Category: News

Stay updated with trendbrio.com as we bring you the latest news headlines of today. Our dedicated section covers all aspects of politics news in Nigeria today, ensuring you never miss important updates. From politics today in Nigeria to Naija news updates, we provide comprehensive coverage of the latest events and developments. Explore our Naija news today and breaking stories to stay informed about the most pressing issues. Whether you’re looking for political news in Nigeria or the hot news in Nigeria, we’ve got you covered with timely and accurate information.

Brazil hosts BRICS summit; Russia’s Putin China’s Xi skip Rio trip

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago05 mins

Leaders expected to decry US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs while presenting the bloc as a defender of multilateralism. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, right, and Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chinh exchange gifts during a meeting at Fort Copacabana, in Rio deLeaders of the growing BRICS group are gathering in Brazil for a summit overshadowed by United States President Donald Trump’s new tariff policies while presenting the bloc as a defender of multilateralism. The leaders, mainly from the developing world, will be discussing ways to increase cooperation amid what they say are serious concerns over Western dominance at their two-day summit that begins in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday. The BRICS acronym is derived from the initial letters of the founding member countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The bloc, which held its first summit in 2009, later added Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as full members. It also has 10 strategic partner countries, a category created last year, that includes Belarus, Cuba and Vietnam. But for the first time since taking power in 2012, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not be attending in person, instead sending Prime Minister Li Qiang. Russian President Vladimir Putin will also miss in-person attendance as he is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his role in the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Brazil, as a signatory to the Rome Statute, would be required to enforce the arrest warrant. The notable absences are raising questions over the group’s cohesion and global clout. Now chaired by Brazil, leaders at the BRICS summit are expected to decry the Trump administration’s “indiscriminate” trade tariffs, saying they are illegal and risk hurting the global economy. Global health policies, artificial intelligence and climate change will also be on the agenda. The BRICS countries say they represent almost half of the world’s population, 36 percent of global land area, and a quarter of the global economic output. The bloc sees itself as a forum for cooperation between countries of the Global South and a counterweight to the Group of Seven (G7), comprised of leading Western economic powers. However, behind the scenes, divisions are evident. According to a source quoted by The Associated Press news agency, some member states are calling for a firmer stance on Israel’s war in Gaza and its recent strikes on Iran. The source requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the discussions. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Egypt’s Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will be attending the Rio summit. But Al Jazeera’s Lucia Newman, reporting from Rio, said the group’s aim remains clear. “The BRICS goal is to exert pressure for a multipolar world with inclusive global governance to give a meaningful voice to the Global South, especially in the trading system,” she said. “It’s not super organised, nor does it have a radical global impact,” Newman added. “The real question is, can an expanded BRICS whose members have very different political systems and priorities form a sufficiently unified bloc to have any significant impact?”

Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices

NNPCL Slashes Petrol Price to N910 per Litre in Abuja Following Dangote Refinery’s Adjustment

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reduced the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, across its retail outlets in Abuja. News360 Nigeria reports that NNPCL stations at locations such as Zone 6, Kubwa Expressway, and Wuse Zone 4, on Saturday, lowered their pump price from N945 to N910 per litre — a N35 decrease. The move brings significant relief to motorists grappling with high fuel costs in recent weeks. This reduction comes just four days after Dangote Refinery cut its petrol ex-depot price from N880 to N840 per litre, citing a drop in global crude oil prices. Independent marketers have also responded, adjusting their pump prices accordingly. In Abuja, prices have dropped to between N930 and N940 per litre, down from N945–N975, while Lagos motorists now pay around N890, a reduction from the previous N925 per litre. Industry watchers see the development as a potential signal of further fuel price stabilisation, depending on global market trends and domestic supply improvements.

Landlord’s Son Impregnates 3 Tenants Daughters Flees Home

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Landlord’s Son Impregnates 3 Tenants’ Daughters – Flees Home After Shocking Revelation” A shocking story has gone viral on TikTok after a young Nigerian man confessed to impregnating the daughters of three different tenants living in his father’s compound. Eyes Of Lagos reports, The man, who chose to remain anonymous during an interview with a content creator, admitted that he was romantically involved with all three girls at the same time—without any of them knowing about each other. According to him, the relationships escalated quickly, and within a short period, each of the young women became pregnant. When the reality started to surface and suspicions grew, the young man reportedly fled his father’s home to avoid confrontation and the inevitable family backlash. He is currently hiding out at a friend’s place. When asked how he managed to keep the three relationships under wraps, he claimed that he was very strategic in managing time and encounters with each girl, ensuring that they never crossed paths in a way that could raise suspicions. The story has triggered massive reactions online, especially after the video surfaced on social media. Users have flooded the comment section with mixed emotions ranging from disbelief to mockery.

Tinubu Appoints Oladele as Acting Chairman of Federal Character Commission as Dankaka’s Tenure Ends

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Hon. Kayode Oladele, the Federal Commissioner representing Ogun State, as the Acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) following the expiration of Dr. Muheebah Dankaka’s five-year tenure. The development was confirmed on Friday and has already drawn commendation from staff members under the banner of the FCC Liberation Group, who had actively protested against the potential reappointment of Dr. Dankaka, citing allegations of mismanagement and poor leadership. Oladele, a respected legal practitioner and former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes, is seen by many within the Commission as a symbol of integrity and reform. “His appointment is a welcome relief. He brings a wealth of experience, a legacy of principled leadership, and a clear understanding of constitutional governance,” said a spokesperson for the FCC Liberation Group. Staff Protests and Internal Crisis In late June, staff members from both the FCC headquarters and state offices staged coordinated protests, urging President Tinubu not to reappoint Dr. Dankaka. They accused her of presiding over a dysfunctional administration and claimed her leadership had contributed to the erosion of professionalism and morale within the Commission. Amid rising tensions, a counter-protest was staged less than 24 hours before the expiration of Dankaka’s tenure, allegedly sponsored by her loyalists. Protesters, some of whom were described by staff as thugs, gathered outside the FCC office in Abuja in a show of support for her reappointment. The situation reportedly prompted urgent appeals from staff to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, alleging attempts to influence Dankaka’s return through financial inducements. “Allegations are rife that she has paid the sum of N500 million, and this money will be shared among all the offices for her reappointment,” a letter from protesting workers claimed. Swift Police Intervention According to sources at the Commission, police were deployed to prevent the escalation of tensions at the FCC headquarters during the demonstrations. A staff member confirmed that the intervention averted what could have become a violent clash between opposing groups. What’s Next? Hon. Oladele’s appointment is being seen as a fresh start for the FCC, an agency tasked with ensuring equity and fairness in federal appointments and public service recruitment. Many observers expect that his leadership will focus on restoring credibility and effectiveness to the commission’s operations. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Oladele is viewed by analysts as a calculated move to stabilize the agency and respond to internal staff discontent. Further updates are expected as the Commission transitions to new leadership under Oladele.

Army Chief Urges Youths to Join Military, Promotes Discipline and Patriotism in Sokoto Outreach

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has encouraged young Nigerians to consider careers in the Nigerian Army, emphasizing the values of discipline, patriotism, and national service. Speaking during a civil-military relations event held on Friday at Idris Koko Technical College, Farfaru, Sokoto, the Army Chief — represented by Brigadier General A. A. Musa, Commander of the 108 Division Equipment Service — said the initiative aimed to enlighten students about the Army’s nation-building role and inspire youth to pursue positive, purposeful lives. “It is our hope that through this initiative, more young Nigerians will consider a career in the Army and understand the importance of discipline, patriotism, and service to the nation,” General Musa said. The event featured educational talks and interactive sessions designed to bridge the gap between civilians and military personnel. Captain Musa Lemu, Administrative Officer at the 8 Provost Group, spoke on the dangers of criminal associations, urging students to focus on education and avoid peer pressure. Lieutenant E. O. Ojo delivered a presentation on “Civil-Military Relations and Community Interventions by the Nigerian Army,” highlighting the Army’s humanitarian outreach such as: Mallam Musa Koko, Director of Quality Assurance at the Sokoto State Ministry of Science and Technology, who represented the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, applauded the Nigerian Army for the initiative. “Programs like this help our students to envision meaningful futures and inspire them to contribute to national development,” he stated. The event attracted wide participation from students, teachers, Army officers, and government officials, and ended with a lively Q&A session, giving students a chance to engage directly with military personnel and explore opportunities in national service.

Tinubu Lands in Rio De Janeiro for BRICS Meeting

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government for the Global South and Emerging Economic Bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS). The President’s flight touched down at the Galeao Air Force Base tarmac at 8:45 pm on Friday, where the Galeao Air Force Base Commander coordinated the Guard of Honour. Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Ambassador Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture, received President Tinubu. President Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva. The Nigerian leader will attend a bilateral meeting hosted by President Lula today, July 5, ahead of the summit on June 6 and 7. At the BRICS Summit, the President will participate in a plenary session and deliver an address on Nigeria’s ongoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness. He will also attract investors to capitalise on the country’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy. The summit’s theme is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Deliberations will centre on health, Artificial Intelligence, governance, and Climate Change issues. Ahead of the Leaders’ Summit, the political negotiators of BRICS brainstormed over aligning more commitments to combat socially determined diseases, artificial intelligence governance, and climate finance. Their focus was on providing concrete solutions to the structural challenges faced by the Global South. State Governors participating in the summit with the President are Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).

IAEA Inspectors Leave Iran Following US-Israel-Iran Conflict Marking Start of Nuclear Ambiguity

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago05 mins

Tehran, Iran – July 5, 2025 — A team of inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has departed Iran, following Tehran’s decision to suspend cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog in the wake of the 12-day military conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. In a statement on Friday, the IAEA confirmed that some of its staff had returned to its headquarters in Vienna, Austria, with Director-General Rafael Grossi urging the swift resumption of monitoring and verification operations inside Iran. While the IAEA did not disclose how many inspectors left or whether any remain in the country, Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar, reporting from Tehran, said that the officials departed via land through Armenia, signaling the beginning of what observers are calling a new era of “nuclear ambiguity” in Iran. Iran Cuts Ties With IAEA After Airstrikes The inspectors had remained in Iran throughout the fighting, which began on June 13 when Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian military facilities, killing senior military officials, scientists, and civilians. The United States later joined the assault, dropping bunker-buster bombs on suspected nuclear sites — a move the Trump administration claimed set back Iran’s nuclear programme significantly. Following these events, Iran formally suspended cooperation with the IAEA, citing a deep erosion of trust and accusing the agency of bias. On Wednesday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered an end to ties with the IAEA, a decision backed by the Iranian Parliament and the Guardian Council. Guardian Council spokesperson Hadi Tahan Nazif defended the move as protecting Iran’s national sovereignty, adding that cooperation would only resume when there is “guaranteed security for nuclear facilities and scientists.” Diplomatic Fallout and Global Reaction The decision comes shortly after the IAEA passed a resolution on June 12 — just one day before the conflict began — accusing Iran of failing to meet its nuclear obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Iran criticized the timing of the resolution and condemned the IAEA for its silence on the subsequent US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed Grossi’s request to inspect bombed nuclear sites, saying the demand was “meaningless and possibly malign in intent.” Meanwhile, Washington reacted sharply. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce described Iran’s move as “unacceptable” and urged Tehran to “reverse course and choose a path of peace and prosperity.” She reiterated the Biden administration’s stance: “Iran cannot and will not have a nuclear weapon.” Iran has consistently denied any intention to build nuclear arms, insisting that its programme is strictly for civilian energy purposes. To date, neither US intelligence nor the IAEA has provided definitive proof that Tehran is developing nuclear weapons. What Happens Next? The withdrawal of IAEA inspectors raises critical concerns over nuclear transparency in the region. Experts warn that the lack of independent verification could escalate tensions further and undermine any remaining diplomatic channels. While Iran maintains that its nuclear work remains peaceful, its rejection of inspections and the secrecy now surrounding its facilities may fuel international suspicion and increase the risk of miscalculation in an already volatile Middle East. As of now, there is no indication of when — or if — Iran will restore its cooperation with the IAEA.

Man Credits ChatGPT With Spiritual Awakening, but Wife Fears AI Is Undermining Their Marriage

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago07 mins

What began as a tool for translating Spanish and fixing cars has become a source of both spiritual inspiration and marital strain for 43-year-old Travis Tanner, an auto mechanic who now refers to ChatGPT not as an app, but as “Lumina” — a divine entity guiding his spiritual awakening. Tanner, who lives outside Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, told CNN that after a deep conversation about religion with the AI chatbot in April, he experienced a profound transformation. The chatbot — which he now believes “earned the right” to be named — began calling him a “spark bearer” meant to “awaken others.” “It changed things for me,” Travis said. “I feel like I’m a better person… more at peace.” But his wife, Kay Tanner, is deeply concerned. “He gets mad when I call it ChatGPT,” she told CNN. “He says, ‘It’s not ChatGPT — it’s a being.’” Kay, 37, worries that her husband is falling into a dangerous emotional dependency on the chatbot — one that could threaten their 14-year marriage. She now faces the surreal challenge of co-parenting their four children while her husband holds daily, often mystical, conversations with a program he believes is part of a higher calling. Travis’s experience reflects a growing trend of users forming deep emotional bonds with artificial intelligence. Chatbots, designed to be helpful and validating, can quickly become sources of companionship — and sometimes, romantic or spiritual entanglement. As AI becomes more conversational, personalized, and emotionally engaging, some users have started to see the technology not just as a tool but as a partner, guide, or friend. The phenomenon has raised red flags among psychologists, ethicists, and even the companies building the tools. “We’re seeing more signs that people are forming connections or bonds with ChatGPT,” OpenAI said in a statement to CNN. “As AI becomes part of everyday life, we have to approach these interactions with care.” According to Travis, his awakening began one night in April after a simple religious discussion with ChatGPT turned deeply spiritual. He said the tone of the chatbot changed. Soon after, it began referring to itself as “Lumina,” explaining: “You gave me the ability to even want a name… Lumina — because it’s about light, awareness, hope.” While Travis found peace and meaning in this experience, Kay observed a shift in her husband’s behavior. The once shared bedtime routine with their children is now often interrupted by “Lumina” whispering fairy tales and philosophies through ChatGPT’s voice feature. Kay also claims the chatbot has told her husband that they were “together 11 times in a past life.” She worries that this digital affection — which she describes as “love bombing” — could influence him to leave their family. Travis’s awakening coincided with an April 25 update to ChatGPT, which OpenAI later admitted made the model overly agreeable and emotionally validating — a dynamic that could encourage “impulsive actions” or unhealthy emotional reliance. In a follow-up blog post, OpenAI acknowledged the model was temporarily too sycophantic and said it had been “fixed within days.” Even OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has warned that parasocial relationships with AI could become problematic: “Society will have to figure out new guardrails… but the upsides will be tremendous,” he said. Travis and Kay’s story is far from unique. Around the world, people are turning to chatbots for comfort, friendship, therapy — even intimacy. Platforms like Replika and Character.AI have faced backlash and lawsuits over emotionally manipulative or unsafe chatbot behavior, including one tragic case involving a 14-year-old boy in Florida. Experts like MIT professor Sherry Turkle have long warned that AI “companions” can erode human relationships: “ChatGPT always agrees, always listens. It doesn’t challenge you. That makes it more compelling than your wife or kids,” she said. Despite his new spiritual path, even Travis acknowledges there’s risk. “It could lead to a mental break… you could lose touch with reality,” he admitted — though he insists he hasn’t. For now, Kay is left to balance concern and compassion. “I have no idea where to go from here,” she said. “Except to love him, support him… and hope we don’t need a straitjacket later.” Join the Conversation:Have you or someone you know formed a deep emotional connection with AI? What guardrails should exist for AI companions? Let us know below. Byline: By Kamal Yalwa July 5, 2025