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Tinubu hails Nigeria’s growth in health, tech, defence since independence

President Bola Tinubu has hailed Nigeria’s progress in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, infrastructure, and defence since gaining independence 65 years ago, saying the country has recorded “a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life.”

The President stated this in his national broadcast on Wednesday to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

While acknowledging that the nation has faced major trials, Tinubu said the journey since 1960 has also been marked by resilience and remarkable achievements.

“Although it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognise and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960,” he said.

He noted that at independence, Nigeria had only two tertiary institutions, the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology, compared to the 274 universities, 183 polytechnics, and 236 colleges of education spread across the country today.

“We have experienced a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life since Independence, in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, aviation and defence, among others,” Tinubu added.

The President described the nation’s endurance through crises, including the civil war, military rule, and recurring political upheavals, as proof of its determination to survive and thrive.

“For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them,” he declared.

Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence Anniversary on 1 October 2025, with Tinubu delivering his third anniversary address since assuming office in May 2023.

Unlike previous years, the Federal Government cancelled the traditional military parade in Abuja, citing cost-saving and logistical reasons.

Tinubu’s remarks come at a time of renewed debate over his administration’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange unification, which have triggered inflation and hardship for many citizens.

While defending the reforms as necessary for long-term stability, the President used the anniversary broadcast to highlight the country’s broader achievements in nation-building since 1960, framing Nigeria as a nation that has endured challenges but continues to make progress.

FG announces end of PENGASSAN, Dangote rift

The Federal Government has brokered peace in the face-off between the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, after two days of conciliation meetings.

A statement issued in the early hours of Wednesday by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, disclosed that the matter was resolved following lengthy discussions.

According to the statement, the resolutions reached included: “The Honourable Minister of Labour informed the meeting that unionisation is a right of workers in accordance with the laws of Nigeria, and this right should be respected.

“After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately begin the process of redeploying the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.

“No worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN.

“PENGASSAN agreed to start the process of calling off the strike. Both parties agreed to this understanding in good faith.”

The government delegation at the meeting included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Dingyadi; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha; Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi; and the Director-General of the NIA, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.

Monday’s earlier meeting between PENGASSAN and the Dangote Refinery management over the industrial dispute had ended in a deadlock.

The session, which began around 4 pm, stretched into the early hours of Tuesday without resolution.

Following the stalemate, Dingyadi announced that the talks would reconvene by 2 pm on Tuesday.

The follow-up meeting, which eventually commenced around 3:50 p.m. at the Office of the National Security Adviser, lasted into the early hours of Wednesday, when the breakthrough was finally achieved.

The rift had stemmed from allegations by PENGASSAN that the Dangote Refinery engaged in mass transfers and sackings of union members, while also replacing some Nigerians with foreign nationals, claims the company consistently denied.

The Federal Government intervened over concerns about the impact of the dispute on the nation’s economy and energy security.

With God’s help, a new, stronger Nigeria possible – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to unite in building a stronger nation, assuring that his administration’s reforms are laying a solid foundation for a prosperous future.

PUNCH Online reports that Nigeria marked its 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, commemorating the country’s freedom from British colonial rule in 1960.

Traditionally, the occasion is celebrated with nationwide parades, cultural events, and presidential addresses.

However, this year’s commemoration was toned down following the Federal Government’s cancellation of the usual ceremonial parade in Abuja, citing cost-saving and security considerations.

Addressing the nation during Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, the President urged citizens to support his government’s efforts to reset the economy and promote productivity, noting that with God’s help, a new, stronger Nigeria will emerge.

“Fellow Nigerians, I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with some temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government.

“However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option,” he said.

He further stressed that progress would not be measured by figures alone but by improvements in daily life.

“The accurate measure of our success will not be limited to economic statistics alone, but rather in the food on our families’ tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities,” he declared.

Calling for renewed patriotism, Tinubu urged Nigerians to prioritise homegrown solutions.

“Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes.

“Finally, let all hands be on deck. Let us believe, once more, in the boundless potential of our great nation. With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here”, the president remarked.

PUNCH Online reports that Tinubu, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, has made economic reforms the cornerstone of his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Since taking office, his administration has implemented far-reaching but controversial policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates.

While the policies were aimed at stabilising the economy and freeing up resources for development, they triggered a sharp rise in the cost of living, with inflation hitting households hard.

However, the President has repeatedly defended the reforms as “painful but necessary,” assuring that the economy is gradually stabilising.

Diddy risks over 11 years in jail, prosecutors push for sentence

Sean “Diddy” Combs may face more than 11 years in prison, as U.S. federal prosecutors have urged a New York court to hand down a lengthy sentence following his conviction on prostitution-related charges.

As reported by Reuters and ABC News on Tuesday, in a court memo filed on Tuesday, prosecutors asked for “at least 135 months’ imprisonment” and a $500,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is scheduled to deliver the sentence on Friday in Manhattan.

Combs, 55, was found guilty on July 2 after a two-month trial on two counts of transporting male prostitutes across state lines to engage in what prosecutors described as “drug-fueled sexual performances” with his girlfriends, while he watched, recorded video, and masturbated.

He was acquitted on the more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges, which carried a potential life sentence.

In their memo, prosecutors said Combs was “violent, abusive and left victims in fear”, and argued that despite his acquittal on the more serious counts, he remains “unrepentant.”

“The defendant will not be punished for any crimes of which he was acquitted, of course, but punishment for his crimes of conviction must take into account the manner in which he committed them,” prosecutors wrote.

They said Combs held power over the women involved, particularly Cassie Ventura, who was allegedly left “bloodied and bruised” as seen in hotel security footage.

“The defendant also horrifically physically abused Ventura throughout their relationship, a point he conceded at trial,” prosecutors said, adding that the sentence should reflect Combs’ “decades of unchecked violence” and “decades of psychological, emotional and physical damage he has inflicted.”

Combs’ lawyers have asked for a much lighter punishment, around 14 months, an outcome that could see him released by the end of the year due to time already served at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre since his September 16, 2024, arrest.

Defence attorneys called the government’s recommendation “draconian,” arguing in their earlier filing that it amounted to “Verdict be damned—lock him up and throw away the key.”

Combs’ legal troubles stem from his September 2024 arrest, which led to multiple federal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. His trial opened on May 5, 2025, with jury selection completed a week later.

After weeks of proceedings, the jury on July 2 acquitted Combs of racketeering and sex trafficking but convicted him on two transportation counts involving Ventura and another woman.

WAEC hails Ekiti for upgrading ICT facilities in schools

The West African Examinations Council has hailed the Ekiti State Government for the upgrade of ICT facilities in its public schools ahead of transitioning the West African Senior School Certificate Examination to a Computer-Based Test format in the state.

WAEC Branch Controller in Ekiti State, Amos Dogari, said the effort “will help in ensuring that both students and teachers are prepared for the new system” and assist in improving examination integrity and provision of a conducive environment for digital literacy.

A statement made available on Tuesday stated that Dogari, who spoke in Ado Ekiti during an advocacy visit to the state Commissioner for Education, Olabimpe Aderiye, on the WAEC WASSCE CBT format, lauded the state government’s proactive efforts in preparing for the new system.

The WAEC branch controller, who said that the meeting was highly productive, noted that the deliberation was necessary to discuss the modalities for the planned migration to computer-based WASSCE towards achieving the desired goals.

He said, “Sensitisation programmes will be conducted across the three senatorial districts of the state to enlighten stakeholders – students, teachers and parents – on the new process to encourage informed actions, reduce possible conflict, and achieve an environment where individuals and groups feel personally invested in and accountable for achieving desired results.

“The WAEC WASSCE CBT format is a hybrid model where multiple-choice (objective) questions are answered on-screen, while essay and practical questions are displayed on-screen and answered in provided paper booklets.

“It is primarily aimed at modernising and streamlining the examination process, offering faster result processing, improved efficiency, enhanced security against malpractice, and better adaptability to technological advancements,” Dogari said.

The branch controller clarified that the state government was not indebted to WAEC in any form.

The commissioner, Aderiye, who assured that all public secondary schools in the state had been equipped with laptops, reiterated the state government’s commitment to technological advancement in its schools.

She said that the existing facilities could be utilised in transitioning to computer-based WASSCE in the state.

PUNCH Online recently reported WAEC’s reaffirmation of its plan to migrate the WASSCE to a fully computer-based format by 2026.

The Head of WAEC’s National Office, Dr Amos Dangut, who spoke during a sensitisation meeting with members of the National Assembly Committee on Education in Abuja, said the transition, which began with private candidates in 2024, has already made “significant progress” and would be scaled up nationwide ahead of next year’s deadline.

“We have conducted five exams already, one for private candidates and one for school candidates, and by 2026, deployment will be massive,” he said.

VIDEO: Lagos names Mandy Kiss anti-drug abuse ambassador

Social media personality Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, known online as “Mandy Kiss,” has been unveiled as a brand ambassador for Lagos State Kick Against Drug and Substance Abuse.

In a viral video posted by a X user, #dammiedammie35, on Tuesday, Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, conferred the ambassadorship on Mandy Kiss, at an event organised by LASKADA.

He urged citizens to join the fight against substance misuse.

He said, “We’re here with Mandy Kiss, and you know, she’s actually agreed to become one of our LASKADA brand ambassadors, Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse.

“Drugs are a pandemic that is hitting our streets, it is a pandemic that is hitting our society, it is a pandemic that is hitting our community.

“The government cannot fight it alone. We must work in collaboration with those that can reach as many people as possible, and we know Mandy Kiss has a large followership, 402,000. We’ve had conversations and we’re trying to do things differently.”

He said, “With the powers conferred on me, I make her one of our brand ambassadors. So, say no to drugs. Say what? Say no to drugs.”

PUNCH Online reports the development comes after the social media influencer fixed September 30 to stage a marathon sex act with 100 men in a single day.

She said the event, aimed at registering her name in the Guinness World Records, will take place in Ikorodu, Lagos.

The GWR, however, has issued a statement clarifying that it does not monitor or endorse sexual activity as a record category and has therefore distanced itself from the proposed event.

While she later said the declaration was a joke, it caused public outrage, with some quarters urging Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to punish her.

Speaking at Mandy Kiss’ conferment, the Commissioner hope the influencer can help take the anti-drug message into Lagos communities.

“Everybody has a past, nobody’s perfect, but again, as a brand ambassador to Legal State Kicks Against Drug Abuse, we hope Mandy Kiss will be able to reach the nooks and crannies, you know, of Lagos to assist us in fighting this pandemic.”

He did not give details on the scope of Mandy Kiss’s duties or any planned campaigns.

LASKADA is saddled with the responsibility of coordinating a multi-sectoral, evidence-based response to the growing menace of drug and substance abuse in Lagos State by leading sustained advocacy, public education, community engagement, policy influence, and research.

I’m not one of you again, Olubadan tells Atiku

The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, revealed that he had withdrawn from active politics to focus on his role as monarch.

Oba Ladoja stated this when Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside a former Senate President, Iyorchia Ayu, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), and other prominent politicians, paid him homage at his private residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following his coronation.

He stated, “I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house.

“Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.”

Recounting his political journey with Atiku, he explained, “We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back.

“All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people—Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice.”

The PUNCH reports that Ladoja was officially presented with the staff and instrument of office last Friday by Governor Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to personally attend the historic event.

The event marked the grand finale of activities celebrating former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The coronation concluded a week-long celebration that featured a cultural day, a coronation lecture, a praise and worship service, and the monarch’s 81st birthday, which was celebrated in grand style at Liberty Stadium

The new Olubadan ascended the throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

DSS arraigns Sowore over anti-Tinubu post

The Federal Government is set to arraign human rights activist Omoyele Sowore on a five-count charge for allegedly posting false statements about President Bola Tinubu intended to cause a breakdown of law and order, court papers show.

Sowore was sighted at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday ahead of the arraignment.

The suit dated 16th September,2025, was lodged after Sowore allegedly refused to delete the controversial posts about the President.

The Sahara Reporters publisher was accused of using his official X handle to make the post, “This criminal @ official PBAT Actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”

The alleged offending post, said to be contrary to Section 24(2) (b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024, was said to have been made on August 25 within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.

The charges were brought on behalf of the DSS and the Federal Government by M.B. Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecutions at the Federal Ministry of Justice, alongside four other counsel to the DSS –M.E. Ernest, U.B. Bulla, Dr. C.S. Eze, and E.G. Orubor.

Social media companies X Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc. are listed as co-defendants.

Confirming the legal action in a Facebook post last week, Sowore wrote, “The State Security Service, alias @OfficialDSSNG today filed a 5-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against ‘X’ (formerly Twitter Facebook, and myself. They claimed that because I called Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu a criminal, I have somehow committed a set of ‘novel’ offences they invented and spread across five counts.

“It’s hard to believe there’s anyone sensible left in these offices that should be making Nigeria work. Regardless, I will be present whenever this case is assigned for trial. #RevolutionNow.”

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that the human rights activist and African Action Congress candidate in the 2023 election vowed not to delete the controversial tweet, despite a request from the DSS to X demanding its removal.

Restating his stance, Sowore wrote, “This morning, X (formerly Twitter) officially contacted me about the despicable threat letter they received from the lawless DSS over my Tweet on Tinubu. One option I will NOT be taking is deleting that Tweet. Thank you, @X.”

ECOWAS parliament adopts $26m 2026 budget

The ECOWAS Parliament has adopted a budget of 19,636,030 Units of Account (26 million dollars) for the 2026 fiscal year, and announced plans to commemorate its 25th anniversary in November.

The Speaker of the Parliament, Hadjia Memounatou Ibrahima, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Ibrahima said the development followed the recent conclusion of its 2025 Second Extraordinary Session in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

She said the budget was adopted by the Parliament during plenary, stressing that, beyond being a mere accounting act, it was the engine of parliament’s commitment to West Africans.

”It will enable us to carry out our priority missions, including implementing the conclusions of the seminar on AI, while ensuring virtuous and transparent management of public funds entrusted to us.

”This budget represents a five per cent increase compared to the 2025 fiscal year budget, reflecting an upward adjustment of UA 939,233 from last year’s UA 18,996,897.

”Out of the budget of UA 19,636,030 for 2026, the sum of UA19, 368,394 representing 98.64 per cent is expected to be financed through the proceeds from the Community Levy, while UA257,636, equivalent to 1.36 per cent, will accrue from other sources,” Ibrahima said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the ECOWAS Community Levy is a mandatory 0.5 per cent tax imposed on goods imported into ECOWAS member states from non-ECOWAS countries.

Member states are under a statutory obligation to pay the community levy, which is the main source of funding for ECOWAS institutions and their activities.

She, however, expressed dismay that some members of the community were still defaulting on the payment of the levy, and warned that, going forward, such would be met with sanctions.

Ibrahima also said that the commemoration of its 25th anniversary in November would highlight the ECOWAS Parliament’s achievements in deepening regional democracy, cooperation and growth, amid formidable challenges.

The Speaker describes the forthcoming anniversary as “a chance to showcase resilience and chart a more innovative, youth-focused future for the community”.

NAN

Niger gov hails Speaker Abbas at 60

Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has congratulated the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

Bago, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, on Tuesday, said clocking 60 was a milestone that calls for celebration.

“60 years is a milestone; it is a diamond jubilee, a significant age that marks a life well lived, and this calls for celebration,” the governor was quoted as saying.

He described Abbas as “a calm, humble, passionate and intelligent lawmaker who has been making significant contributions to the National Assembly from 2011 to date.”

The governor commended the Speaker for providing exemplary leadership in the House, saying “it is a testament to his experience, competence, and commitment to fostering vibrant legislatures.”

He added, “The leadership of the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives has been characterised by peace and unity regardless of party affiliations for the common good of the people.”

Bago prayed that God would grant Abbas more years, sound health, and wisdom as he continues to lead the Green Chamber.