By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

More than 100 professional cyclists are expected to compete in the inaugural La Reine Cycling Marathon in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as organisers seek to identify and develop young cycling talents in the state.The 100-kilometre race, scheduled for October 26 to November 1, 2026, is being organised by the Akwa Ibom State Cycling Association, with sponsorship from La Reine Spa and Wellness Ltd and support from the Akwa Ibom State Government.

Speaking during a briefing with the Local Organising Committee, the Managing Director of La Reine Spa and Wellness Ltd, Unaobong Umoh, said the event was designed to discover and groom young cyclists for state, national and international competitions. Umoh said the initiative aligns with the sports development objectives of the Umo Eno administration and would draw competitors from the state’s 31 local government areas through their respective cycling associations.

She said an online registration portal had been opened for interested participants, who must meet the required physical and medical fitness standards.Umoh added that the organisers were working with the Ministry of Sports and the State Cycling Association to ensure the competition meets the required standards. She said prizes would include cash, bicycles, cycling kits, medals and other equipment.

The winner will receive N1 million, a bicycle, cycling suit and other prizes, while the first and second runners-up will receive N700,000 and N500,000 respectively, alongside other rewards.The race will begin at Akwa Ibom Palm Resort and pass through parts of Uyo before finishing at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

By Jabiru Hassan

The Project Coordinator of the Danmodi Eye Care Initiative and Roger Casement Fellow at University College Dublin, Ireland, Dr Hafiz Muktar, has commended Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, saying his administration deserves further recognition for its development efforts.

Muktar made the remarks in a message to the governor and the Jigawa State Government following the presentation of a Blueprint Newspaper award to Namadi on Tuesday. The award was presented alongside recognitions given to ministers, governors, political leaders and other recipients.Muktar described Namadi as a committed leader whose administration was focused on improving the state’s development prospects.

“I am certain that His Excellency, Governor Umar Namadi, is doing great for our state, and his commitment to transforming Jigawa has been recognised since his election as governor,” he said. He expressed optimism that the governor’s development initiatives would continue to benefit residents and contribute to the state’s progress.

Muktar also commended the administration’s efforts in the healthcare sector, particularly its focus on improving healthcare delivery across Jigawa State. He said sustained investment in healthcare would contribute significantly to improving the wellbeing of residents and strengthening the state’s health system.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

The Benue State House of Assembly has unanimously elected Hon. Peter Ipusu Bemdoo, representing Katsina-Ala West State Constituency, as its new Majority Leader. The election took place during Tuesday’s plenary and was presided over by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga, according to a statement issued by the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Zape Michael Upaa.

Ipusu, who previously served as Chief Whip, is also the Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Tertiary Education. His election, according to the statement, reflects the confidence of lawmakers in his legislative experience.

Congratulating Ipusu, Speaker Emberga urged him to use his experience to strengthen the coordination of legislative activities and promote cooperation, discipline and constructive engagement among members.The Speaker also charged the new Majority Leader to support legislation and policies addressing the needs of Benue residents and contributing to the state’s development.

Emberga stressed the importance of teamwork and urged Ipusu to maintain consultation and collaboration with other lawmakers in carrying out his legislative responsibilities.The Speaker expressed confidence that the new Majority Leader would add value to the Assembly, strengthen its leadership and contribute to its effective discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.