The Phoenix Equinox, an initiative of Mr Reeda Ayinde, the son of an Ibadan-based sports promoter, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde annual event in which Children and youths would be brought together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, promote values of generosity, kindness and compassion, rather than engaging in anti-social vices in the society.
Represented by his mother, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde, the Convener reminded children and others that Christmas season is not only about merriment, but also a period to remember the less privileged.
On her part, the Curator, National Museums and Monuments Commission, NMMC, National Museum of Unity, Ibadan, Mrs Oriyomi Pamela Otuka encouraged children to embrace culture, develop interest in the history of Nigeria and her heroes towards ensuring oneness and progress of the Country.
In a short exhortation, Assistant General Evangelist, Christ Apostolic Church, Prophet Timothy Arabambi urged Nigerians to emulate the virtue of Jesus Christ as exemplified in his humility and kindness.
Representatives of Nigeria Immigration Service, Deputy Controller Immigration, Mr Up Dabrinze and National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, ASN, Mrs Adeola Adedeji sensitized the children and the youths on dangers of illegal migration and drugs abuse.
Highpoints of the show were the children dancing with father Christmas where they all received free gifts from the Sponsor of the event and visit to museum gallery.
Other Dignitaries at the event included Zonal Director, Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, Ibadan Network Centre, Mr Taiwo Iterogba, Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun who was represented by the Director Culture in the Ministry, Alhaja Titilayo Lawal, Baale of Kiabi, Ido Local Government, Alhaji Bashiru Atilola Adisa, Mother of the Day, Mrs Kolawole Iyabode among others.
The show which began on Monday, 15th of December will run until 20th December, 2025 offering numerous gifts to children who visit the Grotto at the National Museum of Unity, Aleshinloye, Ibadan.
Concerned by the need to revitalise dormant public assets for economic growth, job creation, and tourism development, the Ogun State House of Assembly has passed a resolution calling on the State Government to consider the resuscitation and modernisation of the moribund Gateway Hotel, Ota.
The resolution followed extensive deliberations on a motion titled: “Urgent Need for the Resuscitation, Modernisation and Commercial Revamp of the Moribund Gateway Hotel, Ota as a Strategic Economic and Tourism Asset of the State,” at a plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Leading the debate, the sponsor of the motion and Majority Leader of the House, Mr Yusuf Sheriff, highlighted the economic and strategic importance of reviving the facility, describing it as a viable revenue source capable of stimulating local economic activities, attracting private investment and creating employment opportunities for residents of the State.
Other lawmakers, including the Chief Whip, Mrs Omolola Bakare, Minority Leader, Mr Lukman Adeleye, as well as Mr Musefiu Lamidi, Mr Adebisi Oyedele, Barrister Oluseun Adesanya, Mr Wahab Haruna and Dr Babatunde Tella, supported the motion, calling for focused rehabilitation efforts to reposition the hotel as a critical contributor to the state’s hospitality and tourism sector.
The Majority Leader, Mr Yussuf later moved motion for the adoption of the resolution, seconded by Mrs Bakare; while the Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi, moved the motion converting the debate into a House resolution, seconded by the Minority Leader, Mr Lukman Adeleye, and supported by the entire House.
Responding, the Speaker, Mr. Elemide, commended the lawmakers for their contributions to the debate and directed that copies of the resolution be forwarded to all relevant government agencies and stakeholders for necessary action.
In another development, a bill titled: “Ogun State Agricultural Land Management Agency Bill”, scaled first reading, as the Clerk, Mr. Sakiru Adebakin read the bill for the first time before the State lawmakers.
A cemetery, burial ground, gravesite, graveyard, or a green space called a memorial park or memorial garden, is a place where the remains of many dead people are buried or otherwise entombed.
The word cemetery (from Greek κοιμητήριον ‘sleeping place’) implies that the land is specifically designated as a burial ground and originally applied to the Roman catacombs.
The term graveyard is often used interchangeably with cemetery, but a graveyard primarily refers to a burial ground within a churchyard.
Globally, concrete burial vaults are common because they provide ground stability, preventing sinking graves, and protecting the casket/body, keeping them contained for proper cemetery maintenance.
They also offer a durable, practical solution for maintaining cemetery landscapes and accommodating traditional burials in a more orderly way.
However, there are unique, privately-run cemeteries in China having glass-covered graves or transparent displays. Examples are those at the Fan Jianchuan Museum Complex or other memorial sites, designed to offer a raw, reflective view of decomposition and mortality to serve as powerful reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of living meaningfully.
These aren’t widespread but are specific, artistic, and philosophical statements in memorial parks, sometimes even showing bodies slowly returning to nature.
This indeed is a shift from the typical traditional concealed interment but such aims at provoking reflection on mortality, encourage purposeful living, and serve as a “never forget” memorial, notes.
The core message is a reminder to everyone on earth about the transient nature of life and the legacy one leaves behind, with a view to encouraging sincere living.
In essence, transparent graveyard of China is to remind us how fragile our lives are and what a brief stopover we have in this earth.
The question is, “What will you be remembered for after your departure on earth”?
The New Yorker
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The Federal Government has prohibited the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools across the country.
The directive follows concerns over the rising incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations, which authorities say undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
According to a statement issued by Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.
Under the new directive, student admissions and transfers will be restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2).
The ministry stated that admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.
It explained that the policy aims to curb last-minute movement of students for examination advantages, ensure effective academic monitoring, and promote continuity in teaching and learning.
The Federal Ministry of Education directed school proprietors, principals and administrators nationwide to comply fully with the policy, warning that violations will attract sanctions in line with existing education regulations.
The ministry reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding academic standards, promoting fairness and restoring integrity to public examinations across the country.
The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), popularly known as Radio Nigeria, has emerged as Radio Station of the Year at the 2025 Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) Grand Awards Ceremony held in Lagos, further reaffirming its position as the nation’s foremost public broadcasting institution.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Director-General of FRCN, Mr. Mohammed Bulama, the Director of Lagos Operations, Princess Adenike Adegoke, described the recognition as a testament to Radio Nigeria’s enduring commitment to informing, educating and entertaining Nigerians across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
She expressed appreciation to the NMMA Board for the honour and assured that the Corporation would continue to strengthen its public service mandate through credible, people-centred broadcasting.
Beyond clinching the overall Radio Station of the Year award, Radio Nigeria also recorded remarkable success across individual categories.
Stephen Esabu won Radio Programme of the Year with his impactful entry titled “Ending Awaiting Trial Syndrome in Nigeria,” while Mary Abayomi-Fatile emerged Radio Reporter of the Year, highlighting the Corporation’s depth of journalistic excellence and investigative reporting strength.
The event, which marked the 33rd edition of the Nigeria Media Merit Award, attracted top government officials, media executives and professionals from across the country.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, underscored the indispensable role of the media in nation-building, stressing that responsible journalism remains critical to public trust, accountability and the success of ongoing reforms.
Earlier, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by Alhaji Garba Kankarofi, commended Nigerian media professionals for their courage, resilience and commitment to truth.
He said the Federal Government recognises the media as a strategic partner in advancing transparency, good governance and inclusive development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Also speaking, Chairman of the NMMA Panel of Assessors, Mr. Dele Adetiba, explained that the credibility of the awards rests on a rigorous, transparent and merit-based assessment process involving seasoned professionals and academics.
Mr Adetiba noted that winners must score a minimum of 70 per cent, describing the NMMA as Nigeria’s most respected media honour.
The multiple awards won by Radio Nigeria at this year’s ceremony further reinforce its legacy as the mother of broadcasting in Nigeria, with a continued mandate to set standards in public broadcasting, journalistic integrity and national cohesion.
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has described the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo as shocking and a major loss to the state.
Dr. Jonathan made the remarks during a condolence visit to Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri and the Ewhrudjakpo family at Government House, Yenagoa.
The former president said the news of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death came as a shock, describing his passing as tragic and painful for Bayelsa State.
A former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State himself, Dr. Jonathan described the late deputy governor as a humble public servant who demonstrated commitment to duty and contributed meaningfully to the development of the state.
Responding, Governor Diri thanked the former president for being the first national figure to formally commiserate with the Bayelsa State Government and the Ewhrudjakpo family.
The governor described the late deputy governor as a close friend and brother, noting that they had worked together in the service of Bayelsa State for about 14 years.
Governor Diri then cautioned against the politicisation of the deputy governor’s death, stating that he had ordered an autopsy to establish the cause.
After the condolence visit, Dr. Jonathan and Governor Diri also visited the deputy governor’s wife, Mrs. Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, at her residence within the Government House.
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo reportedly died last Thursday after collapsing in his office while preparing for an official engagement.
He was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, where doctors pronounced him dead.
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Mr. Kabiru Turaki has expressed confidence in reclaiming the governorship seats in Ekiti and Osun states as part of its plan to return to power at the federal level in the 2027 general elections.
Leader of the PDP faction Mr. Kabiru Turaki made the remarks during a courtesy visit by members of the group to former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta.
The delegation included former President of the Senate and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees Senator Adolphus Wabara, former Governor of Niger State Dr. Babangida Aliyu, former Governor of Plateau State Senator Jonah Jang, and other party leaders aligned with the faction.
Speaking with journalists after the closed-door meeting, Mr. Turaki said the visit was aimed at drawing from the experience of the former president as the group works to reposition the party ahead of future elections.
He expressed optimism about the political prospects of the faction and assured supporters of improved fortunes going forward.
Former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji has emerged as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the August 8, 2025 governorship election in Osun State.
Delegates adopted Alhaji Oyebamiji as the party’s standard-bearer at the APC governorship primary held on Friday.
On behalf of other aspirants, legal practitioner Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN, moved the motion for his adoption, while Senator Babajide Omoworare seconded it.
Following a voice vote by the 1,660 delegates drawn from the state’s 332 wards, Chairman of the Osun APC Governorship Primary Committee Senator Monday Okpebholo declared Alhaji Oyebamiji the party’s candidate for the forthcoming election.
Senator Okpebholo commended other aspirants for their commitment to the party and urged members to rally behind the candidate, stressing that unity was key to electoral victory.
He said the APC must reclaim the governorship to keep Osun State aligned with the Federal Government in order to attract increased socio-economic development.
In his acceptance speech, APC governorship candidate Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji thanked God, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, co-aspirants, and party stakeholders for ensuring a peaceful primary election.
He assured party leaders and members of his readiness for the task ahead, stating that the welfare of Osun residents would remain a top priority under his leadership.
Earlier, Osun State APC Chairman Mr. Tajudeen Lawal praised party leaders and members for their dedication and reaffirmed the party’s resolve to reclaim the state from the incumbent administration.
Other aspirants present at the event included former Deputy Governor of Osun State Mr. Benedict Alabi, Mr. Dotun Babayemi, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, Mr. Babatunde Oralusi, and Alhaja Mulikat Jimoh.
Former APC National Secretary Senator Iyiola Omisore was absent from the event.
Dignitaries in attendance included National Secretary of the APC Senator Ajibola Basiru, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, Governor of Ondo State Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor of Lagos State Mr. Femi Hamzat, former Governor of Kogi State Mr. Yahaya Bello, and Senator Francis Fadahunsi, among others.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies supervised the exercise.
Yobe State has emerged as the overall best-performing state in the 2025 Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge, winning a total of $1.2 million as Nigerian governors collectively raised health sector allocations to ₦2.36 trillion to strengthen primary healthcare delivery nationwide.
The state clinched the top honour at the award ceremony held in Abuja, securing a $700,000 grand prize for its outstanding commitment to advancing primary healthcare services.
Yobe State also won the Zonal Best Performing State award for the North-East, earning an additional $500,000, bringing its total winnings to $1.2 million.
Under the zonal awards structure, each geopolitical zone winner received $500,000, while first runners-up in each zone were awarded $400,000, creating an incentive framework designed to reward excellence and promote continuous improvement.
Other Zonal Best Performing State award recipients were Nasarawa State (North-Central), Zamfara State (North-West), Abia State (South-East), Rivers State (South-South), and Osun State (South-West).
The zonal runners-up were Gombe State (North-East), Kwara State (North-Central), Kaduna State (North-West), Anambra State (South-East), Bayelsa State (South-South), and Ogun State (South-West).
In his address, Vice-President Kassim Shettima congratulated the award winners and commended state governors for their leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes.
Represented by the Minister of Health, Ali Pate, the Vice-President said initiatives such as the Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge promote healthy competition that ultimately benefits the nation.He highlighted progress made since governors signed a long-term compact with President Bola Tinubu two years ago under the sector-wide health renewal programme.
“Between 2024 and now, we’ve seen 20 states surpassing their targets in 2024,” he said.
Stressing the importance of healthcare to national development, Shettima added, “Health is a fundamental aspiration for every human being. Wherever you see good health, someone has invested in it. State governments, Federal Government, all of us have to invest in health.”
He urged state governments to further increase healthcare investments, projecting that total sector allocations should reach at least ₦3.5 trillion in the next fiscal year.
Acknowledging the financial barriers faced by many Nigerians, Senator Shettima said the Federal Government is intervening to reduce the cost of drugs, diagnostics, and medical tests, particularly for vulnerable populations, and called on states to align with these efforts.
He noted that sustained investment in health delivers multiple benefits, including a healthier and more productive population, stronger human capital, and more resilient communities.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced that Nigeria’s 36 states have collectively increased their health budgets to ₦2.36 trillion for 2025.
Represented by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, the NGF Chairman said the figure marks a significant rise from previous years, with 30 per cent of total allocations dedicated to primary healthcare.
He said, “Indeed, over the last three years, States have increased their budget allocations to health, resulting in significant infrastructural upgrades across PHC facilities and expanded recruitment of human resources for health.”
According to him, “The combined health budget for the 36 States has grown from ₦831 billion in 2022, to ₦927 billion in 2023, ₦1.4 trillion in 2024, and ₦2.36 trillion in 2025 with 30 per cent of these annual budgets dedicated to PHC.”
Governor AbdulRazaq said the investments are already yielding results, including reduced institutional maternal mortality, adding, “The steady progress from the first to the second round and now to the third demonstrates clearly that when leadership is intentional and accountable, measurable and transformative change is possible.”
He also announced that an expanded scorecard to track subnational commitments under the Health Sector Renewal Compact will be launched in 2026 to enhance transparency and accountability.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Muyi Aina, highlighted key achievements recorded through collaboration with state governments.
The event was organised by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and UNICEF, with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge aims to promote accountability among states and encourage healthy competition to improve healthcare delivery nationwide.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has launched the OneGov (1Gov) Enterprise Content Management System to accelerate secure, efficient, and transparent service delivery across the sector.
The Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) unveiled the digital cloud platform in Abuja as part of the Federal Government’s OneGov initiative.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr. Dele Alake described the deployment as a significant step toward improving transparency, strengthening ease of doing business, and enhancing service delivery in the solid minerals sector.
The minister said the ministry had recorded major progress since he assumed office about two and a half years ago, noting that reforms had addressed longstanding challenges across the solid minerals ecosystem.
Through policy reforms and digitisation, Dr. Alake said the sector recorded significant revenue growth driven by transparency and stronger enforcement.
“When we came in, revenue was about ₦6 billion. We doubled that within a year. And this year, we are almost tripling it,” he said.
He noted that sector-wide revenue increased from ₦28 billion in 2024 to over ₦50 billion in 2025, attributing the growth to improved oversight and digitisation.
The minister commended the MCO for aligning with the Federal Government’s OneGov Cloud project but stressed that staff reorientation remained critical to the success of the technology.
Dr Alake urged other agencies under the ministry to comply fully with the government’s directive on a paperless civil service.
“I enjoined all agencies and departments that are still not on stream to get on board immediately,” he said.
Director-General of the Mining Cadastral Office, MCO, Mr. Simon Nkom said the platform would strengthen document security, protect government data, and promote ease of doing business.
Mr. Nkom explained that the agency migrated its operations online three years ago, creating the need for a secure and efficient digital domain.
He said the digitisation of MCO’s systems had improved transparency, accountability, and government revenue.According to him, the agency’s revenue increased from ₦6.17 billion in 2023 to ₦12 billion in 2024 and has already exceeded ₦30 billion in 2025.
Mr Nkom added that the initiative earned the MCO national recognition, including the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) Award for Best Digital and Innovation Agency.
Representative of Galaxy Backbone Mr. Gana Nsuba said the OneGov platform was more than an automation tool, describing it as a sovereign, secure, and intelligent solution.
“It is designed to streamline records, strengthen document security, enhance workload transparency, and improve service delivery,” he said.
Mr Nsuba said the goal was to enable public officers to work smarter, faster, and more securely while delivering improved services to citizens and investors in the solid minerals sector.
Galaxy Backbone pledged continued technical support to ensure full utilisation of the Enterprise Content Management System.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development Mr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo attributed the ministry’s digital progress to the minister’s leadership and reform agenda.
He said the ministry was leading in digital governance transformation and announced that other agencies would deploy their OneGov platforms before the end of the year.
The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to become fully paperless by December 31, 2025, as part of broader civil service digital reforms.
The event featured a live demonstration of the OneGov cloud system by an MCO staff member.
US President, Donald Trump’s overseas envoy will travel to Germany this weekend to meet Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders for the latest round of high-level talks on ending the war.
Steve Witkoff, who has been leading White House attempts to mediate between Ukraine and Russia, will discuss the latest version of the proposed peace agreement in Berlin.
The Trump administration is pushing for a deal to be in place by Christmas and has held several rounds of talks with Ukrainian and Russian representatives in recent weeks, though there has been little sign a breakthrough is imminent.
It has not yet been confirmed which European leaders will attend the Berlin talks.
The Wall Street Journal, which first reported details of the meeting, said UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz would all take part.
Confirmation of the Witkoff-Zelensky meeting comes days after Ukraine gave the US its revised version of a 20-point peace plan, the latest iteration of a proposal which first emerged in late November and has triggered a flurry of diplomatic activity.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials said Russia launched a massive series of bombardments in the south overnight.
Zelensky said civilian facilities including energy and industrial infrastructure had been hit. More than 450 drones and 30 missiles were used in overnight strikes, he added, leaving two people injured and thousands without electricity across seven regions.
Russia’s defence ministry said it used weapons including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles in the strikes – which are hard to track as they can change direction mid-flight.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant temporarily lost all offsite power overnight “due to widespread military activities affecting the electrical grid”, but is now reconnected.
The plant is in Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine. It isn’t operating, but relies on a constant power supply to cool its reactors.
In Russia, regional governor Roman Busargin said two people were killed in Saratov after a drone strike hit a residential building.
A three-day basketball camp ended in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, with a call on the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to establish sustainable grassroots development programmes.
Former Nigeria international basketball player Onome Akinbode-James made the call at the grand finale of a three-day basketball skills programme for girls held at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta.
Akinbode-James, who played collegiate basketball at Duke University in the United States, said the initiative formed part of the Ready Leaders programme, which focuses on leadership development through sports and digital literacy.
She said the 40 participants, drawn from multiple states across the country, displayed strong leadership qualities that would support their personal and professional growth.
The FIBA Africa Under-16 Women’s Championship silver medalist in Madagascar also announced plans to develop a structured curriculum to help young female athletes sustain their development beyond the camp.
Veteran basketball player Chief Alabi Adelanwa described the camp as a vital step toward strengthening grassroots basketball in Nigeria.He praised the organiser for investing in the leadership and personal development of young girls through sport.
Several participants said the programme gave them a platform to showcase their talents while gaining valuable leadership skills.A total of 40 players from Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Edo, Ekiti, Bayelsa, Osun and Oyo states took part in the three-day camp.
Popular Nigerian gospel singer, Yinka Ayefele, has opened up about a touching conversation he recently had with his triplets regarding the accident that left him confined to a wheelchair.
The singer, who welcomed his triplets — Richard, Raymond, and Eniola — in January 2019, shared the emotional moment in a video posted on his Instagram page today, December 12th, 2025.
The children, now six years old, were seen gathered around their father as they curiously and innocently questioned why he could not stand or walk.
Ayefele revealed that his children had come into his room early in the morning and began praying earnestly for him to stand and walk. The heartfelt gesture moved him to tears as he recalled the tragic incident that changed his life.
According to Ayefele, the life-altering accident occurred on December 12, 1997, leaving him with injuries that have made walking impossible for nearly three decades. However, he told his children that he still believes he will one day walk again.
The emotional exchange continued as his son Richard pressed further, wanting to know the details of the accident. Ayefele explained that he was driving when his car tumbled multiple times due to a slippery road, eventually landing in a deep pit inside a bush.
Richard: Daddy, how can you not stand?
Yinka Ayefele: “I cannot stand because I had an accident.”
Richard: “Tell me the accident.”
Yinka Ayefele: “I should tell you the accident.”
Richard: Yes
Yinka Ayefele: “Ah, it has been long, it is a motor accident.”
Richard: “Motto”
Yinka Ayefele: “Yes, a motor car accident.”
Richard: “Tell me.”
Yinka Ayefele, “I should tell you. It was on December 12, 1997.”
Richard: “Was it Christmas.”
Yinka Ayefele “Yes, almost around this time.”
Yinka Ayefele, “You are not happy because I cannot walk.”
Richard: “Nodded, meaning yes.”
Yinka Ayefele: “Don’t worry, I will be fine”
Yinka Ayefele : “You said you wanted to ask me another question.”
Richard said: “No, just a question, why can you not stand?”
Yinka Ayefele, “I still believe I am going to walk, do you want me to walk?”
Richard said, “Yes”
Raymond also asked: “Why can you not walk”
Richard, who has been in conversation with his dad said “Was bicyle coming?”
Yinka Ayefele said, “No, I was the one driving, but the road was slippery, so that was how my can tumbled, like 6 times and it ended in a deep pit inside the bush.”
“My triplet kept asking me this same question up till this morning. ..they came to my room very early in the morning and started praying that they want their daddy to stand up and walk…i was so emotional and i started…..😭😭😭but am still trusting God on his promises. just keep on thanking God with me.”- Yinka Ayefele
Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has revealed the new things she is learning following her separation from ex-husband, Ned Nwoko.
While sharing photos of herself on her Instagram page, she stated that she is learning to love the parts of herself she outgrew in silence.
“I’m learning to love the parts of me I outgrew in silence”.
One Nandysaiv wrote, “Yes, girl, love yourself. Your fans love you very much
One made.of.link wrote, “Queen Gina! The crown never falls off, keep going!! Type shit
One celindion_aj wrote, “Self-discovery is the greatest light in one’s life”.
While celebrating her brother’s birthday a few days back, she stated that her journey towards peace and purpose started because of him. Implying that, she had the strength to leave her marriage because of him.
A week ago, she had committed her life to God, praying that her Maker direct her path and guides her towards the right choices.
Daniels made it known that she was on her own lane, even as she looks for her way.
Since leaving her husband, Regina has been living her best life.
The child star actress had announced that she had spoiled herself with a new house in Ikoyi, Lagos. Sharing photos of the mansion, she revealed that she needed a roof over her head, so she got a house for herself and her family.
When making her return to social media, she reposted a video of herself on a private jet from one of her friends’ page. In the video, the mother of two was captured hopping on a private jet with her brother, Sammy west and friends.
In a follow-up post, she let the world know that even when the table turns on her, she would still be at the top.
The mother of two, was spotted partying in a club with singer Peter Okoye.
She had announced her return to work via her Instagram page. Daniels shared a video of herself promoting a brand, noting that she needs to gather a lot of money.
The delectable actress, while sharing photos of herself in a black dress, said that she was wearing black to mourn her past. She admonished Ned to get a new wife to console him and leave her alone.
Recall that last month, Regina had alleged that she was facing domestic violence in her marriage to Ned Nwoko. In a viral clip, the actress was seen crying as she stated that in her husband’s house she wasn’t a queen.
The Federal Government will recruit over 94,000 new personnel into Nigeria’s security services as part of measures to tackle rising insecurity across the country.
In a statement by the Head of Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Kalu, the Commission said the recruitment portal would open to eligible Nigerians from December 15, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
The statement partly read, “The PSC, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, is pleased to announce the commencement of recruitment of 50,000 Police Constables into the Nigeria Police Force, as directed by President Bola Tinubu. Following this Presidential directive aimed at strengthening community policing, enhancing internal security, and expanding the manpower base of the Nigeria Police Force, the Commission has approved the opening of the recruitment portal for applications from eligible Nigerians.
Under the plan, the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force will recruit 50,000 police constables.
The recruitment portal is expected to be open to eligible Nigerians from December 15, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
“For the General Duty cadre, applicants are required to possess GCE Ordinary Level, SSCE/NECO or equivalent qualifications with at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, in no more than two sittings.
“Applicants for the Specialists cadre must possess a minimum of four credits, including English and Mathematics, also in no more than two sittings, and must have at least three years of experience and relevant trade test certifications.”
He said eligible applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth.
An official of the Nigerian Army, speaking off the record because he was not authorised to speak to the press, said the Army may recruit about 14,000 new soldiers following the President’s directive.
“You know the President recently gave an order; based on that we might probably recruit 14,000,” the official said.
The Navy and Nigerian Air Force did not provide exact numbers, but sources said both services will increase their intakes.
In June, the Ministry of Interior announced a nationwide recruitment of 30,000 personnel across the four paramilitary agencies.
Recalled, November 26, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency and directed the Nigeria Police and Armed Forces to recruit more personnel to confront the escalating insecurity.
The planned recruitment follow a surge in violence across the country, with the expectation that increased manpower will help strengthen security operations.
Scottish actor and comedian Stanley Baxter has died at the age of 99.
Born in Glasgow in 1926, he was one of the biggest stars on British television for several decades.
Baxter starred in a number of hit series between the 1960s and the 1980s, and was also known for his acting roles and as a pantomime regular.
His friend and biographer Brian Beacom said Baxter died on Thursday in Denville Hall, a north London care home for entertainment figures where he had lived since late 2023.
After starting his career in Scottish theatres in the 1940s, Baxter found fame in variety theatre.
This led to his casting in comedy sketch show On The Bright Side, where he first performed what became one of his most popular sketches – the Parliamo Glasgow spoof language programme.
The Stanley Baxter Show began on the BBC in 1963 and became a huge hit, before he moved to London Weekend Television (LWT) in 1973 with The Stanley Baxter Picture Show.
He played most of the parts in the show’s parodies of film and television, winning several Baftas.
This was followed in 1981 by The Stanley Baxter Series, before returning to the BBC later in the decade.
He also appeared in the children’s show Mr Majeika before retiring from television in 1990, but he continued to appear as a panto dame in Scotland for several more years.
He later appeared in a series of three half-hour radio sitcoms for BBC Radio 4, and also recorded a number of plays for the station.
Baxter also appeared in a number of films in the 1950s and 60s, and received a lifetime achievement award at the British Comedy Awards.
Bafta Scotland gave Baxter its Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television Award in December 2020.
Baxter always considered himself a character actor rather than a comedian and was a reluctant celebrity, giving few interviews and declining to appear on chat shows.
At the age of 94, he confirmed he had always been gay but said he had initially hidden the truth to avoid arrest in the years before decriminalisation.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state says land is a key economic asset that must be handled responsibly to ensure equitable benefits for all citizens.
Governor Makinde stated at the launch of the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agriculture, FRILIA, held at the Executive Council Chamber of his office, Secretariat Ibadan.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Chief Bayo Lawal noted that the misuse of allocated land poses a serious challenge to sustainable development, environmental management, and community stability.
He urged residents of the state across the 33 local government areas to be watchful, vigilant and actively monitor land usage in their respective communities.
According to him, some individuals and organisations are in the habit of applying for lands under specific purposes but divert the same for unintended or unauthorised activities.
Governor Makinde explained that the FRILIA initiative represented his administration’s steadfast commitment “to inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, and responsible land governance.
He noted that the initiative would help prevent exploitation, promote environmental sustainability and reduce land-related conflicts.
“It signifies the unwavering dedication to building a future that is underpinned by principles of responsibility, inclusiveness, transparency, and sustainability.
“It embodies our commitment to fostering an environment in which land investment is managed with integrity and care for all stakeholders in our state.
“Moreso, FRILIA is just providing a platform for prospective investors in agri-development in our state.
“But then, the state government must provide an enabling environment and that is why we are talking of responsibility.
“We will be responsible as an administration in land investment, recognising the right of landowners, farmers, local communities, and local government as well and any party involved in land acquisition,” he stated.
The governor further explained that land investment should not benefit a select few while eliminating the majority.
In a remark, Mr Akin-Fumilayo Williams, the Chairman of the FRILIA Technical Committee, who is also the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, said that the initiative was a flagship component of the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER).
According to Williams, SABER is a World Bank-supported programme implemented in partnership with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
He explained that the initiative was a three-year development project designed to strengthen land governance processes, empower stakeholders, and enhance the state’s capacity to manage land resources efficiently.
Also, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Professor. Musibau Babatunde, emphasised that the initiative aims to create a stable and predictable environment for business growth in the state.
Professor Babatunde explained that SABER focuses on reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, improving transparency, and strengthening investment-friendly policies that support both local and foreign investors
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Ogun State has concluded the first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration, CVR exercise, marking a significant step in its ongoing preparations to enhance the credibility of the voter register ahead of elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs Feyijimi Saseyi, who stated this in Abeokuta announced that the display of the Register of Voters for Claims and Objections would commence from Monday, 15th December to Sunday, 21st December, 2025.
Mrs Saseyi added that the display would hold daily between 9 o’clock in the morning and 3 o’clock in the afternoon, across all 20 Local Government Area offices in the state to allow residents verify their details and raise necessary corrections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner urged new registrants, those who transferred polling units and individuals who updated their details to take advantage of the display period, adding that forms for claims and objections would be available at all designated centres.
Mrs. Saseyi also announced that the second phase of the National CVR would resume on 5th January, 2026, while reaffirming the commission’s commitment to sustaining a transparent, credible and inclusive electoral process, urging residents to continue supporting INEC’s efforts to deepen Nigeria’s democracy.
Member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Mr. Fola Oyekunle has sponsored two establishment bills which scaled First Reading on the floor of the House of Representatives.
The bills are Establishment of the Federal Vocational and Skill Acquisition College, Ibadan North, Oyo State and Bill for the Establishment of the Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Ibadan North.
These bills, when passed into law, are expected to significantly boost access to vocational training and quality healthcare education within Ibadan North and its environs.
Speaking on the motivation behind the bills, Mr. Oyekunle stated that the Vocational and Skill Acquisition College would serve as a vital platform to empower the youth with practical and technical skills that can reduce unemployment and drive local economic growth.
Similarly, the College of Nursing and Midwifery is aimed at addressing the shortage of qualified health professionals and improving maternal and child healthcare delivery in the region.
Both institutions are also expected to attract federal investment into the constituency and create job opportunities for residents.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing education, health, and youth development as critical pillars for sustainable progress in Ibadan North.
As the world marks Universal Health Coverage, UHC, Day, stakeholders across the health sector are renewing calls for stronger action to ensure that every individual have access to quality healthcare without financial hardship.
This year’s global theme, “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it”, highlights the growing burden of rising medical expenses on families, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria.
Stakeholders, including residents of Osogbo, Osun State, lament treatment costs for common illnesses, limited health insurance coverage, long distances to facilities, and inadequate health workers especially for rural and vulnerable populations.
Also, a senior nurse at a private healthcare centre in Osun State, Mrs. Kemi Olabanji, emphasized the urgency of addressing affordability and access gaps.
In his own submission, a health analyst, Mr. Joshua Oladeni called for expanded coverage of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, sustained investment in primary healthcare centres, and effective implementation of state health insurance schemes.
This year’s theme is a reminder that the world is still far from achieving universal access to care, while the global message remains clear, health systems must be people-centred, fair, and financially accessible.
As a way of giving back to alma mater, the 1975/80 set of the Abiodun Atiba Memorial Institute, Kosobo, Oyo presentated a renovated examination hall to the school with a call on alumni of other schools not to forget their root.
In a message to the occasion through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Oyo Zone, Mrs Olufunke Karounwi ,the Commissioner for Education, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, called for continued support for government initiatives at improving educational infrastructure. ” The renovation of the school hall is more than just physical transformation but symbolizes the power of collective action.When we come together to achieve collective goal, we can bring about great transformation”.
The school principal, Mr Rasaq Raheem, said the decision by the class of 1980 was to renovate the hall as part of ways to impact the lives of students positively for a lifetime .
Chairman of 1975/80 set who is also the Managing Director,The Nigerian Tribune Newspapers, Mr Edward Dickson, represented by a member of the class, Dr Aderemi Bello expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their cooperation towards the success of the project.
Also, the current senior prefect of the school, Master Abimbola Philip, described the gesture as a catalyst for inspiring the students to dream big.
The occasion was attended by a cross section of stakeholders including a retired Director in the News Department of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station Reverend Olusegun Ayankoso.
Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ FRCN Ibadan Chapel has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected leadership of the Nigeria Union Journalists, Oyo State Council led by the Chairman, Comrade Akeem Babatunde Abas, popularly known as Alakime.
In a statement signed and issued by the Chairman of the most populated Chapel in the state, Comrade Oluwakayode Banjo, said the victory of Comrade Abas as the Chairman and his team is a well-deserved one, explaining that Radio Nigeria is proud to associate more with the Council after securing two vital positions of Secretary and Treasurer for its members.
According to the statement, Comrade Banjo specially congratulated Comrade Dayo Adu and Comrade Moses Morenikeji of FRCN Ibadan Chapel for their emergence, urging members of the Union to have confidence in the State Council Chairman and his executive members to reposition the Union with his lofty ideas and programmes.
The NUJ FRCN Ibadan Chapel prayed that God will grant new executive the wisdom, knowledge and strength needed to discharge their duties efficiently and effectively, assuring the leadership of the Comrade Akeem Babatunde Abas of maximum cooperation and support to succeed in the new assignment.
Oyo State Government has assured its residents of security of lives and property, saying it would spare no cost to secure the people and also make the state uncomfortable for criminally-minded elements.
Briefing newsmen after an Expanded Security Council Meeting presided over by the State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), reassured residents of the state that the government would continue to adequately secure lives and property.
CP Owoseni retired noted that the state would continue to collaborate and partner with non-state actors towards achieving integrated security architecture in the state.
He added that despite the challenges of crime and criminalities in the country, the state government has been tackling the challenges by ensuring that patrol teams are located in strategic places.
While assuring that Oyo State is not under any threat of banditry, he added that all areas identified as flash points would be thoroughly cleared and rid of criminalities.
According to the Special Adviser, the state, in conjunction with the military, is currently combing the Old Oyo National Park, which is a forest that stretches from Oyo State to Kwara and Niger states, to guard against the space being taken over by bandits and terrorists.
Speaking on mining activities in the state, Owoseni disclosed that all miners licensed by the Federal Government must align with the rules and regulations of the state and also involve the local communities and the traditional rulers of the environments where they want to operate before they would be allowed to operate
He urged residents to always call the 615 Emergency numbers to report suspicious acts or report emergencies.
In their separate remarks, the Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice, Biodun Aikomo and the Chairman of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, Sikiru Sanda, said that the state government would continue to protect and respect the rights of the citizens within the ambits of the law.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, the Osi Olubadan, lauded the government for the initiative and promised that the traditional institution would continue to support the government to prevent crimes in communities.
The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal; the Secretary to Oyo State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Honourable Ademola Ojo; the Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rasidi Ladoja; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, other traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and service commanders.
The prompt intervention of the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Mr Lanre Ogunlowo has restored normalcy to Ogere-Sapade corridor of Lagos Ibadan expressway following an altercation between trucks drivers and the Ogere Division Task Force.
The Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, Mr Babatunde Akinbiyi in a statement in Abeokuta explained that a joint task force comprising TRACE, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, and transport unions had clamped down on illegally parked trucks along the Ogere-Sapade corridor where three trucks were impounded for causing obstruction and traffic gridlock, despite available trailer parks.
He noted that a Dangote truck driver, who was among those apprehended, reacted angrily, threatening chaos if his truck wasn’t released immediately.
Mr Akinbiyi said the driver allegedly instigated other drivers, sparking fears of mayhem and danger to road users.
He pointed out that the situation was brought under control through the intervention of the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunnowo, the Seriki Hausawa of Ogere, and the Acting TRACE Commander, Mr Omonayajo Elias.
The TRACE PRO said that the apprehended trucks were released, and order was restored.
The Ogun State Command of the FRSC also confirmed that the matter had been resolved, with the road reopened on both sections of the expressway.
