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Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi As New CG Of Federal Fire Service

Enyosa Favour
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Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi As New CG Of Federal Fire Service

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Deputy Controller-General Olumode Samuel Adeyemi as the next Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service. His appointment takes effect from August 14, 2025.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) in a statement signed by its Secretary, Major General A.M. Jibril (retd.), on behalf of the President.

According to the statement, Adeyemi’s appointment follows the scheduled retirement of the current Controller-General, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, who will bow out of service on August 13, 2025, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.

The CDCFIB highlighted Olumode’s extensive experience and service record, noting his transfer from the FCT Fire Service to the Federal Fire Service, where he steadily rose through the ranks to become Deputy Controller-General in charge of Human Resources at the Service headquarters.

“Throughout his career, he has successfully completed all mandatory in-service training programmes, command courses, and other professional development courses both locally and internationally,” the statement noted.

Olumode is also a distinguished member or fellow of several professional organizations, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, the Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management of Nigeria.

The Board expressed its deep appreciation to the outgoing Controller-General, Engr. Jaji, for his outstanding service, praising his unwavering dedication and the numerous initiatives he championed during his tenure, which significantly advanced the operations and capabilities of the Federal Fire Service.

Abbas Urges Youths To Lead Nigeria’s Political Transformation

Olaosun Rebecca
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Abbas Urges Youths To Lead Nigeria’s Political Transformation

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called on Nigerian youths to take an active role in shaping the nation’s political future.

Speaking in Abuja at the unveiling of the Take Action Campaign themed “Awakening a Generation, Youthful Leadership for a New Nigeria, Abbas represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament emphasized that young Nigerians must begin to assert their numbers and influence in governance.

“Youths are not just the future they are the present. Their presence must be felt in leadership,” he said.

The Take Action Campaign, launched by the Youth in Parliament Forum, is a national initiative focused on empowering young Nigerians to take on leadership roles in politics and public service. Abbas expressed concern that despite making up over 60% of the population, youth participation in decision-making remains low.

Citing legislative reforms like the Not Too Young to Run Act, Abbas noted that efforts to open political space are already yielding results. He highlighted Hon. Ibrahim Mohammed of Kebbi State, elected at age 26, as a testament to what’s possible when the system becomes inclusive.

He also challenged the youth to look beyond emigration as a solution, urging them instead to stay, engage, and take charge of building the country. “Even with a blue passport, you remain a second-class citizen abroad. This is your land, your mission, your identity,” he said. “Don’t just criticize online get involved, ask questions, make your voice heard. We have no other country.”

Director General of the Youth in Parliament Forum, Tony Nwulu, described the campaign as a movement to awaken political consciousness among young people and inspire them to run for office and take control of their future.

“This marks the start of a journey towards a youth-led political renaissance driven by innovation, legislation, and leadership,” Nwulu stated.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, praised the campaign as a natural extension of the Not Too Young to Run movement. Represented by the state’s Director General of Research and Development, Moses Okezie-Okafor, Ododo emphasized the importance of action over rhetoric, citing Kogi’s model of gender and youth inclusion—where all local government deputy chairpersons and key state officials are women.

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, also aligned with the campaign’s goals. Represented by Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Chika Abazu, he revealed that over 40% of the state cabinet consists of youths, including himself, a beneficiary of the Not Too Young to Run law.

“We’re building a new Nigeria, and this movement only becomes impactful when those who rise to leadership hold the door open for others to follow,” he concluded.

Actors Guild Suspends Actress Shirley Igwe Indefinitely

Olaosun Rebecca
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Actors Guild Suspends Actress Shirley Igwe Indefinitely

Nigeria’s Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has suspended actress Shirley Igwe indefinitely over the alleged assault of a crew member on a film set in Lagos.

AGN disclosed this in a letter signed by its National President, Emeka Rollas, representing filmmaking regulatory bodies, the Office of the Inspector General of Police, and the Lagos State Governor.

According to the letter, Shirley—who once served as Principal Protocol Officer to former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha—physically assaulted a crew member during a production, leading to an altercation in which she allegedly slapped the individual.

The actress is best known for her role as “Adaora” in the popular 2012 film Mercy The Bus Driver. Since her debut in the early 2010s, she has featured in titles such as The King’s Search (2017), Stormy Hearts (2017), Love And Shadows (2019), and Blackout (2025).

AGN stated that its decision followed a preliminary investigation that left the council with no choice but to impose the indefinite suspension.

“Following our preliminary investigations into the allegation of violence levelled against actress Shirley Igwe on a film set in Lagos, the National Executive Council (NEC) has resolved to place her on indefinite suspension,” the letter read.

The guild further explained that Igwe’s actions violated the body’s professional standards.

“This suspension is due to her professional misconduct, violence, and indiscipline, actions capable of discrediting the acting profession. These offences contravene the Actors’ Code of Conduct and are punishable by constitutional provisions,” the statement added.

The guild also directed its members to avoid engaging in any film project involving her.

Shirley becomes the second actress suspended by AGN since October 18, 2024, when Halima Abubakar was suspended for allegedly defaming fellow actors. As of now, Shirley Igwe has not publicly responded to the suspension.

Former Colombian President Found Guilty Of Bribery And Witness Tampering

Olaosun Rebecca
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Former Colombian President Found Guilty Of Bribery And Witness Tampering

A Bogotá court has convicted former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe on charges of bribery and witness tampering, making him the first ex-head of state in the country’s history to face such a ruling.

Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia delivered the verdict, concluding that Uribe unlawfully influenced detained paramilitaries to retract testimony they had given to Senator Iván Cepeda.

The case dates back to 2012, when Uribe sued Cepeda for libel after the senator alleged the former president had links to paramilitary groups during the 1990s. The Supreme Court later dismissed the claim against Cepeda and instead launched an investigation into Uribe in 2018. Prosecutors accused him of orchestrating false testimony in an attempt to defend himself.

Judge Heredia found him guilty of abuse of process and bribery in criminal proceedings. Both charges carry a potential sentence of six to twelve years in prison, although due to Uribe’s age, house arrest is more likely. A sentencing date has not yet been set, and his legal team has vowed to appeal.

The ruling has sparked divided reactions across Colombia and abroad. Supporters of the verdict view it as a milestone for judicial independence and accountability, while critics argue that the case is politically driven.

UK Threatens To Recognize Palestine

Ohiomoje Margaret
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UK Threatens To Recognize Palestine

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom will formally recognize the State of Palestine in September during the UN General Assembly unless Israel takes decisive steps to end the Gaza war.

He stated that the move reflects the UK’s commitment to a two-state solution, with a secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Starmer explained that the recognition is meant to increase diplomatic pressure and keep open the possibility of peace.

The prime minister set out conditions that Israel must meet to prevent recognition, including agreeing to a ceasefire to stop the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, allowing large-scale humanitarian aid with at least 500 trucks entering the territory daily, committing to a long-term peace process leading to a two-state outcome, and explicitly rejecting annexation plans in the West Bank. He also called on Hamas to release hostages, disarm, accept a ceasefire, and withdraw from governance in Gaza.

Starmer’s announcement comes amid growing criticism over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed and aid remains restricted as famine spreads. The Israeli government rejected the UK’s stance, arguing that recognizing Palestine under current conditions would reward Hamas and undermine ceasefire efforts. The United States expressed concern over the potential consequences of such a move but did not fully oppose it.

Starmer has faced increasing domestic pressure as over 250 Labour MPs pushed for quicker recognition of Palestine, aligning with a wider European push led by France, which has pledged to grant recognition in September alongside Spain, Ireland, Norway and other nations. The UK’s planned recognition is intended as a diplomatic turning point, conditional on Israeli actions to de-escalate and commit to peace. Should these conditions not be met, London will proceed with formal recognition of Palestine at the UN in September.

Nigerians Cautioned Against Misuse Of U.S. Entry Visas – Customs Service

Tosin Onisuuru
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Nigerians Cautioned Against Misuse Of U.S. Entry Visas – Customs Service

The Nigeria Customs Service has issued a cautionary alert to Nigerians regarding concerns raised by the United States Government over the misuse of entry visas. The warning emphasizes the importance of adhering strictly to the stated purpose of travel and visa classifications granted by U.S. authorities.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, stressed that security screening for visa applicants does not conclude upon entry into the United States.

U.S. authorities maintain continuous surveillance of visa holders, and any violations of immigration laws, import/export regulations, or other statutes may lead to visa revocation, Maiwada stated.

He further advised Nigerians traveling to the U.S. to comply with financial disclosure requirements by declaring any cash exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent at the point of entry or exit. Travelers are also reminded to ensure that prohibited items are not included in their luggage.

It is crucial for passengers to conduct themselves responsibly and remain law-abiding both within Nigeria and abroad. Prospective travelers should understand that fraudulent acts committed in any country are subject to prosecution under both U.S. and Nigerian law, he added.

NBA Champion Ujiri Launches Zaria Court Kigali In Landmark Event

Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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NBA Champion Ujiri Launches Zaria Court Kigali In Landmark Event

Zaria Court Kigali officially opened its doors last night with a grand launch event, marking a transformative milestone in African urban development.

The $26 million mixed-use complex is the debut project of Zaria Group Africa’s premier developer of sports, entertainment, and cultural infrastructure co-founded by NBA champion Masai Ujiri in partnership with Helios Sports and Entertainment Group.

The high-profile opening ceremony drew hundreds of dignitaries, cultural icons, international guests, and youth advocates to celebrate what is poised to become the continent’s leading destination for sport, culture, and community engagement.

Strategically located next to Kigali’s iconic BK Arena and Amahoro Stadium, the event featured keynote remarks from key stakeholders and was attended by notable figures including Aliko Dangote, Chiney Ogwumike, Amadou Gallo Fall, Robin Roberts, Michael Blackson, Fred Swaniker, and Clare Akamanzi.

Today is more than the unveiling of a building it’s the start of a transformation, Ujiri stated. Zaria Court embodies our vision of African excellence, a space where young people can see endless possibilities, and where culture and community come alive.

This is our future bold, authentic, and unapologetically African. We’re not just creating spaces we’re laying the groundwork for a cultural renaissance. Courts foster communities, venues generate value, and ecosystems build economies.

Zaria Court Kigali features a boutique 80-room hotel, a 2,000-seat event venue, a podcast studio, a creative co-working hub, public basketball courts, five-a-side football pitches, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a curated mix of restaurants, a sports bar, retail outlets, and public spaces including a children’s playground.

The development harnesses Rwanda’s reputation as a continental leader in innovation and governance, while setting a precedent for similar projects across Africa’s major cities. The project is expected to create over 500 quality jobs, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and youth. This includes retail incubation opportunities tailored for women-owned small and medium enterprises.

Zaria Court and its surrounding ecosystem mark just the beginning,” Ujiri added. Its impact reaches far beyond Rwanda, offering a model for regional and continental growth. Africa’s talent is limitless, and initiatives like this help unlock that potential. Sport in Africa is a unifier, it brings people together across backgrounds and borders. That same energy can drive development across many other sectors.

The launch of Zaria Court Kigali signals growing institutional confidence in Africa’s sports and entertainment industries, offering a powerful symbol of what’s possible when infrastructure, innovation, and vision come together to elevate the continent.

Massive Quake Off Russia Sparks Pacific-Wide Tsunami Alerts

Ohiomoje Margaret
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Massive Quake Off Russia Sparks Pacific-Wide Tsunami Alerts

A massive magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings and advisories across the Pacific, including Japan, the U.S. West Coast, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and Micronesia. In the nearby Kuril Islands, tsunami waves reached 3–4 meters, causing flooding, minor injuries, and infrastructure damage.

In Japan, tsunami warnings extended from Hokkaido to Wakayama, prompting evacuation orders for more than 900,000 residents across over 130 municipalities. Recorded wave heights were relatively low—up to 0.4 m at 16 coastal locations but authorities cautioned that second and third waves could follow. Staff at the Fukushima nuclear plant were evacuated as a precaution, with no reported abnormalities.

Across the U.S. and Pacific, the National Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts for parts of Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, along with watches for the West Coast, Hawaii, Guam, and Micronesia. In Hawaii, waves reached 1.2 m, prompting road closures, airport disruptions, and coastal evacuations. Guam and Saipan also implemented precautionary measures before lifting their alerts as conditions stabilized.

Warnings spread to other Pacific nations, including French Polynesia, Ecuador, Peru, and New Zealand, where residents were advised to avoid shorelines due to the risk of waves reaching up to 3 meters.

While Russia’s Far East saw localized flooding and damage, no widespread casualties were reported. Authorities warned that strong aftershocks, potentially up to magnitude 7.5, could strike in the coming days, with emergency measures and coastal restrictions remaining in effect.

ADC Inaugurates Newly Appointed National Leadership

Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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ADC Inaugurates Newly Appointed National Leadership

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally inaugurated former Senate President David Mark as Interim National Chairman and ex-Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola as Interim National Secretary.

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Tuesday in Abuja during the party’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

In his remarks following the inauguration, Senator Mark pledged to promote internal democracy, transparency, and inclusive leadership. He committed to reserving 35% of leadership positions for women and ensuring the active participation of youth under the age of 40.

The former military administrator of Niger State also announced the establishment of a 50-member Policy Committee tasked with reviewing the party’s manifesto and spearheading reforms across critical sectors.

“Under my leadership, we will be fully committed to democratic ideals that reject imposition and favoritism. Our guiding principles will be internal democracy, transparency, and accountability,” Mark assured.

Outgoing Chairman Ralph Nwosu commended the party’s resilience, noting its refusal to succumb to pressure and financial incentives aimed at establishing a one-party state in Nigeria.

“ADC stood firm against dictatorship. We remained steadfast in our commitment to democracy,” Nwosu stated.

At the meeting, the party reinstated previously expelled members, excluding the 2023 presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu. Additionally, a motion was passed to dissolve the former National Working Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT), granting full authority to the new interim leadership until fresh congresses are conducted.

Nigeria Becomes First African Country To Regulate Media Portrayal Of Tobacco, Money Rituals

Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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Nigeria Becomes First African Country To Regulate Media Portrayal Of Tobacco, Money Rituals

Nigeria has become the first African country to formally regulate the portrayal of tobacco use, money rituals, and narcotics in media content, according to a statement by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

The announcement was made following the board’s presentation at the 2025 World Tobacco Conference held in Ireland, where the country’s new policy was praised as a bold and visionary step toward safeguarding public health and cultural values.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), which positioned Nigeria as a trailblazer in African media regulation, said the regulation targets the control of the promotion and glamourisation of tobacco, narcotics, ritual killings, and money rituals.

The regulation, a first of its kind in Africa, was lauded as a bold step toward safeguarding public health and preserving cultural values.

At the world conference, the executive director of the NFVCB, Shaibu Husseini, delivered a status report detailing the regulation’s objectives, stakeholder engagement process, and enforcement mechanisms.

The policy, which was approved and gazetted in 2024 under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, targets harmful portrayals in Nigerian films, music videos, and skits.

The conference recognised Nigeria as the first African nation to implement such a comprehensive measure, with attendees commending Mrs Musawa’s leadership as “a courageous and visionary move to protect public health and preserve cultural values.”

One significant outcome of the conference was the various pledges by several international organisations to assist Nigeria in continuing to implement the regulation.

The support is expected to be delivered through their local partner, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), and will include logistical and technical assistance to enhance compliance and awareness.

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