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A Nigerian nurse, Ugbede Ojo, who faced backlash after describing Lagos as a “smelly city” in a viral tweet, has secured a new job abroad.
This development follows reports that her position at a Lagos hospital was under threat due to her controversial post.
In November, Ugbede stirred controversy when she tweeted: “This Lagos is a smelly city. People smell, the streets smell, the gutters smell, the water smells, everything is smelly. I’m tired.”
The post sparked mixed reactions. While some defended her right to express her views, others criticised her for being “disrespectful” to Lagos and its residents.
One user, identified as Bayo, strongly condemned her tweet, describing it as “public ridicule.” He tagged Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and then-Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, urging them to take action.
“Dear Lagos government, you’re leaving the lives and economy of Lagos in the hands of people that hate their employers,” the user wrote.
“If #jidesanwoolu and #mudashiru_obasa will not start demanding respect from people that are taking jobs away from aboriginals, we will also not stop adding external LEGAL pressure until we get the desired respect.”
Ugbede, who was reportedly employed at the General Hospital in Gbagada, later claimed she had been facing “attacks” due to her tweet.
However, another X user, Cross˚, who identifies as #Elkrosmediahub, offered her a job abroad if she lost her current one due to the backlash.
“Hi #nurse_ugbede, trust you are having a beautiful morning. So one of my
Ogas asked me to reach out to you. Just in case anything happens to your job, and you are willing to work in another country, kindly notify me. Will share an email address you can forward your CV to too,” the user wrote.
On Tuesday, Ugbede announced her new job on X, writing, “I got the job, guys.”
Reflecting on her journey, she added: “Just remember that by this time last year, I was homeless in Lagos! Squatting with a friend and borrowing money to pay rent.
“One year later, I got my big girl job and big girl pay. I wondered when it would happen, but when it’s your turn, God will part the ocean!”
[Punch]
![[Full List] Covenant University ranked best in Nigeria for 2025](/media/k2/items/cache/3982a504b56131ab744dde20d87c99a0_L.jpg?t=20250122_130915)
Covenant University has been ranked as the best tertiary institution in Nigeria in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities Rankings.
The varsity secured a global position between 201-1000. At the time, the university accommodated 8,940 students with a gender ratio of 37:63.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is Nigeria’s second-highest-ranked university, placing between 1001-1200 globally. ABU achieved an international outlook score of 40.9, a research environment score of 12.4, and a research quality score of 55.7. The teaching score was 23.1, the industry score stood at 19.8, and its overall score ranged between 30.7-34.4.
Landmark University, a private institution in Kwara State, also ranked between 1001-1200 globally, making it the third-best university in Nigeria. The institution recorded an overall score of 30.7-34.4, with a teaching score of 17.3, a research environment score of 18.6, research quality at 60.5, industry at 20.7, and an international outlook score of 32.7.
The University of Ibadan (UI) placed fourth in Nigeria and 1001-1200 globally in the 2025 rankings, a step down from its second-best ranking in Nigeria in 2024. UI’s student population in 2024 was 41,269, with a staff-to-student ratio of 1:19.7 and interdisciplinary science research comprising 19 percent of its academic portfolio. In 2025, UI achieved an international outlook score of 42.5, research quality of 57.8, teaching at 30.1, and an industry score of 20.9.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) ranks fifth in Nigeria and 1001-1200 globally, maintaining its global position from 2024 but dropping one spot domestically. It scored 42.4 for international outlook, 64.5 for research quality, 15.7 for teaching, and 21.5 for industry.
Top 5 Universities in Nigeria (THE 2025)
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Landmark University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
Other notable institutions in the top 10 include Bayero University, Kano, and the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).
Full Rankings: Top Nigerian Universities (THE 2025)
Below is the comprehensive list of universities that made the rankings:
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Landmark University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Bayero University
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- Ekiti State University
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
- Lagos State University
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Port Harcourt
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
- Abia State University
- Akwa Ibom State University
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike
- Ambrose Alli University
- Baze University
- Bells University of Technology
- Benson Idahosa University
- Bowen University
- Delta State University, Abraka
- Evangel University, Akaeze
- Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun
- Godfrey Okoye University
- Lagos State University of Education
- Lagos State University of Science and Technology
- Nasarawa State University, Keffi
- Niger Delta University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Osun State University
- Rivers State University
- Thomas Adewumi University
- University of Cross River State
- University of Maiduguri
- Veritas University, Abuja
Vanguard News
Mr Yisa Usman, the sacked deputy director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has said that he was determined to expose corruption in the board irrespective of the threat and intimidation against him.
Usman told Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae of the National Industrial Court, Abuja, while being cross-examined as the sole witness in the suit instituted against JAMB over his alleged unlawful dismissal.
While responding to questions put to him by counsel to JAMB, A. A. Owonikoko, the witness admitted writing petitions to various government agencies over alleged corruption in the board.
The aggrieved ex-worker, who admitted receiving queries from the board and an invitation letter to appear before a disciplinary committee before his job was terminated, said he answered the queries and wrote a protest letter against the composition of the committee.
When Owonikoko asked Usman about the email message attached to the invitation letter, dated May 17, 2023, in response to the disciplinary committee’s invitation, the witness admitted writing the reply.
The lawyer then asked Usman to read out the printout of the email message dated May 18, 2023, in open court.
The witness, while reading, said, “Dear Directors, this is a follow-up to the two queries issued to me. I received a letter of invitation on Tuesday, 16th May 2023, to appear before the Disciplinary Committee.
“The attached is my response to the invitation for your information.
“This new development only renews my determination to continue with my quest for justice and my fight against the corrupt practices that have characterised our organisation in the past six to seven years, which I stated in the letter, are perpetrated under the cover of the remittances made to the government.’
“It is of note that I am invited to appear before the Disciplinary Committee while my contemporaries are invited to promotional examination to substantive director.
“But I am not bothered because I do know for certain that God alone promotes.
“I am not deterred by this development, nor am I intimidated in any way.
“The fight against corruption and abuse of authority is the responsibility of every Nigerian. The law will take its course, no matter how long it takes. Thank you.”
He told the court that his reply to the query was submitted in hard copy to his immediate superior, and because he wanted all members of the management to be privy to what was going on, he also sent the message to the email addresses of the directors.
“My Lord, the email was to communicate to the directors the response to the query that was issued to me,” he said.
When Owonikoko told him that his email message was totally unrelated to the subject for which he was invited by the committee, Usman said, “My Lord, it is related.”
The ex-staff admitted writing several petitions against JAMB to different investigating agencies, including National Assembly, about the alleged financial infractions under the current JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
He admitted writing to the Attorney General for the Federation, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and Department of State Services.
He also admitted writing to the Minister of Education, Head of Service, National Human Rights Commission, and Bureau of Public Procurement about alleged corruption, harassment, victimisation, and procurement infractions.
When the lawyer asked him if all his petitions were directed at indicting the JAMB registrar as corrupt, Usman responded in the affirmative.
Owonikoko also asked Usman to read out the last two paragraphs in his response to the disciplinary committee, and he read thus:
“As a committed Nigerian citizen, my loyalty remains first to the nation before any individual. The fight against corruption is the responsibility of everyone.
“The threat of the registrar to cause me harm or have my appointment terminated will not deter me, nor will the continued attempt to malign me.
“I remain determined in the fight for justice and against the corrupt practices in the system. I will not back down for any reason until justice is done and seen to be done.
“And while I look up to God for complete respite, I wish to state here that my life has been under constant threat for the bold action I took to disclose the corrupt practices in JAMB and the abuse of authority by the Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
“I reported this to the DSS and the IGP previously. I am again stating here that if anything happens to me, the Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, and his DFA, Mr. Mufutau Bello, should be held responsible.
When the lawyer also asked him to read Paragraph 2 of the dismissal letter, Usman read thus:
“This is the sequel to the recommendation of the Directorate Staff Disciplinary Committee after due consideration of your written responses to the allegations of serious misconduct levelled against you.
“And also after taking cognisance of your letter of 17th May 2023, wherein you state never to appear before the Board staff disciplinary committee despite the formal letter of invitation requesting you to appear.’’
Usman, however, denied saying that he would never appear before the disciplinary committee.
Usman said his letter of May 17, 2023, in response to the disciplinary committee’s invitation, was to reject the constitution of the committee.
According to him, the reason stated, my lord, was that they were all complicit in the infractions I reported to the relevant government agencies, and for that reason, I was not certain of getting a fair hearing.
When asked if he was aware that the committee did not include the registrar of the board, he said, “My lord, I am not aware.”
When also asked if he was aware that the registrar and Director of Finance and Account (DFA) recused themselves from the committee, Usman said, “My Lord, I was never communicated to that effect. So, I was not aware.”
He admitted saying that the DFA “has overshot his retirement period and is occupying the office illegally.”
When the lawyer asked him if he named the DFA as a party in his suit, he said, “My Lord, my suit is against JAMB, and the DFA is a management member of JAMB.”
Usman denied that the criminal charge preferred against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja was a result of the investigation conducted into his allegations against the board after they were found to be unmeritorious.
Owonikoko to Usman: “Confirm to this honourable court that when the present registrar assumed office, he did an audit of the finances, and it was in the course of this that the investigating authorities came up with some of these infractions.”
“My lord, that is not true,” he responded.
When the lawyer asked him to confirm the date the five-count charge was filed, Usman said it was instituted on March 30, 2023.
When the lawyer then asked if there had never been any investigation into the activities of JAMB by investigating authorities since Oloyede assumed office, Usman said, “My lord, there had been investigations indeed, but the charge just read out was never part of that investigation.”
Earlier, Justice Obaseki-Osaghae admitted the list of the claimant’s documents and statements on oath in evidence as presented by his lawyer, Mohammed Shuaibu, and marked as Exhibits C1-C5, CE1-CE23, and C6-C15, respectively.
The judge said the admissibility was subject to the right of the defendant to object to any of them.
The judge adjourned the matter until Feb. 27 for the defendant to open its defence.
It would be recalled that Usman had filed a N150 million suit against the board over alleged unlawful dismissal.
Usman, in the suit marked NICN/ABJ/266/2023 and filed by his lawyer, Oseini Bamigbaye from the Chambers of Mohammed Shuaibu, sought nine reliefs.
While Usman is the claimant, JAMB is the sole defendant in the case dated and filed on Sept. 29, 2023.
The claimant prayed the court to declare that the constitution of the Board’s Directorate Staff Disciplinary Committee set up by the office was wholly irregular, illegal, null, and void for failure to comply with Article 3.5.4 of the Board’s Staff Manual and Conditions of Service.
He also prayed the court to declare that the composition of the committee, mostly consisting of the board’s registrar and other directors who were beneficiaries of infractions exposed by him “in Item No. 6, Page 5 of his response dated April 3, 2023, to the query issued on March 31, 2023, is unconstitutional, null, and void.”
He premised his argument because his right to fair hearing could not have been guaranteed before the committee.
Usman urged the court to declare that “the claimant’s purported dismissal by the defendant without the consideration of the committee’s report by the defendant’s board is unlawful, illegal, null, and void.”
The claimant, who sought an order setting aside his “purported dismissal” by the board, prayed the court for an order reinstating him “to his position with full entitlements, benefits, and perks due to him by virtue of his position.”
He sought an order granting to the claimant all the salaries, allowances, and perks due to him or that would have been due to him but for the purported dismissal, among others.
(NAN)
23-year-old Turkish model arrested for attempt to break record of sleeping with 100 men in 24 hours
AFOLABI
A 23-year-old Turkish OnlyFans model, Ezra Vandan, also known as Azranur AV, has been arrested in Istanbul for her controversial plan to sleep with 100 men in 24 hours.
Authorities deemed her actions as “obscene” and “damaging” to the country’s moral values, reports Daily Mail.
Vandan publicly announced her intentions on January 14, 2025, via social media, declaring her goal to break a Turkish and then a world record.
She shared a provocative photo of herself wearing red lingerie, captioned: “My goal is to break a Turkish record first, then a world record! I’m starting with 100 men in 24 hours.”
Her statement quickly caught the attention of the Istanbul Security Branch Directorate’s Morality Bureau. Following an investigation, Vandan was arrested at a hospital in Atasehir, where she was awaiting a cosmetic surgery procedure.
Footage of the arrest shows Vandan being escorted by two female officers with her wrists bound behind her back. She was taken into custody wearing a crop top and jeans.
Adding to the controversy, Vandan reportedly shared a half-naked image of herself, allegedly taken by a police officer during her arrest. She claimed, “I had the photo taken by one of the officers, he didn’t object much.”
Vandan was charged with obscenity, resisting an officer and slander. The Istanbul 6th Criminal Judgeship of Peace ruled that her actions were provocative and harmful to society’s moral values, justifying prison time.
Her husband, Pedram Vandan, 25, was also briefly detained but later released.
The model has defended her actions, claiming her posts do not harm anyone and that she should have the freedom to express herself. “I do not deserve to be judged,” she stated.
Vandan’s announcement followed recent reports of British adult performer Bonnie Blue claiming to have set a world record by engaging with over 1,000 men in 12 hours
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, has vowed to tackle the commoditisation ( buying and selling) of Naira notes, which has become widespread in the country.
CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso made this vow in a keynote address at the inaugural Stakeholders’ Conference of the Committee of Heads of Banks Operations (CHBO) in Lagos, with the theme “Commoditization of Naira: The Way Forward.”
Represented by the Senior Special Adviser to the CBN Governor, Fatai Kareem, Cardoso stated that commoditization of the Naira poses a significant threat not only to the banking sector but also to the daily lives of Nigerians who rely on the currency for transactions.
He described Naira commoditization as a process by which the national currency is being treated as a tradable asset with its intrinsic national value being subjected to the principles of capitalism rather than being seen as a means of exchange for economic and items of value.
According to him, “The Naira is not merely a currency; it embodies our national identity. Its stability is vital for economic growth and development.” Recent trends, however, have seen the Naira treated as a commodity rather than fulfilling its primary function as a medium of exchange.
“The commoditization of the Naira, our national legal tender, has become a critical challenge for Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. It is a problem that not only affects the operations of the banking industry but also the lives of every Nigerian that relies on the currency for his day to day transactions.”
He said the apex bank’s strategies to tackle the commoditization of the Naira are: enhancing public engagement awareness on the responsible use of the Naira; strengthening cash management system to ensure fair distribution across the country; collaborating with law enforcement agencies to enforce existing regulations and bring perpetrators to book; promoting digital payment channels to reduce the use of cash transactions and the need to escalate digital errors to the banks and the CBN.
Chairman of the Executive Committee of CHBO, Abraham Aziegbe attributed the commoditization of the Naira to severe scarcity which led to its monetisation.
He noted that over the past two years, Nigerians have faced significant challenges due to cash shortages, leading to instances where citizens pay premiums for everyday transactions. This situation raises concerns about cash availability and potential hoarding practices among banks.
The Kenyan government has approved recommendations to enhance its electronic travel authorisation (eTA) system for African visitors.
The approval was granted during the federal government’s first cabinet meeting of the year chaired by President William Ruto.
A statement issued by the State House said the meeting was held to discuss ways of driving transformative change in Kenya.
Improving traveller experience and tourism were some of the priorities.
“As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries — except Somalia and Libya — due to security concerns,” the statement reads.
“This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent.”
The statement said most African visitors will be allowed a two-month stay while East African Community (EAC) nationals will continue to enjoy a six-month stay under the bloc’s free movement protocols.
“To improve efficiency, an expedited eTA processing option will be introduced, allowing travelers to receive approval instantly, with processing time capped at 72 hours based on operational capacity,” the State House added.
“Additionally, the introduction of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system will enhance pre-screening, strengthen security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.”
The statement said the cabinet mandated the secretaries of national treasury, transport, interior, and tourism to review, report, and propose guidelines to improve travellers’ experience at all Kenyan airports within a week.
Last year, Kenya introduced a “visa-free” policy that required most visitors to apply online for authorisation before leaving their countries.However, the introduction of the eTA, which replaced the visa requirement for all visitors, was criticised as a “visa by another name”.
The eTA fee is $30 and valid for 90 days.
[TheCable]
Geneva, 21 January 2025 - The World Health Organization regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the Organization.
WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and detecting, preventing and responding to health emergencies, including disease outbreaks, often in dangerous places where others cannot go.
The United States was a founding member of WHO in 1948 and has participated in shaping and governing WHO’s work ever since, alongside 193 other Member States, including through its active participation in the World Health Assembly and Executive Board. For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats. Together, we ended smallpox, and together we have brought polio to the brink of eradication. American institutions have contributed to and benefited from membership in WHO.
With the participation of the United States and other Member States, WHO has over the past 7 years implemented the largest set of reforms in its history, to transform our accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact in countries. This work continues.
We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.
The National Youth Service Corps has confirmed that the 2024 Batch C Stream 2 Orientation Camp will officially open today, Wednesday, January 22, 2025, across all states in the country.
This announcement was shared via messages on the NYSC’s official X handle, #officialnyscng, on Tuesday.
“Prospective corps members (PCMs) are to report to their various camps on the date slated on their call-up letters, with their required documents and survival packs,” the statement advised.
The NYSC also announced the release of deployment letters for the 2023 Batch ‘C’ Stream II. PCMs can now access their deployment details to prepare for the service year.
In a safety advisory, the scheme urged prospective corps members to exercise caution while traveling to their designated camps.
“PCMs are advised not to travel to Orientation Camps at night,” NYSC emphasised, reiterating its commitment to ensuring the safety of corps members.
Additionally, PCMs were reminded of an important requirement to complete their registration at the camps.
“Prospective corps members are advised to print and sign the addendum, which is to be submitted during registration in the orientation camp,” the update noted.
For logistical reasons, the NYSC disclosed that some prospective corps members initially deployed to Lagos State will undergo their orientation course in Ekiti, Ondo, or Osun camps.
Similarly, some PCMs deployed to the Federal Capital Territory may have their orientation courses in Nasarawa or Kaduna camps.
“Some PCMs deployed to Lagos State will have their orientation course in Ekiti, Ondo and Osun camps.
” Some PCMs deployed to FCT will have their orientation course in Nasarawa, and Kaduna camps,” it read.
The NYSC urged all prospective corps members to comply with these directives and prepare adequately for the mandatory three-week orientation program.
For further updates, PCMs are encouraged to follow the official NYSC social media platforms.
PUNCH Online reports that the orientation course takes place over the space of three weeks in all designated camps – one – in each states nationwide.
NYSC is a programme established by the Nigerian government in 1973 to promote national unity, integration, and development.
It is a one-year mandatory service for Nigerian graduates under the age of 30, which includes a three-week orientation camp, a primary assignment phase, and a community development service period.
A middle aged man, Sunday Omisakin, one of the ex-convicts granted state pardon by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on December 24, 2024 had been remanded in the Ilesa Correctional Centre by an Osogbo Chief Magistrates Court, sitting in Osogbo, for stealing a plasma television set.
The ex-convict who was number 8 on the list of ex-convicts granted state pardon, returned to crime on January 3, 2025, by breaking into a house in Inudun Area, Osogbo, to steal a plasma TV worth N600,000.
A charge sheet obtained by our reporter on Tuesday, “COUNT I read this,: “That you Adebayo Omisakin Sunday ‘m’ on the 3rd day of January 2025 at about 12:00 pm at the Al-medinat Area, Iludun in the Osogbo Magistrarial district did break and entered the house of one Shittu Damilare ‘m’ and steal one Plasma TV valued the sum of Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N600,000:00k) only.”
COUNT II: “That you Adebayo Omisakin Sunday ‘m’ and on the same date, time and place in the Aforementioned Magisterial District did Steal one Plasma TV valued the sum of Six Hundred Thousand Naira (#600,000:00k) only property of one Shittu Damilare ‘m’.”
He was said to have committed offences contrary to and punishable under Section 411 (1) (2) of criminal code cap 34 vol.Il and Section 383 and punishable under 390 (9) of Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol.II laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2002.Upon his first arraignment on January 7, he applied for bail, but Magistrate A. Adeyeba adjourned the matter till January 10 to rule on the bail application.
In his ruling, the prosecutor, Kayode Adeoye ordered that ,the defendant be reminded in Ilesa correctional center.
Famous Nigerian comedian, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has revealed that he may not be worthy of emulation in keeping home.
The comedian made this known on Tuesday, while praising his brother, Yomi Casual, for the love and respect he has for his family.
This is coming a few months after the comedian admitted to having found himself doing things that he is not proud of during his marriage.
Celebrating Yomi’s 40th birthday, AY in a now controversial post on Instagram, said: “I may not have scored 100% in other responsibilities as a perfect example that is worthy of emulation when it comes to keeping the home front intact.
“But I’m proud to say the love and respect you (Yomi) have for the family is second to none. Love you lots!”
DAILY POST recalls that AY confirmed separation from his wife, Mabel Makun, in April, 2024, after nearly 20 years of their union.
More...
On Monday, an unnamed group of Northern Nigerians led by Jamilu Majia and Adams Funtua organised a luncheon to celebrate Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States.
Majia, a musician, composed and released a music video in November 2024 to drum up support for Trump during the build-up to the presidential election.
In the music video posted on his TikTok page, he extolled Trump and urged Americans to vote for his return to the White House.
In the music video, children hold American flags and wear customised vests while singing about Trump.
However, the luncheon video he posted on his TikTok to celebrate Trump’s inauguration sparked mixed reactions and raised questions among netizens.
He posted the viral video with the caption, “Congratulations, President #Trump Inaugural Luncheon in Nigeria.”
A video from the gathering continues to trend online.
The one-minute, thirty-one-second video showcases jubilant Hausa participants singing in their native language, clapping, and expressing joy in honour of the occasion.
Analysis
The video featured attendees dressed in traditional Hausa attire, a dignitaries’ table adorned with juice, Coke, and water, and a banner in the background that read, “Congratulations, Mr. President. Trump’s inauguration.”
Set amidst vibrant decorations, the celebration included traditional Nigerian cuisine, such as jollof rice and suya, creating a lively atmosphere filled with cultural pride and festivity.
A special song was composed for Mr Trump in Hausa, accompanied by English subtitles. In the video, which had sparked discussions about the global interest in American politics, attendees stood, clapped, and danced enthusiastically to the song.
A woman and children were also seen at the front of the dignitaries’ table, singing, clapping, and dancing in unison with the celebratory crowd.
The song’s lyrics praised Trump’s boldness and commitment, describing him as a great leader chosen by God.
They sang, “In God, we trust Africa; in God, we trust America. Oh! Hail Donald Trump, the American President. Oh! Hail Donald Trump, America. We’re all in support. Donald Trump is the President. The great leader, Trump, may God uplift your dignity.
“God chose you, made you, and protected you. Always take care of your supporters. America loves you. Oh, hail Donald Trump. Africa is also praising you, Asia is praising you, the Middle East is praising you, and Latin America is praising you. Everyone supports you, and everyone believes in you, Donald Trump.”
Not the first time
This newspaper gathered that it was not the first time Nigerians celebrated Trump in election-related matters. They celebrated him after he won the presidential election in November 2024.
More so, in November 2020, a rally was held in Onitsha, Anambra State, to drum support for the 78-year-old when he sought a reelection. During the event, a group organised a pro-Trump rally to mobilise support for him.
The group, consisting primarily of women and youths, marched through the streets while singing victory songs for Trump, whom they believed deserved another term in office.
Dressed in white and blue uniforms, they waved the United States flag alongside banners and placards bearing inscriptions such as “Make America Great Again” and “President Trump: America needs a man like you.”
Trump tweeted about the rally, captioning it: “A parade for me in Nigeria, a great honour!”
However, Trump of the Republican Party lost his re-election bid to the immediate past President Joe Biden of the Democratic Party.
This newspaper earlier reported that two prominent Nigerians, William Kumuyi, founder of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, and renowned gospel artiste Nathaniel Bassey, ministered during Trump’s inauguration.
Kumuyi led a prayer session at President Trump’s Inaugural Prayer and Praise Convocation on Sunday in Washington, D.C., while Bassey performed at the inaugural prayer breakfast. The prayer breakfast is a non-political, faith-based event held every four years before the swearing-in of a new administration.
A coalition of 18 Democratic states in the US has filed a federal lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to overturn birthright citizenship.
The states’ attorneys general filed the lawsuits on Tuesday.
The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War, stipulates that all persons “born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof,” are automatically citizens.
The language was crafted and added to the Constitution to establish full citizenship rights for Black Americans, who at the time suffered exclusion.
But for over a century, it has been interpreted as also granting rights to all children born on US soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
After his inauguration on Monday, Trump invoked his presidential orders to begin his long-touted immigration crackdown.
A statement issued by the White House said the century-old interpretation was misplaced, “clarifying” that the privilege does not extend to children whose parents are not US citizens.
DEMOCRATIC STATES KICK
The lawsuit filed by the 18 states said Trump’s initiative violates the law.
The states that joined the suit are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Letitia James, New York attorney-general, said the law is a cornerstone of America’s commitment to justice and is not open to reinterpretation by executive order or presidential decree.
“President Trump’s attempt to undermine the fundamental right to birthright citizenship is not just unconstitutional; it is profoundly dangerous,” James said.
“Today, we are suing to uphold the integrity of the U.S. Constitution and ensure the promise of birthright citizenship remains intact for all who are born here.”
Trump’s aides hinted that the executive order would take effect 30 days after he signed it.
The Democratic officials also filed a request asking the court to put the case on a fast track and rule on whether to block enforcement before it takes effect.
In a separate legal action, the American Civil Liberties Union also filed a lawsuit aimed at blocking Trump’s order.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Embassy in Abuja has hosted a grand farewell ceremony for 20 Nigerian pilgrims selected for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme for Umrah 2025.
This is part of its dedication to promoting Islamic unity and facilitating access to Islam’s most sacred sites for Muslims around the world.
The ceremony, led by His Excellency Faisal bin Ibrahim Al-Ghamdi, Saudi ambassador to Nigeria, highlighted the kingdom’s unwavering commitment to supporting Muslims and fostering spiritual connections through pilgrimage.
The programme, initiated by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, provides Muslims from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to perform Umrah with full sponsorship, symbolising Saudi Arabia’s role as the spiritual heart of the Islamic world.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Al-Ghamdi expressed profound gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their steadfast dedication to Islam’s holy sites. He praised their exceptional leadership in enhancing the services provided to pilgrims and ensuring their journey to the sacred sites is spiritually fulfilling and logistically seamless.
“The custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the crown prince have prioritised the well-being of pilgrims, viewing it as a sacred duty and an immense honour. Through this programme and other initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen bonds of brotherhood among Muslims while ensuring their comfort and safety during their spiritual journey,” he said.
Ambassador Al-Ghamdi revealed that the kingdom had invested over $100 billion in the recent expansion and modernisation of the Two Holy Mosques. According to him, these ambitious projects, encompassing state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced crowd management systems, and cutting-edge technology, reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to accommodating the increasing number of pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina each year.
He added that the kingdom spares no effort in mobilising resources to improve the pilgrimage experience for all Muslims.
He also emphasised the importance of adhering to the Kingdom’s laws and regulations, designed to maintain order and ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims.
“The leadership of Saudi Arabia remains fully committed to serving the guests of God. This is a responsibility we hold dear, and we continuously strive to enhance the spiritual and logistical aspects of the pilgrimage experience,” he said.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme has become a symbol of the kingdom’s efforts to unite Muslims worldwide and facilitate access to the holiest sites in Islam. Each year, the initiative provides thousands of pilgrims the opportunity to perform Umrah, covering all costs, including travel, accommodation, and other logistics.
The guests sincerely thanked and appreciated King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. May God protect him for the generous hospitality of the kingdom‘s leadership in serving Islam, Muslims, the House of God, and the Holy Land.
The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital has revealed that N112 million will be spent on the treatment of 16 victims of the recent fuel tanker explosion in Niger State within one week.
The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Bissallah Ahmed Ekele, confirmed the hospital’s involvement following directives from the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate.
The CMD, who spoke when our correspondent visited the hospital on Tuesday, said that the hospital, alongside other tertiary institutions, dispatched ambulances to assist in managing the emergency.
He said, “It is true that we have some of the victims. On Sunday, at about 3 p.m., the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, gave directives to the public tertiary hospitals in Abuja. Ours is one of them, to take ambulances to the general hospital in Niger State, where the victims were, to assist in their management. And some of our ambulances were taken there, and as we speak, 16 of them are currently with us. Three of them are critically sick.”
The explosion, which occurred at Dikko Junction, Nigeria State, resulted in severe burns for many victims. “We have 16 victims, three of whom are critically ill with burns exceeding 80 per cent,” Ekele stated.
The hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee Chairman, Dr. Bob Okonu, highlighted the intensive care provided. “We have not slept since Sunday, working around the clock to save these lives,” he said.
He said that the initial resuscitative efforts involved extensive use of medical supplies, including over 20 cartons of normal saline and various antibiotics to combat potential infections.
According to Dr. Okonu, the financial burden is substantial, with each patient’s care costing between six to seven million naira in the first week alone. Okon added that managing burns of this magnitude is capital-intensive, requiring specialised nutrition, fluid replacement, and infection control measures.
“From Sunday night to Monday morning, if you quantify the amount of money spent to ensure that the resuscitative phase took place, it was over two million already.
“So because the body system, the skin is quite critical, if not properly taken care of, it also will affect other internal organs. Of them, I don’t think anyone will spend anything less than six to seven million keeping them within the first seven days. Yes, because of the active engagement, the active phase of resuscitation that will happen,” he explained.
Speaking further, Dr Okonu said that the hospital’s mental health unit was preparing to offer psychological support as part of a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation. “We have seasoned clinical psychologists ready to intervene when needed,” Dr. Okon emphasised.
Narrating his harrowing experience, one of the victims, Yunusu Yusuf, shed light on the events leading up to the disaster that claimed numerous lives and left many injured.
He recounted his ordeal at the market on the fateful Saturday. “I was at the market when a tanker fell, and fuel started spilling out. People began scooping the fuel, and another tanker was brought in to offload. Someone nearby was smoking a cigarette, and that’s when the fire started,” he said.
Yusuf described the chaos, saying, “I quickly removed my trousers and jumped over the fence as the fire followed me.” Despite his injuries, he expressed gratitude for the medical care he is receiving. “The doctors and nurses are looking after me very well,” he added.
Another affected family is Mr Hamza, whose two children, Alhassan and Isah, were caught in the blaze. “The fire started near my shop. My children were repairing a machine while the fuel was offloaded into another tanker. When the fire broke out, they tried to run but fell into the fuel,” Hamza explained.
He said he rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. “They are now being well cared for at the hospital, with proper feeding and medical attention,” he said. Hamza also mentioned that the Nigerian state governor provided N50,000 to support the victims’ families in feeding at the hospital.
The explosion, triggered by locals siphoning fuel from a crashed 60,000-liter tanker, resulted in 98 fatalities and 69 injuries, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). A mass burial has been conducted for those who perished at the scene.