A Compilation of Hospitals Where Tinubu Has Lowered the Expenses Associated with Kidney Dialysis.

The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has decreased the cost of kidney dialysis in federal hospitals throughout Nigeria. As stated in a release on Monday, August 18, by the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, the price of kidney dialysis has been lowered from N50,000 to ₦12,000 to alleviate the financial strain on Nigerians afflicted with kidney disease, a condition that frequently necessitates multiple treatment sessions each week. "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sanctioned a significant subsidy to mitigate the expenses associated with kidney dialysis for Nigerians. This initiative has resulted in a reduction of the cost per dialysis session from ₦50,000 to merely ₦12,000, providing relief to thousands of individuals grappling with kidney-related ailments," Bwala remarked. The statement further indicated that the revised pricing is currently operational in ten prominent federal medical centers and teaching hospitals across all six geopolitical zones, which include: 1) Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute-Metta, Lagos 2) Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja 3) University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan 4) Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri 5) University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri 6) Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta 7) Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos 8) Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Azare 9) University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin 10) University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar Bwala also mentioned, "Additional federal medical centers and teaching hospitals will be incorporated before the year's end to enhance access nationwide." He also "recalled that last year, President Tinubu approved complimentary cesarean sections (C-sections) for expectant mothers in federal hospitals, a decisive measure aimed at improving maternal healthcare and decreasing preventable maternal fatalities."

Abia State Economic Management Team Formed by Governor Otti

In his effort to implement effective economic policies for the advancement of Abia State, Governor Alex Otti has officially appointed Dr. Friday Kalu Ohuche as the Chief Economic Adviser of the State and has also inaugurated the members of the Abia State Economic Management Team. The Abia State Economic Management Team, which is led by the Governor himself, includes the Commissioners for Finance, Budget and Planning, Industry & SME, Trade and Commerce, the Chairman of the Board of Internal Revenue, the Chief Economic Adviser, the Internally Generated Revenue Director, the DG and CEO of the Office of Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion, the Special Adviser on Budget and Planning, the State Accountant General, the DG of the Ministry of Finance, Incorporated, the Principal Secretary, the Chief Strategy Officer, and the Technical Assistant to the Governor. While addressing the Chief Economic Adviser and other team members during the event that took place shortly after this week’s State Executive Council meeting, Governor Otti emphasized that the formation of the economic team at this time is a strategic move intended to address several key issues before delving into economic management. “The rationale is straightforward. If you have not established a foundation, there is nothing to manage. Therefore, we have focused on building over the past two years, and it is now time to start managing the assets we have developed to achieve our desired outcomes. “Success and failure hinge on the economy. I recall a former president of an African nation who once stated, ‘Seek ye first the political kingdom, and every other thing will be added unto you,’” the Governor remarked. He expressed gratitude to the members for their willingness to serve on the team and conveyed his belief that they would significantly contribute to the success of the administration. “I am confident that you will play a crucial role in the second phase of this administration’s activities during the remaining two years of this term. “And we are committed to delivering exceptional value to our constituents, who are the people of Abia State. On behalf of the team, the Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. Friday Kalu Ohuche, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the opportunity to serve and affirmed their dedication to maintaining the Governor's commendable efforts. "We will depend on your extensive experience as a high-level technocrat and a participant in the private sector. Additionally, we will draw upon the insights you have acquired over the past two years while managing a state and implementing significant changes, allowing us to build upon that with the limited knowledge we will contribute," Ohuche remarked.

Transfer: Inter Milan Pull Away From Lookman Agreement

Inter Milan is poised to notify Ademola Lookman's agent that they will no longer pursue his acquisition from Atalanta. The Serie A competitors had been involved in discussions regarding Lookman, with several offers being made and subsequently rejected. However, Atalanta remains resistant to selling the Nigerian forward to another Italian team. This position has caused frustration for Inter, and the club is now ready to abandon the negotiations. Football transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano stated on X: "Inter will communicate with Ademola Lookman's agent within the next 24 hours, and it is anticipated that they will inform the Nigerian forward that the deal is OFF. "Negotiations with Atalanta have been entirely stalled for the past two weeks. "The Lookman deal was never associated with Nicola Zalewski's transfer to Atalanta, contrary to previous reports." Inter Milan, Lookman.

By Conducting Unlawful by-elections, INEC Breached the Constitution, According to Buba Galadima

A prominent member of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, has labeled the recent by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as unlawful. Galadima accused INEC of breaching a provision of the Constitution that mandates the commission to hold a by-election within three months of a vacancy arising. The NNPP leader made these remarks on Monday during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today program. He pointed out that several vacancies for which INEC organized by-elections had surpassed the three-month limit, urging Nigerians to contest these elections in court. He stated: “Well, the by-elections have occurred, but they are accompanied by numerous issues, depending on one’s perspective. “Firstly, I want to emphasize a critical point regarding these by-elections. In fact, all of them were conducted unlawfully by INEC. “When a vacancy arises, INEC is required to conduct a by-election within three months. “Some of the by-elections are being conducted two years later. For instance, the elections in Kano, or at least one in Kano, were declared inconclusive by the APC in 2023. “Therefore, if the judiciary is forthcoming, and if anyone challenges those elections in court, they could be deemed null and void, as stipulated by the Constitution, not merely the Electoral Act. “This is because when a vacancy occurs, INEC is mandated to conduct a by-election within three months. Some of the by-elections are being held two years later. Buba Galadima.

Inter's Pursuit of Ademola Lookman is Hijacked by Napoli With a €52 Million Bid.

Inter Milan has withdrawn from the competition for Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman, thereby allowing Napoli the opportunity to make a significant €52 million offer for the Atalanta forward. As reported by the Italian media outlet SportMediaset, Inter's pursuit of Ademola Lookman is now considered "frozen" following Atalanta's rejection of two formal offers. The Nerazzurri initially proposed €40 million, later returning with an enhanced offer of €45 million, which included add-ons; however, both proposals were declined as the Bergamo club remained steadfast in their €50 million valuation. The extended negotiations, which have persisted for over a month, led Lookman to take action himself. The Super Eagles star has reportedly requested a transfer and has not participated in training sessions for more than a week in an effort to facilitate a move. Conversely, Napoli is now positioned to take advantage of Inter's exit. Transfer market analyst Luca Cerchione disclosed that the current Serie A Champions are prepared to meet Atalanta's requirements. "Lookman, Napoli has allocated a €52 million deposit, a figure considered suitable by Atalanta," Cerchione stated. "The Neapolitan club must determine whether to persuade the player, who is currently more inclined towards Inter, to forgo their fifth midfielder, or to completely abandon the pursuit of the Nigerian." This development is noteworthy, especially since Ademola Lookman had already settled on personal terms with Inter and seemed destined for the San Siro. With their pursuit concluded, the Nerazzurri will now redirect their transfer budget towards bolstering their defense, with Udinese’s Oumar Solet at the top of their list, in addition to seeking a holding midfielder. Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has expressed concerns regarding the potential loss of another key attacker following top scorer Mateo Retegui’s transfer to Saudi Arabia. "We have lost players who contributed 80-90 percent of our goals, and replacing them will not be an easy task," Juric acknowledged. The local publication L’Eco di Bergamo has reported that Atalanta has only received formal offers from Inter up to this point; however, Napoli's readiness to exceed €50 million may shift the situation in their favor.

Former Attorney Farouk Lawan Claims that the Kano bye-election Was Manipulated.

Former House of Representatives member, Farouk Lawan, has claimed that the State Assembly bye-election held last Saturday in Kano State was manipulated to benefit the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Lawan, who has recently completed a five-year prison sentence for bribery, accused the NNPP of committing "injustice" in the Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa constituencies in a Facebook post written in Hausa. The ex-lawmaker, who previously represented Bagwai/Shanono in the House, expressed gratitude to the supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he referred to as their sacrifices during the election. "Indeed, you made significant efforts and sacrifices, responding to the call to come out and vote as you always do. However, by Allah’s decree, everyone witnessed the injustice inflicted upon us by the ruling opposition party in Kano State during this bye-election," Lawan remarked. He asserted that the APC’s mandate was "taken away" and urged his supporters to remain composed, assuring them that the party would pursue legal and political measures to contest the results. "With God’s grace, we will soon initiate the necessary actions. May Allah reward our supporters abundantly for the love and loyalty you consistently demonstrate day and night," he concluded. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had announced the NNPP candidates as the winners of the two constituencies, but the APC has since rejected these results. By-elections, Faruk Lawan.

300-year-old Unique Violin Will Appear at UK Music Festival

One of the most esteemed violins globally, created three centuries ago and previously owned by composer Niccolo Paganini, is set to be performed at a prestigious classical music festival in the UK. The violin, referred to as the Carrodus, is among approximately 150 instruments crafted by Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu that are known to have survived through the ages. It was purchased by a philanthropic organization for $20 million in June. This instrument was made in 1743 in Cremona, northern Italy, and will be played for the first time during the BBC Proms by South Korean violinist Inmo Yang. The violin, once in the possession of the Italian virtuoso Paganini, will be showcased on August 28 at the Royal Albert Hall in London. “I can hardly believe my fortune in having this instrument. It is undoubtedly one of the finest instruments ever created,” Yang, who is also making his debut at the Proms, expressed to AFP. “I feel a responsibility to care for this instrument and produce a beautiful sound so that audiences understand the value of playing these instruments rather than keeping them locked away in a museum vault.” The Stretton Society, a collective of philanthropists, patrons, and sponsors that has lent the violin to Yang, aims to acquire rare and valuable instruments to lend to the world’s foremost musicians. Guarneri is recognized as one of the most significant violin makers in history, alongside the Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari, according to the society’s co-founder, Stephan Jansen. While Stradivari crafted instruments for the Church and nobility, Guarneri’s violins were designed for musicians, gaining fame for their rich and resonant tones, Jansen noted. “Inmo is among the finest musicians of his generation,” Jansen remarked to AFP. “When he visited my home and I presented him with the fiddle, it was evident from the very first moment that this was a perfect match,” he stated. “Ultimately, it’s also about chemistry, you know?” Yang is set to perform Pablo de Sarasate’s “Carmen Fantasy,” which he characterized as “a virtuoso piece for the violin.” The extensive range of the violin contributes to the “strong, at times flirty character of the piece.” The sound produced by the instrument is described as "rather unpredictable," he remarked, and "this somewhat whimsical quality truly adds more vibrancy to the composition." "The notion that Paganini utilized this instrument feels somewhat spiritual, and I believe that audiences desire to experience Paganini's music performed on his own violin," Yang further commented.

List of Updated Prerequisites for Nigerian Nationals Seeking a U.S. Visa

The United States Mission in Nigeria has released a new directive for visa applicants, requiring them to disclose all social media usernames and handles utilized over the last five years as part of the visa application procedure. This directive, which was announced in a post on the Mission’s official X account on Monday, follows the US Department of State's recent reaffirmation of its dedication to enhancing national security through improved screening protocols. Here are six new requirements for U.S. Visa Applicants in Nigeria: 1) Matching DS-160 Confirmation Number Applicants must present a DS-160 visa application form that includes a barcode number (beginning with "AA00") that corresponds with the one used to schedule their appointment. If the barcode number does not align, entry into the Consular Section or attendance at the interview will be denied. 2) Choose the Correct Appointment Location Applicants are required to attend their interview at the same location (Abuja or Lagos) that was selected during the submission of the DS-160 form. 3) Double-Check Your DS-160 At least two weeks prior to the interview, ensure that the DS-160 barcode number matches the one in the appointment confirmation. Do not reuse a DS-160 form from a prior application. 4) Fixing an Incorrect DS-160 Barcode If the barcode is incorrect, log into your AVITS account at least 10 days before your interview and submit a support ticket to request a correction. 5) Rescheduling If Rejected If you are denied entry due to mismatched barcode numbers, you must rectify the issue and then schedule a new appointment. If your previous visa fee has lapsed, a new fee will need to be paid before booking. 6) All social media usernames and handles Applicants are required to provide all social media usernames and handles used in the past five years on the DS-160 visa application form.

After Obtaining an N6.9 Million Ransom, the Kidnapper Was Engaged in an Accident.

One individual suspected of kidnapping, identified as Mohammed Tahir from Barkin Ladi in Plateau State, has been apprehended following his involvement in a solitary motor vehicle accident in the Kokona Local Government Area of the state. In a statement to the press on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, SP Ramhan Nansel, stated; "On 18/08/2025 at approximately 0908 hours, police operatives from the Garaku Division received an emergency call from the Angwan Mayo community concerning a single-vehicle crash near the VIO checkpoint. "Two individuals who were occupants of an Opel Vectra with the registration number PLATEAU BLD 566 ST reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident. "Upon their arrival, the operatives found that members of the public had already congregated, while a vigilant VIO officer had handed over a G3 rifle and cash that were previously recovered from the vehicle involved in the accident." "In response, the police, in conjunction with the Military, initiated a thorough manhunt for the fleeing suspects. One of them, later identified as Mohammed Tahir, a male from Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, was apprehended after he had escaped into the forest. "During questioning, the suspect admitted to being part of a seven-member kidnapping gang responsible for the abduction of a lawyer in Nyanya, Abuja (FCT), from whom a ransom was collected. "He also confessed that he and another accomplice were en route to Jos to distribute the proceeds of their crime when the accident transpired. Efforts are currently underway to capture the remaining suspects who are still at large." The PPRO further mentioned that following instructions from the Commissioner of Police, CP Shettima Jauro Mohammed, the suspect and the recovered items have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lafia for further inquiry into the case.

Apostle Alozie Offers the APC National Chairman his Condolences for the Loss of his Mother.

A Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Abia State, Apostle Chuks Alozie, has joined numerous Nigerians in expressing condolences to the National Chairman of APC, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwtda, following the death of his mother, the late Mama Lydia Yilwatda. In a condolence message directed to the APC National Chairman, Apostle Alozie characterized the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda as a significant loss for Professor Nentawe and the Yilwatda family. The APC Chieftain emphasized that the tributes honoring Mama Lydia’s departure from various sectors of society clearly indicate that she embodied the virtues of peace, care, and love, serving as a wise adviser to her children and all who interacted with her during her lifetime. He particularly expressed joy in noting that Mama Lydia demonstrated her love for God by diligently spreading His word through the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) alongside her husband, the late Rev. T. Goshewe Yilwatda, across Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, and Plateau States. Apostle Alozie, while asserting that Professor Yilwatda exemplifies his late mother’s dedication to effective parenting and upbringing, encouraged him and other family members to uphold the admirable qualities that Mama instilled in them to fulfill all her aspirations for them. In extending his condolences to the APC National Chairman and his family, Apostle Chuks Alozie acknowledged that although Mama will be profoundly missed, he urged them not to mourn excessively, as Mama Lydia lived a complete life and has returned to her Creator. The late Mama Lydia passed away early on Sunday, August 17, 2027, at the age of 83, following a brief illness.

AfroBasket: D'Tigress Star Ejio Receives a N30 Million Condominium From the Ebonyi Governor.

Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has awarded N30 million to D’Tigress star Munachi Ejiofor in recognition of her contributions to the team’s successful performance at the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket. Ejiofor has also received a duplex in Abakaliki. Additionally, she has been inducted into the Ebonyi State Hall of Fame. Earlier this month, D’Tigress secured their fifth consecutive Women’s AfroBasket title in Cote d’Ivoire. Rena Wakama’s team was also recognized by President Bola Tinubu. Each player received $100,000, an apartment, and a national honour.

Residents of Umuahia Protest the EEDC Office About Outrageous Electricity Costs.

The unprecedented rise in electricity bills observed in certain areas of Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, provoked the anger of residents this Thursday (14/8/25) as they marched to the Enugu Electricity Development Company (EEDC) office in the city to express their discontent. The protesters, consisting of residents from the World Bank Housing Estate, marched over three kilometers while chanting discontented songs, signifying their rejection of the exorbitant bills that had surged by over 400%, and they issued a warning against potential disconnections. The furious residents carried placards, some of which stated: "World Bank cries: Power bills are higher than rents; Estimated billing is illegal and criminal; We cannot jump from N8000 to paying N47,000," among others. While presenting their complaints to the EEDC Operations Manager, Engineer Amaga, Kalu Florence, the Acting Chair of the World Bank Housing Estate Residents Association, characterized the electricity bill for July as not only outrageous but also inhumane and exploitative, demanding an immediate reduction. Kalu, who disclosed that they had submitted numerous letters of complaint without any response, emphasized that it was unfathomable for someone who previously paid N8,000 to suddenly receive a bill of N47,000, questioning how a public servant earning less than N80,000 could endure such a drastic increase based on estimated billing. Expressing their concerns, other residents who spoke urged EEDC to ensure that residents would not face disconnection, warning that they might be compelled to take actions that could be undesirable. They also appealed to the state government to intervene to prevent further exploitation of the populace amidst the current challenging economic conditions. In response, Operations Manager Engineer Amaga advocated for dialogue to resolve the issue and subsequently entered into a closed-door session with the representatives of the group. Hanto Daily News reports that after more than three hours of discussions, no substantial positive agreement was achieved. Nevertheless, discussions are anticipated to continue on Thursday evening, as the public maintains that they will not settle the exorbitant charge.

Parma Defender Signed by Liverpool As Summer Spending Surpasses £300 Million, Giovanni Leoni

Liverpool has officially announced the acquisition of Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni for a fee of £26 million plus additional bonuses, bringing their total transfer expenditure this summer to £321.5 million. The 18-year-old has signed a six-year contract at Anfield, marking him as the club's sixth significant signing of the transfer window. Liverpool's spending now positions them as the third-highest among Premier League clubs in a single transfer window. Should they finalize a deal for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, anticipated to exceed £100 million, the Reds could establish a new record for summer spending. Leoni's signing is part of Liverpool's strategy to bolster their defense following the transfer of academy product Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million. Additionally, Ibrahima Konate is in the last year of his current contract. The Reds acted quickly to secure Leoni's services amidst interest from leading Italian clubs and other teams in the Premier League. Reports from England indicated that the Italian teenager was eager to join Arne Slot's Premier League champions, and any chance of a loan move away from Anfield has been dismissed. Leoni will join the first-team squad for the 2025/26 season and is anticipated to be present at Liverpool's season opener against Bournemouth at Anfield at 8 p.m. tonight, August 15. Despite their substantial investment, Liverpool has mitigated much of their expenditure through player sales. Seven first-team players have left the club for a total exceeding £200 million, including Luis Diaz's transfer to Barcelona for £65 million and Darwin Nunez's move to Paris Saint-Germain for £56.6 million.