President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Friday, joined Muslim faithful to observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Dodan Barracks prayer ground in Lagos State.

The president was accompanied by several top government officials and dignitaries, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Minister of State, Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle.

Also in attendance were the former Minister of Power and one-time Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; the Chairman of the BUA Group, Abdul Rabiu; the Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and Tinubu’s friend, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.

Speaking after the prayer, Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion, and generosity, especially towards the vulnerable.

He said, “As we make sacrifices, we should remember to pray and give to those who are vulnerable, we must come together to be one and another’s brothers keeper and love everyone fully. We must pray hard for our troops who are keeping us safe and making the sacrifices in the challenges of terrorism and banditry that we face.”

A statement by the president’s Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, also revealed that the Chief Imam called on worshipers to live in peace and consider the needs of their neighbours, the poor and vulnerable.

“If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices. We must unite as Nigerians to make progress. We must rise above tribal sentiments. Whether you are Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live above ethnic sentiments,” the Chief Imam was quoted as saying.

PUNCH reports that in his message to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, Tinubu called on Nigerians to be patient with his administration’s reforms, assuring that “the toughest days are behind us.”

“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits,” he said.

Nollywood actress, Biola Adebayo, has debunked rumours of domestic violence in her now-dissolved marriage to her estranged husband, Seyi, with whom she shares a son.

Taking to Instagram, the actress clarified that no form of physical abuse or violence occurred in their relationship.

This follows renewed public speculation about the circumstances surrounding their separation, which was first announced last week.

Recall that Biola revealed that she and Seyi formally separated in April 2024, and have since been committed to maturely co-parenting their son.

 While the news came as a surprise to many of her fans, she expressed her regrets about the marriage not working out and emphasised that it was more important to prioritise personal well-being.

She also shared that behind her public smiles and efforts to bring joy to others, she has endured personal grief in silence.

Amidst the swirling narratives, Biola returned to her original post to make a clarification, stating that no incidents of physical abuse or violence ever occurred during their relationship. 

“Please note; we never! I mean never had any physical abuse or violence issue from either of us. (Seyi has never laid a finger on me and I never did as well),” she wrote.

She also urged the public to be more compassionate when responding to people’s private lives, saying, “Let us learn to be kind to people. You have no idea what others are going through until they say it.”

Their separation came less than two years after they welcomed their child.

Recall that in 2023, after many years of waiting, Biola welcomed her first child in her 40s after several failed IVFs.

She narrated her painful journey to experience motherhood, revealing how she had a failed IVF, one cancelled surrogate circle, and three failed surrogate attempts within two years before she was blessed with her son.

Controversial Nigerian pastor and founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), now rebranded as The Nxtion Family, Tobi Adegboyega, has revealed that he is battling cancer.

The lifestyle preacher, known for his flamboyant persona and youth-driven ministry, made the announcement during a pre-recorded sermon aired to his congregation on Thursday.

He said, “I was diagnosed with cancer. Yes, you heard me right. I’ve been dealing with cancer for the past few months or even more. I just had a major surgery, that’s why I am not there today.

“I have just fought the battle and I feel the verdict to continue to live was given to me by God for a new level, for a new stage,” the pastor said. 

Adegboyega also announced a £100,000 donation to support cancer awareness and treatment, particularly for young patients.

Adegboyega, who rose to prominence through his unconventional approach to ministry and outreach to troubled youths, has long courted both admiration and criticism for his lavish lifestyle, often flaunting designer suits, luxury cars, and celebrity friendships.

In 2022, his church, SPAC Nation, came under heavy scrutiny in the UK and was officially shut down by the British authorities over financial irregularities.

A UK High Court investigation accused the organisation of failing to account for over £1.87 million in expenses, leading to its dissolution.

Watch the video here:

In 2025, several countries are making it easier than ever for skilled professionals, digital nomads, and investors to secure permanent residency (PR) in as little as six months to two years.

Whether you’re seeking greater freedom, a better quality of life, or a clear path to citizenship, fast-track PR programs offer life-changing benefits — including access to public services, easier family reunification, and long-term stability without repeated visa renewals. 

Here are 10 countries leading the way with some of the fastest and most accessible permanent residency pathways this year. 

1. Canada

• Pathways: Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
• Processing Time: Approximately 5–6 months for Express Entry programs; PNP via Express Entry takes about 6 months, while non-Express Entry PNP can take up to 21 months .
• Requirements: Skilled work experience, language proficiency (IELTS/TEF), educational credentials, and sometimes a job offer or provincial nomination.

2. Australia

• Pathways: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
• Processing Time: Subclass 189 visas are processed in approximately 8–9 months, while Subclass 190 visas take about 6.5–8 months .
• Requirements: Points-based system considering age, work experience, occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, and English proficiency.

3. Portugal

• Pathways: D7 Visa (for retirees and passive income earners), Golden Visa (investment-based)
• Processing Time: Typically 2 years to qualify for permanent residency.
• Requirements: For the D7 Visa, proof of passive income; for the Golden Visa, investment in property or funds. Note that some European countries are phasing out Golden Visa programs .

4. Paraguay

• Pathway: Investment Residency through the SUACE program
• Processing Time: As little as 3 months for investors .
• Requirements: Establishing a business with a minimum investment of $70,000 over 10 years.

5. Mexico

• Pathway: Transition from Temporary to Permanent Residency
• Processing Time: After 4 years of temporary residency, one can apply for permanent residency.
• Requirements: Proof of income or employment, clean background check, and continuous legal residency.

6. New Zealand

• Pathway: Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
• Processing Time: Median processing time is approximately 57.5 workdays (about 11.5 weeks) .
• Requirements: Job offer in a shortage field, points-based selection, and meeting health and character standards.

7. Uruguay

• Pathway: Direct Residency Application
• Processing Time: Typically 1–2 years.
• Requirements: Proof of stable income and physical residence in the country.

8. Panama

• Pathway: Friendly Nations Visa
• Processing Time: Approximately 6–12 months.
• Requirements: Citizenship from one of the “friendly nations,” a local business setup, employment contract, or proof of financial means.

9. Dominican Republic

• Pathways: Investor or Pensioner Residency
• Processing Time: Around 6–12 months.
• Requirements: Retirement income or proof of investment, such as real estate.

10. Argentina

• Pathways: Rentista (for those with passive income) or Employment Residency
• Processing Time: Approximately 2 years to qualify for permanent residency.
• Requirements: Proof of income, local employment, or economic self-sufficiency. No language tests required

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on Friday in Uyo, the state capital, Eno said the decision followed three months of extensive consultations with key political stakeholders across the state.

“For some time now, the political space—particularly in this state and across the nation—has been filled with speculation about my potential defection from the PDP, the platform that facilitated my rise to the position of governor,” he stated.

“This conversation has generated diverse opinions. Today, I am here to address those lingering questions. As the Dalai Lama once said, ‘We should always be open to change, but not let go of our shared values.’”

Governor Eno confirmed that he has submitted his formal resignation from the PDP to his ward chairman, with copies also delivered to the party’s state and national leadership.

“Earlier this morning, I submitted a formal letter of resignation to the ward chairman of the PDP. Copies were also sent to both the state and national chairmen,” he said. “I want to thank the PDP for their support, their love, and the opportunity to serve Akwa Ibom under their banner over the past two years.”

He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly, but came after a series of engagements with political leaders and party stakeholders. His final consultation, he noted, took place during a Thursday evening meeting with key PDP figures.

“I believe no one in the political history of this state has consulted as widely as I have before making such a move,” he said. “I did it out of respect for all of you—as stakeholders in the Akwa Ibom project. I needed your counsel and felt it was important to explain the reasons behind this decision.”

Eno described his defection as a response to the evolving political climate, stating: “We must be able to interpret the times, flow with them, and not swim against the tide. Having completed my consultations, I have now decided to align myself with the All Progressives Congress.”

For Nigerian travellers seeking flexibility and convenience, obtaining a five-year multiple-entry visa can significantly ease international travel. Such visas allow multiple entries into a country over five years, reducing the need for frequent reapplications.

Here are five countries that offer Nigerians this privilege:

1. United States 

The United States grants Nigerian citizens a B1/B2 visa valid for up to five years. This visa permits multiple entries for business or tourism purposes, with each stay typically limited to six months. The visa’s validity and duration of stay are determined by US immigration authorities at the port of entry.

2. Schengen Area Countries

Nigerian travellers with a strong visa history may be eligible for a five-year multiple-entry Schengen visa. This visa allows visits to any of the 29 Schengen countries, provided that the traveller does not exceed 90 days within any 180 days. Eligibility often requires previous possession of a multiple-entry Schengen visa and a history of compliance with visa regulations.

3. South Africa

In a move to strengthen bilateral relations, South Africa has introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for qualified Nigerian businesspeople and tourists. This visa aims to facilitate easier travel between the two nations and promote economic cooperation. Notably, the application process has been simplified, allowing eligible Nigerians to apply without submitting their passports.

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE offers a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa to citizens of all countries, including Nigeria. To qualify, applicants must provide a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-sized photograph, valid medical insurance for the UAE, and a bank statement showing a minimum balance of $4,000 over the last six months. This visa allows multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding 90 days. 

5. Kenya
While Kenya’s standard eVisa is short-term, it issues long-term multiple-entry visas, including five-year options, upon request and proper justification. These are often given to frequent travellers, business people, or those with family or project commitments in the country. Applications can be made through the Kenyan eVisa portal or directly through immigration services.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed speculation that President Bola Tinubu may consider dropping Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to the APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the rumours of the replacement are baseless and distracting, affirming that the relationship between the President and his deputy remains strong.

“I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” Arodiogbu stated.

“Shettima is a key asset—intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration. These rumours are likely just political noise meant to create division.”

He further noted that such speculations are not uncommon in the run-up to an election, especially as political alignments begin to shift. However, he stressed that the President and the Vice President enjoy full confidence and backing from the party leadership.

Similarly, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, denied such a plan.

“I am not aware, Sir,” he said.

The rumours emerged in the aftermath of a high-profile endorsement of President Tinubu by key APC stakeholders. At the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, 22 governors, National Assembly leaders, and senior party figures threw their support behind Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

The motion for endorsement was moved by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, and was seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani. Their position was later reinforced by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, who cited the President’s performance as justification for continuity.

The flurry of endorsements has fueled speculation that the Vice President could be replaced to balance regional interests or expand Tinubu’s electoral base in 2027.

At least 10 countries have confirmed their places at the 2026 World Cup.

Jordan and Uzbekistan qualified for the first time on Thursday, while South Korea sealed their 11th successive appearance.

Uzbekistan were held to a goalless draw by the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhahi.

The result was enough for them to clinch the second automatic qualification spot in Group A behind Iran with a game to spare.

The trio join Japan, New Zealand, Iran and Argentina as the countries to have qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

Co-hosts USA, Canada and Mexico automatically qualified for the competition.

As well as the six automatic qualifiers from Asia, the UAE and Qatar will finish third and fourth and advance to the next stage.

In the next stage, six teams will slug it out for two more places at the 2026 World Cup.

Chelsea have offered the likes of Robert Sanchez and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to West Ham United in a bid to sign their winger, Mohammed Kudus in a part-exchange deal.

But as reported by talkSPORT, West Ham turned down Chelsea’s approach for Kudus this summer transfer window.

While the transfer fee offered by the Premier League west London club is unclear, the Blues were ready to include Sanchez and Dewsbury-Hall in a bid to lure the Hammers to sell their top player. 

The report added that Kudus has also attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, but the Ghanaian international wants to remain in England.

Kudus joined West Ham from Dutch giants Ajax in 2023.

Chelsea recently made a transfer move to bring the 24-year-old to Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca’s side have been a long admire of Kudus since when the player was at Ajax before he eventually moved to the London Stadium.

The Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State has raised the alarm that unknown persons are offering admissions to candidates who scored 150 and above the 2025 UTME.

The advertisements, according to the University authority, were done on social media, inviting candidates to apply for admission into the school’s College of Management Sciences, COLMAS.

A statement issued on Thursday by the University Registrar, Dr. Nkeiruka Charity Mbanasor disowned the publications, saying that no cut off marks has been placed by either JAMB or the admission board of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike.

It warned the unsuspecting admission seekers and the general public against falling for the fraudsters but to use the University’s official website.

The University, however, confirmed that undergraduate programmes of Accounting, Banking and Finance, Economics, Marketing and Business Administration in MOUAU are now fully accredited by the National Universities Commission, NUC, and have also been listed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board,, JAMB.