Tinubu Approves Commercial Oil Drilling In Ogun

President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead for commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State, signaling a major step for the state’s coastal development. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the approval on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior officers during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The governor also disclosed that Tinubu has authorized the immediate launch of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of anticipation for the multibillion-dollar port. According to Abiodun, both projects hold particular significance for the President. While the Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to reduce congestion at Lagos ports, commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island aims to foster economic inclusion and empower residents of coastal communities. “Mr President has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island, and activities will soon begin there. Our Olokola Port project, long in the planning stages, is now officially back on track. I sincerely thank Mr President, as this initiative comes entirely from him. In just the past two weeks, we have held multiple meetings on Olokola, and the President is committed to making this port a reality,” the governor said. Abiodun added that the President has instructed that port construction be significantly advanced by next year. The project, to be named the Blue Marine Economic Zone, will serve as a strategic coastal hub and provide an alternative logistics corridor to ease pressure on Lagos ports. The governor also commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the presence of naval forces will help prevent incursions from the Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Abiodun said his administration is working to improve living conditions on the island by providing basic amenities to support residents and boost emerging economic activities. He also praised the Navy’s role in Ogun State’s security, emphasizing that inter-agency cooperation has helped maintain the state’s relative peace. Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a highly experienced officer, Abiodun expressed confidence that Ogun State would benefit from enhanced security and development under his leadership. “We are happy that someone with your training, background, and experience is in this role. You are truly a round peg in a round hole,” he said.

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‘I’m Not Here for Influencers, Africa Tour Is About Real Culture and Talent’ – IShowSpeed

American online streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr., popularly known as iShowSpeed, has addressed criticism over claims that he ignored Nigerian content creators during his ongoing Africa tour, insisting that the trip is focused on culture and everyday people, not influencer collaborations. The clarification came after reactions trailed his Wednesday livestream of his first full day in Lagos, which drew massive crowds, unfiltered street interactions and viral moments that quickly spread across social media within and outside Africa. The controversy started after some Nigerian content creators accused Speed of deliberately avoiding collaboration requests during his Lagos visit. Fans repeatedly urged him to meet Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, a Nigerian streamer active on TikTok and Kick. Peller made several attempts to get Speed’s attention, including trying to climb onto his vehicle and later riding a horse through traffic to approach him. In a widely circulated clip, he was heard saying, “Please, I’m a streamer. I’m big. Please let’s do something. I have suffered because of you,” but Speed did not respond and continued with his scheduled activities. The repeated attempts and Speed’s silence sparked heated online discussions, with fans and creators questioning why one of the world’s biggest streamers would tour Africa without linking up with well-known local personalities. Reacting to the backlash, Speed explained that the purpose of his Speed Does Africa tour had been misunderstood. “This tour is not about collaborations with influencers or streamers,” he said. “The goal is to show African culture, the people on the streets, and the talent that doesn’t usually get seen.” He added that many of those expressing dissatisfaction already have established audiences, noting that “a lot of the people complaining already have audiences, while this tour is meant to give exposure to people who normally don’t get it.” Speed also clarified that his movements throughout the tour are tightly planned by his team. “Every day on this tour is scheduled — the locations, the time, everything,” he said, stressing that adding last-minute meetups or collaborations is not possible. He further explained that “cutting short cultural visits or cancelling plans made by local communities would be disrespectful,” insisting that the tour must follow its original structure. According to him, similar reactions occurred earlier during his visit to South Africa, where some creators also felt sidelined, but he remained focused on the central aim of the tour. “This trip is about the real Africa — the street performers, the local artists, and the communities with real talent that don’t usually get global attention,” he said. iShowSpeed’s Africa tour, titled Speed Does Africa, began on December 29, 2025, and is scheduled to run for 28 days across 20 countries. He is expected to visit Benin Republic next as the tour continues.

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Lagos Police Warn Against Fake Bomb Scares After Ikeja Schools Threat Messages

The Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents over the spread of false security alerts after anonymous messages sparked panic at two private secondary schools in Ikeja. The caution was given by the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, through a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Abimbola Adebisi, following reports of an alleged bomb threat sent to the schools. According to the police, the Human Resources Manager and the Chief Security Officer of the affected institutions separately reported the incident at the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters after receiving threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number at about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. “The reports were made about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday after they received threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number. “Upon receiving the reports, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, immediately mobilised a high-powered security team and personally led operatives to the schools for an on-the-spot assessment. “The team comprised personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), and other tactical units of the command,” Adebisi said. She disclosed that EOD-CBRN experts carried out a detailed and methodical sweep of the school premises to rule out any danger. “The operation covered classrooms, administrative offices, halls, playgrounds, and surrounding areas to rule out the presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) or other dangerous materials. “No explosive or hazardous items were found, and the schools were subsequently declared safe for continued academic and administrative activities,” she said. Adebisi added that the police commissioner expressed displeasure over the circulation of false information and directed that investigations be intensified to track down those behind the threat messages and bring them to justice. She also revealed that joint teams of police operatives have now been permanently deployed to the schools to provide 24-hour security for students, staff and facilities. Reassuring parents, guardians and school authorities, the police spokesperson affirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State. She urged members of the public to remain calm, stay alert and report any suspicious activities to nearby police stations or through the command’s emergency lines. It was gathered that immediately after the threats were received, the two schools located in Ikeja GRA sent their students home as a precaution. Parents were contacted and advised to keep their children at home over the alleged bomb scare until security agencies confirmed that the situation was under control.

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“I’ve No Defection Plan” – Makinde Reaffirms Commitment To PDP

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has put to rest speculation about leaving the Peoples Democratic Party, insisting that he is firmly rooted in the opposition. Speaking with journalists at the State House in Abuja on Thursday during a visit to the Presidential Villa, Makinde emphasized his commitment to the PDP. In a video shared by NTA, he said, “No, no, no. I’m comfortable in the PDP.” He further highlighted the need for collaboration across party lines on national issues, saying, “Sometimes in this country, you need a bipartisan approach. It shouldn’t be just APC talking alone or PDP talking alone. You have to consider the best way forward in the interest of the nation. When you reach that point, you need everyone on board.” The statement comes after reports that President Bola Tinubu held separate meetings with Makinde and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

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“Na Tension” – Egungun Of Lagos Reacts After Awkward IShowSpeed Interview

Instagram influencer Egungun of Lagos has responded after being widely criticized for losing his composure during an interview with US streamer IShowSpeed. IShowSpeed, currently on his 2026 African tour, arrived in Lagos on January 21 and has since met several local celebrities before moving on to another African country. A video circulating online shows Egungun struggling to conduct the interview with the 21-year-old streamer. At one point, Egungun asked, “Speed, how old are you?” IShowSpeed replied, “I’m 21.” Egungun then remarked, “Jesus Christ, and you look so healthy and strong,” before awkwardly adding, “When did you start this, woo woo, woo woo?” IShowSpeed, clearly confused, responded, “You say what?” The clip drew criticism from many Nigerians, who accused Egungun of failing to hold an intelligent conversation and noted that IShowSpeed seemed bored during the exchange. Popular blogger Tunde Ednut also shared the viral video, showing a man rebuking Egungun over the interview. In response, Egungun explained that the tension of the moment and a strict security check before meeting IShowSpeed contributed to his awkward performance. He asked fans to be understanding of his efforts, saying: “Abeg make Ona no vex for me 🤣🤣🤣🤣 na tension even before the interview securities wan kill me 🤣 please take it easy on me na hustle I Dey, don’t judge me 🙏🤣.”

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Casemiro Set To Leave Manchester United At End Of Season

Manchester United have confirmed that Casemiro will depart the club at the end of the season when his contract expires. The 33-year-old midfielder has been a key figure for the Red Devils since joining in August 2022, making 146 appearances and scoring 21 goals over four seasons. Known for his combative style and ability to deliver in crucial moments, Casemiro quickly became a fan favourite at Old Trafford. During his time at Manchester United, the Brazil captain helped the club secure the 2023 Carabao Cup, scoring a memorable header in the final against Newcastle United, and played a significant role in the 2024 Emirates FA Cup triumph. The club announced that fans will have the opportunity to pay tribute to Casemiro at the final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest, celebrating his contributions on and off the pitch.

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Supreme Court Ends Kudirat Abiola Murder Case

The Supreme Court has brought a definitive close to the prolonged murder case of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, rejecting efforts by the Lagos State Government to reopen the prosecution of former Chief Security Officer to General Sani Abacha, Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (retd.). In a unanimous ruling delivered on Thursday, a five-member panel of the apex court held that Lagos State effectively abandoned its appeal by taking no procedural steps for nine years after being granted permission to challenge Al-Mustapha’s acquittal. Kudirat Abiola, wife of the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, was assassinated in Lagos on June 4, 1996, during intense nationwide protests against the annulment of the election. Justice Uwani Aba-Aji, who read the lead ruling, described the conduct of the Lagos State Government as “inexcusable,” noting that despite receiving leave from the Supreme Court in 2014 to appeal out of time, the state failed to act within the period provided by the court. At the hearing, Al-Mustapha’s counsel, Paul Daudu (SAN), informed the court that the state neither filed a notice of appeal nor took any steps to prosecute the matter since the order was granted. He reminded the panel that Lagos State was given 30 days in 2014 to file the necessary processes but did nothing, a clear indication, he argued, that the appeal had been abandoned. Daudu therefore urged the court to dismiss the appeal in its entirety. Justice Aba-Aji confirmed that court records showed Lagos State was properly served with hearing notices but failed to appear in court or provide any explanation for its absence. She stressed that nine years was more than sufficient time for any serious litigant to act. The court further expressed dissatisfaction that the state government neither entered an appearance nor communicated with the court, despite being aware of the proceedings since 2020. As a result, the appeal marked SC/CR/45/2014 was dismissed for want of diligent prosecution. Another related appeal filed by Lagos State, marked SC/CR/6/2014, was also struck out on the same grounds. In 2014, the Supreme Court, in a ruling delivered by a seven-member panel led by then Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, had granted Lagos State leave to appeal against the July 12, 2013, judgment of the Court of Appeal, which discharged and acquitted Al-Mustapha. The court directed the state to file its notice of appeal within 30 days, following claims that it needed time to review the case and challenge the appellate court’s findings. Earlier, on January 30, 2012, a Lagos High Court had sentenced Al-Mustapha, Mohammed Abacha and Lateef Shofolahan to death by hanging for conspiracy and murder. However, the Court of Appeal overturned the convictions in 2013, ruling that the evidence presented by the prosecution was weak and unreliable, and ordered their release. With Thursday’s decision, the Supreme Court has finally shut the door on all attempts to revive the case, bringing an end to nearly three decades of legal proceedings surrounding the assassination of Kudirat Abiola.

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U.S. Set To Officially Exit World Health Organization

The United States is set to formally withdraw from the World Health Organization on Thursday, despite warnings that the move could harm both U.S. and global public health and may violate a U.S. law requiring Washington to settle about $260 million in outstanding dues to the UN health agency. President Donald Trump announced the decision to pull the U.S. out of the WHO on the first day of his presidency in 2025 through an executive order. However, U.S. law mandates a one-year notice period and the full payment of all unpaid contributions before a withdrawal can take effect. On Thursday, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said the WHO’s handling of global health crises had failed the United States, arguing that the organization’s inability to contain, manage, and properly share information had cost the country trillions of dollars. The spokesperson added that the president had used his authority to halt any future transfer of U.S. government funds, support, or resources to the WHO. “The American people have paid more than enough to this organization and this economic hit is beyond a down payment on any financial obligations to the organization,” the spokesperson said in an email.

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