Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode has publicly criticized UK politician Kemi Badenoch, referring to her as a “little girl” for her continuous derogatory remarks about Nigeria as she campaigns for leadership within the Conservative Party.

Kemi Badenoch, a British-Nigerian politician serving as the Member of Parliament for North West Essex since 2017, was born in Wimbledon but spent significant parts of her childhood in Nigeria. In her pursuit of the UK Prime Minister position, Badenoch has drawn on her Nigerian experiences, often sharing negative anecdotes about her upbringing in Nigeria, claiming it was filled with fear and horror due to violence and insecurity.

In an interview with MailOnline, she stated her commitment to the UK, expressing her desire for it to remain distinct from Nigeria, which she depicted as a place she fled from: “I don’t want it to become like the place I ran away from. I want it to get better and better, not just for me, but for the next generation.”

Fani-Kayode responded vehemently on his X account on October 26, 2024, condemning Badenoch’s comments. He described her as a “s****d little girl and notoriously self-righteous,” suggesting that she should focus on improving Nigeria instead of criticizing it. He compared her to “Aunty Jemima,” a reference implying that she is out of touch with her roots.

He concluded by urging Badenoch to concentrate on her political ambitions within the Conservative Party while refraining from disparaging Nigeria: “By all means, try your luck at being elected leader of the British Conservative party but leave my country out of your pretty yet stinking mouth.”

The organizers of the second edition of Cross River’s Queen of Humanity Pageantry have announced that the winner for 2024 will take home an impressive ₦42 million. Michael Moses, the Producer of the pageantry, shared this news during a press conference in Calabar on Saturday.

Initiated by Enyoawan Otu, the wife of the Cross River governor, the Queen of Humanity Pageantry aims to mentor young girls in the state, focusing on ethics, morality, and selflessness. Moses emphasized that this competition integrates beauty with intelligence, requiring participants to develop proposals addressing community challenges in Cross River.

The pageantry will take place from November 1 to December 27, culminating in the crowning of the new queen. Following her selection, the winner will engage in a marketing campaign starting in January 2025, touring all 18 Local Government Areas of the state and collaborating with local chairmen on humanitarian initiatives.

The newly crowned queen will also occupy an office created for her within the governor’s wife’s office, where she will oversee her pet projects for a year. Moses confirmed that the 2023 winner would be present to crown her successor.

The competition is open to all Nigerian girls aged 18 to 30 who reside in the country. Dr. Comfort Oko, Senior Special Adviser to the Governor’s Wife, expressed gratitude to the media for their support in advancing state development and encouraged continued backing for the pageantry, which is designed to empower young girls in Cross River.

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Hon. Shirley Botchwey, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, on her recent election as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The election took place on Friday during a meeting of leaders from the 56 Commonwealth nations in Apia, Samoa.

Botchwey, a former lawmaker who has served as Ghana’s foreign minister for the past seven years, will assume her role as the 7th Secretary-General on April 1, 2025. She is notable for being the second African to hold this position in the Commonwealth’s 75-year history, following Nigeria’s Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who served from July 1, 1990, to March 31, 2000.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated that President Tinubu believes Botchwey’s extensive background in public administration, foreign affairs, and regional development makes her well-suited for this vital role. Tinubu expressed confidence that her leadership would reinvigorate the Commonwealth’s initiatives aimed at fostering significant economic and political partnerships among member nations.

Moreover, President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to a Commonwealth that enhances intra-Commonwealth trade, boosts African exports, and supports a unified stance at the United Nations for an African bid for permanent representation on the Security Council.

In conclusion, the President thanked the outgoing Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, for her years of service and leadership, wishing her success in her future endeavors

The Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger, has summoned the immediate past Rector, Dr. Abubakar Abdul-Dzukogi, to address certain issues concerning his administration. This invitation was announced following the council’s recent meeting in Bida.

Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Ismail Muazu-Hassan, stated that Dr. Abdul-Dzukogi is expected to appear before the council to provide clarity on various matters related to his eight-year tenure. He was originally scheduled to attend on Friday but requested an extension, citing insufficient preparation time and health challenges.

In light of his reasons, the council granted him an additional ten days to present himself and clarify the issues at hand. Muazu-Hassan emphasized the importance of this meeting, noting that it aims to establish a clear record of the former rector’s administration. “We are not saying he has not done well, but want him to clarify some issues pertaining to his 8 years of administration,” he remarked.

The council chair also reassured stakeholders that the incumbent leadership would uphold the institution’s standards in all academic and extracurricular activities, reiterating the council’s commitment to the institution’s development. He expressed confidence that the council would support the current leadership in advancing the polytechnic’s goals

Dr. Idowu Audu, the Deputy Incident Manager of the National Polio Emergency Operations, revealed on Saturday that Nigeria accounts for 70 percent of the world’s polio vaccine consumption, yet the country has not achieved significant progress in eradicating the virus.

Speaking at the Third Quarter Review/Engagement Meeting of the Kwara State Traditional Leaders’ Council Committee on Health in Ilorin, Audu lamented the resurgence of polio infections among children, particularly in Northern states, with Zamfara State reporting a staggering 35 percent prevalence of the virus. He attributed the ongoing challenges in polio eradication to widespread non-compliance, stating, “Non-compliance cases are buried and hidden. These are some of the problems that disrupt vaccine programmes in the country.”

Audu urged traditional leaders to support government efforts in improving routine vaccinations for polio, measles, and whooping cough. He emphasized the need for community involvement in vaccine initiatives.

Dr. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, highlighted the importance of collaboration between traditional institutions and stakeholders. Represented by Dr. Michael Oguntoye, she noted that trained healthcare workers were instrumental in implementing vaccine programs in the state. Elelu appealed to parents to ensure their children receive essential vaccinations, despite facing challenges from resistant individuals.

In a related address, Ademola Enikanselu, Programme Officer of the Chigari Foundation in Kwara, called on traditional leaders to actively monitor vaccine coverage and report any barriers to effective immunization in their communities. He stressed the importance of tracking progress and identifying areas needing improvement to enhance vaccination efforts.

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has officially approved the payment of the new ₦70,000 National Minimum Wage to state workers. The announcement was made by Sagir Musa, the Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports, and Culture, during a news briefing in Dutse on Saturday.

This decision follows a report from the state’s Minimum Wage Committee, led by Muhammad Dagacire, the Head of Service. Governor Namadi expressed his commitment to implementing the new minimum wage, aligning Jigawa State with other states in the country.

Musa stated, “The Jigawa State Government had previously set up a committee that deliberated and advised the government on the necessity of adopting the new minimum wage.” He emphasized that the governor’s announcement signifies a positive step towards ensuring fair compensation for workers in the state.

While a specific date for the payment of the new minimum wage has not been confirmed, Musa assured that the government is working diligently to prepare for its successful implementation. He encouraged state workers to reciprocate this gesture by dedicating themselves to their duties, noting, “To whom much is given, much is expected.”

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strongly condemned the unauthorized use of its official uniform and accoutrements by controversial blogger and activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in a viral video posted on social media. In the video, Otse introduced himself as CSP VeryDarkMan, claiming to be Nigeria’s number one online police and vowing to combat oppressors in the social media space, particularly targeting online vendors.

The NPF stated that it has launched an investigation into the matter to determine the source of the police gear used by Otse and the authority under which he operated. The police emphasized that unauthorized use of police uniforms and insignia constitutes a criminal offense under Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law, which carry strict penalties.

While acknowledging the creativity of young Nigerian content creators, the NPF cautioned against the misuse of police regalia, stating that such actions undermine the values and integrity of the force and will not be tolerated.

The Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) has declared candidates of the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP) as winners in all 44 Local Government Areas and 484 wards following Saturday’s local government elections. Prof. Sani Malumfashi, KANSIEC Chairman, announced that NNPP candidates swept both chairmanship and councillorship seats, with 44 candidates winning chairmanship and 484 securing councillorship positions.

Malumfashi praised the peaceful conduct of the elections, crediting security agencies, media, political party leaders, civil society groups, and community leaders for their support. He emphasized that the successful and credible nature of the elections reflected strong public acceptance, with voters also preventing underage children from participating in the process.

In a viral video circulating on social media, former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo accused the Yoruba people of betraying the Ijaw community, following what he described as President Bola Tinubu’s neglect. Dokubo, who claimed to have extensively supported Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, expressed disappointment, saying he emptied his bank account and dedicated resources to canvass votes for Tinubu.

Dokubo alleged that despite his commitment, the Ijaw people have been disregarded by the current administration, which he perceives as betrayal. Reflecting on this experience, he announced plans to align with the North, expressing apologies to elders who initially formed alliances with Northern Nigeria. Dokubo’s remarks signal potential shifts in alliances, with implications for the Ijaw community’s political strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

A fire broke out on a small section of the Lagos Blue Line track on Saturday, October 26, 2024, near the NEPA Station close to the Eko Bridge in the Apogbon area of Lagos State. Gboyega Akosile, spokesperson for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed the incident, reporting that it occurred around 4:12 p.m.

Akosile assured the public that there were no casualties and that no trains were in service at the time. A team of emergency responders promptly controlled the fire, restoring safety to the area. Residents and commuters have been advised to continue their activities as usual, with Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) expected to provide further updates on train operations.

Akosile’s statement read, “Lagosians in that axis can go about their business peacefully as the situation is under control.”

The Jigawa State Government has officially withdrawn from the Supreme Court case challenging the constitutionality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Abdulkadir-Fanini, announced the decision during a press conference in Dutse on Saturday, October 26.

Abdulkadir-Fanini confirmed that a notice of withdrawal was filed on October 24, stating, “The Jigawa State government has withdrawn from the case of Attorney-General of Kogi vs. Attorney-General of the Federation (SC/CV/178/2023).” However, he refrained from giving specific reasons for the decision, emphasizing that the choice was made “in the interest of the state.”

The Attorney-General explained that alternative paths to achieving the state’s goals could influence such a decision, suggesting that Jigawa may have pursued other methods to address its concerns. He highlighted the potential for amicable resolution outside the court, alluding to the value of alternative dispute resolution as a means to settle disputes.

At the Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) event in Abuja on October 26, Professor Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), delivered an impassioned address on the critical need for patriotism in steering Nigeria away from a potential socio-political collapse. In his keynote speech, titled “Rise Up Patriots, Take Pride in Our Nation,” Jega expressed concerns over Nigeria’s current trajectory, urging citizens to become proactive participants in governance and national development.

Jega acknowledged Nigeria’s early post-independence achievements, referring to the country as “a beacon of hope for Africa and the black race.” However, he attributed the nation’s decline to poor leadership, particularly since the late 1970s. He stressed the need for “true patriotism,” distinct from “blind patriotism,” explaining that true patriots “love, support, and defend their country’s interests responsibly” rather than exploiting it for personal gain.

Although critical of the current state of Nigeria, Jega expressed optimism about the country’s future, affirming, “I do not believe Nigeria is a failed state, but it is failing.” He called on Nigerians to embrace civic duties at both local and national levels and to advocate for transparent and accountable governance. His message urged citizens not to remain passive but to contribute actively to shaping Nigeria into a resilient and unified nation

The Nigerian government has announced its commitment to bolstering local animation and children’s programming, aiming to foster national pride through culturally relevant content. At the launch of the Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) on October 26, Malam Lanre Issa Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), outlined the project’s goals. Representing the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, Onilu emphasized the need for Nigerian children to see homegrown heroes in media rather than solely adopting foreign characters like Spider-Man and Iron Man.

Onilu mentioned recent discussions with animation industry stakeholders in Lagos, with plans to spotlight government investment in the local sector during an upcoming animation festival. This initiative aligns with the National Identity Project, approved by the Federal Executive Council, which aims to unify various sectors in Nigeria—including youth, academia, and civil society—under a cohesive blueprint for promoting national identity.

Contrary to speculation, Onilu clarified there are no plans to ban foreign cartoons but rather to introduce attractive Nigerian alternatives, gradually reducing the influence of foreign content. “It’s about creating our own heroes and stories,” he stated, encouraging the local animation industry to take center stage in this cultural shift.

A teacher at Obada Idi-Emi High School in Imeko Afon, Ogun State, is under investigation following the death of a student, Monday Ariyo, allegedly due to excessive punishment. The incident reportedly took place on October 15 and was publicized on social media by activist Adetoun Onajobi Lanre-Adeniyi.

According to Adetoun, Ariyo made a remark about a dustbin in class, which led to the teacher reporting him to the principal. As punishment, the student was allegedly flogged with 162 strokes, causing him to collapse. Adetoun claimed that Ariyo was delayed in receiving medical help, and he was pronounced dead upon reaching the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abeokuta.

However, Ogun State Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola provided a different account, stating that Ariyo was asked to do 162 frog jumps and was given 24 strokes of the cane, not 162 as initially reported. The police have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted as investigations continue, with the student’s body currently at the Ayetoro mortuary.

On Saturday, the Presidency condemned The Guardian’s October 25 lead article titled “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices.” Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, claimed the article promoted unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and undermined responsible journalism.

Onanuga argued that The Guardian’s report used inflammatory language and imagery, such as military tanks, to insinuate regime change while superficially denouncing military intervention. He stated that the piece failed to showcase Nigeria’s positive economic developments, like a reduction in the revenue-to-debt service ratio and an increase in GDP growth.

The Presidency expressed concern that such narratives might incite disruption of the democratic process, especially amid current political and economic challenges. Emphasizing responsible reporting, Onanuga highlighted that Tinubu has consistently advocated for patience and unity, urging media outlets to support national stability and progress through balanced reporting.

The Nigerian Army Ordinance Corps (NAOC) held a farewell ceremony for five retired Major Generals at Abalti Barracks, Surulere, Lagos, marking their formal disengagement from active military service. The Reviewing Officer, Maj.-Gen. Omotomilola Akintade, addressed the gathering, reflecting on a career journey marked by dedication, resilience, and shared experiences among the officers.

Akintade expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the challenges the country faces, encouraging active personnel to remain professional, loyal, and dedicated to their duties. He thanked the Nigerian Army for their unwavering support, recognizing the sacrifices of their families and colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice in service.

As the officers officially retired, the Corps Commander, Maj.-Gen. Jonathan Ugwuoke, was appreciated for organizing the memorable Pulling Out Ceremony. Akintade concluded by extending appreciation to all guests, affirming his confidence in the corps’ continued success and service to the nation.

The Defence Headquarters confirmed on Friday that a Naval personnel was shot dead by a colleague in Zamfara State during an undisclosed argument. Leading Seaman LS Akila reportedly opened fire with his service rifle early Friday morning in Dansadau, located in the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Both personnel were serving in Team 3, which was formerly known as Operation Hadarin Daji and is now referred to as Operation Sheto Yanma. The altercation escalated, leading to LS Akila shooting his fellow service member.

Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, stated, “On 25 October 2024, at about 03:12 hours, naval personnel, LS Akila, deployed at FOB Dansadau for Operation Fansan Yamma, opened fire in questionable circumstances, resulting in the death of a fellow military colleague.”

Following the incident, LS Akila was arrested, disarmed, and detained. An investigation into the shooting has commenced, and the case will be escalated to a standing court martial designated to handle such misdemeanours among troops.

General Buba added that the administrative procedure for notifying the deceased’s family is currently underway, which is why the name of the victim has not been publicly released. He urged the media to exercise caution in reporting the incident to avoid further distress for the family of the deceased.

Former Senate leader, Senator Ali Ndume of the APC for Borno South, has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s recent de-dollarisation policy, describing it as “the right steps in the right direction.” Ndume believes that this policy will enhance the strength of the naira and facilitate transatlantic trade with nations that do not rely on the US dollar.

In a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Ndume emphasized that if effectively implemented, the de-dollarisation initiative would relieve pressure on the naira, particularly benefiting Nigerian importers dealing with countries like China by allowing them to move away from dollar dependence.

“The policy will also assist the naira in appreciating significantly,” Ndume noted, praising the President for taking bold economic measures at a critical time.

Ndume further urged President Tinubu to convene a National Economic Conference, spearheaded by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the National Economic Adviser, and respected Nigerian economists. He suggested that this summit should be led by eminent figures like Okonjo Iweala and Akinwumi Adesina to formulate home-grown solutions rather than relying on the often harsh prescriptions of the IMF and World Bank.

In addition to his economic recommendations, Ndume previously called on President Tinubu to employ military contractors to combat Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State, while commending efforts to enhance the Air Force’s capabilities through the acquisition of military planes and helicopters.

Ndume praised Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle and the establishment of a Ministry of Regional Development, noting that while progress has been made, more action is necessary to ensure ministers are actively contributing to their roles. He highlighted the President’s commitment to reducing governance costs amid economic challenges as a commendable move.

An Abia State High Court in the Bende Judicial Division has confirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains bound by a previous order that prohibits it from holding State, Local Government, and Ward congresses in Abia State. This ruling comes just hours before the party’s rescheduled State Congress set for Saturday, October 26.

The court’s order, dated October 25, pertains to a suit marked HB/3/2024, filed by claimants Francis Etuzu, Chidindu Kalu Kalu, and Enyinnaya Ogbu. Justice C. U. Okoroafor presided over the case and has mandated that contempt proceedings be initiated against key PDP officials, including Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary; Alwell Asiforo Okere, the Caretaker Committee Chairman for Abia; and Kenneth Madubuike, the Caretaker Committee Secretary.

The court has allowed the claimants to serve Forms 48, 49, and other relevant documents regarding the contempt proceedings to the defendants. This can be accomplished by delivering the documents to any adult present at the PDP Abia Secretariat or by posting them at the secretariat’s location. Additionally, service can be conducted electronically via the party’s personal WhatsApp numbers.

Furthermore, the court reminded all parties that the earlier ruling made on July 23, 2024, which barred the PDP from conducting its ward congress scheduled for July 27, continues to be in effect until the substantive matter is resolved. The court also prohibited any extension of the tenure of the Okere-led State Working Committee (SWC) of the party.