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Professionals, entrepreneurs and young leaders in Abuja are set to converge on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the Elevate & Excel 2026 Masterclass, a one-day capacity-building programme organised by Veez Creative Hub Ltd.


The masterclass, themed “Building People, Strengthening Businesses, Transforming Communities,” will hold at the CoreM Assembly, by Lokogoma Junction, Nzube Estate, Abuja, beginning at 10:00 a.m.


The organisers said the programme is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and strategies to advance their careers, grow their businesses and improve their personal effectiveness.


Leading the faculty is Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack, an international broadcast journalist and media executive with Africa Independent Television (AIT), who is also known for her advocacy on gender and inclusion.

She will be joined by Mr. Dan Olufemi Olayinka, an international public speaker, coach and pastor; Engr. Ijeoma Precious Iyeimo, a petroleum engineer, speaker and coach; and Mr. Okeme Ugbede Abraham, a business analytics and business operations management professional.


The faculty was deliberately selected to bring perspectives from different professional fields, including broadcasting, engineering, business strategy and ministry.


The event will be hosted by Amb. Sunmisola Robert, an award-winning bilingual presenter and media and communication professional.


The convener and event coordinator, Lisa Vee Carson, is the Chief Executive Officer of Veez Creative Hub Ltd and founder of Fasbeau by Lisa and Veez Media Studio. She is also a media practitioner and currently serves as National Woman Leader (Ag) of the Action Alliance.


The masterclass will focus on five major areas: leadership development and visionary coaching; business growth strategies for sustainable success; personal development and purpose alignment; media, influence and impact building; and networking with industry professionals.


Organisers said the sessions would emphasise practical learning and expert guidance, giving participants an opportunity to gain useful insights that can be applied to their careers, businesses and personal lives.


The masterclass is seen as an opportunity for participants to learn, build meaningful relationships and gain fresh perspectives in a changing professional and business environment.

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The release of the final list of candidates for the 2027 general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission has heightened the battle for the 109 senatorial seats across the country.


With the publication of the list, political parties and their candidates now have a clearer picture of the contenders for the Senate, setting the stage for a fierce contest for the legislative seats in the February 2027 elections.


The senatorial race is expected to attract prominent politicians, including governors who will serve out their terms in 2027, serving and former lawmakers, political newcomers and other aspirants seeking to influence the composition of the 10th National Assembly.


The final list also formally puts the candidates in the spotlight, with parties expected to intensify their campaigns and mobilisation efforts ahead of the poll.


For Abia North, Kalu Orji Uzor, the current occupant, will contest on the platform of the All Progressives Congress against Okoronkwo Godswill of the African Democratic Congress, Nkole Ndukwe of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and Udeachara Jude of the Peoples Democratic Party.


Abia Central will have Atuma Emeka of the APC, Austine Akobundu of the ADC, Nkechi Nwaogu of the NDC and Ogu Bob of the PDP.


Abia South will parade Ikonne Paul of the APC, Isiguzor Victor of the ADC, Enyinna Michael of the NDC, Onuoha Chinyere of the PDP and Enyinnaya Abaribe of the Labour Party.


For Adamawa North, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri will vie on the platform of the APC, Iya Umar for ADC, Abubakar Rabiu for NDC and Lawan Ribado for the PDP, while Adamawa South will parade Tangwami Bilishan of the APC, Binos Yaroe of the AC, Peter Barata of the NDC and Ahmed Hassan of the PDP.


Adamawa Central has Salihu Mustapha (APC), Ibrahim Mustapha (ADC), Ahmed Abdullahi Musa (NDC) and Attah Mohammed Ibrahim of NDC.


Akwa Ibom North East has Aniekan Etim (APC), Sunday Etim Umoren (ADC), Afia Ekere S (NDC) and Udobang Cletus Kufre (PDP).


Akwa Ibom North West will parade Akpabio Godswill (APC), Akpabio Ibanga Obot (ADC), Inemeh Patty Etete (NDC), while PDP has no candidate.


Akwa Ibom South will feature Akpan Ekong Sampson (APC), Louis Paul Udoh (ADC), Frank Okon Daniel (NDC) and Isong Etim (PDP).


Anambra North has Nnalue Kingsley (APC), Udedibia Sunday Ikenna (ADC), Nwoye Tony Okechukwu (NDC) and Oliatachinenye Edith (PDP); Anambra Central – Ekwunife Uche Lilian (APC) Nwobu Geoffery Ndubuisi (ADC), Umeh Victor (NDC) and Ughamadu Lawrence Chijioke (PDP), while Anambra South has Benson-Oraelosi Maryanne (APC), Anagwu Fredrick Emeka (ADC), Onunkwo Ebuka Josephat (NDC) and Nwosu Ikechukwu Samben (PDP).


In Bauchi South, Governor Bala Mohammed of the Allied People’s Movement, will vie the seat against Shehu Abdullahi of the APC, Garba Dahiru of the ADC, and Dabo Danjuma Adamu of the PDP.


Bauchi Central will parade Misau Isah Hamma (APC), Abdul Ahmed Ningi (ADC), and Aliyu Bello of the PDP, while Bauchi North will have Baba Ibrahim Mohammed (APC) against Suleiman Mohammed Nazif (ADC), and Adamu Abdulkadir of PDP.


In Bayelsa East, Sunny-Golu Israel (APC), Sylva Ngo Nathaniel (ADC), Tekenah Dau Kenny (NDC) and Joseph Ateki Boabofa (PDP) will slug it out, while Benson Friday Konbowei (APC), Aistine Inei Asamaowei (ADC), Okoyareuben Boutuaowei (NDC) and Akinaka Erepamo Richard will slug it out for Bayelsa Central.


In Bayelsa West, the national leader of the NDC, Seriake Dickson will contest against Agbiki Fidelis (APC), Ogola Christopher (ADC), and Ebebi Onduakpo Polycarp (PDP)


Benue North East will have Udende Emmanuel Memga (APC), Tyough Robert Aondona (ADC), and Unongo Thomas Tyolumun (PDP); Benue North West, Zam Titus Tartenger (APC), Tsegba Terngu (ADC), Utaan Conrad Terhide (NDC) and Ortom Eunice Erdoo (PDP), while Benue South will feature Agbo Frances Ottah (APC), Olofu David Adejo (ADC), Onjeh Daniel Donal (NDC) and Moro Abba Patrick (PDP).


For Borno North, Monguno Mohammed Tahir (APC), will slug it with Abdullahi Modu Kura (ADC), Abubakar Tijjani (NDC) and Kareto Mohammed Abdullah (PDP); Lawan Kaka Shehu (APC), Baba Gana Zannah (ADC), Abdulkadir Fema (NDC) and Kyari Alhaji Grema will slug it out at Borno Central, while Ndume Mohammed Ali (APC), Idris Mamman Gatumbwa (ADC), Kwajafailliya Habu (NDC) and Apaguaminu Mallum (PDP), will slug it out in Borno Central.


Cross River North will have Jarigbe Jarigbe Agom (APC), Ugbong Casmir (ADC) and Ake Abuashe Grace (NDC); Cross River Central – Ewa Oden Ibiang (APC), Akin Rickett (ADC), Ewa Bassey Eko (NDC) and John Ifere (PDP), while Cross River South will have Ekpenyong Asuquo (APC), Edet Joseph (ADC), Egwu Egwu Arong (NDC) and Inyang Florence (PDP).


In Delta Central, the current occupant, Dafinone Ede (APC), will contest against Ewhrudjakpor Benjamin (ADC), Omo-Agege Ovie (NDC) and Arhagba Ighogbedjere (PDP);  Delta North – former Governor Okowa Ifeanyi (APC), Ogoliegbune Valentine Chibuzor (ADC), Ochei Victor Onyekachi (NDC) and Ogannah Onyeama Austyn (PDP), while for Delta South, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas Ewomazino (APC), will contest against Adhekpukoli Elo (NDC) and Otuaro Kingley Burutu (PDP).


Ebonyi North parades Nwebonyi Onyeka Peter (APC), Ikeria Chibuike Solomon (ADC), Nwite James (NDC) and Opoke Sunday Andrew (PDP); Ebonyi Central – Eze Kenneth Emeka (APC), Ugo Maginus Kel (ADC), Odoh Benard Ifeanyi (NDC) and Ngwuta Elechi Christopher (PDP) while Ebonyi South will have Ani Anthony Okorie (APC), Silas Joseph Onu (ADC), Ndubuisi Emmanuel (NDC) and Nwachi Maria Ude (PDP).


Edo North will have former governor and current occupant, Adams Oshiomhole (APC) against Aruna Abubakari (ADC), Oisamoje Maria Evuarherhe (NDC) and Momoh-Dejih Bashir Eugine; Edo Central – Ikpea Joseph (APC), Okonofua Herberta (ADC), Inemezele Ikpea Igiagbe Joseph (NDC) and Edo South –


Ogbeide-Ihama Omoregie (APC), Iduoriyekemwen Matthew Aigbuhuenze (ADC), Epelle-Asemota Bridgitte (NDC) and Ojediamen Benjamin Ehichioya (PDP).


For Ekiti North, Oguntoye Ayobami Samuel (APC), will contest with Ayeni Funso (ADC), Oguntoye Ayobami (NDC); Ekiti Central has the current Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (APC) against Akinyemi Victor (ADC), Omolayotaiwo Oluwagbenga (NDC) and Fatuyi-Olajuyigbe Monica Adesola (PDP), while Ekiti South has the Senate Spokesman, Adaramodu Adeyemi (APC) against Kolawole Job Nathaniel (ADC) and Ayeni Oye Olabisi (PDP).


Enugu East has Chukwu Kelvin (APC), Idoko Mechika (ADC), Asadu Patrick (NDC) and Ukwueke Kingsley; Enugu West – Ngwu Osita (APC), Ani Juliet Nkechi (ADC), Eneh Kingsley (NDC) and Amadi Dennis (PDP); Enugu North – Asogwa Ikeje Israel (APC), Chika Idoko Emmanuel (ADC), Asadu Patrick Oziokoja (NDC) and Ezeme Nestor Chika (PDP).


Federal Capital Territory has Philip Aduda (APC) against Ireti Kingibe (ADC), Austen Peters-Pam Amanda (NDC) and Angulu Bako (PDP).


Gombe North has Governor Yahaya Muhammed Inuwa (APC), Mustapha Mohammed Aliyu (ADC), Mohammed Dukku (NDC) and Dankwambo Ibrahim Hassan (PDP); Gombe Central – Mohammed Ahmed (APC), Idris Audu Umar (ADC), Kabiru Mohammed (NDC) and Hammadu Aliyu, while Gombe South has Hamma Tabitha (APC), Mela Audu Nunghe (ADC), Amos Bulus Kilawangs (NDC) and Siyako Anthony Yaro (PDP).


Imo East has Uzodinma Ezebuihe Anayochukwu (APC), Ofoegbu Uchenna Daniel (ADC), Onyeagocha Uchechukwu (NDC) and Madume Prince Eze (PDP); Imo West – Governor Uzodimma Goodhope (APC), Iwuchukwu Vincent (ADC), Nwogu Nze Ndieze (NDC) and Onyereri Chukwudi Victor (PDP), while Imo North has Ndubueze Patrick (APC), Ibekwe Nkiru (ADC), Omegara Mathew (NDC) and Ejiogu Micheal Duru (PDP).


Jigawa South-West has Ibraheem Sani Garba (APC), Ahmed Isah Dutse (ADC), Aminu Mustapha (NDC) and Suleiman Abba (PDP); Jigawa North-East, Madori Ahmed Abdulhamid Malam Ali (APC), Muhammad Ubali Shitu (ADC) and Salisu Mamuda (PDP), while Jigawa North-West has Hussaini Babangida Uba (APC), Ahmed Mahmud Gumel (ADC), Sabo Salisu (NDC) and Abdullahi Aminu Taura (PDP).


Kaduna North has Yero Mukhtar Ramalan (APC), Khalid Ibrahim Mustapha (ADC), Sha’aban Mohammad Turad (NDC) and Ahmed Abdullahi Zubairu (PDP), Kaduna Central – Sani Shehu (APC), Lawal Adamu Usman (ADC), Adamu Haruna (NDC) and Ibrahim Usman (PDP) and Kaduna South, Marshall Sunday Katung (APC),  Godfrey Ali Gaiya (ADC) and Gumbari Joseph Mataimaki (PDP).


For Kano Central, Shekarau Ibrahim (APC) will contest against Samaila Abdullahi Mukhtar (ADC), Yusuf Nasiru Gawuna (NDC) and Sankara Nafiu Danladi; Kano North – Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin (APC), Saleh Shehu Kudawa (ADC), Usman Sunusi Danbatta (NDC) and Sagir Abdulkadir Ahmad (PDP); Kano South has Kawu Suleiman Abdurrahaman (APC), Baba Aminu Zubair (ADC), Ibrahim Kassim Bataiya (NDC) and Isa Umar Sambo (PDP).


Katsina North has Yahaya Nasir (APC), Lawal Sani (ADC), Yahaya Aminu (NDC) and Daura Umar Dauda (PDP); Katsina Central – Abubakar Sadiq Yar’Adua (APC), Lawal Sani (ADC), and Abdulaziz Amina Lawal Rafindadi (PDP); Katsina South has Dandutse Muntari Mohammed (APC), Lawal Umar (ADC), Hussain Ishaq Suleim (NDC) and Bawa Rabiu (PDP).


Kebbi North – Adamu Muhammad Aliero (APC), Mera Ibrahim Mohammed (ADC), Abdurrahaman Aliyu (NDC) and Mukhtar Mohammed Tafarki (PDP); Kebbi Central, Adamu Mohammed Aliero (APC), Aminu Bande (ADC), Umar Yarotela (NDC) and Andarai Haruna Saidu (PDP) and Kebbi South, Muhammed Ja’afaru Ngaski (APC), Maidoki Garba Musa (ADC), Hassan Mustapha (NDC) and Abubakar Hamza (PDP).


For Kogi Central, former Governor Bello Yahaya (APC), while contest against Ogembe Salau Ahmed (ADC), Salau Muritala Audu (NDC) and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP); Kogi East – Ameh Erico Joseph (APC), Abubakar Aminu Suleiman (ADC), Ameh Peter Ojonugwa (NDC) and Muhammed Abdullahi (PDP) and Kogi West – Karimi Sunday (APC), Musa Ibrahim Ahmadu (ADC), Fatosa Olumuyiwa Adedokun (NDC) and Yusuf Ayo Tajudeen (PDP).


Kwara Central has Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (APC) against Abdulahi Risikat Motunrayo (ADC), Suleiman Abdulrasheed Olufemi Omoda (NDC) and Saliu Mustapha (PDP); Kwara North – Umar Sadiq (APC), Bala Taoheed Usman (ADC), Gana Thomas Audu (NDC) and Kolo Baba Jiya (PDP) and Kwara South, Adewoye Olalekan (APC), Oyedepo Iyiola (ADC), Oni Samuel Omoniyi (NDC) and Popoola Adekeye Lekan Saheed (PDP).


Lagos Central has Sanni Eshilokun Wasiu (APC) against Abayomi Idowu Omotayo (ADC), Johnson Lawrence Adeniyi Oladipupo (NDC) and Dakova-Vaughan Kolawole David (PDP); Lagos East – Abiru Adetokunbo Mukhail (APC), Moshood Babatunde Olanrewaju (ADC), Adebanjo Adeola Damilola (NDC) and Adeniji Victoria (PDP) an Lagos West – Adebule Idiat Oluranti (APC), Bello Owolabi Hafis (ADC), Salvador Adegoke Moshood (NDC) and Phillips Adebiyi Abiodun (PDP).


Nasarawa North has Governor Sule Abdullahi (APC), Victor Affiku Tsaku (ADC), Danladi James (NDC) and Madaki Benbella Anthony (PDP); Nasarawa West – Haruna Dauda (APC), Umar Musa Galadima (ADC), Adamu Auta Umar Farouq (NDC) and Kaura Danlami Kefas (PDP) and Nasarawa South – Abdul Ibrahim Baba (APC), Hassan Abubakar Nalaraba (ADC), Baba Ayinwulu (NDC) and Agbo-Omeri Mike (PDP).


Niger East has Musa Mohammed Sani (APC), Ahmed Mohammed Mukhtar (ADC), Bawa John Agmada (NDC); Niger North – Bello Abubakar Sani (APC), Abdullahi Shehu Mohammed (ADC), Bawa Joshua Nuhu (NDC) and Abdullahi Yahaya (PDP) and Niger South – Idris Mohammed Sani (APC), Umar Danjuma Emimaru (ADC), Sadiq Mohammed Rabiu (NDC) and Jiya Peter Ndalikali (PDP).


Ogun Central has Salisu Shuaibu Afolabi (APC), Samuel Oluwafemi Abiodun-Oni (ADC), George-Taylor Oluwadurotimi (NDC) and Obasanjo Iyabo (PDP); Ogun East – Governor Abiodun Adedapo Olusegun (APC), Adebanjo Babatunde Olalekan (ADC), Shokoya Adewale Oluwasegun (NDC) and Omotayo Oluwafemi Abdulhameed (PDP) and Ogun West – Ojugbele Jimo Olusola (APC), Olanrewaju Abdul-Lateef Ajani (ADC), Abioro Itunu (NDC) and Ogunola Babatunde (PDP).


Ondo North has Ipinsagba Olajide Emmanuel (APC), Foluso Mayowa Felix Adefemi (ADC), Daodu Babatunde (NDC) and Adenekan Olateru Olagbegi (PDP); Ondo Central – Adegbonmire Adeniyi Ayodele (APC), Akinyelure Patrick Ayo (ADC), Falaiye Olugbenga (NDC) and Ondo South- Kekemeke Duerimini Isaacs (APC), Tofowomo Gbadamosi Tola (ADC), Nejo Myson Adeyemi (NDC) and Oyerinmade Mathew Oye (PDP)


Osun Central – Adegoke Rasheed Adekunle (APC), Olaoye Akeem (ADC), Oduyemi Morenikeji Nathaniel (NDC), Fadeyi Olubiyi Oluwole (PDP) and Ganiyu Ayobami Olaoluwa (Accord); Osun East – Fadahunsi Francis Adenigba (APC), Babatunde Olaniyi Loye (ADC), Derin-Ologbenla Charles Adewale (NDC) and Fadipe Ibukun Isola (Accord); Osun West – Ogunbiyi Akinade Akanmu (APC), Oriolowo Adelere (ADC), Ayoola Alaba (NDC and Oyewumi Kamorudeen Olalere (Accord).


Oyo Central has Akintunde Yunus Abiodun (APC), Kamil Akinlabi (ADC), Salawu Akeem (NDC), Olunloyo Ayobami (PDP) and Olufemi Ajadi (APM); Oyo North – Ogunesan Hannah Olawumi (APC), Agoro Lanre Adehirah (ADC), Ojekunle Abigail Olanike (NDC), Adeoye Beulah Olufemi (PDP) and Sina Peller (APM); Oyo South – Oseni Abasi Aderemi (APC), Lukman Adeola Adetunji (ADC), Abdulateef Gbolagade (NDC), Adeleke Kehinde Saheed (PDP) and Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide (APM).


Plateau North has Mwadkwon Simon Davou (APC), Rose Bitrus Mwanti (ADC), Bature Musa Jonathan (NDC) and Gwottson Dalyop; Plateau Central, Kasuwa Bitrus David (APC), Yusuf Bello (ADC), Yusuf Ishaku (NDC) and Goliath Timothy (PDP); Plateau South – Lalong Simon Bako (APC), Solomon Selcap Dalung (ADC), Kefas Peter Dandam (NDC) and Shekarau Johnbull (PDP).


Rivers East has Onyesoh Allwell Iheacho (APC), Agwor Samuel Ndubuisi (ADC), Okwuwolu Wolu Benjamin (NDC) and Anele Akor Wisdom (PDP), Rivers South-East – Osarosaka Ebenezer Erewari (APC), Ikuru Tele Betram (ADC), Abiante Awaji-Inombek (NDC) and Nwogu Olaka (PDP); Rivers West – Obuah Amechi Felix (APC), Otto Josiah (ADC), Ogbobula Isaac (NDC) and Job Vincent (PDP).


Sokoto North has Wamakko Aliyu Magatakarda (APC), Maishinko Mani Katami (ADC), Abubakar Mainasara Sani (NDC) and Maccido Ahmed (PDP); Sokoto East – Tukur Muhammad (APC), Hassan Muhammad (ADC), Ummar Maisalati (NDC) and Umar Abubakar (PDP) and Sokoto South – Abdullahi Ibrahim Danbaba (APC),  Yabo Faruk Malami (ADC), Tanimu Bodinga (NDC) and Yusuf Dahiru (PDP).


Taraba North – Lau Shuaibu Isa (APC), Maigari Kasimu Bello (ADC), Bandawa Anfani (NDC) and Bubajoda Hilkiah (PDP); Taraba Central – Manu Haruna (APC), Ahmadu Benni Umaru Salim (ADC), Nyan-Ganji Gilbert Gills (NDC) and Iliyasu Goje (PDP); Taraba South – Aliyu Yusuf (APC), Afiniki Yarima (ADC), Ezekiel Yakubu Ambo (NDC) and Istifanus Musa (PDP).


Yobe North – Lawan Ahmad Ibrahim (APC), Imamuddeen Ahmad Abubakar Talba (ADC), Abubakar Chigari (PDP); Yobe East – Governor Buni Mai Mala (APC), Kale Kawu (ADC), and Mustapha Maigoro (PDP); Yobe South – Bomai Ibrahim Mohammed (APC), Gambo Jajere Baba (ADC), Hassan Mohammed (NDC) and Hamma Ibrahim Barde (PDP).


Zamfara North has Sahabi Ya’u (APC), Shehu Rafi (ADC), Nasiru Garba (NDC) and Musa Hanafi Moriki (PDP); Zamfara Central – Bilbis Ikra Aliyu (APC), Abubakar Atiku Sale (ADC), Ibrahim Sanusi (NDC), Bala Sanusi (PDP) and Zamfara West – Abdulaziz Yari (APC), Ibrahim Mikailu Barau (ADC), Abdullahi Hassan Anka (NDC) and Lawal Faru (PDP).


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Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, says the projects and reforms implemented by his administration will be the strongest basis for his re-election bid in 2027.


Alia, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, in a statement issued on Sunday, said he remained focused on delivering good governance despite what he described as distractions from opposition politicians.


The governor pointed to his administration’s efforts to attract major investments into the state, citing the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Hudson Global Ltd for a proposed $5 billion investment.


According to him, the investment is part of broader efforts to reposition Benue’s economy, create opportunities and strengthen the state’s capacity for sustainable development.


Alia also listed the construction and rehabilitation of rural and urban roads, regular payment of salaries and gratuities, improved workers’ welfare, support for senior citizens and the establishment of the Food Basket Bakery among the achievements of his administration.


He said the growing interest in Benue’s economic potential was evidence that his government’s policies were beginning to yield results.


“The growing confidence in Benue’s economic prospects is not accidental.


“Just a few days ago, the state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hudson Global Ltd to attract a $5bn investment aimed at transforming Benue’s economic landscape.


“The difference is also visible in the everyday lives of the people. The construction of rural and urban roads, consistent payment of salaries and gratuities, and the establishment of the Food Basket Bakery are among the achievements that cannot be hidden,” the statement quoted Alia as saying.


The governor urged opposition figures to desist from what he described as political distractions and allow his administration to concentrate on governance and development.


He further claimed that his administration had strengthened accountability and transparency in the management of public resources, noting that the state had received certifications and recognition from international audit firms.


Alia also said his government had restored Benue to creditworthy status and created what he described as a safer and more credible environment for investors.


With 2027 approaching, the governor maintained that the impact of his administration’s projects and policies would ultimately determine how the people judge his performance at the polls.


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The Federal Government plans to submit the 2027 budget proposal to the National Assembly in September, in an attempt to advance the budget cycle amid persistent implementation challenges and overlapping fiscal years.


The plan is contained in the Federal Government of Nigeria 2027 Personnel Costs Budget Call Circular dated September 4, 2026 and signed by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu.


The document, obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday from the website of the Budget Office of the Federation, provides guidelines for ministries, departments and agencies preparing and submitting their personnel cost proposals for the 2027 fiscal year.


The Budget Office disclosed that the draft 2027-2029 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper had been concluded since July to facilitate the early presentation of the spending plan.


“As you are aware, the 2027-2029 draft Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper was concluded by July 2026 in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 to facilitate the submission of 2027 Budget to the National Assembly by September 2026,” the Budget Office said.


Although the circular did not provide a specific presentation date, the timetable indicates that the government intends to send the spending plan to lawmakers about three months before the beginning of the 2027 fiscal year.


Nigeria’s budgets have faced persistent implementation challenges, with overlapping fiscal cycles becoming a recurring feature since 2024.


The Federal Government earlier partly blamed budget underperformance on conflicting macroeconomic projections by agencies responsible for fiscal and monetary policy, prompting the Economic Management Team to establish a committee to harmonise key assumptions used for budgeting and economic planning.


Following findings from a joint budget retreat and technical validation workshop, the government said differences in projections for crude oil prices and production, exchange rates, inflation and non-oil revenues had created inconsistencies in budget planning and contributed to actual fiscal outcomes falling short of expectations.


The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said harmonising the assumptions should reduce discrepancies between budget expectations and actual economic outcomes.


Ahead of the September target, the Budget Office has fixed 4pm on Friday, September 18, 2026, as the deadline for MDAs to submit hard and soft copies of their 2027 personnel budget proposals and accompanying information.


The circular also introduced a new requirement compelling MDAs to submit the laws establishing them alongside their budget proposals, following the controversy over the inclusion of a fake agency in the 2026 budget.


The Budget Office said, “To further strengthen the budget preparation process and mitigate against any entry of unestablished agencies in the FGN Budget, it has become compulsory for MDAs to submit budget proposals along with their respective Establishment Acts as failure to do so, may lead to rejection.”


The directive follows the fake agency scandal involving the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, which was allocated about N1.3bn in the 2026 budget despite questions about its legal existence.


The House of Representatives launched an investigation into the matter and moved to verify agencies contained in recent federal budgets against the laws establishing them.


The controversy also prompted President Bola Tinubu to order a forensic investigation into government processes and internal controls surrounding the inclusion of questionable agencies in the budget.


The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission subsequently uncovered two additional fake government agencies linked to Adeniyi Adeyemi, the self-proclaimed Director-General of the PFIPC, as investigations into the alleged fraud deepened.


While briefing State House correspondents after presenting the commission’s interim investigation report to Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, said investigators established that Adeyemi was never appointed by the Federal Government.


The commission also found that the PFIPC had no legal backing, having neither been established by an Act of the National Assembly nor an executive order.


According to the interim findings, the appointment letter used by Adeyemi was forged, while the fake PFIPC unlawfully took over the offices and official instruments previously used by the defunct Presidential Economic Advisory Council.


The ICPC recommended the prosecution of Adeyemi, disciplinary action against public officials alleged to have aided the operation of the fake agency, and reforms to strengthen internal controls across government institutions.


According to the report, officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Budget Office of the Federation and National Information Technology Development Agency were identified as collaborators in the scheme.


Aliyu also said the commission uncovered the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office operating within the OSGF.


He said the office had been illegally allocated space within the OSGF premises, contrary to extant laws and without presidential authorisation.


The ICPC identified George Buchi Nwabueze as its promoter and said he operated under several variations of his name, including George Nathan, George Nathan Nwabueze, Honourable George Buchi Nwabueze, Prince George Buchi Nwabueze and George Nwabueze.


The commission also said there were suspected collaborators within the OSGF.


Following the briefing, Tinubu ordered the immediate arrest of Nwabueze and the suspension of three permanent secretaries, M.S. Danjuma, Nadungu Gagare and Richard P. Pheelangwah.


Amnesty International earlier described the development as a reflection of weaknesses in Nigeria’s governance institutions and called for an independent panel of inquiry to establish what transpired.


Speaking with The PUNCH, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, said the controversy showed how deeply institutional weaknesses had affected governance in the country.


“The incident of the fake government agency is an indictment of the Nigerian government. It is a practical indication of the rampant corruption within and around government agencies. The fact that such a scam can happen is an indication of how weak government institutions are,” Sanusi said.


Beyond requiring MDAs to prove their legal existence, the Budget Office introduced tighter controls over personnel expenditure, recruitment and payroll management for the 2027 fiscal year.


It warned MDAs against making salary and allowance provisions for people who are not legitimate Federal Government employees.


“MDAs should note that payment of salaries and allowances are for legitimate employees of the FGN only. Any unauthorised payments from the personnel costs budget will attract appropriate sanctions,” the circular stated.


MDAs were consequently directed to validate their payrolls against information obtained from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System and the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System.


The circular said no personnel cost provision would be made in the 2027 budget for any serving Federal Government employee who is not captured on IPPIS or enrolled on GIFMIS, unless specifically exempted by the appropriate authority.


MDAs must also use only salary structures and allowances approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and verify the grade levels and steps of their employees, including provisions for annual increments.


The government also barred MDAs from budgeting for anticipated promotions. Only promotions already approved and in effect are to be reflected in the 2027 personnel budget.


According to the circular, provisions for promotions taking effect during 2027 will instead be made centrally under the Payment for Promotion and Salary Arrears in the Service-Wide Vote.


It further directed MDAs to retain newly promoted officers on their budgeted grade levels and steps throughout the year once the personnel budget has been finalised, with promotions during 2027 to be reflected when preparing the 2028 personnel budget.


Similarly, the salary pay point of an officer transferred or posted after the conclusion of the 2027 personnel budget will remain with the MDA where the employee’s personnel cost was originally provided until the 2028 budget is prepared.


For new recruitment, MDAs must provide supporting documents, including financial clearance, letters of first appointment and relevant recruitment waivers or clearances.


The Budget Office warned that it would not entertain claims for salary shortfalls or payroll lock-outs resulting from unauthorised recruitment.


Consultants, contract staff, youth corps members, industrial attaches, outsourced service providers and legionnaires are also prohibited from being included in MDA nominal rolls because they are not permanent or pensionable Federal Government employees.


Non-executive board members are similarly excluded, with their allowances and fees to be provided under the overhead costs of the respective MDAs.


Allowances for youth corps members will be provided centrally under the budget of the National Youth Service Corps, while MDAs may only pay additional allowances to corps members from their overhead provisions.


Additional controls were introduced for the health and education sectors, particularly over outsourced workers, interns and consultants.


“The staff of outsourced service providers must not be included in the nominal roll. Inclusion of staff of outsourced service providers in MDAs payroll will henceforth be regarded as willful fraudulent action, and shall be reported to relevant authorities accordingly,” the circular warned.


The Budget Office also prohibited the multiple capture of the same consultant or lecturer on the nominal rolls of different federal health and educational institutions.


Where duplication is discovered, the individual will be removed from the payrolls of institutions other than the person’s primary place of employment.


Federal health institutions were instructed to comply with approved ceilings and quotas for interns and honorary consultants, while registration or licence numbers of interns must be provided for authentication before they can be admitted into the budget.


The recruitment, deployment, administration and budgetary provisions for house officers and nursing interns will also be handled centrally by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, respectively.


Hospitals that directly recruit or post house officers and nursing interns without recourse to the councils will be liable for unauthorised recruitment, with sanctions to be applied to the chief medical director or medical director.


The circular also introduced measures to improve personnel expenditure monitoring.


The Budget Office said it would deploy a centralised Personnel Cost Monitoring Dashboard linked to IPPIS and GIFMIS, enabling MDAs to compare actual expenditure with budget provisions in real time.


Requests for salary and promotion arrears will be processed quarterly by a standing committee domiciled in the Budget Office, while a Payroll Discrepancy Resolution Committee will meet monthly to address differences between information submitted by MDAs and records on IPPIS and GIFMIS.


MDAs were also directed to constitute joint human resources and budget personnel cost teams to improve coordination between staffing decisions and budget submissions.


The circular requires all MDAs to submit their third-quarter personnel budget performance review reports by September 30, 2026, to guide future personnel planning.


It also instructed them to make provisions for nutrition-related projects and programmes as well as Early Childhood Development programmes, while monitoring actual personnel costs throughout the implementation of the 2027 budget and reporting discrepancies to the Budget Office.


Ministers or chief executives and accounting officers are also required to initial every page of the hard copies of their 2027 personnel budget proposals and additional information templates and certify the accuracy of the information submitted.


PUNCH


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The academic and service credentials of the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, have come under fresh legal scrutiny following three separate suits filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja.


The suits, instituted by a Labour Party chieftain, Abayomi Arabambi, seek to compel the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to release official records relating to certificates allegedly issued to Obi.


Arabambi, through his legal team led by Anderson Asemota, is seeking orders of mandamus compelling the institutions to provide records requested under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, 2011.


The plaintiff stressed that he was not asking the court to determine whether the certificates submitted by Obi to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 presidential election were genuine or forged.


Rather, he wants access to the institutions’ original records to establish what their official databases and registers disclose about the certificates.


The suit against WAEC, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2064/2026, and the NYSC case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2063/2026, were filed on September 1, 2026, while the suit against UNN, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2144/2026, was filed on September 9.


In the WAEC case, Arabambi is asking the court to compel the examination body to release a Certified True Copy of WAEC Certificate No. SC042560, reportedly issued to Obi Gregory Onwubuase in June 1978.


He also wants UNN to provide its certificate register, academic and graduation records, Senate or degree-award records, and other relevant official documents relating to Certificate No. D000198, where such records exist.


According to the plaintiff, the purpose of the request is to establish what UNN’s own records reveal about the certificate, rather than to ask the court to pronounce on its authenticity.


The NYSC suit similarly seeks access to records concerning NYSC Certificate No. 203495, which is stated to have been issued to Obi, identified in the relevant records as Gregory Peter-Onwubuase, on May 1, 1986.


Arabambi is also asking for any official documents or records upon which the NYSC certificate was based or issued, as well as information concerning the appearance of the name “Peter-Onwubuase” in the organisation’s records.


Court documents showed that Arabambi had separately written to WAEC, UNN and NYSC requesting information on the certificates.


While WAEC reportedly declined his request in a letter dated August 11, 2026, citing Sections 14(1)(a) and 14(2)(a) and (b) of the Freedom of Information Act, UNN and NYSC allegedly neither provided the requested information nor gave reasons for their refusal.


Arabambi subsequently approached the court, arguing that the information sought was in the public interest, particularly in relation to transparency and accountability concerning individuals seeking elective public office.


Among other reliefs, he is asking the court to declare that the refusal to provide the requested information was erroneous and that his requests under the FOI Act were valid.


He is also seeking an order compelling the institutions to disclose the outcome of any verification of the certificates against their official records.


Another relief seeks an order requiring the respondents, where they claim any portion of the requested information is exempt from disclosure, to identify the specific information withheld, state the statutory provision relied upon, and release any severable portion that is not exempt.


The plaintiff is further asking the court to invoke Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act where it finds that the institutions are not authorised to deny access, lack reasonable grounds for doing so, or where the public interest in disclosure outweighs the interest served by withholding the information.


No date has yet been fixed for the hearing of the suits.


The cases are now expected to test the extent to which public institutions can be compelled under Nigeria’s FOI framework to disclose records relating to the credentials of political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.


VANGAURD


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Nigerian dancer and entertainer, Poco Lee, has spoken for the first time since his release on bail in the United Kingdom, saying he remained mentally strong throughout the ordeal because he knew he was innocent of the allegation against him.


Poco Lee made the disclosure during a video call with social commentator VeryDarkMan, which was shared on Sunday.


The dancer said his major concern while he was away was the welfare of his associates and the impact of his absence on their business activities.


“I was just being myself. God sees my heart. My only worries were about my people. Jago could not do anything business, and I didn’t want to stress anyone.


“If I was inside there and I did what I was accused of, I would have felt I was paying for my sins, but since I knew I didn’t do what I was accused of, my mind is pure.


“Nobody would have wanted to associate themselves with something like that, but Burna Boy stood by me, Jago and some of my other guys.”


VeryDarkMan, who shared the video call on social media, also questioned reports surrounding Poco Lee’s situation while praising Burna Boy and Rahman Jago for their support.


In the caption accompanying the video, VeryDarkMan wrote: “I just got off a video call with @rahman_jago_ and @poco_lee. I guess the next narrative will be this is AI 🤡. THERE IS A REASON WHY I BRAG WITH INTEGRITY, I AM NOBODY’S mate, WHEN I talk take it to the bank.”


Recall that Snaresbrook Crown Court had earlier fixed September 15 for plea and trial preparation in the case.


The case stems from Poco Lee’s visit to the UK in August for the Davido and Friends concert, which was held at the Crystal Palace Bowl in London on August 14.


Poco Lee has not been convicted of any offence, while the allegation against him remains before the court for determination.


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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unveiled 600 pharmacists to strengthen drug regulation nationwide.


The initiative is part of efforts to combat substandard and falsified medicines, unwholesome food, and other public health risks across Nigeria and its communities


The agency’s Resident Media Consultant, Mr Olusayo Akintola, said this in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, quoting Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye on the initiative’s objectives and implementation of nationwide efforts.


Adeyeye said the 600 qualified and service-ready pharmacists were drawn from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, following a transparent selection process based on merit, availability, and geographical representation.


She urged the pharmacists, while administering their oath of allegiance, to serve Nigeria with integrity beyond negotiation, warning that they would face pressures and inducements designed to compromise their regulatory responsibilities.


“Once a regulator is bought, the public loses its protection,” she said.


Adeyeye said the pharmacists had pursued careers in different fields before joining the programme, while their selection reflected a deliberate effort to strengthen regulatory capacity across Nigeria’s diverse communities and regions.


She described the Pharmacists Regulatory Volunteers Programme (PRVP) as more than an internship or attachment, calling it an investment in people, professional development, stronger national regulatory capacity, and public protection.


“The volunteers will receive training in medicines regulation, including pharmacovigilance, compliance monitoring, quality assurance, data collection, public sensitisation against drug abuse, and practical measures protecting Nigerians from dangerous products and counterfeits.”


Adeyeye said the volunteers would also learn what it meant to stand between Nigerians and substandard, falsified, or dangerous products, while developing practical skills needed for effective regulatory interventions.


She explained that the programme would build a national reserve of trained pharmacists who could be mobilised during product recalls, suspected circulation of falsified medicines, public health emergencies, and other urgent regulatory situations.


Adeyeye said her ambition was for every state to have a standing pool of trained, vetted, and mobilisable pharmacists working alongside NAFDAC state offices to strengthen surveillance and regulatory activities.


She said the initiative would extend NAFDAC’s regulatory presence beyond laboratories and ports of entry to markets, community pharmacies, patent medicine stores, and primary healthcare centres nationwide.


“Regulation that lives only in the capital cannot protect a nation of more than 200 million people.


“This programme is aimed at taking regulation to the doorstep of the Nigerian people,” she said.


Adeyeye urged the volunteers to remain available and disciplined, stressing that they must respond promptly whenever called for assignments and ensure every responsibility assigned to them was properly completed.


She also emphasised confidentiality, saying information obtained during inspections and investigations belonged to NAFDAC and the Nigerian people, rather than social media platforms or unauthorised individuals seeking sensitive regulatory information.


“Fourth, a learning posture: ask questions, read the guidelines, take your training seriously and document your work properly.


“You must have respect for the communities you are serving. You will enter markets, pharmacies and health facilities as ambassadors of NAFDAC and the pharmacy profession.


“Conduct yourselves accordingly,” she said.


The D-G said the programme would provide hands-on regulatory experience covering pharmacovigilance reporting, laboratory awareness, risk communication, enforcement procedures, surveillance, and other essential activities supporting effective medicine regulation nationwide.


She said the volunteers would be trained and mentored by professionals with decades of experience in regulatory practice, helping them acquire practical knowledge while developing competence for future professional responsibilities.


Adeyeye added that their services would be formally documented through certification and letters of service, strengthening their credentials before employers, licensing bodies, and postgraduate institutions while supporting professional development.


She said the volunteers would also build a national professional network across the 36 states and FCT, adding that the experience could support career advancement within regulatory and pharmaceutical sectors.


The D-G urged directors and state coordinators to take ownership of the volunteers, mentor them effectively, and deploy them meaningfully to strengthen regulatory activities and public health protection nationwide.


“To our 600 volunteers: you carry today not just a certificate of enrolment, but a pledge to serve with integrity, to represent NAFDAC and your profession with honour.


“You must place the safety of the Nigerian public above every other consideration,” she said.


The statement also quoted the Programme Coordinator and Director, Narcotics and Controlled Substances (NCS), Dr Momodu Rametu, as saying the initiative began with an expression of interest and evolved into a national pool of 600 pharmacists.


Rametu said the volunteers were drawn from all states of the federation and the FCT, describing the PRVP as an organised backup system for emergency response and supplemental regulatory support.


He said the initiative would increase citizen participation in regulation, particularly through post-marketing surveillance, drug-demand reduction campaigns, and community-level efforts against unsafe pharmaceutical practices nationwide.


Similarly, the Coordinator, NAFDAC Training School, Dr Tunde Sigbeku, said his role was to impart knowledge as the foundation of capacity, efficiency, professionalism, and effective regulatory performance across the agency’s operations nationwide.


He described the volunteer role as a call to service and responsibility, requiring devotion, determination, discipline, integrity, and commitment to protecting Nigerians from unsafe medicines and other harmful products.


“In the online training school, we will give you details of how NAFDAC operates.


“We will share with you activities on post-market surveillance, pharmacovigilance, prevention of antimicrobial resistance, inspection and enforcement, and narcotics and controlled substances,” Sigbeku said.


He said the training would also cover drug abuse and its societal impact, adding that volunteers would support surveillance, intelligence gathering, research, and other regulatory activities designed to protect public health.


Sigbeku congratulated Adeyeye on the initiative, describing it as the first time NAFDAC would have a national reserve of personnel supporting efforts against fake, substandard, falsified, and dangerous pharmaceutical products across Nigeria. (NAN)

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Nigeria’s Falconets have reached the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after thrashing New Caledonia 10-1 in their final Group F match in Poland on Sunday.


The emphatic victory took Nigeria to four points from three matches, enough to secure second place in the group behind Spain and advance to the Round of 16.


Ramotalahi Kareem and substitute Winner David scored hat-tricks for Nigeria, while Rebecca Adegbemile netted twice. Seimeyeha Akekoromowei and Tosin Rafiu also got on the scoresheet.


Kareem opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 17th minute before Adegbemile doubled Nigeria’s lead two minutes later.


Akekoromowei made it 3-0 in the 23rd minute, with Kareem adding her second four minutes later as Nigeria went into half-time with a 4-0 lead.


David, introduced at the start of the second half, scored Nigeria’s fifth in the 60th minute before Kareem completed her hat-trick four minutes later.


Rafiu added the seventh in the 70th minute, while Adegbemile scored her second seven minutes later.


David then struck twice in the final 15 minutes to complete her hat-trick and put Nigeria 10-0 ahead.


New Caledonia scored a consolation goal through Joceline Kourevi in the 89th minute.


The result left Nigeria second in Group F on four points, behind Spain, who finished with nine points.


China also ended the group stage on four points after losing 3-1 to Spain, but Nigeria advanced ahead of China on goal difference.


The Falconets opened their campaign with a 2-0 defeat by Spain before drawing 0-0 with China.


Nigeria, who have twice reached the final of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, will now continue their campaign in the knockout stage.


FIFA’s tournament format sends the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, into the knockout rounds.


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Professional refereeing bodies have acknowledged an “error of judgement” in allowing Erling Haaland’s 60th-minute winning goal for Manchester City against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.


The Premier League match concluded in a 1-0 victory for the visitors, but the decisive moment was marred by officiating controversy surrounding offside positioning during the attacking phase.


While Haaland was cleared of offside by the video assistant referee (VAR), questions quickly emerged regarding the positional influence of teammate Enzo Fernández during the build-up.


In an official clarification issued on Sunday evening, Professional Game Referees — Pro Ref, also known as PGMOL — confirmed that the VAR shouldn’t have intervened and recommended an on-field review by the referee.


“Following the incident in the 60th minute of Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, we can provide clarification regarding Erling Haaland’s awarded goal,” the statement read.


READ ALSO: Petrol price jumps to N1,430 in Abuja


“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position.


“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.


“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”


The admission adds fuel to ongoing debates surrounding subjective VAR assessments and on-field review protocols in high-profile Premier League clashes.


A formal review of the incident and officiating procedures during the derby match will now take place.


 


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Ahead of the 2027 general elections,the Secretary to the Kano State Government(SSG),Alhaji Umar Ibrahim Farouk, has urged journalists in the state to ensure accurate, fair,impatial and balanced reporting of the polls.


Farouk,who made the call at the opening of the 2026 Retreat of The Kano Correspondents’ Chapel of the NU in Kaduna, said the election reportage should also be guided by public interest.


“Election reporting should be guided by accuracy, fairness, impartiality, balance and the public interest. We have responsibility to avoid publishing materials capable of inflaming ethnic, religious, regional or political divisions,” he said.


Represented by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Malam Mustapha Mohammad, the SSG said political disagreements are normal in a democracy, but that disagreement should not be allowed to become hostility.


He said Journalists must be particularly careful when reporting allegations, campaign speeches, inflammatory statements and clashes between political supporters.


“Statements capable of provoking violence should not be amplified merely because they are sensational. The media should also avoid headlines that distort the substance of a story simply to attract attention.


“Above all, we must create an atmosphere conducive for peace and harmony to reign even after election. Election will come and go, our beloved city of Kano will remain.


“Journalists occupy a strategic position in the development of any society. Beyond reporting events however, journalists have a responsibility to inform citizens, hold public institutions accountable and provide the platform through which governments can communicate their policies, programmes and achievements to the people.


“In a state as large, diverse and politically significant as Kano, this responsibility becomes even more important. As the state approaches the 2027 general elections, journalists and media organisations must strike a careful balance between robust scrutiny of government and responsible reporting that recognises genuine developmental efforts.


“Members of Kano Correspondents Chapel should be able to tell the story of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the physical growth presently unraveling the state. No doubt, Kano is working under Abba Gida Gida,” Farouk added


Earlier, the Chairman of the Chapel,Alhaji Murtala Adewale, in his address,urged journalists to strengthen their knowledge of legal, ethical and security requirements ahead of the 2027 general elections.


Adewale described the Theme of the Retreat: “2027 General Elections: Navigating Legal, Security and Ethical Challenges in the Media,” as timely, given the expected intensity of political activities, competing interests and heated debates as the country approaches the 2027 elections.


According to him, journalists will be expected to provide citizens with credible, balanced, accurate and timely information to enable them to make informed choices during the polls.


He said the freedom of the press came with significant responsibilities, particularly in an electoral environment where journalists could face legal challenges relating to defamation, contempt of court, privacy, incitement, hate speech and other violations.


“These retreats, therefore, provide an opportunity for us as members of the Correspondents Chapel to deepen our understanding of the legal framework within which we operate and to ensure that our electoral reporting is guided by law,” the chairman said.


He also drew attention to the security risks journalists could encounter while covering the elections, noting that reporters would operate in polling units, campaign grounds, collation centres and other locations where tensions could escalate.


He, therefore,urged members to take their personal security seriously and apply the lessons from the retreat’s sessions on security and ethical reporting.


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President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Paris, France, as he continues his three-week annual leave in Europe.


Officials close to the President confirmed his arrival on Sunday, while visuals released from the trip showed him being received by Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Ayodele Oke.


Tinubu had left Abuja on August 30, 2026, for the vacation, with London serving as the first destination before his onward journey to Paris for the second phase of his holiday.


The President’s three-week leave was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement titled ‘President Tinubu Begins Three-Week Leave.’


According to the statement, Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja at the end of the vacation and join preparations for the January 2027 general election.


His departure came shortly after the All Progressives Congress released its Presidential Campaign Council list, which identified Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima as chairman and vice chairman respectively.


Paris remains one of the destinations most frequently visited by the President since he assumed office in May 2023.


Available records show that Tinubu has visited the French capital at least 13 times since taking office, spending more than 50 days there during official, working and private engagements.


A tally of his foreign engagements also indicates that the President has spent more than 270 days outside Nigeria, visiting at least 30 countries across 51 unique and repeat trips.


The trips have covered approximately 260,000 nautical miles, with Tinubu recording more than 400 hours of flight time.


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Late Princess Mercy Chinwendu Okpelibie (nee Ajanma), the beloved mother of the Chief Executive Officer of Multibaker And More LTD, and Chairman Increase Group, Chief Amb. Jude Okpelibie (Ijele Ifediche Nnokwa) will on October 3, 2026 be laid to rest in her Isimgbede Village, Nnokwa, Anambra State.

Princess Okpelibie, who died at the age of 73, was described by the family as a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunty and mother-in-law. She was born in 1953 and passed away in 2026.

Chief (Amb.) Jude Chukwumaeze Okpelibie, (Ijele Ifediche Nnokwa) a successful businessman based in Abuja is the name behind the popular Nonachi digestive bread within the FCT and neighbouring states. 

He invites loved ones, well-wishers, friends, associates, including members of his social club to join in honouring the legacy of his late mother and giving her the deserved last respect. 

According to the funeral programme released on behalf of the family by the eldest son, Engr. Chidi Emmanuel Okpelibie, activities will begin on Friday, October 2, 2026, with a Service of Songs and Wake Keeping at 5:00 p.m. The ceremony will take place at the residence of her husband, Amb. Obodoaku Okpelibie, at Isimgbede Village, Nnokwa, Anambra State.

The following day, Saturday, October 3, the body will leave Our Lady of Fatima Mortuary, Awka-Etiti, at 7:00 a.m. for the lying-in-state.

The procession will make stops at her father’s compound, HRH Igwe Ajanma Ajannma, Odenigbo Palace, Aboh, before proceeding to her husband’s residence at Isimgbede Village, Nnokwa.

A Burial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (De Major), Nnokwa, after which her remains will be laid to rest at 12:00 noon at the Obodoaku Okpelibie residence in Isimgbede Village.

The family has also scheduled a condolence visit at Community Secondary School, Agbaike, Nnokwa, as part of the funeral activities.

The funeral programme will conclude on Sunday, October 4, 2026, with a Thanksgiving and Outing Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (De Major), Nnokwa.

It is expected to have notable personalities, including top business executives, entertainers, political office holders and youth groups in attendance. It will be a show of rich cultural heritage of the people of Nnokwa and will be covered live by AlexReports media team.
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Comrade Olalekan Oyeyemi, popularly known as Emir Ajagungbade, has reportedly been killed in a shooting incident at Mayfair Garage in Ile-Ife, Osun State.


Oyeyemi, who was identified as an associate of Governor Ademola Adeleke and a member of the Accord Party, was said to have been shot amid a reported dispute over the control of the motor park.


Details of the incident were still sketchy as of the time of filing this report, including what triggered the confrontation and the identity of the person or persons responsible for the shooting.


Oyeyemi had been active in transport and motor park management activities in Osun State. He was also reportedly a member of the transition committee constituted before Adeleke assumed office as governor.


The deceased had previously been described in reports as a political associate of Adeleke and was also linked to former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola.


His political and transport activities were, however, accompanied by previous legal controversies.


The Osun State Police Command reportedly declared Oyeyemi wanted on July 2, 2022, over allegations bordering on cultism and armed robbery.


He was later arrested by the police anti-kidnapping unit and arraigned before the Federal High Court in Osogbo in 2024 on charges that reportedly included terrorism, conspiracy and unlawful killing.


The court granted him bail in April 2024.


Despite the legal proceedings, Oyeyemi continued to feature prominently in political and transport-related activities in the state.


His reported death has occurred against the backdrop of longstanding disputes over the management and control of motor parks and transport unions in some parts of Osun State.


As of the time of filing, the circumstances surrounding the shooting could not be independently verified.


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The Presidency has rejected former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s proposal to restore petrol subsidy, arguing that reversing the policy would undermine ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s petroleum sector and create fresh fiscal and legal challenges.


The government also warned that a return to subsidy could discourage investments in domestic refining, including the Dangote Refinery and other modular refineries operating in the country.


Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed the position in a series of posts while reacting to Atiku’s pledge to reinstate petrol subsidy if elected president in 2027.


Onanuga described the proposal as retrogressive and fiscally unsustainable, saying it was driven by “desperation to win the presidency”.


He maintained that Nigeria’s petroleum industry had undergone fundamental changes since President Tinubu announced the removal of petrol subsidy.


Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the subsidy removal had freed N15.8 trillion for the federation between June 2023 and December 2025.


Oyedele said the Federal Government received N5.4 trillion from the resources, while N10.4 trillion was distributed among state and local governments.


President Tinubu had also criticised Atiku’s position, describing the former vice-president as lacking sufficient understanding of governance and economic management.


The President spoke recently at the State House while receiving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.


According to Tinubu, Atiku’s proposal to return to petrol subsidy reflected his level of ignorance about governance and the economy.


Atiku, who is contesting the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress, has made the restoration of petrol subsidy a major component of his campaign.


The former vice-president, who supported subsidy removal during the 2023 election campaign, has since argued that Nigerians have yet to enjoy tangible benefits from the policy.


He has also contended that the savings from subsidy removal have not sufficiently translated into improved living conditions or affordable food for Nigerians.


On the oil and gas sector, Atiku proposed a new intervention focused on domestic refining, with government support capped, budgeted and linked to measurable production and consumer benefits.


He said crude allocated under his proposal would be monitored and accounted for to ensure Nigerians derived tangible benefits from the intervention.


Atiku further argued that his proposal was not intended to revive the opaque subsidy system of the past, but rather establish a controlled mechanism to support Nigerian refineries and ensure cheaper crude feedstock benefits consumers.


However, financial expert and President of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, said the debate should not be limited to the immediate prospect of cheaper petrol.


He argued that the priority should be finding the most economically sustainable means of deploying scarce public resources to improve citizens’ welfare over the long term.


Uwaleke said the former subsidy regime had placed a huge burden on public finances and created opportunities for arbitrage, smuggling, rent-seeking and other abuses.


“The success of subsidy removal should not be measured simply by whether government stopped paying the subsidy.


“It should be measured by whether it succeeded in converting that difficult sacrifice into a more productive economy, stronger public services, increased domestic production and a better quality of life for the ordinary Nigerian,” he said.


Similarly, global financial analyst and development economist, Prof. Ken Ife, criticised calls for a return to blanket petrol subsidies as a means of reducing pump prices.


Ife said Nigeria could not resolve its longstanding fuel and economic problems through artificially reducing prices at the point of sale.


He argued that returning to the former consumption-based subsidy arrangement would revive the distortions, inefficiencies and fiscal leakages associated with the system.


“In broad macroeconomic terms, and even in development economies, you do not subsidise consumption. What you subsidise is production.


“You cannot borrow money to pay for subsidy. That is unlawful when you consider Fiscal Responsibility Act. It does not recognise that as a legitimate expenditure or as a legitimate borrowing,” he said.


A civil servant, Ibrahim Abbas, however, said Nigerians had expected subsidy removal to provide the Federal Government with additional resources to speed up infrastructure development and stimulate economic growth.


“The only thing we civil servants have experienced since subsidy was removed is economic hardship and a huge depletion of the purchasing power of the Naira.


“The implementation of the new minimum wage is still shrouded in confusion, and all these make Atiku’s proposal attractive to ordinary Nigerians ” he said.


A retired civil servant, Mr Sule Aliu, also said the economic situation had been particularly difficult for retirees since the subsidy was removed in 2023.


President Tinubu announced the removal of petrol subsidy on May 29, 2023, shortly after taking the oath of office.


The policy triggered a sharp increase in petrol prices, with pump prices rising from below N200 per litre to more than N1,000 in subsequent periods, while transportation, food and other living costs also increased.


The controversy over the policy has remained a major economic and political issue ahead of the 2027 general elections.


(DAILY TRUST)


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Petrol prices have continued to climb across the Federal Capital Territory, with some filling stations in Abuja now selling Premium Motor Spirit at as much as N1,430 per litre.


The latest increase followed an N85 adjustment in the gantry price of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which rose from N1,265 to N1,350 per litre as international crude oil prices surged amid the worsening crisis around the Strait of Hormuz.


The adjustment represents a 6.7 per cent increase and puts the refinery’s wholesale price above the current petrol landing cost of N1,311 per litre.


Brent crude, Nigeria’s benchmark, was trading at about $107.92 per barrel before rising to $108.21 per barrel.


The development has heightened pressure on downstream operators and prompted further pump price increases across the FCT, raising concerns about additional transportation costs and pressure on household finances.


Checks on Sunday showed that several filling stations had already adjusted their prices upwards.


MRS outlets, which previously sold petrol at N1,350 per litre, increased the price to N1,395, while NIPCO outlets raised theirs to N1,430 per litre. Mobil stations also increased their pump price from N1,350 to N1,400 per litre.


A petrol attendant at an MRS filling station, who requested anonymity, said another increase could take effect from Monday.


“We are currently selling our old stock at N1,395 per litre, but from tomorrow, once the new stock arrives, the price will be higher,” she said.


An economist and development expert, Dr Aliyu Ilias, warned that the latest increase could fuel inflation and worsen economic difficulties for Nigerians.


Ilias said higher petrol prices would likely push up transportation and production expenses, particularly for food and other essential goods.


“I think there should be a way of absorbing these costs. If you do not absorb them, they will show up in our next inflation figures and economic analysis.


“The more prices increase, the more the cost of producing goods, especially food, will rise because everything is affected by transportation costs.


“This kind of change is not good for the economy at all, and people are going to face more hardship as a result,” he said.


Former Secretary-General of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity, Mr Owei Lakemfa, called for measures to protect Nigerian consumers from the effects of fluctuations in international oil prices.


Lakemfa said Nigeria needed stronger economic planning and regulation to cushion citizens from sudden increases in petroleum prices.


According to him, a country that produces crude oil and has a large population should have mechanisms to protect its people from external shocks affecting petroleum prices.


“The ongoing geopolitical tensions involving major oil-producing and consuming countries, as well as attacks in the Middle East, are factors that can affect global oil prices and should not come as a surprise to policymakers.


“We have known that the conflict between the U.S. and Iran will affect the shipping of oil products. We know that.


“In basic economics, when you are close to the source of your products, you have advantages. If we produce oil in Nigeria, refining in Nigeria can not be the same as importing fuel. It can not be,” he said.


He noted that importing refined petroleum products involved additional expenses, including labour, insurance and shipping costs, among other charges incurred in the exporting country.


Lakemfa urged the government to improve planning and regulation so that domestic petrol prices would not automatically rise in response to every geopolitical crisis outside Nigeria.


“It can not just be that any time Iran attacks the U.S. or there is another conflict, the price goes up. We have to plan. And that is the only sense of governance,” he said.


He also raised concerns about the structure of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market, which he said contained elements of oligopoly and monopoly capable of giving major players considerable influence over prices.


According to him, regulators must ensure that no individual or group is allowed to exercise excessive control over the price of petrol, a critical commodity.


“You can not allow any individual or group to dictate to the country. That is why you have regulatory agencies. The government is there to protect the state and the people,” he said.


Lakemfa further urged the Federal Government and consumer protection agencies to intensify efforts against arbitrary price increases.


He maintained that fluctuations in international crude prices should not automatically result in corresponding increases in domestic petrol prices, stressing the need for effective regulation and advance planning.


Meanwhile, the National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chinedu Ukadike, said marketers had adjusted their pump prices following successive changes in the Dangote refinery’s pricing.

Ukadike said the frequent price reviews had created uncertainty for marketers and consumers because the cost of replacing petroleum products could change rapidly.


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The Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams Abang, has died at a hospital in Abuja.


Williams reportedly died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, while receiving medical treatment in the Federal Capital Territory.


His death was announced on Sunday by his brother, Nkang William, who described the development as sudden and difficult for the family to comprehend.


Nkang said the deceased, who had recently been with members of his family, left behind a painful void that would be difficult to fill.


The statement read, “I am struggling to believe that I am writing these words about you, my beloved brother, Dr. Eka Williams Abang. How can someone who was here with us suddenly become a memory? How can a familiar voice, a loving presence, and a precious life suddenly be silenced? My heart is broken, and my mind keeps searching for an explanation that can make this painful reality disappear.


“Brother, you were more than a brother to me. You were family, a companion on this journey of life, and someone whose presence carried meaning. There are memories that death cannot erase, conversations that time cannot destroy, and moments together that will remain permanently engraved upon our hearts. Your departure has left a space that words cannot adequately describe.”


According to the family, despite the grief caused by his death, it would continue to honour Williams’ life, including the people he impacted, the knowledge he shared and the relationships he built during his lifetime.


The news has also elicited reactions from friends, political associates and colleagues, many of whom expressed shock over his sudden passing.


A former councillor representing Abo Ward in Boki Local Government Area, Pius Kejuo Osang, said he was particularly stunned by the development, noting that he had been with the commissioner only days before his death.


“I don’t understand, I was with him on Tuesday, I slept in his hotel,” Osang said.


Also mourning the commissioner, Michael Gabriel Jr., Executive Media Assistant to Senator John Owan-Enoh, the Minister of State for Industry, described Williams as “a dedicated public servant and a good man.”


“Ikom LGA has lost a dedicated public servant and a good man. Prince Eka William’s life of service, humility and impact would remain in the hearts of those he touched,” he said.


Gabriel prayed for God to give the deceased’s family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to cope with the loss and grant him eternal rest.


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Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bamanga Tukur, was on Sunday buried in his hometown of Yola, Adamawa State, following a funeral conducted in accordance with Islamic rites.


The funeral prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Modibbo Adama Central Mosque, Yola, Ahmadu Bobboi, at about 10:50am.


Tukur’s remains were subsequently taken to the family residence in Fadde-Sanda, along Abuja Road, Yola, where he was buried at about 11:30am.


The former PDP national chairman died in Abuja on Saturday at the age of 91.


President Bola Tinubu had on Saturday expressed sadness over Tukur’s death, describing him as an influential personality who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic development.


In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Tukur as a “towering figure” whose career spanned public administration, governance, industry, politics and pan-African business leadership.


Tukur served as governor of the old Gongola State and later held the position of Minister of Industries. He also became national chairman of the PDP.


He is survived by two wives and 18 children, including the Secretary to the Adamawa State Government, Awwal Tukur.


The funeral was attended by prominent Nigerians and dignitaries, including business mogul Aliko Dangote, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Senator Iya Abbas, who represents Adamawa Central, and former Governor Jibrilla Bindow.


Traditional rulers and other dignitaries from Adamawa State and beyond also attended the funeral.


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Nineteen members of the Girls’ Auxiliary (GA) of First Baptist Church, Gwagwalada, Abuja, have been promoted to their respective next steps.


Those promoted to Step One are Adesina Elizabeth, Aremu Daniella and Matthew Miracle, while Onifade Tabitha and Ayoola Wuraola were promoted to Step Two.


Others are Simon Ayomikun, Oladeji Oyin, Komolafe Favour, Oyelami Gloria, Akinpelu Esther and Ogundapo Jemima, who moved to Step Three.


Okangbe Sarah and Areo Deborah were promoted to Step Four, while Oyelami Abigael, James Funmilola and James Funmilayo advanced to Step Five.


Step Six candidates are Ajao Damola and Simon Bola, while Emmanuel Busayo is the only member promoted to Step Seven.


Speaking during the coronation service held on Sunday at the church in Gwagwalada, the Director of Girls’ Auxiliary (GA) of the Amazon Grace Baptist Association (AGBA), Mrs Ruth Oladoja, admonished the newly promoted GAs to always live Godly lives worthy of emulation wherever they found themselves.


While stressing the need for them to give priority to their quiet time and morning devotion, Mrs Ruth Oladoja advised them to remain committed to their educational pursuits towards becoming productive and responsible children of God in society and Nigeria at large.


In her congratulatory message to the newly promoted GAs, a former Director of the Social Ministries Department, FCT Baptist Conference, Dr Mrs Naomi Adelabu, urged them to always put into practice what they had learnt during their pre-promotion exercises to enable them to continue to be good ambassadors of the church and their families.


Dr Mrs Naomi Adelabu also enjoined them to shun immoral behaviours and desist from acts detrimental to the teachings of Jesus Christ.


Some of the newly promoted GAs, Wuraola Ayoola, Abigael Oyelami and Busayo Emmanuel, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to move to the next step in the course of their service to God and humanity.


They prayed to God to grant them the grace to succeed in the discharge of their duties as Christians and in their chosen careers in life.


Highlights of the coronation service included the decoration of the newly promoted GAs, presentation of awards and gifts, thanksgiving and special prayers for them, as well as the ushering of Busayo Emmanuel into Lydia after the successful completion of her seven steps as a GA member.


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South African police have arrested five people, including two women, in connection with the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 25-year-old e-hailing driver in Cape Town.


The South African Police Service disclosed the development in a statement published on its X handle on Sunday.


“Steenberg police rescued a 25-year-old e-hailing driver after he was raped and held at ransom by two female suspects and three males yesterday,” the statement said.


According to the police, the victim’s brother contacted authorities after the suspects allegedly reached out to him and demanded R4,000 in exchange for the driver’s freedom.


“They located the victim through his vehicle tracker and found him at Southampton Road in Heathfield,” the statement added.


The police said the driver had encountered one of the female suspects during an e-hailing trip the previous week, after which they exchanged telephone numbers and maintained communication.


“They exchanged numbers and communicated throughout the week and eventually made arrangements to meet today.


“When he went to meet her, he was kidnapped by the suspects and the females raped him,” police said.


The five suspects comprise two women, aged 23 and 34, and three men aged 16, 42 and 48.


Police said all five suspects had been taken into custody and were expected to appear before the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, September 14.


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