New Era in Kano! Governor Abba Yusuf Inaugurates Reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs Led by Sanusi II

Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially inaugurated the reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs, restoring the traditional structure with Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II serving as Chairman. The council also includes Emirs from Gaya, Karaye, and Rano.

This development was revealed in a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday in Kano.

The inauguration follows the signing of the Kano Emirates Council Law (Repeal Bill) 2024, which dissolved the five emirate councils established under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, returning Kano to its historic unified emirate structure.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the Government House Coronation Hall, Governor Yusuf emphasized that reinstating the Council aims to strengthen peace, stability, and development across Kano State.

He described the traditional institution as “a pillar of history, guardian of values, custodian of heritage, and an indispensable partner in governance.”

Governor Yusuf added that the Council is expected to serve as a central platform where royal fathers can meet, deliberate, and provide meaningful guidance on issues affecting the people.

The Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, expressed confidence that the restored Council will significantly contribute to the state's development.

Earlier, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad Naniya, traced the historical roots of the Kano Emirate, highlighting its over 700-year legacy of unity under one Emir.

Responding on behalf of the Emirs, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II commended Governor Yusuf's leadership and pledged the full support of the Emirates toward the progress and stability of Kano State.

ASUU Threatens Strike November 21 Over Unmet Demands.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Owerri Zone, has issued a stern warning that it will resume its suspended strike from November 21, 2025, citing the Federal Government’s failure to address the union’s long-standing demands.

The declaration was made by Prof. Dennis Aribodor, Zonal Coordinator of ASUU Owerri, during a press briefing at the ASUU Secretariat in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, on Thursday.

ASUU Owerri Zone represents academics from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State University, Owerri, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Prof. Aribodor, joined by other union officials, stressed that the eight-day window before the proposed strike must be used by the Federal Government for meaningful negotiations.

The World Bank says Nigeria’s spending on social protection—just 0.14% of its GDP, far below global and African averages—has no meaningful impact on poverty. In its new report, The State of Social Safety Nets in Nigeria, the Bank found that all social protection programmes combined reduced poverty by only 0.4 percentage points. It blamed the weak results on poor targeting, small benefit sizes, and fragmented implementation.

Between 2015 and 2021, about 60% of Nigeria’s safety-net funding came from foreign donors, mostly the World Bank, raising sustainability concerns. Although the National Social Safety Nets Programme (NASSP) has reduced poverty by over 4 percentage points among its beneficiaries, the report says only 44% of total benefits from all government schemes actually reach poor Nigerians.

The Bank urged Nigeria to increase domestic funding, expand coverage, and redesign benefits to reflect household size if it wants its social spending to truly reduce poverty.

US Senator Ted Cruz Condemns China Over “Largest Crackdown” On Christians, Demands Release Of Detained Pastor.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Cruz said he was “glad to see the U.S. Senate unanimously pass resolution condemning the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin,” calling the incident part of a disturbing pattern of systematic persecution of Christians in China.

The United States Senator, Ted Cruz, has condemned what he described as a “grave violation of religious freedom and human dignity” by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) following the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin, the leader of one of China’s largest underground churches.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Cruz said he was “glad to see the U.S. Senate unanimously pass resolution condemning the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin,” calling the incident part of a disturbing pattern of systematic persecution of Christians in China.

“In China, Christians are fighting daily for their religious freedom against the Chinese Communist Party,” Cruz wrote.

Accompanying the post was a video of his Senate floor speech, in which he accused the Chinese government of launching the largest coordinated nationwide crackdown on Christians in more than four decades.

“I rise today to speak about a grave matter and a clear violation of religious freedom, human dignity, and the rule of law,” Cruz declared.

“On October 10, 2025, the Chinese Communist Party launched the largest coordinated nationwide crackdown in more than four decades against a Christian urban home house church in China. In that sweep, 23 pastors and church members of the Zion Church, one of China’s largest underground congregations, were arrested and wrongfully detained.”

The Texas senator said Pastor Ezra Jin and his congregation were not involved in any acts of violence, but were simply worshipping and serving God, when the regime labelled them enemies of the state.

“I can buy a private jet if I want to, but I have other important priorities,” Don Jazzy says as he urges youths to invest wisely.

Veteran music producer and Mavin Records boss, Don Jazzy, has advised young Nigerians to prioritize self-development and the acquisition of practical skills in today’s fast-changing world driven by technology and artificial intelligence.

Speaking in a recent video shared online, the music mogul revealed that despite being financially capable of acquiring luxury assets such as exotic cars or private jets, he chooses instead to focus on more meaningful investments particularly in himself.

“I’ve been blessed enough for a long time to be able to afford any type of car that I want to buy, or even a private jet,” Don Jazzy said. “But I have more important things to take care of. Nothing beats investment, including investing in yourself and acquiring knowledge that you can charge people for.”

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Tears and Tributes as Arise TV Anchor Sommie Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Anambra

The remains of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, a beloved Arise TV news anchor, were laid to rest amid deep sorrow in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State.

Sommie tragically lost her life in September 2025 following a violent armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence — a heartbreaking incident that shook the media community. Her burial took place at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, following a solemn funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.

The ceremony drew family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who paid his last respects to the late journalist.

During the homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie urged the bereaved family to take comfort in faith, describing Sommie as “a woman of purpose and virtue” whose life, though short, left a meaningful impact.

In his emotional tribute, Peter Obi lamented her passing as “a painful reminder of Nigeria’s deepening insecurity.” He said,

“Before leaving Birmingham yesterday, I told my companions I was returning home for the burial of one of my daughters.”
He urged Nigerians to remember her family in their prayers and honor her memory with love and hope.


Sommie’s death has left an unfillable void in journalism and among all who admired her professionalism, warmth, and grace.

Source: PUNCH

UK Tightens Immigration Rules, Cuts Post-Study Visa to 18 Months.

The British government has unveiled sweeping immigration reforms that include stricter English language requirements and a reduction of the post-study visa period for international graduates from two years to 18 months.

Announced on Tuesday by the Home Office as part of its new immigration white paper and Plan for Change, the measures aim to create what the government calls a “controlled, selective and fair” system.

Under the revised policy, migrants applying through designated legal routes must now pass a Secure English Language Test equivalent to A-level proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The test, to be conducted by approved providers, will be verified during visa processing.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the reforms reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring migrants integrate and contribute meaningfully to British society.
“This country welcomes those who come here to contribute,” she said. “But it’s unacceptable for anyone to arrive without learning our language or taking part in our national life.”

Effective January 1, 2027, international graduates will only be allowed to remain in the UK for 18 months after completing their studies, a move the government says is based on data showing that many were not moving into graduate-level employment as intended.

The reforms also include a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) for employers sponsoring foreign workers — the first adjustment since 2017. The additional revenue will fund training for British workers and help reduce dependence on overseas recruitment.

From the 2025–2026 academic year, international students will face higher financial proof requirements to ensure they can support themselves while studying in the UK.

Other key updates include an expansion of the High Potential Individual (HPI) route now open to graduates from the world’s top 100 universities, with an annual cap of 8,000 applicants and enhancements to the Global Talent route to attract top researchers and creative professionals.

Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has renewed his call for the Federal Government to initiate peace talks with bandits, insisting that dialogue remains the most effective route to achieving lasting security in Nigeria.

In a Facebook post on Monday, Gumi referenced the recent peace deal between Israel and Hamas as proof that even long-standing conflicts can be resolved through negotiation.

According to him, if the United States could broker peace between Israel and Hamas—two groups once at bitter odds, then Nigeria should also be able to engage its own armed groups in dialogue.

“Peace between Israel and Hamas, whom they call terrorists, was brokered by the USA. Who says peace can’t be made with terrorists? Make peace with bandits and let us have peace,” Gumi wrote.

The Kaduna-based cleric, who has long advocated for engagement with non-state armed groups, reiterated that meaningful dialogue is key to ending the violence that has plagued many parts of northern Nigeria.

"Igbo Traditional Religion is Superior to Christianity" — Filmmaker Tobe Osigwe.

Nigerian filmmaker and practitioner of Igbo traditional spirituality, Tobe Osigwe, has claimed that Odinala the indigenous Igbo religion is superior to Christianity and other organised faiths.

Speaking during an interview on 90MinutesAfrica with Rudolf Okonkwo, the Theatre Arts graduate described Christianity as “a secondary school,” while comparing Odinala to “a university.”

Osigwe, who is also a practising dibia, argued that any Igbo person who seeks deeper spiritual knowledge after practising Christianity would eventually find themselves in traditional religion.

“Anyone who has gone through Christianity and still wants to advance spiritually will discover that the next step is traditional religion. Igbo traditional religion is higher than Christianity and other organised faiths,” he asserted.

He added that many Igbo people remain in Christianity out of fear.
“They are afraid of hellfire. But some of us know that hell doesn’t exist, it’s a myth created to sustain Christianity and keep people from questioning it,” he said.

While urging the Igbo to reconnect with Odinala, Osigwe stressed that such a return must not ignore the importance of education. According to him, meaningful technological progress can only follow when education and tradition go hand in hand.

“The ways of our ancestors are about ethics and values, but science is another matter entirely. Tradition cannot replace science,” he said. “Igbo elites should pursue education that drives technological growth, and then integrate the moral systems of Odinala. The Chinese learned technology from the West but kept their own values. I don’t want to go back to an analogue lifestyle, but to use our traditional ethics to protect and guide modern society.”

Don’t Rush INEC Appointment, Arise News Director Sumner Sambo Warns Presidency



The Director of News at Arise News, Sumner Sambo, has cautioned the Presidency against rushing the appointment of a new Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman following the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

Speaking on ‘Prime Time’, a flagship programme on Arise Television, on Tuesday, Sambo advised that the federal government should take time to reflect and implement meaningful institutional reforms before naming Yakubu’s successor.

His comments come just a day after Yakubu officially stepped down and May Agbamuche-Mbu assumed office as the acting INEC chairman.

“The exit of both Mahmood Yakubu and Attahiru Jega as INEC chairmen should serve as a moment of reflection,” Sambo said.
“The presidency should not be in a hurry to appoint a new chairman without ensuring proper institutional reforms are put in place.”


Sambo also dismissed rumors that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed Yakubu to step aside, clarifying that the President lacks the constitutional power to unilaterally remove an INEC chairman.

His remarks have since sparked discussions across political circles, with many agreeing that electoral integrity and institutional independence should remain at the heart of Nigeria’s democratic process.

“Reinvigorated and Ready to Serve!” — Senator Orji Uzor Kalu Returns to Senate with Renewed Commitment to Accountability and Development


The former Executive Governor of Abia State and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed renewed determination to serve his people as the Senate resumed plenary on Tuesday.

Representing Abia North Senatorial District, Kalu shared his excitement and commitment in a post on his verified Facebook page, announcing his return after a productive 10-week recess.

“After a productive 10-week recess, I joined my distinguished colleagues today as the Senate resumed plenary,” he wrote.



As Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission, Kalu emphasized his readiness to deepen accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance in the red chamber.

“In my capacity representing the good people of Abia North and as Chairman, Senate Committee on South-East Development Commission, I return reinvigorated and fully committed to deepening accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance,” he affirmed.



He added that his focus remains unwavering — to deliver impactful representation for his constituents, advance South-East interests, and contribute meaningfully to the overall progress of Nigeria.

“Our focus remains steadfast — delivering impactful representation for my constituents, advancing the interests of the South-East, and contributing meaningfully to the progress of our great nation, Nigeria,” Kalu stated.



His post has since attracted widespread engagement from supporters and followers who praised his dedication and consistency in legislative service.

With the Senate back in session, Senator Kalu’s message of renewed vigor signals his continued influence and active role in pushing for regional and national development.

Farida Sule Shines in Cairo: Nasarawa First Lady Wows Fans with Elegant Photos

The wife of Nasarawa State Governor, Farida Abdullahi Sule, has captivated social media users after sharing stunning photos from her recent visit to Cairo, Egypt.

Farida Sule posted the elegant images on her official Instagram account on Monday, September 29, 2025, instantly drawing admiration from her followers.

In the photos, the First Lady is seen radiating grace and style, exploring the historic and culturally rich city of Cairo. Her fashionable outfits and poised presence earned her glowing comments, with fans praising her beauty, elegance, and sophistication.

Many followers described her as a “true reflection of grace and class”, applauding her consistent representation of Nasarawa State with dignity on the international stage.

Farida Sule’s Cairo post comes amid a trend of public figures using social media to share personal experiences, allowing them to connect more meaningfully with their audience.

Her fans flooded the comment section with warm words, highlighting her as an icon of style and poise, further cementing her influence as a public figure.

Ohanaeze President Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release, Urges Igbos to Register to Vote

Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has appealed to the Federal Government to release the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to allow him access to proper medical care.

In a video message shared on Thursday, Azuta-Mbata also urged Igbos across Nigeria to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Azuta-Mbata emphasized that Kanu’s prolonged detention has been a major source of political and security tension in Nigeria. Kanu was initially arrested in 2015 on charges of treasonable felony, jumped bail in 2017, and fled the country. He was rearrested in Kenya in June 2021 during a controversial operation by Nigerian security operatives and has since been held by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Calling for a political resolution, Azuta-Mbata stated that the Federal Government gains no advantage from continuing Kanu’s detention. He stressed the importance of safeguarding Kanu’s welfare and providing him with medical attention.

He said,

“I’m calling upon Ndigbo—wherever you are in Nigeria—to take advantage of the voter registration exercise going on now. Go and get your PVCs as quickly as possible.

“Secondly, I urge the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu. There is no real advantage in keeping him detained. The government must ensure his safety and allow him to receive medical treatment promptly. A political solution should be pursued, as continued detention serves no meaningful purpose.”

Azuta-Mbata’s remarks underscore the ongoing calls for a resolution to one of Nigeria’s most contentious political issues while encouraging civic engagement among Igbos ahead of upcoming elections.

Tinubu’s Bold Reforms Usually Reserved for Second Term – Gbajabiamila

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, has revealed that the sweeping reforms currently being implemented by the administration are measures typically reserved for politicians’ second term in office.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Gbajabiamila explained that the president deliberately chose to roll out “difficult but necessary” policies at the start of his tenure, signaling his focus on long-term national development rather than short-term political advantage.

“The reforms you see now, which will naturally have consequences, are the kind of policies politicians usually postpone until their second term. President Tinubu decided to act immediately because he is committed to Nigeria’s future, not just political survival,” Gbajabiamila said.

Among the reforms introduced since May 2023 are the removal of fuel subsidy, unification of foreign exchange rates, and other fiscal policies aimed at stabilizing the economy. While these measures have triggered inflation and rising costs, the Chief of Staff stressed that they are crucial for long-term progress.

He acknowledged that Nigerians are feeling the immediate hardship but urged patience, noting that meaningful transformations take time.

“We are laying a foundation that will serve generations to come. The president is thinking beyond politics—he is focused on history and legacy,” Gbajabiamila added.


Political observers see the move as a signal that the administration is ready to withstand criticism and bear the political cost in order to reposition Nigeria. Commenting on the situation, a Lagos-based analyst noted:

“The hope is that these changes will start to bear fruit before the next election, but what’s clear is that the government is prioritizing reform over political convenience.”

Gbajabiamila concluded by appealing to Nigerians for understanding, emphasizing that Tinubu is determined to pursue a course correction for the country despite the challenges.

Wrongfully convicted dad freed after 27 years in prison as key witness confesses to the murder.

After being falsely implicated by a woman, Bryan Hooper Sr. was wrongfully convicted and served almost thirty years in prison.

It all started in April 1998, when police discovered Ann Prazniak’s body in the closet of her Minneapolis apartment, inside a cardboard box covered with Christmas lights. According to court documents, she had died two weeks to a month before police discovered her body, and her cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation.

That same year, a jury found Hooper guilty of premeditated murder, felony murder while committing burglary, and felony murder while committing kidnapping in relation to the death of Prazniak, then 77.

Hooper’s conviction was largely based on testimony from a woman who officials say has now admitted to the crime.

He was given three life sentences, with the possibility of release after 30 years. In 2020, a judge approved his request to dismiss two of three first-degree murder charges after he claimed he had been wrongfully convicted and sentenced for three counts of first-degree murder against the same individual.

Last month, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced her office’s support for Hooper’s release, stating that a key trial witness recanted her evidence during the office’s assessment of the case and confessed to killing Prazniak and concealing her remains. According to Moriarty, the jailhouse informants who had accused Hooper had long since recanted their testimony.

Both the Great North Innocence Project and Moriarty’s office requested that the court vacate Hooper’s conviction.

On Wednesday, September 3, State District Court Judge Marta Chou vacated Hooper’s conviction for first-degree murder. A representative for the Great North Innocence Project confirmed that he was released from the Stillwater Correctional Facility on September 4.

Patoranking Melts Hearts With Sweet Father-Daughter Moments on Instagram

Nigerian reggae-dancehall superstar Patoranking (@patorankingfire) has warmed hearts online after sharing adorable photos and videos celebrating his special bond with his daughter.

The singer, dressed in a casual T-shirt, cap, and dark sunglasses, looked relaxed and cheerful as he embraced his daughter, who stunned in a stylish black dress with a mini handbag. One particularly touching moment showed her planting a kiss on his cheek — a gesture that captured the love and connection they share.

Patoranking captioned the post:
“Living & Learning With My Lil Mama,” highlighting the joy, lessons, and unconditional love of fatherhood.

Fans and celebrities flooded the comment section with admiration, praising him not just for his artistry but also for being a doting and devoted dad. Many hailed the singer for celebrating the beauty of parenting in such a heartwarming way.

States Revenues Have Doubled Since Fuel Subsidy Removal — FG.

The Federal Government says state governments now earn significantly more following the removal of petrol subsidy by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in May 2023.

Coordinating Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, disclosed this on Thursday at the National Health Financing Dialogue in Abuja. He explained that although ending the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) was a tough decision, it has yielded positive results.

According to him, the reform has boosted states’ finances, giving them more than double the funds they previously had, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to critical sectors.

Edun noted that the subsidy regime only enriched a few individuals, including foreigners, while consuming about 2.5% of the country’s GDP.

He stressed that its removal has freed up resources for investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

While fuel prices initially surged above ₦1,000 per litre and later dropped below ₦900, Edun said inflation has also begun to ease, falling to 21.88% in July from 22.22% in June, after peaking around 27% last year. Food inflation also declined to 22.74% year-on-year in July, compared to 39.53% in the same period last year.

He maintained that the reforms, though painful, are designed to rebuild the economy, restore investor confidence, and create opportunities across all sectors.

8-Year-Old Star Amariah Poni Lodiong Drops Powerful Anthem Africa — A Song of Pride, Unity & Hope

At just 8 years old, Amariah Poni Lodiong is already taking the world by storm with her latest single, Africa, released on July 30, 2025. More than just a song, it’s a celebration of African pride, unity, and legacy.

With her strong vocals and infectious Afrobeats rhythm, Amariah delivers a track that’s uplifting, joyful, and deeply meaningful. From the opening beat, Africa invites listeners to dance, sing, and embrace the beauty of the continent — but its real power lies in the message: Africa is strength, history, and one united dream.

Before this hit, Amariah stunned audiences with Impossible and Rejoice, which earned her multiple awards at the London Music Awards, Paris Film Award, and New York Movie Awards. She also shined at Kids Got Talent 2025 in Atlanta and performed live at the LAMV Music Awards in Hollywood.

But Amariah is more than a singer. She’s a model, actress, volunteer, and humanitarian. Inspired by children’s creators like Gracie’s Corner and Ghetto Kids, her music blends fun with powerful messages of faith, hope, and love.

Her family supports her journey, with her brothers adding harmonies that give Africa a celebratory feel. Beyond music, Amariah spends time in African refugee camps and orphanages, using her platform to help children and families. Her dream? To build a school and orphanage in Africa, fueled by her music and global supporters.

Through her website www.amariahlodiong.org and a GoFundMe campaign, Amariah is turning her passion into action, showing the world that age is no limit to impact.

Kogi Joins Other States To Ban Basic And Secondary Schools Parties.

Kogi State Government has banned graduation ceremonies in basic and secondary schools across the state.

This decision was announced by the state Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, during a meeting with critical stakeholders in the education sector on Wednesday in Lokoja, the state capital.

Jones said, “The practice of incessant graduation ceremonies in nursery, primary, and secondary schools is hereby prohibited in the state with immediate effect.”

He stressed that the practice has become economically unaffordable, putting undue pressure on parents, and attracts social ills associated with such celebrations.

He emphasised that the ban is aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents and promoting a more meaningful approach to celebrating students’ achievements.

The state government also introduced a new policy requiring parents to provide notebooks for their children to do classwork and assignments, rather than using textbooks converted to workbooks, especially in private schools.

The commissioner emphasised that the policy aims to make textbooks reusable by siblings of the same parents.

“The use of textbooks as workbooks, especially in private schools, must stop, and parents must provide separate notebooks for their children.

“We’ll introduce new celebration modalities to encourage competition and commitment to studies. No more social ills or undue pressure!

“We’ll also ensure students progress through required classes without jumping grades.

“Private school owners should note that writing mock exams is now a prerequisite for West African Examination Council registration,” Jones said.