In 2024, the Nigerian government made significant progress in combating insecurity, neutralizing over 8,000 terrorists and bandits nationwide, according to Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence. He also reported the apprehension of more than 11,600 suspects involved in criminal activities and the seizure of over 10,000 assorted weapons during the same period.
Dr. Matawalle attributed these successes to the effective security policies and reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu. He highlighted the creation of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), which has improved collaboration among security forces, resulting in more effective operations against kidnapping and other crimes.
In addition to security gains, the minister praised the government’s economic initiatives, particularly the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development. This ministry seeks to harness the agricultural potential of northern Nigeria to drive economic growth and empower citizens. Dr. Matawalle noted a recent drop in grain prices as evidence of the positive impact of these measures.
Infrastructure development has also been prioritized, with ongoing efforts to build roads and enhance transportation networks, particularly in the northern region, to support sustained economic progress. The minister also endorsed the new legislation granting autonomy to local governments, seeing it as a move toward improved grassroots governance and accountability.
Dr. Matawalle expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms and leadership under President Tinubu provide a promising foundation for long-term national development. He suggested that these continued achievements could strengthen the President’s chances of securing re-election in 2027.
Over 8,000 Terrorists Killed in 2024, Says Defence Minister Matawalle
Electricity Tariff Hike: Why Nigerians Might Pay More
Nigerians may soon be paying more for electricity as the federal government pushes for tariffs that reflect the true cost of power. The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, says the country’s economy can no longer sustain broad electricity subsidies, especially with the government’s debt to power-generating companies (Gencos) now exceeding N4 trillion.
Currently, the actual cost of electricity stands at N116.18 per kilowatt-hour, but consumers are charged an average of N88.2, with the government covering the difference. However, this model is becoming unsustainable, and changes are imminent.
What the Minister of Power Is Saying
At a meeting with Genco executives in Abuja, Minister Adelabu emphasized the need for Nigerians to begin paying the correct price for electricity. He explained that subsidies would become more targeted — focusing on economically vulnerable groups — rather than applied across the board.
“We have to understand that our economy cannot sustain subsidies indefinitely,” he said. “Citizens must pay the appropriate price for the energy consumed.”
What People Are Saying
Reactions from Nigerians have been mixed — ranging from frustration over high costs and poor service to cautious optimism about reforms.
Consumers in Band A, who are already paying cost-reflective tariffs, say the price is high and yet doesn’t always guarantee reliable supply. “We’re charged more, but service is still inconsistent,” a Lagos resident said.
For many in Bands B to E — where subsidies still apply — concerns are rising over whether the quality of service justifies any proposed increase. One user shared, “We get 10 to 12 hours of electricity a day. Asking us to pay more with no improvement in service feels unfair.”
Others expressed the impact on their daily lives. “Electricity hasn’t improved but it’s more costly. I can’t run my appliances, and business expenses are rising. Even solar alternatives are now expensive,” said a small business owner.
Some have adjusted their usage to cope. “We now use energy-saving bulbs, run freezers only at night, and have stopped using air-conditioners completely,” one respondent shared.
A few highlighted deeper concerns with how the electricity sector is managed. “This hike won’t fix anything if the Discos remain understaffed and poorly managed. There’s too much corruption in the system,” someone noted.
Still, a handful of Nigerians see potential benefits — if reforms are properly managed. “It’s helped me cut energy waste. But the government must invest in better infrastructure, and Discos need to upgrade their distribution systems,” one respondent suggested.
Champions League Race: Chelsea Grab Key Wins
This weekend’s football games in the Premier League and La Liga brought intense action, with Chelsea and Real Madrid earning important wins that boosted their push for Champions League spots and league titles. As the season nears its end, the fight for top places is getting even tougher.
Chelsea 3-1 Liverpool: Blues Keep Champions League Hopes Alive
Chelsea boosted their chances of getting back into the Champions League with a strong 3-1 win over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Fernández opened the scoring early, cutting through Liverpool’s defense and finishing smartly. Things got worse for Liverpool when Jarell Quansah accidentally scored an own goal.
Cole Palmer finished it off with a cool penalty in added time. Van Dijk scored late for Liverpool, but it wasn’t enough. The team looked tired after their big win over Tottenham the week before and couldn’t avoid their third league loss of the season.
Thanks to this win and smart tactics from manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea now sit fifth in the Premier League with 63 points—the same as fourth-placed Newcastle, who drew 1-1 with Brighton. Nottingham Forest, sitting just below, can also reach 63 points if they beat Crystal Palace. Chelsea have now won five home games in a row and are clearly pushing to rejoin Europe’s top competition.
Real Madrid 3-2 Celta Vigo: Madrid Hold On in Tight Title Race
In Spain, Real Madrid beat Celta Vigo 3-2 in a tight match at the Santiago Bernabéu to stay in the title race. Kylian Mbappé was the star again, scoring twice—one with a sharp finish and the other using his speed. He now has 24 league goals, just one behind the top scorer.
Arda Güler, a young Turkish talent, scored the first goal with a great strike and later assisted Mbappé. Celta Vigo tried to fight back with two late goals, taking advantage of Madrid’s weakened defense, which was missing six injured players. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made key saves to protect the lead. Coach Carlo Ancelotti said, “We struggled a bit, but it was a good win.”
With this result, Real Madrid stay second in La Liga with 72 points, trailing Barcelona by four points. Barcelona had a comeback win over Valladolid. The upcoming El Clásico could decide the title, especially with Madrid already knocked out of the Champions League and losing the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona. Even though Celta lost, they remain seventh and still in the running for a Europa League spot.
Premier League Champions League Qualification Battle
With Liverpool already champions at 82 points, the focus shifts to the remaining Champions League places — and the competition is fierce. Arsenal hold second place with 67 points but have faltered lately, including a costly 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth. This stumble leaves them open to a late surge from Manchester City, who are just three points behind with a game in hand. City’s steady form and squad depth make them favorites to overtake Arsenal in the final stretch.
Newcastle United and Chelsea are tied at 63 points, with Newcastle edging ahead on goal difference. Both teams are in fine shape — Chelsea boosted by five straight home victories, and Newcastle consistently earning points. The heat is on for both to keep their momentum against tough opponents.
Nottingham Forest, with 60 points, are surprise contenders. A win in their next game could draw them level with Chelsea and Newcastle, making the race even tighter. Forest’s lively attacking play gives them a shot, but they’ll need perfect results and some luck with rivals’ slip-ups.
Further back, Fulham and Brighton have slim hopes, needing flawless runs and major errors from those above. They’re more likely to act as disruptors, potentially spoiling the plans of teams in the race.
In truth, Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, and Forest are locked in a five-team fight for three spots. With goal difference, head-to-head results, and final matches all factoring in, this battle could go right to the season’s last day, where every goal and point will be crucial.
DR Congo Moves to Lift Ex-President Kabila’s Immunity
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is seeking to strip former President Joseph Kabila of his immunity in order to prosecute him for alleged involvement in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and treason linked to rebel activity in the country’s eastern region.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday evening in Kinshasa, Justice Minister Constant Mutamba revealed that the Senate has been formally requested to revoke Kabila’s legal protection, which shields him from prosecution due to his former status as president and current role as senator for life.
Mutamba said there is “strong evidence” connecting Kabila to atrocities committed in the conflict-ridden east, including massacres of civilians and military personnel. He also cited the former leader’s alleged backing of the M23 rebel group, which has been active in the eastern provinces.
Kabila, who governed the DRC from 2001 to 2019, is now accused of participating in an insurrectional movement and supporting destabilization efforts against the government. President Felix Tshisekedi previously alleged that Kabila was collaborating with M23 rebels to plan an uprising—an accusation the ex-president has consistently denied.
After stepping down in 2019, Kabila remained largely absent from the public scene but returned to the DRC last month after a prolonged absence. He reportedly visited Goma, a rebel-held eastern city, with intentions to “contribute to peace efforts,” according to his allies.
The eastern DRC has been gripped by renewed violence since January, with M23 rebels capturing key cities like Goma and Bukavu. The fighting has claimed over 3,000 lives and displaced nearly seven million people, worsening the region’s humanitarian crisis.
The M23, one of over 200 armed groups operating in the mineral-rich area near the Rwandan border, is alleged by UN experts to receive support from an estimated 4,000 Rwandan soldiers. Despite a recent truce agreement between the DRC military and M23, clashes continue, especially in South Kivu province.
Reacting to the justice minister’s announcement, Ferdinand Kambere, deputy secretary-general of Kabila’s People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy, dismissed the move as politically motivated persecution.
“These actions by the current regime are not just attempts to humiliate or intimidate the former president—they reveal desperation. It’s a sign that their time in power is coming to an end,” Kambere told The Associated Press.
The legal push marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between the current government and the Kabila camp, as the DRC continues to grapple with deep political divisions and escalating violence in its eastern provinces.
Role Of Intellectual Property Rights In Safe Guarding Creative Works
Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) protect the creative work of filmmakers, including scripts, soundtracks, visuals, and characters. These rights give creators control over how their work is used, shared, and monetized. Owning IP allows filmmakers to license, sell, or collaborate with distributors and platforms on their own terms. It builds trust, protects income, and supports industry growth.
Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights
IP infringement happens when someone uses a filmmaker’s work without permission. This includes unauthorized copying, distribution, or adaptation of films, scripts, or soundtracks. Infringement leads to financial loss and undermines the creator’s legal recognition and ownership.
To protect their work, filmmakers are encouraged to register their scripts and other materials. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is the government agency responsible for handling copyright registration and enforcement.
Types of Intellectual Property Rights
Copyright:
This protects original works like scripts, screenplays, music, and film content. It gives the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display the work.
Trademark:
Used to protect brand elements like film titles, production company names, and logos. Trademarks help films and studios build recognition and trust in the market.
Patent:
Though less common in film, patents may apply to new filmmaking equipment or technology developed during production.
Industrial Design:
Protects the visual design of sets, costumes, or specific props if they are unique and artistic.
Trade Secrets:
Refers to confidential processes, formulas, or methods used during production that give a filmmaker or studio a competitive edge.
The Need to Update Copyright Laws
Updating copyright laws is essential in today’s fast-changing digital landscape, especially for filmmakers. As Nollywood and other film industries expand globally and shift towards online streaming, short-form content, and AI-generated works, existing laws often lag behind modern realities.
Traditional copyright laws were built around cinemas and DVDs. But now, with films released directly on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, and even TikTok, creators need laws that protect their content across digital platforms and territories.
Modernizing copyright laws helps filmmakers secure their rights in the digital age and unlocks multiple monetization channels. As Nollywood grows, protecting creative work through updated legislation and smart monetization is key to long-term success.
Registering Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in Other Countries is crucial for filmmakers who want to distribute or protect their creative works internationally. Each country has its own system, but many recognize and protect foreign works under international treaties.
Osimhen Hints at Galatasaray Stay Despite Premier League Interest
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has suggested he is ready to extend his time at Galatasaray, cooling down rumours of a move to the Premier League.
Osimhen, 26, has been linked with clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United. But after a brilliant season in Turkey, he appears happy to stay with the Istanbul club.
Speaking about his time at Galatasaray, Osimhen said:
“It’s a great feeling. I will continue to make the fans proud. The team is winning, I am scoring goals – I want to keep going as they know me.”
He added that inspiring his teammates’ children makes him even happier.
Osimhen has been in top form, scoring 33 goals in all competitions this season – a new personal best. He scored 24 goals in the Super Lig, 6 in the Europa League, and 3 in the Turkish Cup. This breaks his previous record of 31 goals for Napoli in the 2022/23 season.
Reflecting on the achievement, he said:
“It was important to break my record in my first season here. I thank my family, friends, and the technical team for their support.”
Despite his personal success, Osimhen made it clear that the team’s success means more to him:
“The team comes first. When I take my chances and score, it makes me happy – but the important thing is not Victor Osimhen, it’s the team.”
His comments suggest he is enjoying life at Galatasaray and could soon commit to a longer stay, despite the growing interest from England.
Harry Kane Finally Wins First Major Trophy With Bayern Munich
For all his goals and personal awards, Harry Kane was often criticised for never winning a trophy — not with a club, and not with England.
“Many people talk about how I haven’t won anything yet,” the England captain said recently, as Bayern Munich looked set to win the Bundesliga title. “It would be nice to prove them wrong.”
Ironically, Kane had to watch from the stands as Bayern played RB Leipzig last Saturday. He was suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season.
“It’s typical of my story that I’ll miss the Leipzig game,” said the 31-year-old. “But don’t worry, I’ll celebrate harder than anyone.”
Kane even walked to the touchline, ready to celebrate, but a late goal from Leipzig delayed things. The title was confirmed a day later when Bayer Leverkusen drew 2-2 at Freiburg on Sunday.
That result gave Bayern the title and finally ended the talk that Kane might finish his career without silverware.
He watched the Leverkusen game with England team-mate Eric Dier and other Bayern players. He later posted a video online of them singing “We are the champions”.
“I’m so happy for him – he really deserves it,” said former Bayern and Tottenham striker Jürgen Klinsmann.
“His stats over the last 10 years are incredible. He’s still fit, still hungry. I love watching him play.”
A long road to success
Kane’s career didn’t always look like that of England’s all-time top scorer. As a teenager at Tottenham, former youth coach Alex Inglethorpe said he wasn’t even one of the top players in his age group.
He was still in the youth team when Spurs last won a trophy — the League Cup in 2008. He got his first professional deal in 2010 and spent time on loan at Leyton Orient, Millwall, Leicester and Norwich before becoming a star at Spurs.
Kane became Tottenham’s all-time leading scorer with 280 goals in 435 games and is second in the Premier League’s all-time scoring list with 213 goals, behind only Alan Shearer’s 260.
But despite three Premier League Golden Boots, he never won a trophy with Spurs. He lost a Champions League final and two League Cup finals and missed out on the league title twice.
With England, he lost in the Euro 2020 final and the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup. He won the Golden Boot in Russia and was joint top scorer at Euro 2024, but still no title.
“I always said if Harry left Spurs, he would win trophies,” said Klinsmann, who also won his only league title after leaving Tottenham for Bayern in 1995.
When Kane joined Bayern in August 2023 for €100m (£86.4m), trophies looked certain. Bayern had won 11 straight Bundesliga titles.
He made his debut in the German Super Cup against Leipzig, but Bayern lost 3-0. Later, they were knocked out of the German Cup by third-division side Saarbrücken, and finished third in the league – their worst in over a decade. They also lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.
“People joked about him,” said German football commentator Taufig Khalil. “Bayern had won everything, Kane joined, and suddenly they won nothing. It was a tough season for him.”
Settling into German life
Kane stayed focused and kept trying to improve. He also replaced club legend Robert Lewandowski, which came with big expectations.
“Bayern has a long tradition of great strikers,” said Klinsmann. “To follow in those footsteps is an honour.”
Khalil added: “Even rival fans are happy to have Kane in the Bundesliga. When the England captain plays in Germany — that’s huge.”
Despite his fame, Kane stayed humble. He’s known for being professional, respectful, and friendly — with both fans and the media.
“He’s polite and down to earth,” said Khalil. “He always greets people, and even when he doesn’t want to talk, he apologises. Most players just walk past with headphones on.”
Kane has embraced life in Munich. He’s gone to Oktoberfest, visited fan clubs, and taken German lessons (although he jokes his kids will learn faster than him).
“He’s fit in well,” said Klinsmann. “Munich is international, but you still need to adapt. He’s done it brilliantly.”
Kane became close friends with Thomas Müller and plays golf with teammates like Konrad Laimer. His strong bond with Eric Dier, who joined Bayern in January, has also helped him settle.
“The fans love him,” added Klinsmann. “He’s humble, he works hard, and he scores goals — that’s what matters to him.”
Well deserved
After six lost finals — three with Spurs, two with England and one with Bayern — Kane finally has a major title.
Kane has been vital to Bayern’s success. “He’s like a young player – always running, always fighting,” said manager Vincent Kompany.
Kane is the Bundesliga’s top scorer with 24 goals and has 36 in all competitions, including 11 in the Champions League.
He missed a big chance in the Champions League quarter-final first leg but scored in the second leg. Still, Bayern were knocked out.
“When people criticised him, he accepted it,” said Khalil. “He always stops to talk after games – win or lose.”
Though Bayern had some stumbles, Kane stayed consistent. Only Gerd Müller and Lewandowski have scored more in a single Bundesliga season. In April, Kane became the fastest to reach 60 Bundesliga goals – beating Erling Haaland’s record.
He also had 15 assists, averaging a goal or assist every 72 minutes.
“He fights, he works, he scores,” said Bayern honorary president Uli Hoeness. “No-one deserves it more.”
Tosin Adarabioyo: “I’ve Never Rejected Nigeria” – Chelsea Star Clears Air
Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has strongly denied reports that he turned down the chance to play for Nigeria. He says he has never rejected the Super Eagles and has never even had talks about joining the national team.
In a video shared by well-known photojournalist Pooja via Oma Akatugba, the 27-year-old, who recently joined Chelsea, spoke out about the ongoing rumours.
Adarabioyo, who can play for both England and Nigeria, was surprised by the claims that he refused Nigeria. He said clearly:
“I’ve never turned down Nigeria, and I’ve never had any conversations with them to say I’ll be going to Nigeria. So, both of those pieces of news are false.”
The centre-back, who helped Chelsea win the UEFA Europa Conference League, explained that no official discussions have ever taken place between him and the Nigerian Football Federation.
These comments come after years of speculation suggesting he had chosen England over Nigeria.
Adarabioyo’s clear message may now renew interest from Nigerian fans and officials who still hope to see him wear the green and white.
For now, the defender says his international future is still open — and he hasn’t closed the door on playing for Nigeria.
U-20 AFCON : Nigeria Held To Goalless Draw By Morocco
The Flying Eagles of Nigeria were held to a 0-0 draw by Morocco in their Group B match at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.
Despite both teams featuring several foreign-based players, the game failed to live up to expectations. It was a scrappy contest with few clear chances and several interruptions from minor fouls.
Nigeria’s head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, made changes to his starting line-up ahead of the game, bringing in Israel Ayuma and Precious Benjamin for Caleb Ochedikwu and Kparobo Arierhi.
Morocco had the first real chance in the 15th minute, but Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt kept out Mouad Dahak’s effort, although the flag went up for offside.
Five minutes later, Nigeria got a free-kick just outside the box after Benjamin was fouled, but his attempt went just over the crossbar.
The Flying Eagles grew into the game late in the first half. Adamu Maigari’s header was comfortably saved, and Emmanuel Chukwu also missed with a header. Benjamin came closest when his low shot to the far post was tipped out for a corner.
The second half saw Nigeria dominate possession and defend well. They looked more likely to score, especially against a Moroccan side that had scored three goals in their first group match.
However, poor decision-making in the final third meant the Flying Eagles couldn’t find the breakthrough.
Nigeria remain second in Group B with four points, the same as Morocco, who top the group due to a better goal difference. The Flying Eagles will face Kenya in their final group game on Wednesday, May 7.
The New Era Of Movie Premieres In Nigeria
In Nigeria’s evolving movie landscape, the premiere is no longer a side event, it’s a core part of the movie’s journey, reflecting the growth of Nollywood and its global reach. What used to be simple screenings with a few celebrities and press members has now become full-scale events with high-fashion themes and red-carpet moments.
They served mainly as networking opportunities and a chance to talk about the film. These launches now combine cinema, fashion, culture, and business, making each one a big moment for both the film and its audience. Beyond celebration, premieres serve as a powerful marketing tool.
They create media buzz, trend on social platforms, and build excitement before a film hits the cinemas or streaming services. As Nollywood continues to rise, the premiere culture is helping shape perceptions of African cinema around the world.
This shift comes with a cost. Producers now set aside large budgets just for premieres, sometimes spending tens of millions of naira to ensure the launch makes a strong impression.
