Thursday, July 30, 2026

FG Rolls Out Nationwide Mass Animal Vaccination as Sokoto Takes the Lead

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha

The Federal Government has flagged off a nationwide mass animal vaccination exercise in Sokoto State, marking a major push to curb transboundary animal diseases and strengthen Nigeria’s livestock health system.

The exercise, launched under the World Bank–supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), is aimed at boosting efficient, resilient and sustainable livestock production across the country. Although only 20 states are currently enrolled in the L-PRES programme, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development confirmed that the vaccination campaign will be implemented across all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Sokoto, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the decision to extend the exercise nationwide reflects the critical role animal health plays in food security, public health and economic growth. “Animal diseases do not respect state boundaries. To grow our livestock industry and protect livelihoods, we must adopt a coordinated national approach to animal health,” the minister said.

Maiha disclosed that a total of 18.2 million doses of vaccines have been earmarked for the exercise, targeting major livestock and poultry diseases including Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia, Peste des Petits Ruminants and Newcastle Disease. He described the campaign as a “game changer” that would significantly reduce losses suffered by farmers and improve productivity along the livestock value chain.

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, who joined the minister at the event, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting livestock farmers. “Sokoto is proud to host the flag-off of this important national programme. Livestock remains a backbone of our rural economy, and interventions like this will go a long way in improving incomes and food availability,” the governor said.

As part of activities in the state, the minister and the governor also inaugurated a state-of-the-art L-PRES Model Veterinary Hospital in Sokoto, the third in a planned series of 21 such facilities nationwide. The hospital is designed to serve as a hub for modern animal health service delivery, diagnostics and disease surveillance.

According to officials, the facility is equipped with ambulatory veterinary services to respond to animal health emergencies, especially in hard-to-reach and underserved communities. Maiha noted that the model hospitals are central to the government’s strategy of building a resilient animal health system capable of supporting both smallholder and commercial livestock producers.

The Federal Government said the mass vaccination exercise and the rollout of modern veterinary infrastructure underscore its determination to reposition the livestock sector as a key driver of economic diversification, food security and national development.

Dangote Refinery Rejects Shutdown Rumours, Says Fuel Output Steady Amid Maintenance

By
Kazeem Busari
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The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has moved to quash growing speculation that it has shut down operations, assuring Nigerians that petrol production and supply remain steady even as key maintenance work continues.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the refinery confirmed that routine maintenance on major units, including the Crude Distillation Unit, began in early December 2025 and is expected to conclude in late January 2026. Despite the work, the refinery said production has not halted.

“Contrary to unfounded rumours circulating in the market, Dangote Refinery is not shut down,” the statement read. “Production continues uninterrupted at an average of 40 to 50 million litres of petrol per day, and current stock levels are sufficient to meet over 20 days of national demand.”

The clarification comes as some industry watchers and traders raised doubts about reported fuel volumes, pointing to the refinery’s Residue Fluidised Catalytic Cracking (RFCC) unit — crucial for maximizing petrol output — being offline during the maintenance period.

One such sceptic, petroleum industry analyst K.D. Ivi-Oreh, questioned the refinery’s figures, noting that without the RFCC unit fully operational, claimed production levels might not align with technical capacity. “There’s a need for independent verification by regulators,” Ivi-Oreh said, adding that transparency would help quell market anxieties.

But Dangote’s management defended its performance, highlighting the refinery’s contribution to reducing dependence on imported fuel. “Since commencing operations, the refinery has successfully cut petrol imports by over 60 per cent and played a stabilizing role in the market,” the statement noted.

The refinery also addressed pricing concerns. While some retail outlets have seen petrol prices spike to as high as ₦800 per litre, Dangote said petrol sold directly from its gantry was going for ₦699 per litre — a significant discount and an indicator of localized supply strength.

Nigerian motorists and market participants have closely watched Dangote Refinery’s performance since it began commercial operations, as the facility is central to efforts to eliminate petrol importation and reduce prices at the pump. Rumours of a shutdown had sparked concern among commuters and traders alike, with fear that supply disruptions would push pump prices higher and strain household budgets.

Responding to the anxiety, the refinery urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information and official statements. “We remain committed to supporting national energy security,” the company said, urging consumers and industry observers to disregard misinformation.

Toyin Abraham’s Oversabi Aunty Smashes Records, Comedy Crosses ₦700m

By
Justice Oladapo
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Toyin Abraham has delivered yet another blockbuster hit with her latest film Oversabi Aunty, which has crossed the ₦700 million mark at the Nigerian box office just 18 days after its release, solidifying its place as one of the most commercially successful Nollywood films of all time.

According to figures released by the film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, Oversabi Aunty has raked in ₦711.5 million in ticket sales across cinemas in West Africa, a remarkable achievement that puts it in fourth place on the all-time Nollywood grossing chart — ahead of titles like Battle on Buka Street and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.

The comedy, written, produced and directed by Abraham — who also stars in the film — has enjoyed strong momentum since its theatrical debut on December 19, 2025, following advanced screenings that helped build early buzz. Its opening weekend was particularly impressive, ranking as one of the year’s top launches and contributing significantly to its rapid ascent on the charts.

Commenting on the milestone, the official Instagram account for Oversabi Aunty shared a message of gratitude to audiences: “West Africa, you showed up and showed out in an Oversabi way. Thank you for the love. In just 18 days, Oversabi Aunty grossed ₦711.5M, making it the 4th highest Nollywood film of all time in West Africa. Thank you to everyone for the love and support so far. This win is for all of us.”

The film stars a stellar ensemble, including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, Queen Nwokoye and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, whose performances have helped the relatable comedy resonate widely with audiences. The story of a well-meaning but overly involved aunt whose attempts to help others lead to humorous chaos has struck a chord with moviegoers, reflecting themes of family, boundaries and everyday life with a comedic twist.

Actors and filmmakers have also flocked to social media to celebrate the achievement, with many applauding Abraham’s creativity and box office acumen. For Abraham, the success of Oversabi Aunty not only highlights her strength as a filmmaker but also reinforces the growing commercial power of Nollywood productions in regional cinemas.

The film’s performance is part of a broader surge in Nigerian cinema, with 2025 marking one of the industry’s most commercially vibrant years. Other local titles have likewise posted strong results, reflecting increasing audience appetite for locally produced stories.

Europe Unites to Defend Greenland From Trump

By
Agency Report
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European leaders have issued a robust and unmistakable rebuke to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about seeking control of Greenland, affirming that the Arctic territory’s future belongs solely to its own people and the Kingdom of Denmark.

In a joint statement released on Tuesday, leaders from across the continent, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom, united with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to defend Greenland’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of renewed rhetoric from Washington that has unsettled NATO allies and Arctic partners.

“Greenland belongs to its people,” the statement declared. “It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland.” The leaders underscored that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders — principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter — must guide international relations, particularly in sensitive regions such as the Arctic.

The statement comes after President Trump renewed his controversial remarks about Greenland, suggesting the United States should pursue a more direct role in the territory for strategic and security reasons. Those comments followed a U.S. military operation in Venezuela that heightened geopolitical tensions and prompted European capitals to address broader concerns about U.S. intentions—particularly as Arctic security grows in importance amid rising interest from China and Russia.

Denmark’s Frederiksen has been among the most vocal critics of the U.S. position, telling the press that Greenland’s future is not for sale and must be determined by Greenlanders and Danes themselves. She has also warned that any perceived attempt by the U.S. to take control of Greenland could undermine the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and destabilise the transatlantic alliance that has anchored European security since World War II.

Other European leaders echoed those sentiments. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision over Greenland’s destiny lies with its people and Denmark, and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised that international borders cannot be changed by force. German and Italian officials called for unity among European partners in upholding international law and protecting sovereign rights.

The collective response reflects growing unease in Europe over statements by the U.S. administration that resurface long-standing sensitivities about territorial control and national sovereignty, issues that resonate deeply in NATO capitals and beyond. The leaders also reaffirmed that cooperation — not unilateral action — should define Arctic security, stressing that NATO allies must work together to deter potential threats and uphold shared values.

Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, remains strategically significant due to its location and natural resources. Though semi-self-governing, it falls within Denmark’s remit and benefits from NATO’s collective defence guarantees, a point emphasised by European leaders seeking to reassure allies and maintain stability amid the diplomatic flashpoint.

Woman Arrested Mid-Interview After Protest Against U.S. Action in Venezuela

By
Agency Report
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A Michigan woman was dramatically arrested on live television over the weekend after criticising U.S. President Donald Trump’s military action in Venezuela, sparking a nationwide debate about free speech and civil liberties in the United States.

The incident unfolded in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where 22-year-old preschool teacher and peace activist Jessica Plichta was speaking to a local ABC affiliate, WZZM, about a protest condemning the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. In the footage that quickly went viral, Plichta can be heard sharply criticising the Trump administration’s intervention before two police officers approach and place her in handcuffs, abruptly ending the interview.

“It’s not just a foreign issue, it’s our tax dollars that are being used to commit these war crimes,” Plichta said on camera. “It is also the duty of us, the people, to stand against the Trump regime, the Trump administration, that are committing crimes both here in the U.S. and against people in Venezuela.”

According to local authorities, Plichta was arrested for “obstructing a roadway and failure to obey a lawful command from a police officer,” charges that stemmed from her participation in the protest. The Grand Rapids Police Department issued repeated warnings over a public address system for demonstrators to move to the sidewalk instead of marching in the street, which they said violated city and state law.

After several hours in custody, Plichta was released and told to expect a formal notice of charges. Speaking to the independent outlet Zeteo after her release, she suggested her arrest was politically motivated and tied to her criticism of U.S. policy. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence that as soon as I finished an interview speaking on Venezuela, I was arrested — the only person arrested out of 200 people,” she said.

The timing of the protest and interview came amid one of the most controversial foreign policy developments in recent U.S. history: the dramatic U.S. military operation that captured Maduro in Caracas, a mission that resulted in his transportation to the United States on federal charges including narco-terrorism and weapons offenses. The operation has drawn both praise and condemnation on the global stage.

The arrest has ignited heated debate online and in political circles, with critics arguing the episode highlights broader concerns about civil liberties and the policing of dissent in the United States. Social media users compared the arrest to authoritarian tactics, while others pointed out that permits and lawful orders — not the content of speech — were central to the police’s justification.

Although the protest was anti-war in focus, some observers have questioned whether the police response was proportional, given that Plichta had just finished an interview and appeared to be complying at the time of her arrest. In the video captured by local news crews, the patrol car and officers approached as she concluded her comments on U.S. foreign policy, leading to questions about timing and intent behind the enforcement action.

Plichta, who told WZZM she had recently attended an international summit in Venezuela advocating for peace and sovereignty, reiterated her commitment to activism and free expression after her release. “People loved him,” she said of Maduro, recounting her experience at the summit. “Maduro was elected by the people. He is for the people, and the people want to see his return.”

Tim Walz Abruptly Drops Out of Minnesota Governor’s Race Amid Explosive Fraud Scandal

By
Agency Report
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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ended his bid for re-election in the 2026 gubernatorial race, stepping aside amid intense scrutiny over a sprawling fraud scandal that has engulfed state social services programs and drawn national political attention.

Walz, a two-term Democratic governor and former vice presidential nominee on the 2024 Democratic ticket, announced his decision on Monday, saying that he could not devote the time necessary to run a campaign while also confronting what he described as a serious crisis facing the state. The governor’s withdrawal comes less than four months after he had formally launched his bid for a third term.

In a brief statement delivered at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Walz acknowledged the challenges Minnesota has faced amid allegations of fraud within state welfare and childcare programs. “Every minute that I spend defending my own political interests would be a minute I can’t spend defending the people of Minnesota against the criminals who prey on our generosity and the cynics who want to prey on our differences,” Walz said. “So I’ve decided to step out of this race, and I’ll let others worry about the election while I focus on the work that’s in front of me for the next year.”

The scandal has centred on alleged widespread abuse of state and federal funds in programs including childcare, Medicaid and other social services, with prosecutors suggesting potential losses to fraud could be in the billions of dollars. A viral video by an online influencer highlighting suspicious day-care operations in Minnesota helped fuel national media coverage and prompt federal actions, including the freeze of federal funds tied to some of the implicated programs.

Walz said he remains committed to addressing fraud and protecting residents, but insisted he could not effectively balance campaign responsibilities with the demands of his office during what he termed an “extraordinarily difficult year” for the state. He also sharply criticised political opponents for what he described as attempts to capitalise on the controversy, saying their rhetoric sought to “poison our people against each other.”

The governor’s departure reshapes the political landscape in Minnesota, a traditionally competitive state. His exit has prompted speculation about potential successors, including U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who is considering entering the race, though she has not yet announced a formal campaign. Other state Democrats and Republicans are expected to step forward as the field realigns ahead of the November 2026 election.

Reactions to Walz’s announcement have cut across party lines. Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, praised Walz as “a national leader in fighting for the middle class” and expressed confidence that Minnesota will elect another strong Democrat in 2026. Meanwhile, Republican critics framed Walz’s decision as inevitable given what they describe as mismanagement and prioritised fraud issues under his administration.

President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticised Walz’s handling of the scandal and linked it to broader political attacks, seized on the announcement as a political victory, saying the decision “reflects the will of Minnesotans who want accountability.”

AFCON 2025: Akor Adams Leaves Super Eagles Camp as Mother Hospitalised

By
Kazeem Busari
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Akor Adams

Nigerian forward Akor Adams has been granted official leave from the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 camp to be with his mother, who was hospitalised yesterday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed on Tuesday.

The announcement came amid preparations for Nigeria’s quarter-final showdown later in the tournament, with team officials saying the decision was made to support the player during a difficult time and allow him to attend to family matters.

“We have granted Akor Adams permission to leave camp to go be with his mum, who was hospitalised yesterday,” an NFF spokesperson said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, and we wish his mother a quick recovery.”

Adams’ departure comes at a crucial juncture for the Super Eagles, who have been in impressive form at AFCON 2025 after a dominant victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16. The striker’s contributions on and off the pitch have been praised by teammates and supporters alike, further amplifying the warm response to the news of his temporary exit.

Head coach Éric Chelle expressed empathy for the player’s situation, emphasising the team’s support for Adams as he tends to his family.

The NFF reiterated its commitment to the welfare of its players, noting that support extends beyond the pitch. “We stand by our players in moments of need, and we trust that Akor will return to the squad when his family situation allows,” an NFF official in Morocco added.

Fans and well-wishers took to social media to share messages of support, flooding official team channels with prayers and messages of encouragement for Adams and his mother.

Super Eagles Crush Mozambique, Set Sights on Algeria, DR Congo in Quarter-Finals

By
Kazeem Busari
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Nigeria's Super Eagles celebrate after scoring the first goal against Tanzania at the AFCON 2025 in Morocco. Credit: cafonline

Nigeria’s Super Eagles stamped their authority on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic 4-0 demolition of Mozambique on Monday, securing a place in the quarter-finals and setting up a tantalising showdown with either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo).

In a performance that blended tactical discipline with ruthless attacking efficiency, the Super Eagles dominated from start to finish. Ademola Lookman opened the scoring in the first half, firing a right-footed shot into the top corner following a slick build-up involving forward movement and incisive passing that kept Mozambique on the back foot. Victor Osimhen continued his fine form by doubling Nigeria’s lead shortly before halftime, tapping in from close range after sustained pressure from the African giants.

The second half saw Nigeria maintain their intensity as they looked to put the tie beyond doubt. Osimhen added a third with a composed finish, again showcasing the lethal edge that has made him one of the tournament’s most feared forwards. Akor Adams wrapped up the scoring with a precise right-footed strike from the right side of the box, cementing Nigeria’s superiority on the night and sparking jubilant celebrations among travelling supporters.

Lookman’s creative influence was a highlight of the match; his ability to unlock defences and combine with teammates such as Osimhen and Adams was key to Nigeria’s attacking fluency. His performance, marked by two assists, drew widespread praise from fans and pundits alike, further illustrating the depth of Nigeria’s squad.

The victory ensures that Nigeria progresses to the AFCON quarter-finals, where they will face the winners between Algeria and DR Congo. A date with DR Congo would re-enact their recent tie in Morocco last November where the Leopards denied the Super Eagles a chance to appear at the 2026 World Cup.

Earlier in the day, seven-time champions Egypt booked their place in the quarter-finals with a hard-fought 3-1 extra-time win over Benin in Agadir. The Pharaohs were pushed all the way in a gripping encounter that remained level at 1–1 after regulation time before Egypt’s experience ultimately told in additional minutes. Mohamed Salah capped the victory with a composed finish in the dying moments, a strike that will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the tie.

The Pharaohs will also wait for the outcome of the Round of 16 tie between Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso to know their quarter-final opponents.

Lagos Police Summon Pastor Chris Okafor Over Rape Allegations

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Pastor Chris Okafor

The Lagos State Police Command has summoned Pastor Chris Okafor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries to appear before the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, as investigations intensify into allegations of multiple rape, other sexual offences and actions deemed capable of breaching public peace.

According to a press statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the invitation requires the cleric to report to the SCID, Panti, on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The statement noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into what the police described as “several criminal allegations” levelled against the pastor.

“Sequel to the allegations of multiple rape, other sexual offences and conduct capable of causing a breach of public peace, the Commissioner of Police has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to carry out a thorough and discreet investigation,” Adebisi said.

The police confirmed that Pastor Okafor has been formally served with an invitation letter through his legal representative and is expected to cooperate fully with investigators at Panti. The command stressed that the investigation covers alleged capital offences and other serious crimes, adding that no individual is above the law.

CP Jimoh has also ordered immediate and full security coverage for the alleged victims, urging them to come forward without fear to assist the investigation. “Victims are encouraged to feel free to report at the Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, where investigation has already commenced,” the police said.

The command assured that the identities of all complainants will be kept strictly confidential. “The identity of the victims will be absolutely protected,” Adebisi stated, adding that anyone with credible information or evidence relevant to the case is welcome to assist the police without fear or apprehension.

Such individuals, the statement explained, may contact the Police Public Relations Department at the Lagos State Police Command or report directly to the SCID, Panti, to provide useful information.

Reiterating its position, the Lagos State Police Command said it remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety across the state. “All allegations of criminal acts against anyone, no matter how highly or lowly placed, will be investigated according to the dictates of the law,” the statement said. “Justice must prevail in the whole episode.”

The development has sparked widespread public attention, as the police assured Lagos residents that the outcome of the investigation will be guided strictly by evidence and due process.

Presidency Dismisses AI Claims Over Tinubu–Kagame Paris Photo, Says Image Is Authentic

By
Kazeem Busari
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Paris. Credit: X | Bayo Onanuga

The Presidency has firmly dismissed claims circulating in sections of the media and on social platforms that a photograph showing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Paris was generated using artificial intelligence, describing the narrative as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, clarified that the image in question was taken during a real meeting between the two African leaders in Paris and only underwent basic enhancement to improve its quality.

“The narrative that the picture of Presidents Bola Tinubu and Paul Kagame taken in Paris yesterday was AI generated is not correct,” Ajayi said. “The media report and social media comments that followed are misrepresentation of facts. The picture is real and not AI generated as claimed.”

Ajayi explained that President Tinubu and President Kagame met in Paris on Sunday, where they had lunch together before later joining French President Emmanuel Macron for dinner the same evening. According to him, the photograph was taken with a mobile phone, which accounted for its initial poor quality.

“The picture was taken with a phone and obviously had poor quality,” he said. “The photographer only later used Grok to improve the picture quality. That is not a reason to conclude it was AI generated.”

The presidential aide criticised those who hastily labelled the image as artificial, stressing that basic verification could have prevented the spread of misinformation. He noted that the use of digital tools to enhance image clarity should not be confused with the creation of fake or AI-generated content.

“The writer or editor should have asked questions before this wrong conclusion,” Ajayi added.

The clarification comes amid growing public debate over the use of artificial intelligence in media content and the increasing scrutiny of images involving public figures. The Presidency urged media organisations and social media users to exercise caution, verify information thoroughly and avoid amplifying unsubstantiated claims that could mislead the public.

The meeting between Presidents Tinubu and Kagame, followed by their engagement with President Macron, is understood to be part of ongoing high-level diplomatic interactions focused on strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

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