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.

Binani, a Former Adamawa APC Candidate for Governor, Switches to ADC

The 2023 governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State, Senator Aishatu Ahmed Binani, has switched allegiance to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Binani's media aide, Maulud Usman, confirmed this development to DAILY POST on Sunday afternoon, explaining that the politician arrived in Yola on Saturday evening and announced her defection to a select group of family members and friends. On Sunday, Adamawa residents were greeted with social media reports regarding Binani's defection, although official confirmation was not immediately available. Further elaborating on the situation on Sunday afternoon, Maulud indicated that the announcement was made discreetly, without any media coverage invitation. He also mentioned that Binani, who served as the senator for Adamawa Central Zone at the time she ran for the governorship in 2023, would return to Yola shortly for a more formal association with her new party. Binani narrowly lost to the incumbent Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election. DAILY POST notes that Binani's departure from the APC was anticipated, as her relationship with the party's leadership had been strained. The APC leadership in the state has been perceived as showing what many consider an undue preference for the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, who, due to his federal position, leads the APC in Adamawa. It is thought that Binani was uneasy with this dynamic, given the political competition between her and Ribadu. Ribadu was among the five individuals who lost the APC nomination to Binani in 2023 and is believed to still harbor ambitions of becoming governor or endorsing a candidate in his place for the 2027 elections.

Governor Okpebolo Explains Why Peter Obi Needs to let me Know Before Traveling to Edo.

The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebolo, has refuted allegations of threatening Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 Presidential candidate. Okpebolo has faced backlash for asserting that Obi must notify him prior to visiting the state, cautioning that his security would not be assured if he neglects to do so. During a defection rally last Friday, the governor also ridiculed Obi for asserting that he does not 'give shishi', despite having donated N15Million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for project completion in the institution. Okpebolo further alleged that Obi's visit to the state coincided with a resurgence of violence in the area. Nevertheless, the governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, issued a statement on Sunday clarifying that his comments had been misinterpreted. The statement read: "The Edo State Government has been made aware of various misinterpretations regarding the recent comments made by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, concerning Peter Obi's visit to the state. "It is crucial to clarify that the governor did not threaten Mr. Obi; rather, he highlighted the necessity for high-profile individuals, especially those with political exposure, to inform and seek security clearance from the governor before engaging in any public activities within the state. "As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the governor's constitutional duty to protect the lives and property of all residents and visitors. "This responsibility encompasses ensuring that appropriate security measures are established during significant visits or events that may draw large crowds or media scrutiny. "When such protocols are disregarded, it poses serious security risks, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be exposed to avoidable threats. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai upon his visit. Furthermore, the concerns raised by the governor should not be manipulated for political gain by those aiming to achieve trivial advantages. The state government will not remain passive while politically motivated actions threaten lives. We anticipate that leaders, regardless of their status, will adhere to the protocols and security conditions of the regions they visit. Earlier on Sunday, Falana urged Okpebholo to retract the threats made against Obi's life. In a statement, the prominent lawyer pointed out that the threat against Obi issued by the "new sheriff in town" in Edo State represents a breach of Section 33 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, as well as Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples (Ratification and Enforcement), which safeguards the fundamental right to life for every citizen. He stated; "However, should Governor Okpebholo fail to rescind the unlawful threat due to sheer arrogance of power, Mr. Peter Obi ought to file a petition in the Benin Judicial Division of the Federal High Court to ensure the protection of his fundamental right to life. Mr. Obi must act with the utmost urgency considering the widespread occurrence of mob justice and other forms of extrajudicial killings in the nation.

Datti Baba-Ahmed, Obi's Running Mate, Acknowledges the Legitimacy of the Labour Party Led by Abure.

The Labour Party's vice-presidential candidate for the 2023 election, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has expressed his alignment with the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and has also committed to reconciling all aggrieved party leaders to ensure the party's continued success, as evidenced in the 2023 presidential election. He characterized the Labour Party (LP) as a historic movement that must be preserved. Datti made these remarks during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Julius Abure-led LP in Abuja. "The Labour Party is not a party to abandon," he asserted. "The achievements and history that the Labour Party of Nigeria has amassed are distinctive and unparalleled." Datti, who ran alongside Obi in the 2023 election, reminded party leaders of the strength they exhibited at the polls. "We provided clear records and evidence of 10 million votes obtained in the last election, which was subsequently reduced to 6.1 million votes," he stated, expressing concern over what he termed as "the act of state capture," which he attributed to internal divisions within the LP and other parties. Datti committed to facilitating reconciliation discussions between Obi and dissatisfied stakeholders. "I am here as a mediator to reconcile differing viewpoints," he declared. This development occurs amidst efforts by the opposition to consolidate under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to achieve electoral success in 2027. Datti acknowledged his attendance at one of the coalition meetings but emphasized that his allegiance remains with the LP. "I am proud to state that I did participate in meetings regarding a potential coalition in Nigeria," he remarked. "From a moral standpoint, if your community invites you to discuss security, you should attend. However, if you find that other topics are being discussed, you are free to revert to your previous stance. I have attended and listened to the coalition discussions, yet I remain committed to the Labour Party. I do not blindly enter into any political arrangements." Datti cautioned LP members against being swayed by alliances that could jeopardize the party's integrity. "I must express that previously, a coalition was formed which resulted in the ousting of a Nigerian government," he remarked. "I take pleasure in noting that this is precisely what we, as the Labour Party, accomplished in 2023 and what we are poised to replicate in 2027. Nevertheless, the subsequent government is of even greater significance than the act of removing the existing one. A government was ousted, and what ensued was a catastrophe." Regarding the leadership crisis within the party, he affirmed the legitimacy of the Abure-led faction while stating that "INEC currently acknowledges the leadership of Abure."

Paul Pogba Forecasts the Winner of the 2025 Ballon d'Or

Monaco midfielder Paul Pogba has selected Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain as his choice for the 2025 Ballon d'Or. During a live session with American streamer iShowSpeed, Pogba conveyed his admiration for Dembele's recent performances, particularly in PSG's remarkable UEFA Champions League-winning campaign. "I support Dembouz [Dembele] 100 percent; he won the UCL and was essential this season," Pogba stated. "If he does not win it this year, he will never win it. Hakimi and Vitinha were impressive as well. Dembélé is the frontrunner for the Ballon d'Or." At 28, Dembele has had an outstanding season with the Ligue 1 champions, regaining his top form and playing a crucial role in PSG's historic European triumph. His skill, speed, and playmaking prowess were instrumental as PSG finally secured the coveted Champions League trophy, a significant factor that may influence the Ballon d'Or voting in his favor. Pogba, who has been a long-time teammate of Dembele on the French national team, also recognized the contributions of two other PSG stars, Achraf Hakimi and Vitinha, describing their performances as "great" throughout the season. However, he emphasized that they did not surpass Dembele's impact. "If he does not win it this year, he will never win it. Hakimi and Vitinha were impressive as well. Dembélé is the frontrunner for the Ballon d'Or," Pogba reiterated. The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled for September at the renowned Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, and the competition for the prestigious award is intensifying. With contenders like Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé also in the mix, Dembele's Champions League exploits could provide him with a crucial advantage.

Abure Exhorts Members to Re-join the Labour Party After Interacting with Other Parties.

The faction of the Labour Party led by Julius Abure has reached out to members who are engaging with other political parties, encouraging them to return to the party. Abure, who serves as the National Chairman of the party, shared this information while addressing journalists regarding the results of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Monday. He stated that the party welcomes those who wish to return, as long as they recognize their previous actions. Abure clarified that while every Nigerian has the right to associate with any group or political party of their choosing, the party's constitution is unequivocal. "The party's constitution is very explicit, and the constitution of Nigeria is also clear that one cannot belong to two political parties simultaneously. "We are observing members who are engaging with other parties, and at the appropriate time, the party's governing bodies will determine the course of action. "Thus, we are taking this opportunity to announce that our doors remain open. They should put aside their differences and return to the party. "If they choose to return and offer an apology, we are willing to forgive them because we believe that there are no winners and no losers," he stated.

Badenoch's Claim of Nigerian Citizenship for her Children is Refuted by a Nigerian Immigration Lawyer.

In contrast to the recent assertion made by Kemi Badenoch, the Leader of the British Opposition and Conservative Party, regarding her children’s inability to obtain Nigerian citizenship due to her marriage to a British man, esteemed Nigerian immigration lawyer Prince Ebere Nwokoro has refuted these claims. In a statement issued in response to this matter, Prince Nwokoro, who serves as the 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Immigration Lawyers Association (NILA), emphasized that the statement does not accurately represent the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution concerning citizenship. He stated, "Nigeria’s nationality law is founded on the principle of jus sanguinis, which permits citizenship to be inherited through descent. "The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended) explicitly states that an individual born to a Nigerian parent—irrespective of their birthplace—may qualify for Nigerian citizenship. In particular, Section 25(1) of the Constitution delineates the criteria for citizenship by birth, while Section 26(1) pertains to citizenship by registration." The NILA 1st Vice President further contended that, "Considering that Kemi Badenoch is a Nigerian citizen by birth, pursuant to Section 25(1)(c) of the Constitution, her children are entitled to Nigerian citizenship under the stipulations of Section 25(1)(c) and/or Section 26(1)(b), whether through parental descent or grandparental lineage. "These provisions guarantee that: a) children born to Nigerian citizens—regardless of whether the mother or father is Nigerian—can obtain citizenship, irrespective of their birthplace or the citizenship status of the other parent; and b) any individual of full age and capacity born outside Nigeria, whose grandparents are Nigerian citizens, may register as a citizen of Nigeria. He highlighted that as a prominent figure, Ms. Badenoch should recognize the importance of precision and clarity in public discussions regarding significant issues such as citizenship. The esteemed legal expert remarked that misrepresentation of facts in this context may result in misunderstandings and a flawed public perception of our citizenship laws. Consequently, he urged public figures to be meticulous in their portrayal of the law to prevent the continuation of misleading narratives that could significantly impact Nigeria’s legal system and national identity. In light of this, Prince Nwokoro called upon everyone to dismiss Kemi’s claim as ‘contra legem’ since it does not accurately represent Nigeria’s citizenship framework.

Atalanta's Retegui Joins Saudi Club Al-Qadsiah

Last season's Serie A leading goal-scorer, Mateo Retegui, has transferred to Al-Qadsiah from Atalanta, as announced by the Saudi club on Monday. Italian media reports indicate that Al-Qadsiah has paid over 60 million euros ($70 million) for the Italian forward, although the duration of his contract remains undisclosed. The 26-year-old netted 25 goals in the league last season after joining Atalanta in 2024. "El Matador. Al Qadsiah's new powerhouse," the club stated on social media. Retegui, who was born in Argentina, takes the place of former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is said to have agreed to a return to Marseille.