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Cross River Police Assure Security for Easter Celebrations

Nigeria

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April 5, 2026

Cross River Police Assure Security for Easter Celebrations

The Police Commissioner of Cross River State, Rashid Afegbua, has assured residents and visitors of adequate security for their lives and property throughout the Easter celebration.

Afegbua gave the assurance in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpa, in Cross River State, southern Nigeria.

The Commissioner of Police said comprehensive operational strategies have been put in place to ensure the safety of residents and visitors before, during, and after the Easter festivities.

These measures, the statement further indicated, are aimed at preventing any breach of peace and as well curb the activities of criminal elements.

Police personnel, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders, and other operational units are to “sustain intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations and raids on identified flashpoints within their respective Areas of Responsibility.”

They are to ensure that all operations comply with the “Standard Operating Procedures of the Nigeria Police Force” and the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Olatunji Disu.

The Police Commissioner urged residents and visitors to mark the Easter celebration in moderation, remaining vigilant and with a sense of responsibility.

The commissioner solicited public cooperation through the provision of timely and credible information to security agencies through dedicated telephone numbers earlier advertised for effective policing.

“The Command reiterates its commitment to maintaining law and order.

“The police will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individual or group attempting to disrupt public peace during the festive period,” the statement read.

2027: Governor Yusuf Assures of APC Victory in Kano

Politics

Bilkisu Halilu Pai

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April 5, 2026

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2027: Governor Yusuf Assures of APC Victory in Kano

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has expressed strong confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will record a sweeping victory in the 2027 general elections across the State and Nigeria.

Speaking during a grand reception held in his honour after returning from the party’s National Convention in Abuja, the governor said APC remains the most formidable political force capable of winning all elective positions in the country.

The governor was received by thousands of enthusiastic supporters at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, before proceeding in a long motorcade through major streets of Kano to the Government House, in a display of political strength and popularity.

Addressing party loyalists, Governor Yusuf urged members to remain committed and intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 polls.

He called on supporters to revalidate their voter registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (IINEC), to ensure full participation in the elections.

He also congratulated APC members in Kano for what he described as the successful conduct of the party’s zonal congresses and National Convention, noting that the achievements have further strengthened the party’s structure.

Good Governance

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance, the governor pledged continued delivery of democratic dividends, particularly in education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, and employment.

Governor Yusuf maintained that “the APC remains the only party I assure you capable of retaining control of Kano and leading Nigeria.”

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in improving the nation’s economy and advancing infrastructure development despite prevailing challenges.

He further appreciated security agencies, journalists, and residents of Kano State for their support and cooperation, assuring that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of the people.

The governor expressed optimism that with unity, dedication, and sustained support, the APC would emerge victorious in all categories from the presidency to the legislative and state elections come 2027.

Also Speaking, the State APC Chairman, Umar Doguwa congratulated the new officials of the party and assured of aggressive grassroots mobilisation for the victory of the party.

Cameroon Approves Vice President Role Amid Opposition Backlash

Africa

Simon Stephanie

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April 5, 2026

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Cameroon Approves Vice President Role Amid Opposition Backlash

Cameroon’s parliament on Saturday approved a constitutional amendment creating the position of a vice president, despite strong refusal from opposition figures.

A total of 200 lawmakers voted in favour of the bill, while 18 opposed it and four ballots were declared invalid. Debate on the amendment began only days earlier in the capital, Yaoundé.

Leading opposition figure Maurice Kamto condemned the move, describing it as an attempt to consolidate power, in an address on Friday.

Under the new provision, the vice president would automatically assume office in the event of the president’s death, resignation, or incapacity, without the need for fresh elections. The change comes amid scrutiny of President Paul Biya, who, at 93, secured another term in a disputed election last October.

Supporters of the amendment argue that the introduction of a vice president will strengthen institutional stability and guarantee continuity in leadership. Critics, however, warn it could undermine democratic processes by removing the requirement for voters to elect a successor.

AFRICA NEWS

2027: Kwara APC Elders Back Power Shift to Kwara North

Politics

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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April 5, 2026

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2027: Kwara APC Elders Back Power Shift to Kwara North

The Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders Caucus has called for the emergence of a consensus governorship candidate from Kwara North.

Addressing journalists on Saturday at the NUJ Press Centre in Ilorin, the caucus who spoke through James Bamisaiye Ayeni urged the state Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to immediately begin the process of selecting party candidates to avoid internal wranglings ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The elders warned that delays in setting guidelines for selection of candidates could fuel unhealthy rivalry and arm-twisting tactics among aspirants already jostling for the APC ticket.

They specifically advocated for a consensus arrangement, stressing that it would preserve party unity and ensure a smooth primary process in line with the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission( INEC).

While renewing their push for power rotation, the caucus insisted that equity and fairness requires that the next governor of Kwara State emerge from Kwara North Senatorial District.

According to the group, Kwara Central would have held the governorship for 20 years by 2027, while Kwara South would have governed for eight years, leaving Kwara North yet to produce a governor in the current democratic dispensation.

“It is in the interest of justice, equity, and fairness that the next governor should come from Kwara North,” the caucus declared.

The elders also cited the district’s consistent electoral support for the APC, noting that Kwara North delivered strong votes for the party in the 2015, 2019 and 2023 elections, even in contests where candidates emerged from other districts.

The group also urged party leadership to involve critical stakeholders in the selection process to ensure the emergence of a widely accepted candidate.

On security, the elders commended both the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Kwara State government for ongoing efforts to address insecurity while sympathizing with victims of bandit attacks.

They reaffirmed their support for the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and pledged continued loyalty to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

Easter: Anambra Governor Calls for Unity, Reflection

Nigeria

Rita Obiora

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April 5, 2026

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Easter: Anambra Governor Calls for Unity, Reflection

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has called on Christians to embrace reflection, unity and selfless service as they mark the Easter celebration.

In his goodwill remarks, Governor Soludo stated that Easter stands as the cornerstone of the Christian faith, a profound evidence of the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair and life over death.

“The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event; it is a timeless symbol of redemption, renewal, and the boundless possibilities that emerge when faith is steadfast and uncompromising.

“This season calls upon all Christians to reflect deeply and recommit to the virtues that Easter embodies: selfless love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

“Christ’s journey to the cross and His glorious resurrection remind us that true leadership and citizenship demand putting others before ourselves, bearing one another’s burdens, and choosing the path of peace even when confronted with adversity,” he said.

Governor Soludo wished the entire Christendom in Nigeria, a happy Easter celebration.

He prayed that, as many gather with their families and friends to rejoice in the risen Christ, their hearts may be filled with renewed hope, their homes abound in peace, and the light of the resurrection illuminate their paths towards a more just and harmonious society.

FA Cup: Haaland Tames Liverpool, Southampton Stuns Arsenal

Sports

Chidi Uduma Nwoke

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April 5, 2026

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FA Cup: Haaland Tames Liverpool, Southampton Stuns Arsenal

Norwegian Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Liverpool 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium in the FA Cup semi-finals, while Southampton stunned Arsenal 2-1 to knock the record-holders out.

Liverpool played well in the opening half-hour with Mohamed Salah wasting an early chance, but once Haaland had scored from the spot in the 37th minute after a foul on Nico O’Reilly their resistance crumbled.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk conceded the penalty with a rash challenge, and there was little the Dutch defender could do as City played scintillating attacking football for the remainder of the game.

Haaland scored his ⁠second two minutes into first-half stoppage time with a well-placed header from an excellent Antoine Semenyo cross.

Ghanaian International Semenyo got on the scoresheet himself five minutes after the break, latching on to a ball in behind from Rayan Cherki and chipping it beautifully past Giorgi Mamardashvili. 3-0!

The clinical Haaland then completed his hat-trick with a shot off the underside of the crossbar in the 57th minute.

“First ⁠half, we struggled a bit, but then after around 30 minutes we kept going and in the end it’s an amazing game. Another Wembley trip for us is amazing and important,” Haaland said.

“I think (my form this season) has been a bit too much up and down, which is not good enough. I cannot keep on thinking about what I could have done differently or what didn’t happen, or what happened. I have to think about the next game.”

Southampton 2-1 Arsenal

Second-tier side Southampton stunned Arsenal after a 2-1 victory in their FA Cup quarter-final clash, courtesy of Shea Charles’ strike five minutes from fulltime, which secured the famous win at St Mary’s Stadium.

Southampton took the lead on 35 minutes through Ross Stewart, but Arsenal were level midway through the second half when Viktor Gyokeres equalised. The Premier League leaders looked the most likely winners from there.

Read more: Manchester City To Face Liverpool In FA Cup

However with the clock running down, a quick break from Southampton created the chance for Charles, who could not miss from 12 yards as he poked the ball past goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The result heaped more misery on Arsenal, who were defeated in the League Cup final by Manchester City in their last match.

And now Arsenal bows out of a competition ‌they ⁠have won a record 14 times.

“There are no excuses for tonight,” Arsenal midfielder Christian Norgaard said. “It has nothing to do with injuries or availability.”

“We had a really good team on the pitch that should have been competing on a high level. We need to pick ourselves up. We have two big competitions left to compete in.”

Saturday’s FA Cup results

Manchester City 4-0 Liverpool

Chelsea 7-0 Port Vale

Southampton 2-1 Arsenal.

Nigerian Customs Back Athletes Ahead of Commonwealth Games

Sports

Chidi Uduma Nwoke

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April 5, 2026

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Nigerian Customs Back Athletes Ahead of Commonwealth Games

The Nigeria Custom Service (NCS), has expressed strong support for the preparations of Team Nigeria Ambassadors ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to hold in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Commonwealth Games holding between July 23rd – 2nd August 2026, will bring together athletes from across the Commonwealth to compete in a streamlined programme of sports, including athletics, swimming and boxing, with full integration of para-sports.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, expressed his commitment following his unveiling as one of Nigeria’s official ambassadors by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, speaks.

His inclusion in the ambassadorial team positioned the Customs Service as a critical partner in advancing Nigeria’s global sporting aspirations. It also underscores the growing intersection between public institutions and national sporting development.

The new development reflects a strategic move to motivate national support for the Games by bringing together a distinguished group of administrators, elite athletes, as well as key stakeholders.

The ambassadorial team comprises seasoned stakeholders and sports administrators, whom have previously served in leadership capacities at the National Sports Commission.

Read more: Nigeria To Train In Scotland For Commonwealth Games – NSC

Their collective experience is expected to provide strategic direction in shaping Nigeria’s participation at the Games. The blend of technical expertise and athlete representation highlights a deliberate effort to foster performance-driven preparation.

The Customs boss while speaking on the development, commended the initiative noting that sports remain a powerful tool for national unity, youth engagement and international visibility.

He emphasised the importance of coordinated stakeholder involvement in ensuring that Team Nigeria is adequately prepared to compete at the highest level.

“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but on the strength of the support system around them,” he said.

“This ambassadorial initiative is a step in the right direction towards building that collective responsibility.”

NBC Pledges Peaceful Interstate Border Integration

Nigeria

Rita Obiora

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April 5, 2026

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NBC Pledges Peaceful Interstate Border Integration

The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC) in Nigeria, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, has emphasised that the Commission remains committed to promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening national integration across interstate borders.

Adaji remarked that borders should serve as bridges of unity rather than lines of division and urged stakeholders and states involved in boundary disputes to always cooperate with the Commission’s initiatives in enthroning lasting solutions to boundary issues.

The Director General, in his Easter message to Christians as they celebrate this year’s Easter, urged that the season be seen as a period of sacrifice, hope, and renewal, inspiring peace, unity, and mutual respect among all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious affiliation.

He, however, advised people with boundary dispute-related issues to report to the appropriate authorities for better resolution rather than taking the law into their own hands.

Adaji commended President Bola Tinubu’s continued support for the Commission in its desire to serve Nigeria better on boundary dispute-related issues.

Nigerian Leader Commissions Ogun Airport, Affirms National Progress

Rita Obiora

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April 5, 2026

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Nigerian Leader Commissions Ogun Airport, Affirms National Progress

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport and other infrastructure projects in Ogun State, stating that Nigeria remains firmly on the path to greatness despite ongoing security challenges.

Speaking at the event, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to tackle banditry and terrorism, stressing that restoring security is central to national development and long-term prosperity.

He emphasised that the airport project was part of a broader development strategy designed to strengthen transportation, industrial growth, and regional connectivity, statijg that such investments reflect confidence in Nigeria’s future.

“Despite security challenges, our commitment to infrastructure and human capital development remains unwavering,” President Tinubu said, noting that current reforms are laying the foundation for sustained economic growth.

Commending Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, President Tinubu praised the state’s use of federal allocations and its focus on infrastructure, security, and agriculture.

He described the newly commissioned airport as a strategic economic hub capable of boosting logistics, trade, and regional connectivity.

The President emphasised that the airport project is part of a broader development strategy integrating transportation, energy, and industrial growth.

He noted that complementary investments in gas, power, and logistics corridors are designed to create jobs, improve supply chains, and position Nigeria as a competitive destination for global investment.

Security Enhancements

President Tinubu also pointed to ongoing security enhancements, including improved coordination among security agencies and investments in modern equipment, as key to protecting lives and property. He reiterated that tackling insecurity remains central to unlocking economic potential and restoring investor confidence.

Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, said the projects align with the federal government’s reform agenda and are designed to strengthen economic recovery, attract investment, and improve livelihoods.

He described the airport as the centrepiece of an emerging “aerotropolis”, featuring a nearly four-kilometre runway capable of handling large aircraft, advanced navigation systems, and cargo facilities aimed at boosting agro-exports.

Abiodun added that his administration’s broader infrastructure drive spans road networks, housing, healthcare, agriculture, and power development, positioning Ogun as a growing industrial hub within Nigeria’s south-west region.

Despite acknowledging the challenges posed by economic reforms and security threats, President Tinubu maintained a confident outlook, insisting that Nigeria has the resources, leadership, and resilience to overcome its difficulties and achieve lasting progress.

Translating the Resurrection Message of Easter into Nigeria’s Everyday Life

News Commentary

Kamila Bello

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April 5, 2026

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Translating the Resurrection Message of Easter into Nigeria’s Everyday Life

As Christians across the world celebrate Easter, we are reminded that this is a season of hope, victory, and renewal. Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, three days after His crucifixion, and symbolises the triumph of life over death, goodness over evil, and justice over injustice. It is the foundation of Christian faith, reminding us that even in the face of suffering and trials, victory is assured when we live in alignment with Christ.

For Nigeria, Easter carries lessons that go beyond the spiritual realm. It is of note that the country faces challenges, especially insecurity. Yet, the message of Christ’s resurrection is clear: no matter how difficult circumstances may appear, with faith, courage, and moral integrity, Nigerians can rise above adversity. Just as Christ bore suffering and yet overcame death, citizens and leaders alike are called to confront societal ills with resilience and the pursuit of justice.

Easter teaches humility, charity, and selflessness. These virtues are crucial for leadership and governance. As Nigeria marches on in its democratic journey, the principles of fairness, integrity, and accountability are essential. Electoral officers, security agencies, political leaders, and citizens must uphold these values to ensure a free, credible, and peaceful process. The triumph of good over wrongdoing depends on every Nigerian embracing the spirit of responsibility and service. Leadership that is rooted in humility and service to others will inspire trust and foster national progress.

The resurrection also reminds us of forgiveness and reconciliation. Nigeria’s strength lies in unity across diverse ethnic, religious, and social lines. Just as Christ forgave and embraced all, Nigerians are encouraged to act with compassion, set aside divisions, and foster understanding. This moral guidance is key to curbing violence, corruption, and societal indifference. A nation that embraces reconciliation will find healing, and a people who forgive will discover peace.

Finally, Easter is a call to action. It is a time for youth and adults alike to embrace perseverance, hard work, and service to others. It is a time to shine as Christ’s followers, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and progress. By embodying these values, Nigerians can help build a society marked by fairness, peace, and progress—one where hope triumphs over despair, and unity triumphs over division.

In this Easter season, let the victory of Christ be a source of inspiration and strength. May His message of life, love, and renewal guide Nigeria towards justice, unity, and moral renewal.

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