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  • APC Praises Kogi Governor Ododo’s Performance, Receives ₦100m Support for Tinubu

    APC Praises Kogi Governor Ododo’s Performance, Receives ₦100m Support for Tinubu

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for what the party described as strong performance in office.

    APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, made the remarks while receiving Governor Ododo and a delegation of Kogi youths at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja.

    According to a statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, the APC chairman highlighted the administration’s efforts in infrastructure development, security, youth and women inclusion in governance, as well as improvements in the health and education sectors.

    He said the governor’s actions had strengthened Kogi State’s position within the party and aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.During the visit, the delegation presented a cheque of ₦100 million to the party leadership in support of Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    Governor Ododo said the visit was aimed at expressing solidarity with the party’s National Working Committee and conveying the support of Kogi residents, particularly young people, for the APC leadership.He noted that the funds were raised by Kogi youths as a demonstration of their confidence in the president’s leadership and their support for the party.

  • Gunmen Attack Commercial Vehicle in Southern Kaduna, Driver Killed and Passengers Abducted

    Gunmen Attack Commercial Vehicle in Southern Kaduna, Driver Killed and Passengers Abducted

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked a commercial vehicle in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing the driver and abducting several passengers, according to local sources and eyewitness accounts.

    The incident reportedly occurred in the late afternoon near Sabon-Kurutu junction along the route between Hayin-Dam and Katari. Witnesses said the attackers emerged from nearby bushes and opened fire on the vehicle.Residents identified the driver as Joshua Atara.

    A local resident, Muazu Garba, said the assailants shot the driver before taking passengers into a nearby forest. Community sources reported that about eight passengers were abducted, although authorities have not officially confirmed the number.

    A local security source acknowledged that an attack occurred but said details of casualties and abductions were still being verified.Efforts to obtain comments from the Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Mansur Hassan, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

    The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in parts of southern Kaduna, where travellers on rural roads have previously reported attacks by armed groups.

    Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the incident or provide updates on rescue efforts.

  • Bayelsa SSG Urges Grassroots Coaches to Tap Football’s Economic Potential

    Bayelsa SSG Urges Grassroots Coaches to Tap Football’s Economic Potential

    Bayelsa State Secretary to the Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, has encouraged grassroots football coaches to see the sport as a viable business and explore its revenue-generating opportunities.

    Ayawei made the remarks in Yenagoa while declaring open the FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup International Coaching Clinic, a programme aimed at improving coaching standards in the state.

    He said football is one of the world’s most lucrative industries and urged local coaches and managers to develop their technical knowledge while understanding the commercial side of the game. He added that lessons from the clinic would help participants improve their teams when competitions resume.

    The training programme, facilitated by Whiz-kid Ventures (Netherlands), introduces grassroots coaches to the methodology and playing philosophy associated with FC Barcelona.

    Premium Trust Bank’s Regional Head in Yenagoa, Danjuma Omeje, said the bank would continue supporting sports development in the state, noting its partnership with the Prosperity Cup tournament.

    Director-General of the competition, Ono Akpoe, said coach-training initiatives were already contributing to the growth of football in Bayelsa and commended the state government and sponsors for their support.

    Activities at the clinic included training sessions and scouting matches held at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

  • Tinubu Support Group Congratulates James Faleke on Renewed Hope Ambassadors Appointment

    Tinubu Support Group Congratulates James Faleke on Renewed Hope Ambassadors Appointment

    The Tinubu Support Group (TSG) has congratulated Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke following his appointment as Deputy Secretary of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors campaign team.

    In a statement issued by its Director-General, Umar Tanko Yakasai, the group described the appointment as recognition of Faleke’s commitment to public service and political leadership.According to Yakasai, the group believes Faleke’s experience and leadership qualities will contribute to the activities of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.

    “We extend our congratulations to Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke on this appointment and wish him success in the role,” the statement said.

    The group expressed confidence that the new position would support efforts aimed at promoting the goals associated with the Renewed Hope initiative.

    Faleke is a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in Lagos State.

  • Suspected Boko Haram Fighters Attack Military Camp in Adamawa, Kill Four

    Suspected Boko Haram Fighters Attack Military Camp in Adamawa, Kill Four

    Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have attacked a military camp in Garaha District, Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State, killing at least three soldiers and a civilian, according to local sources and eyewitnesses.

    Residents said the attackers stormed the community around late morning, approaching from multiple directions, including the Dabna and Lar axes. The assault reportedly led to a gun battle between the armed group and troops stationed in the area.

    An eyewitness, Reverend Isaiah Yeriman, said the attackers eventually overran the camp and set parts of it on fire. He added that several structures, including a nearby primary school, were affected during the attack.

    According to Yeriman, three soldiers were killed during the confrontation, while a woman died after being struck by a stray bullet while trying to flee the area.Local accounts also indicated that weapons were taken from the base before the attackers withdrew, although these claims have not been independently verified.

    The traditional ruler of the Huba community, Tol Barr Alheri Bulus, confirmed that an attack occurred and said more details would be provided later.

    Efforts to obtain an official statement from the military were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

    The incident highlights ongoing security concerns in parts of Adamawa State, where communities continue to face attacks by armed groups despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.

  • Federal Headquarters Wins 2026 Nigeria Police Games in Asaba With 238 Medals

    Federal Headquarters Wins 2026 Nigeria Police Games in Asaba With 238 Medals

    The Federal Headquarters (FHQ) team of the Nigeria Police Force emerged overall champions at the 15th Biennial Nigeria Police Games (BIPOGA) held in Asaba, Delta State.

    Police athletes representing the FHQ secured first place with 238 medals after a closely contested competition with the Lagos Command, which finished second with 236 medals. Yenagoa Command placed third with 140 medals.The week-long event, hosted by the Delta State Government, took place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium and other venues across Asaba.

    Police athletes from commands and formations nationwide competed in multiple sporting events.Competitions included athletics, shooting, swimming, table tennis and boxing, among others.

    At the closing ceremony, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, congratulated the winners and commended participants for their discipline and sportsmanship.

    Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun also praised Delta State for hosting the games and described the event as an opportunity to strengthen unity and physical fitness within the force.

    Chairman of the Force Sports Planning Committee, AIG Fom Pam Joseph, said the 2026 edition would be remembered for its strong performances and organisation.

  • Many Injured as Violence Erupts at APC Ward Congress in Oluyole

    Many Injured as Violence Erupts at APC Ward Congress in Oluyole

    The All Progressives Congress ward congress in Oluyole local government area was marred by violence on Saturday, with clashes that reportedly left several party members injured.The exercise, organised to elect ward executives across the local government’s wards, was disrupted at Olomi Ward 7, by suspected heavily-armed political thugs allegedly linked to a member of the party, Prof. Abiodun Gbolagade, who is an Aspirant for the 2027 Oluyole Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

    Many persons were reportedly wounded during the unrest, while Hon. Idowu Oyawale, the campaign Director-general of House of Representatives member, Tolulope Akande-Sadipe during the last general elections sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving treatment at an hospital.

    According to reports, the heavily-armed group stormed the congress venue at Olomi Basic School 1, dispersing party members and officials supervising the exercise, with stones, clubs and other weapons.

    Eyewitnesses said tensions escalated unprovoked over delegates’ lists and ward executive positions. The disagreement reportedly degenerated into physical altercations before the violent attacks on party members loyal to a House of Representatives member, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe. It was learnt that security operatives led a tactical team to restore order, peace, and disperse the attackers.

    The eyewitness said, “Let it be on record that today, 21st February, 2026 at Olomi APC Oluyole Local Government, Prof. Abiodun Gbolagade mobilised thugs to attack APC members in Oluyole. Those attacked include: Mama Olole (Ward 4), Bukola (Ward 2), Arowolaje and Hon. Idowu Oyewale. The thugs allegedly mobilised by Prof. Abiodun Gbolagade were led by some party members namely Abdullahi Sakariyahu Aresa (Ward 3), Taiwo Idris (Ward 3), Femi aka Iku (Ward 3).

    Kazeem Oloro (Ward 7), Magi (ward 2) apart from stoning, slapped an 80 year old woman Adebimpe Esho, Ismaila Ajimobi (Ward 2) Kola Okunade (Ward 2), Adeniji Abiodun Aderemi (Ward 3), Babatunde Blessing Muideen (Ward 7), Lafiku Idowu (Ward 4), and Sulaimon Babatunde Omolaja (Ward 3) PA of outgoing Chairman”. The same group of people, allegedly attacked unprovoked at Ward 2 and Ward 7 during the Ward Primaries.

    Reacting to the incident, some party leaders and elders condemned the violence, describing it as unfortunate and capable of undermining the credibility of the internal democratic process. The leaders have called on Party Chieftains and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately order an investigation into the violent attacks.

    E-signed:Media & Publicity Team.

    February 21, 2026.

  • Bayelsa Governor Diri Urges Oil Firms to Support Prosperity Cup Football Tournament

    Bayelsa Governor Diri Urges Oil Firms to Support Prosperity Cup Football Tournament

    Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has called on multinational oil companies and corporate organisations operating in the state to support the annual Governor’s Football Tournament, known as the Prosperity Cup, to advance grassroots sports development.

    Diri made the appeal in Yenagoa while receiving a branded jersey from the tournament’s Central Organising Committee and conducting the official draws for Season 8.

    He also presented kits, including jerseys and footballs, to three participating teams: Afini Ladies of Amarata, Agbere FC of Agbere community and a para-soccer team.The governor described the competition, established in 2015, as one of Nigeria’s largest grassroots football tournaments, noting that 228 teams are competing in the male category this season.“

    Government alone cannot develop sports,” Diri said, urging oil firms and other stakeholders to contribute to youth-focused initiatives. He added that sports can serve as a tool for youth engagement and social stability.Diri commended organisers for holding a refresher course for referees and urged match officials to uphold integrity.

    He also acknowledged the support of Premium Trust Bank, Linkage Assurance, the Niger Delta Development Commission, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board and the Bayelsa State Board of Internal Revenue.

    Tournament official Perela Aboro said measures were taken to reduce teams’ travel costs, while Coach Perez Walson of FC De-Lavida expressed confidence ahead of the competition.

  • Bayelsa Police Promote 228 Officers to Assistant Superintendent Rank

    Bayelsa Police Promote 228 Officers to Assistant Superintendent Rank

    The Nigeria Police Force has promoted 228 officers from the rank of Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in the Bayelsa State Command.Commissioner of Police for Bayelsa State, Daniel Iyamah Edobor, announced the promotions during a decoration ceremony held at the State Officers’ Mess.

    Edobor said the figure represents Bayelsa’s share of a nationwide promotion exercise approved by the police authorities.

    He urged the newly promoted officers to see their elevation as a call to higher responsibility and professionalism.“ To whom much is given, much is expected,” he said, adding that career progression requires greater commitment and discipline.

    The commissioner warned against misconduct, including corruption, extortion and human rights violations. He advised officers to remain civil in their interactions with the public and to adhere strictly to police rules and directives.Edobor also encouraged other personnel in the command to view the promotions as motivation to improve their performance and uphold ethical standards.

    Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, ASP Gabriel Yenegue thanked the police leadership and pledged that the newly elevated officers would remain committed to maintaining law and order in the state.

  • Kano Deputy Governor Visits Singa Market Fire Victims, Sends Ramadan Message

    Kano Deputy Governor Visits Singa Market Fire Victims, Sends Ramadan Message

    Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo has expressed sympathy to traders affected by last week’s fire outbreak at Singa Market and extended Ramadan greetings to Muslims across the state.

    Gwarzo visited the market and commiserated with traders who lost goods and property in the incident. According to a statement by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, the deputy governor described the fire as distressing, particularly for small-scale business owners facing economic challenges.“

    I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate fire incident that has caused significant losses to hardworking traders,” he said.The fire reportedly destroyed goods worth millions of naira in parts of the market, leaving many traders with substantial losses.Gwarzo urged residents to adopt safety measures to prevent future fire outbreaks and called for collective efforts to safeguard markets and public spaces.

    As Ramadan begins, the deputy governor also conveyed his greetings to Muslim faithful in Kano State. He described the holy month as a period of prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.He encouraged Muslims to use the fasting period to pray for peace, unity and stability in Kano State and Nigeria.