The Nigerian Naira experiences depreciation against the US Dollar, dropping by N73 in a single day
Business

The Nigerian Naira experiences depreciation against the US Dollar, dropping by N73 in a single day

Once again, the Nigerian Naira has started depreciating against the US Dollar in the foreign exchange market. Latest data from FMDQ revealed that on Thursday, the Naira declined to N1533.99 per dollar, compared to N1459.02 the day before. Thursday's trading saw a significant loss of N73.98 against the dollar, contrasting with the previous rate of N1459.02. Similarly, in the parallel market section, the Naira saw a depreciation to N1555 per Dollar, down from N1515 observed on Wednesday. In a bid to tackle the foreign exchange crisis in the country, the Central Bank of Nigeria has granted Approval-in-Principle (AIP) to 14 new International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), aiming to increase foreign currency remittance inflows through formal channels. It is worth noting that Bureau De Ch...
Entertainment

Yul Edochie urges Nollywood producers to stop portraying Nigerians negatively in movies

In a plea to filmmakers, Nollywood actor Yul Edochie expressed his disapproval of movies that depict Nigerians as unrefined and ridiculous characters when they travel abroad. He emphasized that such narratives tarnish the country's image. Edochie encouraged producers to focus on stories where Nigerians abroad offer traditional solutions and emerge as leaders, rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes. Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, Edochie stated: "I hope our filmmakers will refrain from depicting Nigerians traveling abroad as foolish. Such storylines undermine our worth." He pointed out the disparity in portrayal between how foreigners are showcased in African settings versus how Nigerians are often portrayed in foreign scenarios. Edochie highlighted the need for Nigeria...
Group B Opener: Golden Eaglets and Burkina Faso Share Points in WAFU Cup
Sports

Group B Opener: Golden Eaglets and Burkina Faso Share Points in WAFU Cup

In the ongoing WAFU Cup at the University Stadium in Accra, Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets and Burkina Faso played out a 0-0 draw in their Group B match. Despite their dominance in the game, the Golden Eaglets' struggles in making effective decisions in the attacking third hindered their chances. On the other hand, Burkina Faso was unable to create any significant goal-scoring opportunities throughout the match. Manu Garba’s team is set to face Niger Republic in their upcoming match on Sunday while they will conclude their group stage campaign against Benin Republic three days later. The top two teams in the group will secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Metro

Warning to Ogun Residents: Blocking Roads for Social Events is Illegal, Says TRACE

Residents of Ogun State have been cautioned by the Commander and Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Cdr ‘Seni Ogunyemi, against the act of blocking roads for social events. During a radio programme in Abeokuta, Ogunyemi issued this warning, emphasizing the legal implications of such actions. He clarified that permits from the government are specifically for organizing social events, not for obstructing public roads that impede others' movement. Quoting sections six and seven of the law that established TRACE, Ogunyemi highlighted the legality issues surrounding road blockages for social gatherings. According to him, the core issue lies in the disregard for the law by the public, despite claiming to have rece...
The EFCC in Kaduna arrests 15 individuals suspected of online fraud
Metro

The EFCC in Kaduna arrests 15 individuals suspected of online fraud

A team from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended 15 individuals believed to be involved in internet fraud in Zaria, Kaduna State. The arrests took place near Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, based on reliable information connecting a group of fraudsters to potential online fraudulent activities. Upon their apprehension, authorities seized cell phones and laptops from the suspects. The individuals were promptly transferred to the EFCC's Kano Zonal Command for further, thorough investigations. The EFCC has stated that the suspects will face charges in court once the investigations are completed.
Demolition of Shanties and Illegal Structures in Ogun State Schools and Markets
Metro

Demolition of Shanties and Illegal Structures in Ogun State Schools and Markets

Shanties and various structures surrounding schools and market areas in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, are currently undergoing demolition by the state government. As part of the 'Safe School Initiative', this demolition effort aims to enhance security and provide a conducive learning environment for students. Tasked with overseeing the operation in Kuto, Idi-Aba, Oke Ijeun, and Panseke within Abeokuta, are the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Farooq Akintunde, along with a dedicated task force.    
Burna Boy: ‘A Significant Portion of My Income Goes Towards Charity’
Entertainment

Burna Boy: ‘A Significant Portion of My Income Goes Towards Charity’

The Grammy-winning artist from Nigeria, Burna Boy, has revealed that he dedicates a substantial part of his music earnings to charitable causes, without seeking attention for it online. He emphasized that his investments in luxury cars and jewelry are insignificant compared to what he directs towards community development. During a recent Instagram live session with his fans, Burna Boy made these declarations. He articulated, “I allocate a considerable portion of my income towards supporting the community, although I don’t feel the need to publicize it online. “While you may see me adorned in diamonds and driving fancy cars, those possessions represent a fraction of my earnings.”
Man, 50, Brought Before Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court for Alleged Indian Hemp Possession
Metro

Man, 50, Brought Before Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court for Alleged Indian Hemp Possession

On Thursday, a 50-year-old man named Oluwole Ariyo was arraigned by the police before the Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court on charges of possessing Indian hemp. Identified as having no fixed address, the defendant is facing trial for the possession of the substance. According to the police prosecutor, Inspector Olubu Apata, the alleged incident took place on May 9 around 1:00 p.m in Iyin-Ekiti. It was claimed that Ariyo was found in possession of suspicious weeds believed to be Indian hemp. Apata cited a violation of Section 5 (b) of the Indian Hemp Act LFN 2004 in connection with the offense. The prosecutor requested an adjournment to allow for further examination of the case file and to prepare witnesses. The accused, however, entered a plea of not guilty to the allegations. Repre...
News Update: Tragic Incident in Zamfara as Bandits Target Villagers
Metro

News Update: Tragic Incident in Zamfara as Bandits Target Villagers

Reports have come in stating that a horrifying attack by bandits has resulted in the death of at least three individuals and the kidnapping of over 120 villagers in the Goran Namaye community situated in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Witnesses, like Abubakar Muhammad, shared that the bandits struck the town around 1:17 am on Thursday, moving between houses to carry out their sinister plans. Among the abducted individuals, the majority were women and men, with the attackers also claiming the lives of three people during their brutal raid. "The fate of many community members remains unknown, and unfortunately, we mourn the loss of three of our own to this tragic event," mentioned Muhammad. Describing the terrifying scene, Muhammad highlighted how the bandits arrived in a...
Obateru: Journalists facing increasing dangers
News

Obateru: Journalists facing increasing dangers

Encouraging journalists to prioritize their safety and security while carrying out their professional responsibilities, Taye Obateru from the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Jos spoke at a Talk and Prayer Session hosted by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ, Plateau State Council. The event marked the 17th anniversary since eight journalists lost their lives in a tragic accident while on assignment in Jos, the state capital. Reflecting on the theme "Taking Personal Responsibility for Our Safety as Journalists," Obateru emphasized the importance of journalists being mindful of their well-being amid the pressures of delivering stories on tight deadlines. Obateru noted, "In today's landscape, journalists are increasingly at risk, covering various crises, conflicts...