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The political horizon in Nigeria’s Adamawa state is set to change dramatically in 2027 when the young and handsome dynamism of Abdulrahman Bashir Haske emerges as the next State Governor. Haske whose maternal grand father was a leading light in the old politics of the state and his father a successful business mogul is the main talking point as the 2027 political calculations of Adamawa State gather momentum.

Young and formidable, the cool and calculated Abdul would probably become the first America University of Yola educated graduate of the institution becomes the governor of Adamawa state.

Born 36 years ago in Yola, Adamawa state, Haske went through primary and secondary education in the state capital and proceeded to the top of the range Atiku Abubakar owned university to become a graduate of Information systems from the American University of Nigeria AUN. 

Like his late dad, he was very much focused on a career in business administration and joined the Lagos Business School, followed immediately by a stint at the Manchester Business School to acquire a measure of British business education. 

The need for a British grounding in international business education drove him to the United Kingdom where the Financial Times became like a daily bible.

The young Haske soon got firmly grounded in running their family business with his senior brother where he  also found that politics was a natural habitat that should not be ignored, joined the All Progressive Congress, APC, where he made good friends who were quick to see the positive leadership qualities in his dna. 

His business interests coupled with his young age did not limit him to aim for a lower position in the political arena instead he fancied a gubernatorial seat which his older brother supported.

He is a member of the institute of directors, he is into Agriculture and it's value chain and owns the biggest rice mill in the North East, into ICT and AI solutions, Construction, logistics, oil and gas, Aviation. 

Haske is a generous philanthropist, a passionate polo player. A grassroot politician, in his mid thirties, married with wife children.

Apparently, the APC in Adamawa state is excited about his candidacy and the young party members in the state are very much super excited. I mentioned his name to a friend from Adamawa and he did not waste time to declare that Haske was their next governor after outgoing incumbent Governor Fintiri, who a few weeks ago joined APC from the PDP following the wave of defections that saw the APC devowering virtually all the PDP governors in the country.

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The daughter of  the embattled ADC National Chairman, Sen.David Mark
Hon. Blessing Onuh a serving member of the house of Representatives is now leading the charge as the National Woman Leader of the Take Action Campaign Organization for the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu!

Her appointment was announced by the Director General of the Take Action Campaign Organization Hon. Tony Nwulu, shortly after handing over her appointment letter at the Organization's Campaign office. 
She pledged to work tirelessly to ensure President Tinubu's victory at the upcoming election. Aligning herself to the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

This shocking news, comes as her father battles his fate as the National Chairman of the opposition party ADC.

Take Action Campaign for Tinubu is a Campaign Organization focusing on showcasing the various  achievements and educating the nigerian masses of the reforms and policies of Mr president.




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Abuja is set to host a gathering of excellence and prestige as the 6th edition of the Accolade Yellow Ball & Awards 2026 takes place on Friday, May 8, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The highly anticipated event, renowned for celebrating leadership, innovation, and outstanding contributions across various sectors, will bring together influential personalities from business, media, and public life. 

With the red carpet scheduled to commence at 5:00 PM, guests are expected to be treated to an evening defined by elegance, networking, and recognition of excellence.

Organisers say the Accolade Yellow Ball has continued to distinguish itself as more than just an awards ceremony, positioning itself as a platform that honours visionaries and trailblazers shaping the continent’s future.

The event will also feature the presentation of awards across multiple categories, celebrating individuals and organisations that have demonstrated excellence, resilience, and innovation in their respective fields.

With its blend of glamour, recognition, and high-level networking, the Accolade Yellow Ball & Awards 2026 is expected to once again affirm its status as one of the most prestigious social and corporate events in Abuja social space. 

Stakeholders and attendees are assured of experiencing a night that both celebrates achievements and inspires the next generation of leaders.






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EL & Matt Nigeria Limited is a dynamic and fast-growing indigenous construction firm committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable infrastructure across Nigeria. Incorporated on April 5, 2012 (RC 1024146), the company has steadily built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and client-focused service delivery.

Headquartered in Abuja with operational presence across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, EL & Matt provides comprehensive construction solutions, including building construction, preconstruction services, construction management, and design-build expertise. 

Leveraging modern technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and advanced digital tools, the company ensures precision, efficiency, and optimal project outcomes while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Driven by a passion for excellence, EL & Matt operates a full-service model that uniquely integrates Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Operation, and Maintenance (EPCOM) under one umbrella. This synergy enables seamless project execution and positions the company as a one-stop solution for complex and large-scale developments.

The company is deeply involved in the design, construction, and reconstruction of critical infrastructure, including major roads, bridges, and engineering systems within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and across other states. Through these efforts, EL & Matt contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and overall national development.

Renowned for its structured project delivery approach, the company prioritises detailed planning, beginning with a clear understanding of client goals, budgets, and timeliness. This is usually followed by well-defined design concepts, material selection, and execution schedules. 

Clients benefit from consistent engagement through weekly update meetings, detailed progress reports, and direct communication with project managers, ensuring transparency and confidence at every stage.

EL & Matt distinguishes itself through exceptional craftsmanship, innovative architectural expression, and meticulous attention to detail. From precision in asphalt alignment to expertly crafted drainage systems and culverts, the company consistently delivers projects that combine durability with aesthetic excellence.

With strict adherence to safety standards, regulatory compliance, and quality control, EL & Matt ensures that all projects meet statutory requirements while safeguarding clients through comprehensive insurance coverage and risk management practices. Its ability to deliver on time, within budget, and to world-class standards has earned the company strong client loyalty, repeat business, and a solid industry reputation.

Guided by core values of integrity, quality, adaptability, and professionalism, EL & Matt Nigeria Limited says it continues to evolve, building not just structures, but lasting legacies for future generations.
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The President of Zambia, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, has accepted his invitation to serve as Keynote Speaker at the forthcoming World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) scheduled to hold in Abuja, Nigeria, from 15th - 21st November, 2026. 

The information was conveyed by the Zambia's Minister of Information and Media, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, while receiving the Presidents of African Public Relations Association (APRA), Mr. Arik Karani, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, and Zambian Institute of Public Relations and Communication (ZIPRC), on Thursday, in Lusaka, Zambia.

“Your visit is very important to us because, it is coming at a very timely moment. President Hakainde Hichilema in responding to your invitation to attend the World Public Relations Forum in Abuja has graciously accepted your request to be a Keynote Speaker at that important global forum. The President doesn't take your invitation lightly, but with a lot of humility”, the Minister said.

Earlier in his presentation, NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku said that the global premium public relations event provides opportunity to influence communication from the perspective of Africa, informing that Nigeria is fully prepared to host the world on behalf of Africa, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has graciously accepted to be the Chief Host. 

Dr. Neliaku also hinted that the Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alh. Mohammed Idris will be hosting Ministers of Information across the African continent to an “African Information Ministers Roundtable” as part of the WPRF event. 

The NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku is currently in Zambia with APRA President on an official invitation to activate World Public Relations Forum campaign, engage with Zambian government, critical stakeholders and mobilise participation for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) and the 37th African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference programmes holding in Nigeria.

Stanley Ogadigo

Director, Public Relations 

26-3-2026

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In response to the chronic shortage of well-trained artisans in Nigeria’s construction and building industry, professionals and building materials manufacturing firms have intensified efforts to address the gap. 

The latest intervention is a training workshop designed to enhance the competence and professionalism of artisans in the sector.

The programme, tagged “Axion 2026 Builders Challenge Abuja,” was organised by Axion Africa, a leading building materials manufacturing company, in collaboration with builders, architects and other key stakeholders. 

The event, held in Gudu, Abuja, attracted artisans from various trades as well as industry professionals, who shared insights on challenges affecting performance and practical solutions to overcome them.
Speaking at the workshop, the Manager of Axion Abuja, Mr. Tochukwu Eze, noted that the initiative was driven by growing concerns over the numerous challenges confronting Nigeria’s building and construction sector.

“At Axion Africa, our mission is to transform the construction industry in Africa by providing innovative and sustainable building solutions that empower communities, drive economic growth and promote environmental stewardship,” he said.

Eze emphasised the company’s commitment to excellence in product development and customer service, stressing the need for artisans to continuously upgrade their skills through training and seminars. 

He also cautioned against unethical practices, such as collaborating with developers to cut corners through the use of substandard materials or insufficient quantities.

In her goodwill message, the Assistant Secretary of the Nigeria Institute of Building. (NIOB) Mrs. Victoria Gana, commended Axion Africa for organising the workshop. She urged participants to apply the knowledge gained in order to reduce unprofessional practices in the industry.

Gana highlighted that the combination of inferior building materials and incompetent artisans remains a major cause of defective structures in the country.
“If there is proper control of building materials and we have competent artisans involved in construction, we will witness a significant reduction in the menace of substandard practices,” she said. 

She further encouraged youths who may not pursue formal education to embrace vocational skills as a viable and productive career path.

One of the participants, Joshua Irgior, expressed appreciation to the organisers and pledged that trainees would make effective use of the knowledge acquired to improve their craft and contribute meaningfully to the industry.

The company also used the occasion to launch new products, including Polycoat (for liquid marble), Totalcrete for tiling walls and floors, as well as materials for plastering, Tyrolean finishing, block moulding and tile fixing.

At the end of the workshop, outstanding participants were recognised and rewarded. The awardees included Mustapha Raji (Tiling), Samson Ojo (Screeding), Ahmadu Usman (Screeding) and Saidu Abubarka (Decorative Design).

Axion Africa, a subsidiary of Axion Canada, is a leader in the development, distribution and application of organic liquid monomer formulations for global road and building construction industries. 

The company’s technologies, originally developed by the U.S. military for rapid airstrip deployment during the Gulf War, have since been adapted for commercial use while retaining their high-performance standards.

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Plans are underway for the 2026 Visionary African Women Summit taking place in Zambia, where women making impact in society and transforming lives through their various endeavours will be honoured with awards of recognition.

The summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions. It serves as a powerful platform to empower, support, and advance the role of women across different spheres of life.

The Visionary African Women Summit also provides valuable networking opportunities and a platform for sharing ideas and experiences that will help women achieve their goals.

This year’s edition will be hosted in the Southern African nation, further reinforcing its pan-African vision, having previously been held in other regions across the continent.
The summit will bring together African women leaders and participants from across the globe, promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. It will also create opportunities for the formation of international networks and partnerships, fostering global solidarity in addressing common challenges faced by women.

High-profile speakers, influential African women leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, and policymakers have been confirmed for the Lusaka summit.
Among them are the newly appointed High Commissioner of Nigeria to Zambia, Dr. Unyime Ivy-King; Hon. Eunice Ohenewaa; Coach Inonge Imbula; and many other distinguished leaders.

Meanwhile, registration has officially commenced for the event, which will take place from June 14–20 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka, Zambia. The theme for this year is “Unleashing Her Vision: Empowering Emerging Women Leaders for Impact.”
The summit is expected to host over 800 delegates from across the world, once again bringing to the forefront the power of women to create lasting impact.



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A new player in Abuja’s fast-evolving real estate sector, Jayne Luxe Realty, is set to officially open its doors on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at INNA Plaza, Gaduwa area of Abuja, marking its entry into Nigeria’s competitive property market with a focus on both  affordability and luxury offerings.

The firm specialises in the sale of estate lands and properties, ranging from low-income housing solutions to high-value developments across the Federal Capital Territory and its surrounding areas. 

It also emphasizes of seamless property acquisition, leveraging on strategic marketing, in-depth market insights, and an exclusive network of developers and investors to deliver value to clients.

The grand opening event is expected to attract a diverse audience, including existing and prospective clients, real estate developers, and investors. It will also serve as a platform to formally introduce the brand and its vision to the public.

Among other things, highlight will include the presentation of estate lands and curated property portfolios, exclusive opening-day discounts on selected properties, and networking opportunities for stakeholders within the real estate ecosystem. 

Attendees will also benefit from on-the-spot client onboarding and facilitated property deals, creating an avenue for immediate transactions.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Managing Director of Jayne Luxe Realty, Engr. Janet Agbo said the company is poised to redefine real estate brokerage services in Abuja through innovation and client-centered delivery.

“Our goal is to create a seamless and transparent property acquisition process for our clients while connecting them to credible investment opportunities. This launch goes beyond mere opening an office, it's about building trust, fostering partnerships, and delivering real value in the real estate space,” she stated.

She added that the firm is committed to positioning itself as a credible and innovative player in Abuja’s luxury real estate market while maintaining inclusivity across different income segments.

Stakeholders in the industry have expressed optimism that the entry of Jayne Luxe Realty comes at a time when demand for structured and reliable property brokerage services continues to rise in Abuja, driven by urban expansion and increasing investor interest in real estate.

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The Federal Government has rolled out a newly developed chicken breed alongside 57 improved crop varieties aimed at increasing meat production, strengthening food security and enhancing the nutritional status of Nigerians.


The announcement was made on Thursday in Ibadan during the 36th meeting of the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds/Fisheries.


The meeting, organised by the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), was chaired by the Chairman of the National Variety Release Committee (NVRC), Prof. Soji Olufajo.


Olufajo explained that the release and registration of the chicken breed and the 57 high-yielding crop varieties, drawn from 14 crops, followed recommendations by two technical sub-committees.


He said that the new chicken breed and crop varieties would have a great impact on food production in the country, advising farmers to enjoy the opportunity by obtaining improved seeds and adapted materials.


Olufajo called on agricultural extension agents to ensure that farmers were aware of new and upcoming developments in terms of greater production in the country.


He charged research institutes, breeders, geneticists and other stakeholders to keep up doing what would enhance the growth and development of agriculture in Nigeria.


According to him, the new chicken breed is ‘Moorbeta’, while the crops comprise soyabean, yam, potato, onion, tomato, rice, pepper, eggplant, Musa spp, cotton, maize, groundnut, sorghum and cowpea.


READ ALSO:Food inflation rises again, hits 12.12%


Earlier, the technical sub-committee on naming, registration and release of crop varieties, chaired by Prof. Shehu Ado, had at its 40th meeting on Tuesday considered 59 submissions.


Following deliberations, 57 varieties were recommended and forwarded to the NVRC for final approval at Thursday’s session.


Similarly, the technical sub-committee on naming, registration and release of livestock breeds/fisheries, at its 10th meeting on Wednesday, examined the single chicken breed submitted.


The sub-committee, chaired by Prof. Waheed Akin-Hassan, stated that the new chicken breed, ‘Moorbeta’, was a locally developed meat-type chicken.


He said there would be a mass production of the breed because of its great potential.


Akin-Hassan noted that efforts on the performance of the nation’s indigenous chicken had been known for so long.


He commended all animal geneticists and breeders who contributed to the area, describing the new chicken breed as a mid-class type.


The sub-committee subsequently presented its recommendations to the NVRC for approval.


PlatinumPost reports that the new chicken was bred by the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Ibadan.


It was released and registered based on its unique characteristic of high body weight at 10 weeks, good carcass characteristics and tolerance to heat stress.


Among the newly approved crop varieties are four Musa spp. types — two plantains and two bananas — developed by the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan.


The plantain varieties, HORTIPLAN 1 and 2, were released for their heavy bunches, yellow pulp, excellence for boiling, frying, roasting, flour-making, long shelf life, and high carotenoid content.


The banana varieties, HORTIBAN 1 and 2, were approved for their good sweet taste, thick peel, big pulp, and intermediate bract apex shape.


Also released was one soyabean variety (YSJ001), developed by YSJ Limited in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, noted for its good pod clearance, high protein content and tolerance to diseases.


Two yam varieties, (UMUDr37) and (UMUDr38), sponsored by the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia, in collaboration with IITA, Ibadan, were also approved.


These two yam varieties were released based on early maturity, good pounding quality, and excellent boiling quality, among other qualities.


A potato variety (Connect) from NRCRI was approved for its large tubers, resistance to late blight and suitability for table use.


In addition, six onion varieties — HORTIONI 1, 2, 3 (dry season) and HORTIONI 4, 5, 6 (wet season) — developed by NIHORT, were released for their high pungency, large bulb size and disease resistance.


Five tomato varieties — HORTITOM 6 and 7, SP TOM 1, 2 and 3 — were also approved based on heat tolerance, early maturity, disease resistance and adaptability to both dry and rainy conditions.


The committee also approved five rice varieties: FARO 73; SG rice 1 and 2; MIP 5803 and 4802.


These were developed by the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi, Niger, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), Abuja, and foreign partners.


The NVRC approved the release and registration of the rice varieties for their long, slender grains and good tillering drought tolerance, among other benefits.


Further approvals included one pepper variety (SP PEP 1) and three eggplant varieties (HORTICUM 1, 2 and 3), all developed by NIHORT.


They were approved based on early maturity of between 55 and 65 days (pepper); high vitamin C content, and early maturing for the eggplant.


Other approved crops include 15 maize varieties, four groundnut varieties, one proprietary sorghum variety, four public cowpea varieties and six proprietary cotton varieties.


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Senegal have announced plans to display the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy ahead of their international friendly against Peru in Paris on Saturday, as football authorities in the country intensify efforts to overturn the decision stripping them of the title.


The Lions of Teranga secured what was believed to be their second AFCON triumph on 18 January after defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 in extra time. The final, however, ended in controversy after Senegalese players left the pitch when Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty with the game still goalless.


In a dramatic turn last week, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reversed the outcome of the match, handing Morocco a 3-0 victory instead.


Senegal have since challenged that ruling, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport confirming on Tuesday that it had received the appeal and would deliver a verdict “as swiftly as possible”.


“Faced with what amounts to the most blatant and unprecedented administrative robbery in the history of our sport, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) refuses to accept this as inevitable,” FSF president Abdoulaye Fall said at a media conference in the French capital.


Moments before his remarks, the federation had published a schedule of activities for Saturday’s match at the Stade de France, which included a planned trophy parade.


“Senegal will not bend the knee and will not compromise its values,” added Fall. “Our fight now transcends the football pitch.”


Following the disputed final in Rabat — where Morocco and Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz failed to convert a Panenka penalty in the 114th minute — the Royal Moroccan Football Federation promptly filed a protest with both CAF and FIFA. The complaint argued that Senegal’s decision to leave the field “greatly affected the normal course of the match and the players’ morale”.


CAF’s disciplinary committee initially dismissed the protest and instead imposed sanctions on both teams, including a five-match suspension for Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw on 29 January.


However, the Moroccan federation maintained that the sanctions did not “reflect the seriousness of the incidents”, prompting a review by CAF’s appeal board. On 17 March, the board ruled that Senegal had breached articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations.


Article 82 stipulates that any team that “leaves the ground before the regular end of the match without the authorisation of the referee” will be disqualified.

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)  has moved to limit access to banking services for “chronic defaulters” and major borrowers with non-performing loans.


The directive forms part of a broader effort to strengthen credit discipline and protect the country’s financial system. The apex bank announced the policy on Wednesday, following comments by CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso at the 4th Annual IMF/AFRITAC West 2 High-Level Executive Forum in Abuja.


Cardoso declared that the period of regulatory leniency toward defaulting borrowers has come to an end.


He stressed that the CBN is adopting a stricter approach to corporate governance to safeguard the N4.61tn in fresh capital recently injected into the banking sector from misuse.


“Our stance on corporate governance is unequivocal: zero tolerance for violations. By ending years of regulatory forbearance, we have reinforced accountability, tightened supervision, and elevated compliance standards across the sector,” the Governor stated.


The policy is aimed specifically at “large-ticket obligors” — individuals or organisations with substantial unpaid debts recorded as non-performing in the Credit Risk Management System. Under the new framework, such defaulters will be denied access to fresh loans as well as key financial instruments, including contingent liabilities and trade facilities.


“We have implemented a restriction of banking services to non-performing large-ticket obligors. This decisive step underscores our commitment to credit discipline, financial integrity, and accountability,” the statement read.


The CBN explained that the measure is intended to promote a stronger repayment culture among prominent borrowers. By restricting access to instruments like letters of credit and performance bonds, the regulator seeks to eliminate “credit jumping”, where defaulters move between banks to accumulate additional debt.


“By curbing access to banking services for chronic defaulters, we are reinforcing the culture of repayment, protecting depositors, and safeguarding the stability of the financial system,” the apex bank added.


In addition to the action against defaulters, Cardoso reiterated the bank’s commitment to orthodox monetary policy. This strategy focuses on maintaining price stability and relying on conventional monetary tools to manage inflation, marking a shift away from unconventional interventions aimed at rebuilding confidence in the naira.


“The CBN remains firmly anchored in orthodox monetary policy, focused on restoring price stability, strengthening policy credibility, and anchoring expectations through discipline and consistency,” the statement concluded.

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United States’ President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to reach an agreement to end the ongoing conflict, warning that failure to comply could result in attacks on its energy infrastructure, even as Tehran rejected the proposal as “unfair.”


The conflict, now in its fourth week, has expanded across the Middle East, leaving thousands dead and triggering sharp increases in global energy prices, raising fears of inflation worldwide.


The United States and Israel began coordinated strikes on Iran on February 28 after negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme collapsed without agreement.


During a cabinet meeting on Thursday, Trump signalled he could escalate pressure if Iran did not engage in a deal. In a subsequent social media post, he said he would delay any attacks on Iranian energy facilities for 10 days, setting a new deadline of April 6, 2026 at 2000 EDT (0000 GMT on April 7).


READ ALSO:Trump lifts sanctions on Iranian oil


“Talks are ongoing and, despite erroneous statements to the contrary by the Fake News Media, and others, they are going very well,” he said.


Despite Trump’s remarks, Iran has denied participating in direct negotiations with Washington, and the U.S. president has not clarified who represents Tehran in the talks, particularly as several senior Iranian officials have been killed during the conflict.


Earlier, on March 23, Trump had announced a five-day pause on strikes targeting power plants and energy facilities, which has now been extended to 10 days.


According to the Wall Street Journal, Iran did not request the extended pause. However, Trump told Fox News’ “The Five” that Tehran had sought a seven-day halt in attacks. Iranian authorities have yet to respond publicly to that claim.


Tehran has warned it would retaliate against energy targets across the Gulf if the United States proceeds with its threats, raising concerns over further disruption to civilian infrastructure and regional economies dependent on electricity and water supplies.


The war has significantly disrupted global trade routes and energy supplies. Oil prices have surged by about 40%, liquefied natural gas costs have spiked, and nitrogen-based fertiliser prices — vital for agriculture — have risen by roughly 50%.


Financial markets reacted sharply, with the Nasdaq falling more than 2% on Thursday to confirm a correction, while Brent crude climbed above $105 per barrel amid fading hopes for a swift resolution.


Iran has continued to respond militarily to U.S. and Israeli strikes, targeting Israel, American bases, and Gulf states. It has also effectively halted fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passageway responsible for roughly 20% of global oil and LNG transport.


Trump said Iran allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the strait as a gesture of goodwill, including vessels flying Pakistan’s flag.


He warned that the United States would become Iran’s “worst nightmare” if it failed to meet U.S. demands, which include reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending its nuclear programme. He also suggested that taking control of Iran’s oil resources remained a possibility, without elaborating.


Meanwhile, the Pentagon is considering deploying up to 10,000 additional ground troops to the region, according to the Wall Street Journal. The U.S. military has also confirmed the use of uncrewed drone speedboats in active operations against Iran.


Iran rejects U.S. proposal

An Iranian official said a 15-point proposal presented by Washington through Pakistan had been thoroughly reviewed by senior officials and a representative of Iran’s supreme leader, but was deemed to favour only U.S. and Israeli interests.


Still, the official indicated that diplomatic efforts were ongoing.

The proposal reportedly includes provisions requiring Iran to dismantle its nuclear programme, limit its missile capabilities, and relinquish effective control over the Strait of Hormuz.


Pakistan’s foreign minister confirmed that “indirect talks” were underway via intermediaries, with Turkey and Egypt also involved in mediation efforts.


Since the conflict began, Iran has hardened its position, demanding assurances against future military action, compensation for damages, and formal control over the strategic strait. It has also insisted that Lebanon be included in any ceasefire arrangement.

Continued strikes


Hostilities persisted on Thursday, with Iran launching multiple missile barrages targeting Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa, as well as a Palestinian town in central Israel.


Israel’s military said at least one ballistic missile struck Tel Aviv, while others carried cluster munitions that caused widespread damage to homes and vehicles.


In northern Israel, a man was killed in Nahariya following a rocket attack by Hezbollah, according to emergency services.


Within Iran, strikes hit Bandar Abbas and areas near Shiraz, while a university building in Isfahan was reportedly damaged. In Qom, at least six people were killed when three residential buildings were struck, according to the semi-official Fars news agency.



(REUTERS)

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of N400 million allegedly connected to Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, directing that the funds be handed over to the Federal Government.


Justice Emeka Nwite granted the order after hearing a motion filed by counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abba Muhammed, SAN, ruling that the application had merit.


Although the decision was delivered on March 17, the enrolled order was sighted on Thursday in Abuja.


Justice Nwite said: “It is hereby ordered as follows: “That the applicant has satisfied the condition for grant of order sought and accordingly the application is hereby granted as prayed.


“That an order of final forfeiture is hereby made by this honourable court forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the sum of four hundred million naira (N400,000,000.00) paid at the instance of Air Vice Marshall Abdulraheem Mikail Babatunde to Cosgrove Investment Limited which is reasonably suspected to be the proceeds of unlawful activities.


“Issued at Abuja under the Seal of the Court and the Hand of the Presiding Judge, this 17th day of March, 2026.”


Recall that the EFCC had, in a motion on notice marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2710/2025, sought the court’s approval for the forfeiture.


The motion, dated February 2 and filed on February 3 by Muhammed, outlined five grounds in support of the application.


According to him, the court has the statutory powers under the provision of Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, to grant the prayers sought.


“The funds sought to be forfeited is reasonably suspected to be proceed of unlawful activities,” he said.


Muhammed recalled that the court had earlier issued an interim forfeiture order on December 31, 2025.


He added that the order was published on page 25 of the Vanguard Newspaper of January 8.


The EFCC counsel noted that no reasonable cause had been presented to prevent the funds, which were subject to the interim forfeiture, from being permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.


In an affidavit supporting the motion, Abubakar Kwaido, an investigating officer with the Economic Governance Section of the EFCC, stated that he was part of the investigative team.


He said the commission “received an Intelligence on the purchase of several luxurious and high end properties by several public officials and private individuals using unlicensed bureau de change (BDC) operators in a bid to launder suspected proceeds of unlawful activities.”


According to him, upon receipt of the Intelligence, it was assigned to my team for discreet investigation.


Kwaido explained that during the probe, a property identified as House No. CC13 Chatteaux Estate, Wuse II—a six-bedroom luxury mansion valued at N400 million—was traced to developments involving Cosgrove Investment Limited and Aeronautical Engineering & Technical Services Limited (AETSL).


“Aeronautical Engineering & Technical Services Limited (AETSL) is a company established to develop the capability to conduct in—country Periodic Depot Maintenance (PDM) of Nigerian Air Force aircrafts and associated equipment amongst others and the members of the Board of Directors of the AETSL are drawn from within the Nigerian Air Force.


“AVM Mikail served in AETSL between 2012 and 2014,” Kwaido said.


He further disclosed that AETSL transferred N122 million in two instalments—N100 million on December 23, 2013, and N22 million on January 21, 2014—to Mofaza-Mafoz Nigeria Limited, a company linked to Abdulraheem.


“The statement of account of Mofaza-Mafoz Nigeria Limited stated above showing the inflows is hereby annexed and marked as Exhibit EFCC 1,” he said.


The investigator alleged that Abdulraheem serves as Managing Director of both Mafoza-Mafoz Nigeria Limited and Mafoza Technologies Nigeria Limited.


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The founder of Niger Delta International Festival and Trade Expo, Amb Kenule Nwiya Jnr has laid his father, Prince Money Nwiya to rest in a colourful ceremony at his home town, Opu-Oko in Khana local government area of Rivers State. 

Prince Nwiya, a reputable community leader and a devout Christian died at the graceful age of 84. His burial was a carnival of sort as it was not just a funeral ceremony but a display of the cultural heritage of Khana, where he impacted several lives. 

The burial attracted high profile personalities from far and wide, who had come to pay their last respect to the man many said was a selfless humanitarian who empowered several dreams and gave others shoulder of support. 

He is reputed to have raised noble children who are succeeding in their various fields of endeavour and contributing making the society better, including Amb. Nwiya Jnr, who also the founder Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit, 

He is the brain behind the annual Economic and Investment Summit organised by the Niger Delta International Festival & Trade Expo (NDIFTE). The Summit has assisted in boosting the economy of Niger Delta and supporting small scale businesses. 

He partners with government agencies, including Ministry of Regional Development, headed by Abubakar Momoh to achieve huge success which the summit has continued to record over the years. 

The burial attracted high profile personalities from across the country, including friends and associates of Amb. Nwiya who described the death as a huge loss in view of the lives the deceased touched in Khana and neighbouring community. 

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