bauchi.


“Three years ago, this project was flagged off in Bauchi, and we’re in opposition. After Bauchi, it was Oyo state, also an opposition state. That shows the kind of person and pedigree President Tinubu has,” Mohammed said.


Mohammed said opposition governors should acknowledge positive developments by the federal government rather than criticise the administration indiscriminately.


“We don’t always oppose and criticise for the sake of criticising. When we see good things, we say it,” he said.


“The President has done so well in so many aspects, especially in the areas of health and finance, because the states are getting more.”


He said Bauchi was ready to work with the federal government to improve the welfare of residents.


“We are ready to collaborate with the federal government to ensure that at least we improve the quality of life of our people,” Mohammed said.


Responding, Pate said the delegation was in Bauchi to commission the newly completed health projects, which include a radiodiagnostic centre at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital and similar facilities across the country.


TheCable


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An intelligence-led operation by a combined team of troops of the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS) personnel, and Western Nigeria Security Network, aka Amotekun, officers, at the weekend in Owo forest, Ondo State, eliminated a senior leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Abdussamad Ohida.


Security sources said Ohida, aka Anwar, who was on the verge of planning massive terrorist attacks in some southern states, was killed alongside many members of the terrorist organization by the security forces who led a surprise attack on their forest hideout.


According to the sources, the eliminated ISWAP leader previously served as deputy to ISWAP Central Nigeria leader Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais. Ikrimah was arrested by the DSS in 2023.


Following Ikrimah’s arrest, the sources said Ohida assumed leadership of ISWAP activities across parts of the north-central and southern parts of the country, where he subsequently played a key role in the planning, coordination and execution of terrorist operations.


Through the interrogation of Abu Uwais, continued the sources, the DSS was able to gather credible intelligence on plans by Ohida to attack innocent persons during the forthcoming Yuletide.


“The plan was to attack civilians during the festive period and ultimately disrupt the 2027 general elections. This Intelligence was corroborated by intelligence partners from the United Kingdom, who supported the elimination operation,” offered one of the sources.


He said Ohida planned and executed the 31st December 2025 invasion of Ipele Divisional Police Station, Owo, Ondo State, carting away AK-47 rifles before bringing down the station with an explosive. He mentioned the 28 July 2022 Suleja–Zuba Road, Niger State military checkpoint attack in which several soldiers, officers and civilians were killed.


He also blamed Ohida for the July 11, 2022, attack on Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja; the 23rd April, 2022, attack on Ogaminana Police Station, Adavi LGA, Kogi State, which resulted in the death of five police officers; and the February 7, 2022, attack on Okene Area Command police station.


“The terrorist planned and executed the 24th December, 2020 attack on a Naval checkpoint in Okene, Kogi State, which resulted in the death of two naval officers, not to mention the several attacks he launched across parts of the country,” he added.


“We may not immediately realize it, but the elimination of Abdussamad Ohida represents a significant disruption to ISWAP’s leadership structure, operational network and expansion efforts in central and southern Nigeria.


“Ohida’s elimination, coming a few months after the killing of ISIS leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki, is a very big blow to ISWAP’s efforts to expand its operational presence in Nigeria, and underscores the growing efficiency of our security services,” he declared.


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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says more than 103 million Nigerians are now on the national register of voters ahead of the 2027 elections.


INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, announced this on Monday at a strategic workshop for media executives in Abuja.


The workshop, themed ‘Strengthening democracy through partnership among editors, civil society and electoral institutions’, was organised by INEC in collaboration with Development Alternatives Incorporated (DAI) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE).


Amupitan said the commission’s three-phase continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise attracted more than 10.6 million new applicants.


He said the public display of the preliminary register of voters for claims and objections had been completed, while the final automated biometric identification system (ABIS) cleanup of the register had also been concluded.


The INEC chairman said the commission would commence nationwide collection of permanent voter cards (PVCs) on October 9.


He urged eligible citizens who participated in the registration exercise to collect their cards and ensure they are ready to participate in the 2027 elections.


Amupitan said INEC was also committed to continuously improving the bimodal voter accreditation system (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to strengthen the credibility and transparency of elections.


“The ultimate arbiter of electoral integrity is public trust,” he said.


He called for stronger collaboration among INEC, media organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.


Amupitan said the commission was prepared to listen to editorial concerns, address operational challenges and provide timely information to prevent misinformation from filling communication gaps.


He said INEC would provide editors with direct access to verify field incidents, logistical developments and security reports in real time.


The chairman also proposed a sustained editorial feedback mechanism between INEC and the NGE to review the commission’s operational progress and address emerging challenges throughout the 2027 election cycle.


Amupitan said stronger engagement with the media would help ensure that accurate information reaches voters, particularly during periods when electoral activities generate heightened public interest.


Rudolf Elbling, team leader at DAI, said credible elections depended not only on effective electoral administration but also on professional, ethical and fact-based journalism.


Elbling identified electoral integrity, election technology, the security of journalists and voters, and information disorder as some of the major challenges confronting the media ahead of the 2027 elections.


He said journalists had an important role to play in providing voters with accurate information and holding electoral institutions and other stakeholders accountable.


The workshop brought together electoral officials, editors, civil society representatives and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and improve public communication ahead of the 2027 elections.


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The Kano State Police Command has invited a politician, Aminu Abdullahi Warkal for questioning over an alleged unlawful display of a firearm suspected to be a pump-action rifle during what appeared to be a political gathering.


The Police Command said the invitation followed a video clip circulating on social media platforms, which was discovered during its routine cyber patrol and intelligence-led surveillance across the state.


According to a press release signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, the alleged display, if established, could constitute a violation of the provisions of the Firearms Act.


The Command said such an act could also create fear among members of the public, cause intimidation and undermine public peace and security.


The statement said Warkal was invited to the Kano State Police Command Headquarters in Bompai, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, and is currently at the State Intelligence Department (SID), where investigation into the matter is ongoing.


The Police Commissioner warned that the Command would not tolerate acts of lawlessness, thuggery or the display of weapons capable of threatening public peace, regardless of the status of the individuals involved.


He also urged political actors, their supporters and other stakeholders to conduct their activities peacefully and comply with the Electoral Act, Firearms Act and other relevant laws.


The Command called on all political stakeholders to promote peace, tolerance and respect for the rule of law, particularly as political activities intensify.


It reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and security across Kano State before, during and after the political season.


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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 jet near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State and has directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.


This was disclosed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement on Monday.


The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the crash occurred.


According to the statement, the President had extended his deepest condolences to the family of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and all officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.


The statement read in part, “This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten”.


“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.


“I commend the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate Search and Rescue operation following the accident.


“ I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss.”


President Tinubu also assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as “they continue their vital role in securing our nation.


“I also commend the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site,” Tinubu said.


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Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation, says 25 passengers and seven crew members were aboard the military aircraft that crashed in Ondo state.


Statepress had reported that the aircraft crashed close to the naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo on Monday.


The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirmed ownership of the plane, saying it was en route to Lagos from Benin, the Edo state capital.


The aviation minister, in a statement posted on X, said he was informed of the disappearance of the aircraft by air traffic controllers.


“All efforts to raise the aircraft on radio proved abortive,” Keyamo said.


“Subsequently, information however confirmed that the military aircraft has crashed close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State. The wreckage has been located and search and rescue operations are ongoing.


“Preliminary information suggests that there were 25 passengers and 7 crew members on board.


“Whilst the control and regulation of military aircraft are completely outside the authority of the Ministry of Aviation, and Civil Aviation Authority, I have just spoken to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke and pledged our total cooperation and assistance in the search and rescue efforts ongoing.”


The minister added that further information will be provided when available.


Statepress had reported that the crash caused panic among residents of the coastal community on Monday morning.


The aircraft is used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as air maritime operations.


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The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) has urged Nigerian youths to shun political violence, thuggery, drugs and other criminal activities as the country approaches another electioneering campaign season.


The Foundation, in a statement issued in Kaduna on Monday and signed by its Director-General, Engr. Abubakar Gambo Umar FNSE, urged young people to approach the forthcoming campaign period with maturity, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility.


It said the election period was a critical moment that required patriotism, restraint and responsible conduct from all stakeholders, particularly youths who often play prominent roles in political campaigns.


The Foundation cautioned youths against allowing themselves to be used to perpetrate violence or engage in activities capable of threatening peaceful coexistence in the North.


It stressed that political differences should not translate into hostility, urging youths to recognise that supporters of opposing candidates remain fellow citizens.


“Political opponents are not enemies to be fought, insulted or destroyed. They are fellow citizens with different views and a shared commitment to the progress of our nation. Your lives, your education and your future matter far more than any temporary political victory,” the statement noted.


The Foundation also appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during the electioneering period and discourage them from being recruited as political thugs or instruments of violence.


Instead, it urged parents to guide their children towards education, legitimate businesses, skills acquisition and other productive activities capable of securing their future.


Reiterating its concern over the welfare and future of young Nigerians, the Foundation advised youths to stay away from drugs, gangs and criminal activities, stressing that their lives and contributions remained important to their families and communities.


“Your parents need you. Your communities need you. Arewa needs you alive, educated and useful,” the Foundation stated.


The organisation called on Northerners to make peace, order and progress their priorities as the region enters another politically significant period.


It urged all stakeholders, including political actors, parents, community leaders and young people, to exercise restraint and ensure that political participation does not undermine the peace and future of the region.


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A suspected military helicopter has crashed in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with personnel on board feared dead.


The helicopter reportedly crashed on Monday morning in swampy terrain opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda, throwing residents of the coastal community into panic.


The identity of the aircraft and the number of personnel on board had yet to be officially confirmed as of the time of filing this report, although military gear was reportedly recovered from the crash site.


Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Mr Maurice Oripelaye, who confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation with journalists, said the helicopter had been burnt beyond recognition.


“We have confirmed that a helicopter crashed in the area, but we cannot ascertain the number of people that were on board yet. Military gear was found at the scene, but the helicopter had burnt to rubble,” Oripelaye said.


Sources said the aircraft came down in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base, while efforts were ongoing to secure the scene and determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.


Residents and witnesses were said to have gathered around the area as relevant authorities began assessing the crash site.


The helicopter’s origin, destination and nature remained unclear as of press time, while there had been no official statement from the military or other relevant authorities confirming the identity of the aircraft.


The number and identities of those on board also remained unconfirmed, with authorities expected to provide further details as assessment of the crash site continues.


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The Leke Abejide Foundation has commenced the nomination and documentation of beneficiaries for its forthcoming community empowerment programme in Kano State.


The exercise is aimed at identifying deserving widows, vulnerable families, women, youths, artisans, traders and other economically disadvantaged members of the community who require social and economic support.


In a statement issued on Monday, the Programme Coordinator, Hon. Seyi Olorunsola, said the beneficiary identification process was being conducted through community structures and relevant organisations to ensure that qualified persons across the state are given an opportunity to participate.


The foundation urged community leaders, religious organisations, associations and other stakeholders to identify individuals genuinely in need of assistance and ensure that their details are accurately documented and verified.


According to the organisers, the initiative is intended to promote inclusion and provide support to people whose economic circumstances have placed them in vulnerable situations.


Prospective beneficiaries are expected to provide relevant personal and banking details for documentation and verification, with the foundation stressing the need for all information submitted to be accurate and verifiable.


The empowerment programme is scheduled for October 31, 2026, at 10am at the Kano Pillars Stadium, France Road, Sabon Gari, Kano State.


The event is expected to attract Yoruba residents and other community members from the 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State.


The foundation said preparations were ongoing in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure an orderly and peaceful programme.


It also said the event would receive live coverage from national television and local radio platforms, as well as social media and online news platforms.


Olorunsola said the foundation remained committed to ensuring that the empowerment initiative reached genuine beneficiaries.


“Our priority is to ensure that deserving members of our communities are properly identified and given an opportunity to benefit from this empowerment initiative. We are encouraging community leaders and relevant organisations to approach the nomination process with sincerity, fairness and transparency,” the organisers said.


The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to working with community stakeholders towards the successful implementation of the empowerment programme.


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Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has demanded a full account of the ₦11.2 trillion the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) recorded as owed to it by the Federation for advances and costs that include protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.


He said Nigerians deserve to know how much of this enormous claim went to guarding pipelines, who received the money and what protection it bought.


In a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku said: “A mother should not have to pray her child survives the journey to school while her government cannot plainly explain the billions it spends on security. Tinubu must answer to the people living with these choices.”


“NNPC’s 2024 accounts recorded roughly ₦17.5 trillion across different claims on the Federation, including petrol under-recovery and other receivables linked to advances and asset protection. Its 2025 accounts now show approximately ₦11.2 trillion in other receivables from the Federation. Nigerians cannot tell from these totals what was spent on pipeline surveillance. What was paid? Who was paid? For what work? Where are the results?” Atiku asked.


“The scale of this imbalance is indefensible. In 2025, the Ministry of Defence received about ₦3.1 trillion, while NNPC recorded ₦11.2 trillion in other receivables from the Federation—more than three times the defence allocation. These figures belong to different accounting categories, but their contrast is stark: under Tinubu, sums tied to the oil sector dwarf the resources allocated to defend the country. That is a damning measure of this administration’s priorities.


“Think of the soldier sent to confront terrorists. Think of the parent waiting outside a school after hearing that bandits have struck. Think of the family unable to reach a loved one on the highway. They deserve more than one vast figure in NNPC’s accounts. Why can this government explain the need to protect a pipeline, but struggle to assure Nigerians that their own lives will be protected?”


Atiku said the need for answers extends beyond NNPC’s accounts to the relationship between government contractors and Tinubu’s re-election effort.


“Look at the company Tinubu keeps. Tantita holds a pipeline security contract while its founder sends campaign vehicles out to seek another term for the President. The Chagourys’ company holds the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway contract, awarded without an open public tender. Tinubu’s government says it used restricted bidding. Then show us the invitations. Show us the competing bids. Show us the evaluation. Show us the contract. Why must Nigerians drag every document out of a government spending their money?


“And what are Nigerians to make of footage showing the Minister of Works greeting a Chagoury as ‘my chairman’? A minister’s chairman should be the Nigerian people. Tinubu must disclose what these contractors have received from the government and whether they have given a naira, a vehicle or any other support to his re-election. Nigerians will not tighten their belts while the President’s associates collect contracts and the money behind his campaign remains hidden.”


Atiku said a government asking hungry families to make sacrifices must be willing to account for every naira it claims on the public purse.


“The roads are bad. The economy is bad. There is no light. There is no safety. Families are hungry. Yet Tinubu calls this progress. Nigerians are struggling to buy food, praying for electricity and afraid to travel.


“Nigerians have had enough of hardship dressed up as reform. Tinubu made life expensive. I will make Nigeria affordable again. Let this be the last year he asks Nigerians to suffer and applaud. In 2027, we will bring this chapter to an end.”


Atiku concluded by saying rather than empathise with Nigerians over worsening socioeconomic conditions, “Tinubu returned after his four-week stay in Europe which was described by the Presidency as a working vacation and declared: “I enjoyed myself. Fantastic.”


“Asked about his health, he added: ‘Ready to kick, ready to walk.’ These tone-deaf remarks once again exposed his yawning distance from the existential realities Nigerians face.”


DailyTrust

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Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the squad if he wishes, despite walking out on his team-mates, said national team coach Jorge Jesus on Sunday.


Jesus said Ronaldo can come back into the fold “if he wants to” after the team beat Norway without the veteran attacker to reach the Nations League quarter-finals.


The dispute began last week when Jesus left 41-year-old Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal’s first win over Norway. Ronaldo subsequently walked out on the squad on Wednesday after learning he would not start against Denmark.


“For me, Cris, in the next call-up, if he’s playing at Al-Nassr, he’ll be a player who can be called up,” Jesus told reporters, referring to Ronaldo’s Saudi club side. “If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team.”


The coach said if Ronaldo wishes to speak to him before Portugal’s next matches in November, that would happen.


“If he wants to, as we did before this call-up, we talked before the call-up, we can talk before the next call-up,” continued Jesus. “But Cris is the one who’s going to decide.”


Former Real Madrid and Manchester United attacker Ronaldo is Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.


Jesus said he had told Ronaldo he needed him in the squad for his first games at the helm after replacing Roberto Martinez following the 2026 World Cup.


“Cristiano should end his time in the national team the way he wants, he’s the one who will decide how he wants it,” said Jesus.


“That’s how we talked, the two of us — I said, ‘I need you’. In my first call-up, I said, ‘I need you, I need you to be close to me, playing or not playing, I need you’. And now I’m saying the same thing.”


Ronaldo, who made his Portugal debut in 2003 at the age of 18, has said this will “probably” be his final year in football.


The forward has been a fixture of the national team for more than two decades and has played at six World Cups.


In Ronaldo’s absence Portugal became the first team to secure a place in the quarter-finals, with two group games still to play.


Ronaldo’s long-time rival for the title of the world’s best player, Lionel Messi, will play his final match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.

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