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NUJ FCT Chair Joins NIPR, Pledges Ethical Leadership

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been formally inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), marking a significant milestone in her career in media and communication.

Speaking at the induction ceremony, Ike described the moment as both a personal achievement and a professional expansion of her long-standing commitment to strategic communication.

This moment marks not just a personal milestone, but a bridge between my roots in journalism and my forward march into the dynamic world of public relations,” she said.

With over two decades of experience in journalism and media advocacy, Ike has played a prominent role in advancing press freedom and championing the welfare of journalists. As NUJ FCT Council Chairman, she has led initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards and protecting the rights of media practitioners.

Reflecting on her journey, she emphasised the critical role of communication in nation-building.

These experiences have taught me that communication is the lifeblood of society, building trust, shaping narratives, and driving change,” she stated.

Ike noted that her induction into the NIPR reinforces her commitment to ethical and impactful communication across both journalism and public relations. She pledged to bring journalistic discipline and integrity into public relations practice, particularly at a time when misinformation and digital disruption pose significant challenges.

As I join the NIPR, I bring this journalistic rigour to public relations: a commitment to ethical storytelling, strategic engagement, and amplifying voices, especially those of women in leadership and media,” she added.

She stressed that public relations goes beyond image management to include reputation building, perception shaping, crisis management, and fostering meaningful relationships.

In an era of misinformation, PR professionals must lead with integrity, fostering dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.

Reaffirming her commitment to professional excellence, she pledged to uphold the institute’s charter, mentor emerging practitioners, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s communication landscape.

Together, let us redefine public relations as a force for good — transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she said.

Ike also underscored the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding national image and credibility.

As custodians of national integrity, we must do all we can to protect and project Nigeria’s image positively,” she noted.

Other notable inductees at the event included former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo; Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Leke Bayewu; and Ikenna Egwuatu, among others.

The induction ceremony attracted communication professionals, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, highlighting the growing synergy between journalism and public relations in advancing national development.

Nigerian President Felicitates Muslims on Eid -ul-Fitr

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Muslim faithful in Nigeria and across the World on the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a goodwill message issued on Thursday by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu called on Muslims to renew their commitment to the nation and humanity.

He urged them to uphold the enduring values of piety, empathy, unity, and compassion cultivated during the fasting period.

The President emphasised the need for Nigerians to ‘sustain virtues such as selflessness, perseverance, kindness, and compassion beyond the holy month.’

We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” he said.

President Tinubu further encouraged Muslims to extend acts of charity and goodwill to the less privileged, regardless of religious affiliation, as a demonstration of unity and shared humanity.

He also urged religious leaders to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to offer prayers for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.

President Tinubu Departs UK After Two-Day State Visit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed London after a two-day State Visit to the United Kingdom, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations with the UK.

During the visit, President Tinubu received full state honours at Windsor Castle and attended a state banquet hosted by King Charles III, highlighting the high-level engagements aimed at fostering cooperation in trade, investment, and other areas of mutual interest.

Both leaders reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as ‘a partnership of equals anchored on mutual benefit, shared prosperity, and strategic cooperation.’

In his remarks, the Nigerian Leader, President Tinubu emphasised that “the strength of Nigeria–UK relations lies not only in shared history and institutions, but in the people who continue to sustain and enrich both nations.”

He highlighted the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, underscoring their role in strengthening ties between both countries.

President Tinubu also held high-level talks with United Kingdom Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, at 10 Downing Street, where discussions focused on expanding trade ties, deepening economic cooperation, and addressing global challenges including climate change and terrorism.

The President described the visit, which was the first by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years, as significant and forward-looking.

A major outcome of the visit was the securing of a £746 million financing agreement with UK Export Finance to support the modernisation of key port infrastructure in Lagos, including the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port

The project is expected to enhance Nigeria’s trade capacity and boost economic growth.

President Tinubu also used the visit to project Nigeria as a nation of resilience and opportunity, affirming that “ongoing economic reforms are aimed at stabilising the economy, improving citizens’ welfare, and positioning the country for sustainable growth.”

The visit further featured engagements designed to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s participation in activities at Lambeth Palace.

The State Visit is widely seen as reinforcing Nigeria’s growing global relevance and its commitment to building strategic partnerships that support development, security, and shared prosperity.

FRSC Intensifies Traffic Management with Operation Safe Kugbo

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a targeted enforcement initiative, “Operation Safe Kugbo,” aimed at improving traffic management and reducing road traffic crashes involving articulated vehicles along the busy Kugbo outbound corridor.

The Corps said the operation stems from the proactive intervention of the Corps Marshal, who recently set up a high-level tactical team to assess and tackle the recurring accidents along the AYA–Nyanya–Kugbo axis.

Describing the drive as a strategic response, the FRSC emphasised that the operation reflects the Corps’ commitment to translating critical assessments into decisive, on-ground actions to safeguard motorists and road users.

The initiative, conceived by the Corps Marshal himself and driven at the Sector level by the Sector Commander, CC FN Theman, is in line with the provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations NRTR, particularly Section 223, as well as the FCT Traffic Regulations.

It also aligns with the Corps’ 2026 Corporate Strategic Goal One, which prioritises safer road environments through proactive and preventive measures.

The operation focuses on restricting the movement of articulated vehicles and heavy-duty trucks during peak traffic hours to mitigate congestion and associated risks.

FRSC reiterated its commitment to deploying data driven and people centered strategies to safeguard lives and property on Nigerian roads.

The Corps urged all road users, particularly operators of heavy duty vehicles, to continue to comply with traffic regulations, as sustained enforcement under Operation Safe Kugbo would remain a critical component of efforts to ensure safer and more efficient movement within the FCT.

Anambra Govenror Seeks Police Collaboration to Strengthen Security

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The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has solicited closer collaboration from the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen security across the state.

He made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to his office, part of activities marking the inauguration of his government’s second term.

Receiving the IGP and his team, Governor Soludo congratulated him and the Deputy Inspector-General on their appointments and reaffirmed his commitment to working with the police for the safety of the Anambra Residents.

He noted that their leadership comes at a critical time when enhanced security collaboration is essential for sustaining peace and economic development in the State.

Sustained Synergy

He further emphasised the importance of continuous synergy between the Nigeria Police Force and the State Government, assuring the Command of his administration’s support in strengthening security architecture and improving public safety across Anambra State.

He particularly, asked for a harmonious traditional leadership tussle in the state, especially in Awka, the state capital.

The state capital has been enmeshed in a decade-long leadership crisis which prompted state government intervention after internal peace mechanisms failed,” he stated.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South East Zone, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie and also an indigene of Awka the State Capital, expressed appreciation for the warm reception.

He reaffirmed commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to deepening strategic partnerships with the State Government and other security stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives and property.

The DIG was accompanied by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu for the visit which underscored commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening collaboration with the State Government in ensuring sustained peace, security, and public safety across Anambra State and the South East region at large.

Actress Toyin Abraham Receives Prestigious Box Office Champion Award

The National Film and Video Censors Board on Thursday honoured actress and filmmaker, Toyin Abraham, with a Box Office Champion Award.

The recognition followed the success of her film, “Over Sabi Auntie,” which surpassed the N1bn mark at the Nigerian box office.
The feat makes Abraham the first debut director to gross over N1bn in cinemas.

The Executive Director of NFVCB, Shuaib Husseini, described the milestone as ‘historic for Nollywood.’

“It is my honour to welcome you as we celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements within Nigeria’s film industry,” he said.

Husseini said that the board remained committed to supporting a thriving film culture that contributes to the national economy.

This accomplishment is not only a personal triumph but a testament to the industry’s growing strength.
You have entertained millions and encouraged others to dream bigger,” he added.

In a goodwill message, the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Sanusi Yakubu, represented by Don Pedro, praised Abraham’s impact on the industry.

We gather not merely to present an award but to mark a defining moment,” Yakubu said.

He described Abraham as a creative force shaping the industry’s economic direction

Her film’s performance is a signal that Nigerian stories are commanding global attention,” Yakubu added.

Speaking at the event, Abraham thanked her husband for his support.
She also extended her gratitude to NFVCB for the recognition.

Abraham said she decided to direct the film herself after being frustrated with taking instructions from others.

“I told my manager that I wanted to direct this movie by myself, alone. I went to my industry godmother, Mrs Bolanle Austin-Peters, and I told her that I wanted to shoot a movie,” she said.

The actress also thanked her team and expressed excitement at seeing one of her dreams come to life.

The event was attended by stakeholders in the film industry, including Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife.

 

 

Punch/Victoria Ibanga

Nigeria, UK sign MoU on migration, Border Security, Visas

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Nigeria and the United Kingdom has signed three Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Migration Partnership, a Statement of Intent on Cooperation on Organised Immigration Crime and Border Security and a Statement of Intent on the Expansion of Business Visas for UK companies working with Nigeria.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, signed two of the MoU in Abuja while representing the Nigerian Government in the UK.

Tunji-Ojo said that the agreement reflects Nigeria’s commitment to a migration framework that is transparent and respectful of national interests and international obligations.

This partnership is a testament to our shared determination to build a migration system that is safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial.

“We are not here to be diplomatic but to integrate and tell you that in the next one year all we want to be able to do is to reveal how far we have gone in being successful.

“And hopefully this will be a template for other bilateral understandings,” he said.

The minister acknowledged that Nigeria has an existing applaudable working relationship with UK home office in Nigeria.

This relationship with the UK means a lot to us and you can see the level of commitment that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has put in,” Tunji-Ojo said.

Tunji-Ojo reiterated that Nigeria remained steadfast in its duty to protect citizens while ensuring that those who abuse legal pathways or engage in criminality are held accountable.

While signing on the expansion of business visas for UK companies, Tunji-Ojo said that; following the bold reforms of President Tinubu, the use of visa serves as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Nigeria.

Regarding visa agreement, personally as the Minister of Interior, I can tell you that I am very happy with this, because for us, this is what we have been looking forward to,” he said.

He emphasised that in building a trillion dollar worth economy, Nigeria must cut trade barriers such as barriers of irregular migration.

“I want to assure you on behalf of Mr President and the great people of Nigeria, that we are open for endless possibilities of growth and socio-economic development.

“So be rest assured that we will be true to this, we will swing into action and ensure all barriers are removed.

According to the UK Home Secretary, Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood, Nigeria will always be categorised as number one in successful bilateral relations.

We are obviously always having bilateral discussions with other countries, however, you will always be number one because you are the first to have gotten such an extensive agreement and we really do appreciate it.

I think we both understand one another and I think we have a shared vision here for the work that our countries can do together and I really do appreciate it,” the home secretary said.

During the signing of the third MoU, UK Trade Envoy, Florence Eshalomi,stated that the agreement on expansion of business visas for UK companies, has clear benefits for both countries.

Eshalomi attributed the heightened partnership as a bold step that is vital for economic growth for Africa’s largest and thriving economy; Nigeria.

Oyo State Governor Felicitates Muslims at Eid-ul-Fitri

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The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has felicitated Muslims in the state and across Nigeria at Eid-ul-Fitr, as the 2026 Ramadan season comes to a close.

Governor Makinde lauded the Muslim faithful for their sacrifice, perseverance and commitment during the 30-day fasting period.

The governor charged them to use the opportunity presented by the Eid-ul-Fitri to seek God’s face and guidance, and to pray for the leadership of Oyo State and Nigeria.

He equally urged the Muslim Ummah to be observant and cautious during the festivities, ensuring that they pay close attention to their environments and report any suspicious movement or activity to appropriate security agencies.

House of Reps Leaders Felicitate Muslims on Eid

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, have felicitated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and across the globe on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In separate goodwill messages, the lawmakers commended Muslims for their devotion, sacrifice and commitment to the spiritual exercise, urging them to sustain the values of discipline, compassion and unity imbibed during the holy month.

They also called on Nigerians to continue to pray for peace, stability and progress of the nation, while promoting tolerance and harmonious coexistence among citizens.

Speaker Abbas stated that their prayers and supplication are about to bring the country to a new dawn.

In his Sallah message as the Holy Month of Ramadan ends on Thursday, he said “Allah (SWT) has been merciful and gracious to Nigeria, especially in the wake of the country’s socio-economic, security, and political challenges.”

Speaker Abbas noted that divine intervention, through prayers, remains a major reason for the country’s unity, peace, and stability.

The Speaker urged Islamic adherents to continue to imbibe piety, selflessness, charity, and other virtues of Ramadan, stressing that Nigerians cannot afford to reduce their prayers for a better society and nation.

He said; “Alhamdulillah, we have witnessed the Holy Month of Ramadan peacefully, and today, we are bidding a farewell to one of the most critical aspects of the life of every Muslim.

“As always, the month of Ramadan comes with numerous lessons. In the past 30 days, Muslims all over the country, and indeed across the globe, embarked on this spiritual journey through devotion. May Allah (SWT) accept all our acts of ibadah and reward us abundantly.

“Incidentally, our Christian brothers and sisters are also observing the Lent period concurrently with their Muslim counterparts. This is a divine arrangement for us to redouble our efforts in prayers and dedication to our Creator. It is also a reminder that we are one people united by a common good,” the Speaker said.

While wishing Muslims happy celebrations, Speaker Abbas prayed to Allah to accept their prayers and worship in the Holy Month.

Similarly, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu wished all Muslims peace, prosperity and unity.

He enjoined them to continue reflecting on the values of sacrifice, compassion, resilience and optimism, assuring that the government is working tirelessly to address the challenges of the nation.

Kalu who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State also said that the parliament remains committed to legislative actions that will enhance the living standard of the people.

He urged the Islamic faithful to keep imbibing the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (SWT) and continue praying for unity and peace in the country.

He said: “Warm Sallah greetings to all Muslims. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, I extend my heartfelt wishes for peace, prosperity, and unity.

“Let us reflect on the values of sacrifice, compassion, and resilience that define our great nation. As we face economic challenges, let us remain steadful and optimistic. The dawn of a brighter tomorrow is near.

“The government is working tirelessly to address the nation’s challenges, while the parliament remains committed to legislative actions that drive economic growth, create opportunities, and improve the well-being of all Nigerians. The parliament stands firmly on the side of initiatives and policies that will move our economy forward.

“To every Muslim and indeed, all Nigerians, I say may your sacrifices be accepted, your prayers be answered, and your hopes be fulfilled. May Allah bless Nigeria and guide us all towards a brighter future”.

Meanwhile, the Spokesman, House of Representatives, Mr. Akin Rotimi said the House of Representatives has extended warm congratulations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, following the completion of Ramadan, a sacred month of disciplined fasting from dawn to dusk, devoted to prayer, reflection, and charity.

He said; “The House calls on all Nigerians to embody these virtues in fostering unity, strengthening social cohesion, and advancing national progress. It reaffirms its commitment to upholding these principles in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

The House of Representatives wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and fulfilling Eid celebration, with renewed joy in their homes, strength in their families, and unity across the nation.

Eid-el-Fitr signifies the conclusion of this spiritual observance and a renewal of faith. It underscores the enduring values of self-restraint, compassion, and generosity toward others, especially the vulnerable. Its true significance lies in translating personal devotion into collective responsibility“. Mr. Rotimi said.

 

 

Mozambique Orders Evacuation Over Fresh Flood Threat

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Mozambique has ordered the immediate evacuation of residents in low-lying communities across Inhambane, Gaza and Sofala provinces following warnings of a possible second wave of flooding.

President of the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), Luísa Meque urged affected communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas to avoid loss of lives and property.

She disclosed that “authorities have identified designated sites to accommodate displaced persons should the need arise to activate emergency shelter centres.”

Technical teams are on the ground in the affected provinces to monitor conditions and reinforce preventive measures.

The call comes as Mozambique continues to grapple with one of its deadliest rainy seasons in recent years.

Since October, floods and storms have killed about 280 people and affected nearly 900,000, according to INGD figures.

More than 15,000 houses have been destroyed while hundreds of schools, health units and places of worship have been damaged.

Floods claimed at least 43 lives in January while Cyclone Gezani, which struck Inhambane in mid-February, caused four more deaths and displaced thousands.

The disaster has also devastated agriculture, with over 267,000 hectares of farmland lost and more than half a million livestock killed.

Mozambique’s rainy season typically lasts until April, raising fears that further storms could worsen the humanitarian crisis.

AP