2025 | Page 5 of 262 | Trendbrio.com

Our Truck Drivers Earn More Than Graduates – Dangote Defends Refinery Amid Union Allegations

Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, has defended his company’s treatment of truck drivers, stating that they are well compensated—often earning more than some university graduates. He made the remarks while addressing journalists on Monday, in response to allegations made by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The union had accused the Dangote Refinery of anti-labour practices and reducing job opportunities for its members. Dangote, however, dismissed the claims, asserting that his company not only offers competitive salaries but also provides long-term benefits and financial support for its drivers. “Our drivers earn four times more than some graduates after five years on the job, provided they have few or no accidents,” Dangote said. “They can also apply for housing loans. What they earn monthly is nearly four times the national minimum wage.” He acknowledged that the refinery sometimes faces logistical issues due to a shortage of trucks, which has occasionally forced them to accept substandard vehicles. “Not every truck gets loaded here because some are unsafe,” he noted. “But we have to manage when they bring them, because we don’t have enough of our own.” Addressing concerns about job losses, Dangote reassured that no tanker driver would be left behind. “Any NUPENG driver without a job is welcome to join us,” he said. The ongoing dispute between NUPENG and the Dangote Group has sparked national attention. However, the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of the union has disassociated itself from the national leadership’s position, accusing it of spreading falsehoods and attempting to stir unnecessary conflict. In a statement signed by PTD leaders Comrades Lucky Osesua, Dayyabu Garga, and Humble Obinna Power, the group said NUPENG’s leadership was “using malicious and dangerous rhetoric” to incite stakeholders against the Dangote Refinery, describing their allegations as “a tissue of lies.” The Dangote Refinery, one of Africa’s largest private-sector projects, continues to draw attention not only for its economic significance but also for its impact on Nigeria’s labour and energy sectors.

Troops Arrest Notorious IPOB/ESN Commander “Gentle de Yahoo” in Imo State

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The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Known by the alias “Gentle de Yahoo,” Okorienta was captured at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. The operation was carried out by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in collaboration with other security agencies. According to a statement released by the military, the arrest led to the recovery of several weapons and items, including an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, one cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag. During the raid, troops also discovered a workshop reportedly used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale. Ten motorcycles found at the site were destroyed. In separate operations across Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, troops rescued 12 kidnapped victims. Five were freed in Madagali (Adamawa), five in Malumfashi (Katsina), and two in Lokoja (Kogi). These actions are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to combat insurgency, banditry, and organized crime across the country.

WAFU-B U17 Boys Tournament: Golden Eaglets Off to Yamoussoukro

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The U17 Boys National Team, Golden Eaglets, will on Wednesday depart the country for the city of Yamoussoukro, Cote d’Ivoire where they will participate in this year’s WAFU-B U17 Boys Tournament. In their final friendly game before the tournament, the Eaglets drew 0-0 with Mop Stars FC on Monday. The team played a total of 13 friendly matches while in camp, winning 10, drawing two and losing only one. They scored 25 goals and conceded five. The five-time world champions will begin their campaign in the tournament against Baby Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Wednesday, 24th September, before taking on Burkina Faso in Group B. Group A has hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Niger Republic, Ghana and Togo. Matches will be played at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique in Yamoussoukro, which has a natural turf and was constructed for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. GOLDEN EAGLES FOR WAFU-B U17 BOYS TOURNAMENT Goalkeepers: Aquila Ahur (Mailantarki FC); Great Edafe (Beyond Limits); Paul Awelewa (Morak FC) Defenders: Abdullateef Lasisi (La Planet); Mubarak Rasheed (RFO FC); Sadiq Salihu (Niger Tornadoes); Godwin Menyaga (Adoration FC); Abdulsamad Salisu (Central FC); Emmanuel Asika (Mailantarki FC) Midfielders: Paul Ugwu (RBM FC); Famous Umole (Derby FC); David Edeh (Adoration FC); Umar Yahaya (Footwork FC); Ahmed Yusuf (One-Touch FC)

The United Bank of Africa, UBA, Headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos is allegedly on fire.

Breaking News: Fire Engulfs UBA Bank Branch on Lagos Island, Staff Forced to Jump from Building

Fola Badmus3 days ago3 days ago05 mins

In a shocking development today, September 16, 2025, a major fire outbreak has been reported at the United Bank for Africa (UBA) branch located on Lagos Island, Nigeria. Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media paint a chaotic scene, with flames rapidly spreading through the building, trapping people inside and prompting desperate escape attempts. Emergency services are reportedly on the ground, but concerns have been raised about the response time in one of Lagos’ busiest commercial districts. The Incident Unfolds. According to multiple reports from the scene, the fire started earlier this afternoon, quickly escalating and engulfing parts of the UBA House. Videos shared online show thick smoke billowing from the structure, with flames visible on upper floors. In one particularly harrowing clip, bank staff can be seen jumping from a storey building to escape the inferno, highlighting the urgency and danger faced by those inside. Eyewitnesses have noted that several individuals may still be trapped, adding to the panic in the surrounding area. The Lagos State Fire Service and other emergency responders, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), have been mobilized to combat the blaze and conduct rescue operations. One report mentions that at least one person has been rescued so far, but the full extent of casualties or injuries remains unclear as the situation develops. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, with no official statements from UBA or authorities at the time of writing. Public Reaction and Criticism Social media has been flooded with videos and updates from bystanders, expressing shock and frustration. Many have criticized the apparent delay in the arrival of fire services, questioning the preparedness of Nigeria’s emergency systems in a major urban center like Lagos. Comments range from calls for immediate action from government officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to broader laments about infrastructure and safety standards in the country. One user described the scene as a “tragic” example of systemic incompetence, emphasizing the risks to human lives and billions in potential financial losses. Lagos Island, known for its dense markets and commercial hubs, has seen similar incidents in the past, often exacerbated by traffic congestion and limited access for emergency vehicles. This event underscores ongoing challenges in urban safety and disaster response. What We Know So Far UBA Bank has not issued an official statement as of now, but customers and the public are advised to avoid the area and monitor official channels for updates. Our thoughts are with those affected by this distressing event. We will continue to follow the story and provide updates as more details emerge.

Five2 Media’s Extra Mile Wins Best Female Filmmaker – Nollywood Award at TINFF 2025

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By Kamal Yalwa | September 15, 2025 Extra Mile, the compelling feature film by Five2 Media and Entertainment, has clinched the Best Film by a Female Filmmaker – Nollywood award at the 2025 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF). Produced by Joy Grant and Solate Ovundah-Akarolo, who also served as Executive Producer, Extra Mile was celebrated for its emotional depth, outstanding performances, and refreshing approach to storytelling within Nollywood cinema. “TINFF’s recognition is an encouragement for female voices in Nollywood to keep breaking boundaries and telling stories that matter,” said producer Joy Grant following the win. The film explores the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and resilience, brought to life through nuanced performances by Nollywood veterans Mercy Johnson, Jim Iyke, and Lilian Esoro. Critics and audiences alike praised its honesty and emotional resonance, describing it as both intimate and universally relatable. The award was received on behalf of Five2 Media by the company’s Canada-based Communications Lead, Oraye St. Franklyn, who expressed gratitude to the entire cast and crew. For Ovundah-Akarolo, the win is more than a personal milestone — it represents a broader shift in the industry. “This award signals a turning point,” she said. “Female filmmakers are no longer just part of the conversation — we’re leading it.” Held in Toronto, a global meeting point for African cinema and the diaspora, the TINFF 2025 Gala drew industry stars and international attendees, including Nigerian comedian Julius Agwu and filmmaker Ayo “AY” Makun. The recognition of Extra Mile also underscores Nollywood’s evolving presence on the global stage, as it continues to deliver stories that resonate beyond borders. With its universal themes and authentic voice, the film serves as a testament to Nollywood’s storytelling power — and the vital role women are playing in shaping its future. This win is not just a victory for one film or one filmmaker — it’s a marker of progress, and a signal that Nollywood’s next chapter is being written from a wider, richer, and more inclusive lens.

Online Voter Registration Hits 4.44Million

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has recorded more than 4.44 million online registrations and 509,929 physical registrations in the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR). INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja. He said that as of Sunday, September 14, a total of 4,445,505 Nigerians had pre-registered online within four weeks of the exercise, which began on August 18. According to the breakdown, 48.17 percent (2,141,294) of those who registered online are male, while 51.83 percent (2,304,211) are female. By age group, young people between 18 and 34 years make up the majority with 2,924,643 registrants (65.79 percent), while 1,112,344 (25.02 percent) are students. Olumekun added that of the 509,929 physical registrations completed as of September 12, 45.06 percent (229,758) were male and 54.94 percent (280,171) were female. Similarly, 74.15 percent (378,132) of the registrants were aged 18 to 34, and 38.54 percent (196,529) were students. He noted that the detailed distribution of registrations by state, gender, age, occupation, and disability status has been uploaded to INEC’s website and official platforms for public access. INEC also announced that online pre-registration in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ended on Monday, September 15. Physical registration will continue at designated venues for the next two weeks, before being devolved to all 62 wards in the FCT from September 29 to October 8.

‘Adolescence’ and ‘The Studio’ Dominate 2025 Emmy Awards (Full Winners List)

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By Kamal Yalwa | September 15, 2025 The 2025 Emmy Awards were dominated by the dark British limited series “Adolescence” and Seth Rogen’s biting Hollywood satire “The Studio,” both of which swept major categories during Sunday night’s ceremony. The emotionally charged teen murder drama “Adolescence” took home eight awards, including Best Limited Series, as well as accolades for writing, directing, lead actor, and supporting performances. The Netflix hit, which explores toxic masculinity and the impact of social media on youth, became a global phenomenon with over 140 million views in its first three months. Co-creator and star Stephen Graham, who plays the father of the teenage suspect, acknowledged the show’s unexpected global resonance. “We never expected our little program to have such a big impact,” he said. 15-year-old Owen Cooper, who plays the lead role, made history as the youngest male actor to win an Emmy. “Honestly, when I started these drama classes a couple of years back, I didn’t expect to be even in the United States, never mind here,” he said emotionally. ‘The Pitt’ Wins Best Drama in Surprise Upset In what many considered a surprise victory, “The Pitt” clinched Best Drama Series, edging out frontrunner “Severance.” The gripping medical drama, set entirely during a single chaotic hospital shift in Pittsburgh, gained traction through word-of-mouth after a quiet debut. Veteran actor Noah Wyle won Best Drama Actor for his role as the hospital’s weary ER chief. “Anybody going on shift tonight or coming off shift tonight — thank you for being in that job. This is for you,” Wyle said, dedicating the win to real-life healthcare workers. Katherine LaNasa also took home Best Supporting Actress in a drama for her role on The Pitt. ‘The Studio’ Breaks Records in Comedy Categories Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” dominated the comedy awards, earning Best Comedy Series and a total of 13 Emmys, including Best Actor, Writing, and Directing — setting a new record for comedy wins in a single year. The sharp satire, which both celebrates and critiques Hollywood culture, was lauded for its clever storytelling and self-awareness. Rogen plays a struggling movie executive navigating the industry’s absurdities. In the supporting categories, Jean Smart won her fourth Emmy for “Hacks”, while Hannah Einbinder earned her first Emmy as Best Supporting Actress. Einbinder’s speech briefly caused controversy when she criticized a U.S. government agency involved in immigration raids and ended with the words “Free Palestine” — a moment that was muted by CBS.

Ex-Barcelona Star Eric Abidal Forced to Deny Own Death

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Former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has been forced to deny his own death after baseless social media rumours claimed he had passed away this week. Posts online said that complications from a liver transplant he had in 2012 had led to Abidal losing his life, obliging him to clarify that he is still alive and well. Abidal, 46, was first diagnosed with liver cancer in 2011. He had the tumour removed that same year and then underwent a liver transplant a year later before returning to football in 2013. “Some rumours should never exist,” he wrote on Instagram. “I’m here with my family and everything is fine. Respect is essential. There is a family and my children behind this. “To be clear, I’m fine, I’m alive and well. Thank you for your support and messages of concern. Let’s focus on what really matters.” Abidal began his career at Monaco, going on to play for Lille and Lyon in his native France before signing for Barcelona in 2007. After his battle with cancer, he returned to play for the Catalan side in 2013, but was released at the end of that season, returning to Monaco before finishing his career in Greece with Olympiacos. During his time with Barça, he won 15 trophies, including four LaLiga titles and two Champions Leagues, while he was a runner-up at the 2006 World Cup with France, whom he made 67 caps for. Following his retirement, he returned to Barça as sporting director in 2018, leaving that role in 2020. He is working in the same position for Al Wasl Sports Club in the United Arab Emirates after being appointed earlier this year.