April 2025 | Page 12 of 45

Portable Acquires Ford Ranger Platinum SUV

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago01 mins

Controversial Nigerian musician, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus popularly known as Portable has taken delivery of a new Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), Ford Platinum. The artist revealed on social media on Wednesday that the new fleet is an addition to his garage. “Open the car. Yeah,” Portable screamed as his fans cheer him. “Platinum or what is it called? “I bought it from the money Uncle, Daddy Burna Boy sent to me and I added some money to it. “I thank God oooo.” Recalled Portable bought a new Chevrolet SUV after his tour of USA and also the Governor of Ogun State Government gifting him N2million. Portable reportedly has five children from different women, including a son with Nollywood actress Akinyanju Omobolarinde.

FG Releases ₦50bn to Clear ASUU Varsity Staff Earned Allowances

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, on Wednesday, announced the release of N50 billion by the Federal Government to the academic and non-academic staff unions of federal universities for the settlement of earned allowances, as promised by President Bola Tinubu. This development was disclosed in a statement titled “FG Releases N50bn Earned Allowances to Varsity Unions, Tinubu Reaffirms Education Priority”, issued by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education. Boriowo stated that the move “stands as yet another testament to Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to fundamentally transform Nigeria’s education sector. It reflects the administration’s bold resolve to transitionthe nation from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy through strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and human capital.” According to the Minister, “This intervention is not just a financial transaction—it is a reaffirmation of our President’s belief in the capacity of Nigerian youth and the invaluable role that academic and non-academic staff play in nurturing them. “By prioritising their welfare, we are laying the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child receives highly qualitative and globally competitive education.” The Minister expressed President Tinubu’s heartfelt appreciation to both academic and non-academic unions for their sustained trust in his administration and for fostering an atmosphere of peace and cooperation across Nigeria’s federal institutions. “Notably, the country is currently experiencing one of the longest uninterrupted academic sessions in recent history—a feat attributed to the mutual understanding and shared commitment between the government and the university community,” the statement added. The President reiterated: “The youth are the heartbeat of our country. Their future is extremely important to me and my administration. Keeping our children in school is not negotiable. It is my commitment that strikes in our institutions will soon become a thing of the past.” Recall that university-based academic unions have been at loggerheads with past governments over the failure to release earned allowances, among other demands.

APC Welcomes Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Okowa Others to Party

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago01 mins

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed excitement over the decision of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party. In a statement issued by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the APC welcomed not only Governor Oborevwori but also former Delta Governor and 2023 PDP vice presidential candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as several senior government officials, state lawmakers, local government chairmen, councilors, and PDP members across the state. The APC assured the defectors of full support and integration within the party, describing their entry as a strategic boost that positions Delta State to play a vital role in the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the prosperity of Deltans and Nigerians at large.

Lagos State Allocates ₦14.9 Billion to Subsidize Public Transport Amid Economic Hardship

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

As part of measures to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship in the country, the Lagos State government on Tuesday revealed that it has subsidised the public transport fare with N14.9bn to ease commuters’ burden. This was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, during the 2025 ministerial briefing to mark the second year of the second term of the State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, led administration in office held at the state government Secretariat located in Alausa, Ikeja area of the state. Flanked at the briefing by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Special Advisers to the Governor on Transportation and Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, among others, Osiyemi said the State Government established the Lagos Bus Service Limited (LBSL) to save commuters’ time and money and enhance socioeconomic development of the state. Osiyemi said, “LBSL moved 60,882,000 passengers from May 2019 to February 2025. LBSL currently moves over 42,266 passengers daily, averaging 1000 daily bus trips. “LBSL average fare for February was N542.66 while informal public transport fare was N1,097.73. “Since inception, the LBSL average fare has been N261.67 cheaper than the average fares in Lagos. LBSL has implicitly subsidised fares for the Lagosians transported to an estimated sum of N14.9 billion.” The commissioner further explained, “LBSL Driving School produced an additional 144 drivers for 3,537 certified high-capacity bus drivers as of 18 March 2025. He added, “Public transport is safer than private cars in terms of accident rates and severity. Public transport enhances the overall safety and security of passengers. Public transport moves more people with fewer vehicles. Reduces Congestion — Public transport reduces traffic congestion and travel time.” Harping on the state government’s bus reform initiative through the Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority, LAMATA, Osiyemi disclosed that an additional three rolling stocks are expected in May to enhance service delivery with the increasing number of passengers on the Blue Line Rail. He said, “The State Governor inaugurated the Blue Line Rail in the state in December 2022. The first phase of the infrastructure works for the rail project (Marina to Mile 2) has commenced operation. “The Blue Line is one of seven Lagos metro rail lines, spanning from Marina to Okokomaiko. The first phase has already commenced with commercial passenger operations and has transported more than two million passengers. “The full Line is 27km from Marina to Okokomaiko. Construction of phase 2 from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko started in December and is expected to carry 500,000 passengers daily.”

Osimhen Fires Galatasaray Reaches to Turkish Cup Final

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen delivered a stellar performance for Galatasaray, scoring one goal and providing an assist in their emphatic 5-1 victory over Konyaspor in the Turkish Cup semifinal clash at the Konya Buyuksehir Belediye Stadium. Osimhen, who has been a key figure for Galatasaray this season, spearheaded their attack as they aimed to secure a coveted spot in the Turkish Cup final. The 26-year-old forward wasted no time in making his mark, opening the scoring in the 26th minute. He demonstrated his aerial prowess by rising highest to meet a well-delivered cross from teammate Dries Mertens, powerfully heading the ball into the net to give Galatasaray a 1-0 lead. Osimhen had another opportunity to extend the lead in the 32nd minute, but Konyaspor goalkeeper Deniz Ertas pulled off a fine save to deny the Nigerian. However, Ertas was unable to prevent Lucas Torreira from doubling Galatasaray’s advantage just before halftime, with the Uruguayan midfielder finding the back of the net in the 43rd minute to make it 2-0. Galatasaray continued their dominance after the break, and just two minutes into the second half, Osimhen turned provider. He displayed excellent vision and technique to play a precise pass to Roland Sallai, whose subsequent shot took a deflection before finding the back of the net, extending Galatasaray’s lead to 3-0. Konyaspor briefly offered a glimmer of hope when Pedrinho pulled a goal back in the 53rd minute, reducing the deficit to 3-1. However, Galatasaray quickly extinguished any hopes of a comeback, striking twice more through Sallai and Yusuf Demir to seal a comprehensive 5-1 victory. Osimhen’s overall contribution to Galatasaray’s dominant performance was significant. Throughout the match, he registered an impressive three successful dribbles, had six attempts on goal, created two key passes for his teammates, and won seven of his eleven duels. Galatasaray now await the outcome of the other Turkish Cup semifinal between Trabzonspor and Goztepe on Thursday to discover their opponents in the final. While the Lions may harbor hopes of facing Goztepe, perceived as potentially easier opposition, Victor Osimhen’s consistent form suggests he will be a crucial asset for Galatasaray regardless of who they face. Having not lifted the Turkish Cup trophy since 2018, Galatasaray will be determined to go all the way this season, and with Osimhen leading their attack, their chances of success look promising.

Delta Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori Decamps to APC

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has reportedly dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He was said to have defected alongside his commissioners. This was revealed after a high-level, closed-door meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Wednesday evening. The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Festus Ahon, said the decision came after “wide consultations with political stakeholders and in the interest of Delta’s long-term development.” Oborevwori was elected in 2023 under the PDP platform. Senator James Manager, who addressed the press after a meeting of the PDP stakeholders in Government House, said a formal declaration would be made on Monday. He said that the governor’s defection to the ruling party was in the interest and the overall development of Delta state. Mr Manager said the entire PDP structure in the state had collapsed to the APC. Present at the briefing were Governor Oborevwori, the immediate past governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guor and other PDP stalwarts.

Governor Alia Appoints Music Star 2Baba as Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has appointed Nigerian music icon, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, as his Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach, News360 Nigeria reports., The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the veteran singer to the governor’s office. Governor Alia commended 2Baba for his continuous support towards the state government and expressed confidence in his capacity to further contribute to the administration’s efforts in entertainment and community development. “In addition to the good work you’ve been doing, we believe you can do even more. On behalf of the government and the people of Benue State, we are pleased to appoint you as Technical Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment and Community Outreach,” Governor Alia stated. In another development, 2Baba has formally introduced his fiancée, Honourable Natasha Osawaru, to the traditional leadership of the Idoma nation and his hometown community. The introduction ceremony took place on Monday, April 21, 2025, during the Idoma Nation Peace and Unity Symposium held at the Och’Idoma Palace in Otukpo. Dressed in full traditional Idoma attire, 2Baba presented Natasha, a serving lawmaker and former Deputy Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, to His Royal Majesty, the Och’Idoma V, and gathered elders. Following the palace event, the couple visited Okpokwu, 2Baba’s ancestral hometown, where they met with community elders and sought their blessings.

Governor Bago Clarifies Stance: Dreadlocks Not Banned in Niger State

Governor Bago Makes U-turn; Says Dreadlocks Not Banned in Niger

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has reversed his earlier directive ordering the arrest and fining of individuals with dreadlocks in Minna, the state capital. During a stakeholders’ security meeting on Tuesday, Bago had instructed security operatives to apprehend anyone wearing dreadlocks, shave off their hair, and impose fines, stating, “Nobody should carry any kind of haircut inside Minna.” However, the governor’s comments sparked widespread backlash from Nigerians, prompting him to clarify his stance the following day. In a statement on Wednesday, Bago distanced himself from the controversial order, saying his remarks were misunderstood and that the government has no issue with people wearing dreadlocks. He explained that the target of his earlier directive was not individuals with dreadlocks generally, but rather criminal groups allegedly associated with that appearance. “We don’t have a problem with dreadlocks but we have a problem with the cult here with dreadlocks,” he said. Bago went on to encourage investors and business owners, including those with dreadlocks, to feel welcome in Niger State, calling the controversy “media propaganda