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NPFL: Niger Tornadoes Thrash Ikorodu City 4-2

Mosunmola Ore
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NPFL: Niger Tornadoes Thrash Ikorodu City 4-2
Niger Tornadoes FC defeated Ikorodu City FC 4–2 in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 5 game at the Late Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna on Sunday.
The Minna-based team started strong, with Ismaila Sarki scoring in the 2nd minute after a scramble in the box. Abba Khalid and Abdulazeez Dalhatu added quick goals in the 14th and 16th minutes, giving Tornadoes a 3–0 lead at halftime.
Ikorodu City tried to fight back in the second half, scoring once before Tornadoes’ Abdulrasheed Dabai sealed the win with a solo strike to make it 4–1. The visitors later scored from the penalty spot, but Tornadoes held on for the win.
Coach Majin Mohammed praised the home fans, describing them as the “12th man” behind the victory. He said their support gave the team extra energy to secure the three points. However, he called for stronger leadership from his players on the pitch and urged the Niger State Government to keep the stadium in good condition throughout the season.
On his part, Ikorodu City’s Coach Bright Ozebagbe said conceding early goals cost his side the game. He, however, praised his players’ effort in the second half and promised better performances in future matches.
The win lifted Tornadoes to second place on the NPFL table, and Coach Majin assured fans of more exciting games as the season continues.

Kaduna Governor Pledges Sustainable Peace, Inclusive Governance

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
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Kaduna Governor Pledges Sustainable Peace, Inclusive Governance

The Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani has reiterated his administration’s resolve to entrench sustainable peace and inclusivity.

He stressed that peace remains the foundation of justice, development, and human dignity.

Speaking at the International Day of Peace celebration in Kaduna, themed “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” Governor Sani represented by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu highlighted the Kaduna Peace Model, a homegrown framework rooted in dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity.

He noted that despite years of conflict and diversity-driven tensions, Kaduna chose dialogue over confrontation and reconciliation over recrimination.

“Our model is anchored on inclusiveness, justice, and shared responsibility. It brings together traditional and religious leaders,
women and youth groups, civil society, security agencies, and development partners. Together, we are weaving a new narrative of tolerance and peaceful coexistence,” Governor Sani said.

He emphasised that peace could not be left to governments alone, urging citizens to embrace dialogue, shun violence, and instill values of unity in the younger generation.

 

“Let us use our places of worship to spread love and strengthen institutions to deliver justice equitably,” he stated.

The Governor added that Kaduna would continue advancing its peace model as a beacon of hope for Nigeria and Africa, while commending religious bodies, civil society, and development partners for their support.

In his goodwill message, Country Director of Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, Rev. Joseph Hayab, praised Governor Sani’s inclusive leadership, describing it as courageous and transformative.

He said the Governor, since assuming office in March 2023, has reduced tensions, addressed insecurity, and restored citizens’ confidence in governance through fairness and justice.

“By giving every group and faith a voice at the table of governance, you healed wounds and bridged divides that once threatened our collective peace,” Hayab said.

He announced that the Global Peace Foundation had conferred on the governor the Peace Champion of Unity in Diversity Award in recognition of his remarkable strides in building peace across Kaduna State.

The cleric stressed that the award was more than a title, calling it “a clarion call to other Nigerian leaders that peace is achievable when fairness, justice, and inclusivity drive governance.”

He assured the Kaduna people that the Foundation would continue to partner with the state government, religious and traditional institutions, and communities to sustain what he described as a peace model that has become a symbol of hope for Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hauwa Abu

Congo to Lift Ban on Cobalt Exports

Shakirat Sadiq
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Congo to Lift Ban on Cobalt Exports

The Democratic Republic of Congo will lift its ban on cobalt exports from October 16 and manage global supply by imposing annual export quotas, the country’s strategic minerals regulator said on Sunday.

Miners will be allowed to ship up to 18,125 tons of cobalt for the rest of 2025, with annual caps of 96,600 tonnes in 2026 and 2027, the Authority for the Regulation and Control of Strategic Mineral Substances’ Markets said.

Congo, which produced about 70% of global cobalt output last year, suspended exports in February after prices fell to a nine-year low. The move was extended in June, prompting force majeure declarations from major producers including Glencore (GLEN.L).

Congo’s largely unregulated artisanal mining sector accounts for a significant share of cobalt output, complicating traceability and compliance for global buyers.

The move to a quota system comes amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo, where the government says illegal mineral exploitation is fueling violence by M23 rebels.

The new system, backed by Glencore but opposed by CMOC, aims to reduce inventories and support prices. Quotas will be allocated based on historical exports of the critical electric battery material.
Glencore declined to comment. CMOC was not immediately available for comment.

Congo’s regulator said 10% of future volumes will be reserved for strategic national projects, and quotas could be revised based on market conditions or progress in local refining.

The regulator can buy back cobalt stocks exceeding the quarterly authorised quotas per company, said the statement signed by its chairman.

 

 

UN Forum: FCT Minister Rallies Global Support for Women

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
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UN Forum: FCT Minister Rallies Global Support for Women

The Minister of State for the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has declared that empowering women economically is one of the surest pathways to poverty alleviation, equity, and lasting peace.

The Minister made this assertion at an economic empowerment forum organised for women political leaders and economic experts on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Mahmoud expressed delight that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Renewed Hope Agenda has prioritised gender inclusion, youth development, and the creation of opportunities that enable women to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

The minister, therefore, used the occasion to reaffirm the commitment of the FCT Administration to building an enabling environment where women have equitable access to finance, skills, and markets that would allow them to fully contribute to national development.

She commended the organisers of the forum for providing a platform where ideas, policies, and strategies could converge to accelerate progress on women’s empowerment.

According to her, “This gathering underscores the truth that gender equality is not a privilege but a fundamental right, and financing inclusive growth is a responsibility we must all shoulder.

“This platform is not only timely but also pivotal in our collective pursuit of inclusive growth, sustainable peace, and the promotion of human rights.”

Mahmoud emphasised that by placing women at the centre of economic development, the globe would be investing in the transformation of families, communities, and nations.

The forum with the theme “scaling women’s economic empowerment: financing inclusive growth for peace, development, and human rights,” brought together policy makers, political leaders, giants of industries, innovators, diplomats, and other stakeholders to chart a course for women empowerment.

 

Southern Congo Combats New Ebola Outbreak

Shakirat Sadiq
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Southern Congo Combats New Ebola Outbreak

The World Health Organization has said that 31 of 38 confirmed Ebola cases have resulted in deaths in southern Congo, where authorities are battling a new outbreak of the deadly virus.

The latest figures show the casualty rate has nearly doubled since last week — from 16 — and that the disease is spreading rapidly as more than 900 contacts have been identified so far, according to the WHO.

Vaccinations began in the affected region on Sunday.

“More than 500 health care workers and contacts have received their vaccination, offering them crucial protection,” said Dr. Patrick Otim from WHO Africa’s program.

He said 760 doses have already been delivered to Bulape, the locality at the centre of the outbreak, while another 45,000 doses are expected to arrive soon in Kinshasa to reinforce the campaign.

A fresh Ebola outbreak was announced by Congolese authorities on Sept. 5 in the locality of Bulape in Kasai, a south-central region in Congo close to Angola.

Last week, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said the disease had spread from two districts to four.

An additional batch of vaccines approved by the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision will start arriving from Friday through Sunday, according to WHO officials.

Doses have been flown into Bulape in small batches because of limited storage capacity and difficult access to the area, officials said.

 

 

Africanews/Shakirat Sadiq

 

Adamawa Records Reduction in Out-of-School Children

Lateefat Ibrahim
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Adamawa Records Reduction in Out-of-School Children

By Golfa Francis, Yola

Adamawa State has recorded remarkable progress in reducing the number of out-of-school children through the Global Partnership for Education (GPE)-funded programme, implemented by UNICEF, in collaboration with the state government.

The initiative, which recently wound up, targeted 7,000 children but ultimately reached more than 12,000 learners across Lamurde and Gombi Local Government Areas of the State.

The project addressed a critical gap in access to education, particularly for children who were previously excluded from formal learning.

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It established 60 community learning centres in Lamurde and another 60 in Gombi, in addition to 123 shade structures constructed to support schooling in underserved communities.

Beyond literacy and numeracy, children also gained skills in hygiene, social behaviour, and positive adaptation.

Abdulraman Ado, UNICEF Education Specialist in Bauchi, described the intervention as transformative, while Adamawa’s Commissioner of Education, Umar Garba Pella, said the programme had laid a strong foundation for the state’s education sector plan.

He noted that Adamawa had already designed a template to sustain the gains at the state level.

Community-based facilitators, drawn from the host communities, were trained to teach at least three times a week, a move stakeholders say will help ensure continuity.

Learners from non-formal centres are also being integrated into the formal school system with provisions of uniforms, materials, and other scholastic support.

Despite the success, the programme faced challenges.

Poverty continues to push some parents to send children hawking or to farm, instead of attending classes, while security issues in Madagali, communal clashes in Lamurde, and flooding that destroyed some learning structures remain serious setbacks.

Stakeholders, including Islamic school operators, further called for the introduction of a school feeding programme to ease the burden on children who often combine education with the struggle to find food.

Local leaders, traditional rulers, and parents have been urged to sustain community ownership of the initiative.

“Even if UNICEF withdraws, learning will not stop because it is now part of the community,” Abdulraman Ado said.

He added that what remains is to ensure the journey continues.

 

Lateefah Ibrahim

Global Leaders Pledge Multilateral Approach to Peace in Africa

Chidimma Anikwenze
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Global Leaders Pledge Multilateral Approach to Peace in Africa

Global leaders in the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to peace and sustainable development in Africa.

The leaders of the three organisations issued a joint communiqué on Sunday after their sixth trilateral meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, which was held on the margins of the General Assembly’s high-level week.

Pledging deeper cooperation towards ending conflicts, supporting stability, and tackling global challenges ranging from debt to climate change, they reiterated their support for multilateralism as “the most effective way to address today’s challenges”.

They stressed adherence to the UN Charter and voiced concern over rising disregard for international humanitarian law and human rights worldwide.

Much of the communiqué focused on African crises, notably the devastating war in Sudan, now in its third year.

The three organisations called for intensified collective support to secure “an immediate cessation of hostilities and a sustainable solution” through inclusive political dialogue.

They also pledged stronger coordination in the Sahel, where armed violence continues to destabilise communities and reaffirmed support for reconciliation and development efforts.

On Libya, they endorsed the UN roadmap to revive the stalled political process, while urging continued efforts to address migration challenges in line with humanitarian standards.

The communiqué also expressed support for ongoing peace initiatives in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), backing both the AU Peace and Security Council and the UN Security Council’s recent resolution.

In Somalia, the three organisations reiterated support for the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission, stressing the need for sustainable financing to ensure effective operations.

Looking ahead, the AU, UN and EU said they would deepen trilateral cooperation to advance African-led solutions to peace and security challenges.

They highlighted Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as guiding frameworks and noted preparations for the AU-EU Summit in Angola in November.

The leaders emphasised financing as a key priority and called for full implementation of the Sevilla Commitment to unlock investment, address debt burdens and reform multilateral development banks.

They also warned that climate-induced disruptions are hitting vulnerable communities hardest, urging ambitious commitments at COP30 in Brazil this November.

 

NAN

Anambra Government Urges Entertainers, Media to Promote State’s Image

Foluke Ibitomi
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Anambra Government Urges Entertainers, Media to Promote State’s Image

The Anambra State Government has called on actors, content creators, bloggers and the media to use their platforms to project the positive image of the state.

The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, made the appeal during a roundtable meeting with stakeholders in the creative industry in Awka, the state capital.

He urged entertainers to also support government efforts in developing and promoting the tourism sector, which he described as a vital tool for boosting the state’s economy and cultural heritage.

The commissioner described the theme of the round table entitled, “Anambra State Creative Industry: Solution and Prospects” as apt.

Onyenji said it had become necessary to change the negative portrayal of the state in the social media.

He charged them to form a formidable force that would provide needed positive narratives in the industry to boost Anambra’s  image and its creative economy.

“There is need to change  the wrong narratives being pushed into the media space about the state in the name of public entertainment.

“We want to ensure that all the energy in the industry is harnessed to showcase the achievements of Governor Soludo in the state to the world.” the Commissioner said.

Onyenji said that the Governor had transformed the economy of the state and had touched the lives of residents positively .

“Gov Chukwuma Soludo is passionate about developing the entertainment sector to boost tourism in the state. So, we need your maximum support to achieve that,” he said.

Onyenji disclosed that the first ever Anambra Creative Week would soon hold in the state where all the artists, content creators, broadcasters, DJs, musicians, actors and actresses, among others, would gather and stage a show for themselves and others.

He  recalled that the opening of “Solution Fun City”, a recreational facility during which the Governor invited many artists, was one of the ways the he had shown that he valued their talents and was ready to give them the opportunity to shine.

Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to Soludo on Entertainment, Mr Bob-Manuel Udokwu, called for a state brand instead of individual brands for quicker development of the industry.

Udokwu, a veteran actor, regretted that conspiracy theory had remained the bane of development of the industry in Anambra, calling for a synergy and unity of purpose among the creatives.

Mr Chris Molokwu , Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra Broadcasting Station (ABS), noted that before now, artists were seen as unserious people, but that there had been turn of events where they were now needed.

Molokwu advised them to portray the state positively regretting that Anambra had been portrayed negatively in the limelight recently.

He said that such negative vibes gave the state a negative status around the world, which he said, dwindled the chances of people coming into the state for business and relaxation.

Molokwu urged them to use their power to project the state and all the good works of  the Governor, expressing happiness that Anambra had a lot of quality people in the industry.

The President of ANAWOOD, Anambra Film Village, Mrs Chinyere Okonmah applauded the  state government for the move and supported the call for synergy among them.

Mr Mirioma Nadi, a content creator, also commended the state government for its recognition of those in the creative industry and their importance in the growth and development of the state.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Nadi assured the government that the body would join hands with it to promote the striking transformation going on in Anambra to the world.

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi

Air Tanzania’s Lagos Route to Ease Travel — High Commissioner

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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Air Tanzania’s Lagos Route to Ease Travel — High Commissioner

The Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Kakale, has said that Air Tanzania’s decision to commence a direct flight from Dar es Salaam to Lagos was aimed at bridging geographical distance, reducing unnecessary ticketing taxes, and ultimately making air travel more convenient for passengers.

Speaking at a dinner to celebrate the inaugural flight, Mr Kakale noted that beyond opening doors for investment opportunities, the new route would allow Nigerian business owners to thrive while offering tourists greater comfort in accessing Tanzania’s attractions.

Read Also: Tanzania Launches Direct Flight Service to Nigeria

Highlighting trade relations between the two nations, he said:

“No nation in Africa can underestimate Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy, especially Lagos, which is the commercial hub of the ECOWAS region. Nigeria and Tanzania will enjoy a buoyant economic relationship that will further strengthen partnerships in other commercial activities as well as investment opportunities.”

Mr Kakale pointed out that both countries share similarities in infrastructure development, railways, tourism, education, and health.

“Let me tell you that we cannot pretend not to be touched by all these developments. And concerning Air Tanzania, which is about the movement of people, we are going to encourage people-to-people interactions. We will let them know the benefits of flying the airline.”

According to him, more than 5,000 Nigerians travelled directly to tourist destinations such as Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, and various game reserves in 2024, more than any other African country. He projected that the number would more than double following the launch of the direct flight.

The High Commissioner also commended the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, for his support and partnership with the Tanzanian Broadcasting Corporation.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Tanzanian Ministry of Transportation, Professor Godius Kahyarara, said his country looked forward to deeper collaboration and integration with Nigeria.

“Nigeria has enormous resources and the largest population in Africa, making it one of the biggest markets with immense opportunities. When combined with the technological development of South Africa, the continent stands to benefit greatly. A lot of business opportunities abound, especially in Nigeria,” he said.

Professor Kahyarara disclosed that Tanzania has invested heavily in port operations, oil and gas, tourism, and commerce and has acquired 60 aircraft to strengthen its aviation network.

“The Dar es Salaam to Lagos route is not just a route but a destiny calling. Air Tanzania will fly to Nigeria on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. We want you to take advantage of this direct movement and experience the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s crowned jewel. Come and enjoy the charm of our tourist destinations,” he said.

He added that Tanzanians are well-acquainted with Nigerian culture, particularly Nollywood, which has become a household name in the country.

Also Read: Tanzania Launches Direct Flight Service to Nigeria

In his remarks, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described the development as more than just a new route but “a bridge” between both countries.

“This service, connecting Nigeria’s commercial hub Lagos with Dar es Salaam, is a powerful testament to the growing ties between Nigeria and Tanzania. It is a concrete result of our shared commitment to fostering deeper integration within the African continent. Its importance cannot be overstated.”

Mr Keyamo said the new air link would not only ease travel but also facilitate trade, investment, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding.

The inaugural event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps from Nigeria and Tanzania, captains of industry, and senior government officials. 

President Tinubu Reappoints Azi, Names New Investments Tribunal Members

Manomsi Mallum
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President Tinubu Reappoints Azi, Names New Investments Tribunal Members

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reappointment of Amos Isaac Azi as Chairman of the Investments and Securities Tribunal (IST), alongside the appointment of new members to the body.

The decision followed recommendations from the Minister of State for Finance, in line with sections 315 and 319 (2) of the Investments and Securities Act 2025.

The appointments represent a significant step towards strengthening the adjudicatory framework of Nigeria’s capital market.

The newly appointed members, with diverse expertise in capital markets, law, finance, and public service, are expected to enhance the tribunal’s efficiency in justice delivery and further boost investor confidence.

Amos Isaac Azi, Esq. has been reappointed as Chairman of the Tribunal. The newly appointed members include Gboyega Oyekanmi, Felix Onwuneme, Shehu Lawal Mandiya, Robert Uchenna Okwuego, Osaze Ize-Iyamu, Ummahani Ahmad Amin, Ali Sadiq Mohammed, Olatunde M. Amolegbe, and Udegbulam Athanatius Chukwuemeka.

Read Also: NGX Index Rises, Market Cap Hits ₦89trn

Other existing members of the Tribunal are Orya Ungwaga Roberts and Kamarudee Oladosu.

The IST, a specialised adjudicatory body, was established to ensure the speedy resolution of disputes and enforcement of rights arising from investment and securities transactions.

It plays a critical role in safeguarding fairness, transparency, and integrity within Nigeria’s financial markets, thereby promoting investor confidence.

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