Our Reporters, Author at Trendbrio.com

Sanwo-Olu greets Lagosians at Christmas, assures of better 2025

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rejoiced with residents of the State, particularly the Christians as they join the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s Christmas, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Speaking at the Lagos House, Marina on Tuesday during the presentation of a book, titled “Beyond Rhetorics: Sanwo-Olu Unprecedented ” which was written in his honour by the Lagos State Governors Office Correspondents (LAGOCO), Governor Sanwo-Olu assured that his administration will do more for Lagos residents next year. “We wish you all the very best of the season. We say to you that, next year, we will work better, smarter, bigger for the citizens of Lagos,” he said. Governor Sanwo-Olu, while appreciating LAGOCO for the book, described journalists, particularly those covering the Lagos State Governor’s Office as the “real engine of growth.” He said: “We want to assure you that we will not disappoint you. We will ensure that the book is available in every nook and cranny of the State and even beyond the State. “Through its pages, readers will find insights into the governance and leadership principles that guide our administration, as well as the collaborative spirit that drives our vision for a better Lagos. “I extend my gratitude to LAGOCO for this initiative and to everyone who has contributed to the creation of this book. Together, we will continue to work towards a Lagos that is not only a hub of innovation and opportunity but also a beacon of hope for future generations.” Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Lagos State Governors Office Correspondents (LAGOCO), Mr. George Okojie, said Governor Sanwo-Olu has endeared himself to the residents through the projects executed in various sectors as captured in the book. He commended the Governor for sustaining the giant strides being recorded in the development of Lagos State. The book presentation was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso and other cabinet members.

Senator Dino Melaye visits mom’s tomb at Christmas

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago01 mins

A former Senator of the Federal Republic, Dino Melaye has again visited the graveside of his mom, Deaconess Comfort Melaye, on Christmas Day. Melaye on his X handle former Twitter was spotted observing solemn moment, he bowed down his head and walked away. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Gubernatorial candidate in the 2024 Kogi State elections and a member of the 8th Nigeria National Assembly, representing Kogi West Senatorial district, against the video he posted on social wrote; “Mummy I miss you, till we meet to part no more.” The Senator’s mum, Deaconess Comfort Melaye JP died in 2019.

Dozens perish in plane crash

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Dozens of people have died after a passenger plane crashed with about 70 people on board in Kazakhstan, local officials said. Authorities in Azerbaijan, where the flight originated, said there were at least 30 survivors. Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 caught fire as it attempted to make an emergency landing near the Kazakh city of Aktau. The plane was en route to Grozny in Russia but it was diverted due to fog, the airline told the BBC. Footage shows the aircraft heading towards the ground at high speed with its landing gear down, before bursting into flames as it lands. The airline said the plane “made an emergency landing” about 3km (1.9 miles) from Aktau. It took off from the Azerbaijani capital Baku at 03:55 GMT on Wednesday, and crashed around 06:28, data from flight-tracking website Flightradar24 showed. Reports from Russian media say the aircraft collided with a flock of birds before crashing, but this has not yet been confirmed. Officials from the countries involved have stated different numbers for those who were on board and for those who survived. The airline said 62 passengers and 5 crew members were on board the Embraer 190 but other reports put the total at 72. The reported number of survivors ranges from 28 to 32. Those on board were mostly Azerbaijani nationals, but there were also some passengers from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Unverified video footage showed survivors crawling out of the wreckage, some with visible injuries. Both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have launched investigations into the accident. Embraer told the BBC it was “ready to assist all relevant authorities”. The BBC has contacted Azerbaijan Airlines for comment. Embraer, a Brazilian manufacturer, is a smaller rival to Boeing and Airbus, and has a strong safety record.

SWAN felicitates with Christians on Christmas Day

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has felicitated with Christians, particularly the sporting media on the celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ, known as Christmas. SWAN in a statement by its President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, through the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, on Wednesday December 25, 2024, noted the day affords Christians opportunity not just to merry but to reflect on the personality of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The SWAN President then urged Nigerians to cheer-up at this time and always, bearing in mind that the challenges facing mankind are only momentary. He said, “A day like this should remind us of the essence of the celebration of Christmas. It’s a day to reflect and take stock with a view to find solace going forward. “Despite economic and other challenges facing mankind, the living joy posits that there is always hope for better times ahead.” The number one sports writer in Nigeria also enjoined Christians to share and rejoice with all as Jesus Christ exemplified while he lived on earth and through his teachings. “Christmas is also a time of sharing with one another no matter how small. We should endeavour to reach out to our neighbours, friends, loved ones, colleagues and all strata of persons around us, irrespective of tribe and religion as is in Jesus Christ nature and teachings. “Let us use this period as an opportunity to sacrifice, tough times notwithstanding, just as we promote unity, understanding, and cooperation among ourselves, which are essential for building a harmonious and progressive society,” he said. President Benjamin also prayed for God’s continued guidance and protection for all SWAN members nationwide and globally at this period and ahead of coming 2025.

NWFL boss delivers message of hope for Women’s football

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), Nkechi Obi, has delivered an inspiring Christmas message, celebrating the board’s achievements in 2024 while expressing hope and determination for the future of women’s football in Nigeria. Reflecting on the milestones of the past year, Obi extended heartfelt gratitude to players, coaches, fans, and stakeholders for their unwavering dedication to the league’s growth and success. The sports administrator described 2024 as a year of breaking barriers, strengthening structures, and laying the groundwork for even greater accomplishments. “As we celebrate Christmas and reflect on another remarkable year, I want to express my profound gratitude to everyone who has been part of the NWFL’s journey,” Obi said. “To our players, your passion, talent, and resilience are the heart of this league, inspiring us to aim higher. To the coaches, officials, sponsors, and supporters, your commitment to advancing women’s football in Nigeria has been invaluable.” Obi emphasized the values of love, unity, and hope that Christmas embodies, drawing parallels to the collaborative spirit driving the league forward. She encouraged stakeholders to celebrate the progress made and remain optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. “The 2024/2025 season promises to be one of growth, excitement, and greater inclusivity,” she added. “Together, we will continue to push boundaries and ensure women’s football reaches its full potential in Nigeria. I wish you all a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May the season bring peace, love, and renewed inspiration for us all.” Her message not only celebrates the successes of the past year but also sets a tone of optimism and collaboration for 2025, reaffirming the NWFL board’s commitment to excellence and progress.

Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to combate oil theft

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed the troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army to strengthen operations against oil theft to ensure a significant increase in the nation’s oil production. The COAS issued this directive during a working visit to the 6 Division in Port Harcourt on Tuesday. Condemning the current level of crude oil output as inadequate, Lieutenant General Oluyede emphasized that for Nigeria’s economy to thrive, efforts to protect oil production must be ramped up. He called on the troops to work with greater resolve in creating a secure environment for oil exploration and production. He also underscored the importance of maintaining integrity and avoiding any association with criminal elements or activities. The COAS warned that any personnel found colluding with economic saboteurs or engaging in unlawful acts will face severe consequences in line with military and national laws. The COAS also urged the troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their operations and reassured them of his commitment to improving their welfare and providing the necessary resources to enhance their operational effectiveness. General Oluyede reminded the troops that they are pivotal to the success of the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy for the benefit of all Nigerians, and therefore must approach their duties with the utmost dedication and integrity.

Tinubu preaches love, peace and unity at Christmas

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago04 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace love, peace and unity as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ across the country. The President, stated this in his message on the Yuletide on Tuesday. “On this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy Scriptures. “Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us,” the President pointed out. On the recent stampede in Ibadan, Okija and Abuja, the President was saddened by the incident, saying: “Our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking incidents. We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short. “I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fires, or accidents. May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick. “As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms. “Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement. “We must also honour our brave troops, who risk their lives to safeguard our nation. They deserve our prayers and steadfast support. “Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity. “Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria. “For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient. We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels. “Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year.”

Man Utd opens Osimhen talks

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Manchester United are in contact with the representatives of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as they eye potential replacements for Marcus Rashford, a report has claimed. Rashford is under fire after publicly admitting his desire for a “new challenge” in the aftermath of new head coach Ruben Amorim’s decision to drop him from the United squad for the Manchester derby. He has since been omitted from a further two matchday squads. Central to the issue surrounding Rashford is the fact he earns well over £300,000 per week – reports suggest anywhere between £315,000 and 365,000 – with United needing to offload that salary before splashing out on a replacement. According to Sky Sports Switzerland, United officials are lining up Osimhen as a potential replacement and are already in contact with the striker’s entourage. Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli during the summer after a late switch to Chelsea fell through, but the Serie A side are believed to have the option to recall him in January if they receive a permanent offer. Napoli will demand a fee of around €75m (£62.2m) to sell Osimhen, who has 18 months remaining on his contract and has already been informed that his time at the club is over. Such a fee is expected to be too high for United without significant sales, which is where Rashford enters the fray. United value the 27-year-old at around £40m and could use that fee towards any deal for Osimhen.