Echoes of the Baobab – A Play

Princess Nia and a wandering warrior, Jabari

Echoes of the Baobab – A Play

Synopsis

In the ancient kingdom of Zuberi, the sacred Baobab Tree stands as the heart of life, its roots said to bind the spirits of ancestors. When drought and war threaten the land, a young Princess Nia and a wandering warrior, Jabari, must uncover the truth behind the fading magic of the Baobab. Their journey reveals betrayal, forbidden love, and the power of unity.

Characters and Characterisation

Character	Description
Princess Nia	Intelligent and brave, she defies royal expectations to save her people. Her compassion is her strength.
Jabari	A wandering warrior haunted by his past. His courage hides deep sorrow, but his loyalty to Nia rekindles hope.
Chief Baraka	The kingdom’s elder, keeper of the Baobab’s secrets. Wise but burdened by guilt for past mistakes.
General Kato	Ruthless commander who seeks to control the Baobab’s power for himself. Represents greed and corruption.

Setting

The story unfolds in Zuberi, a vast African kingdom surrounded by deserts and forests.

• The Baobab Grove: A sacred place where ancestors whisper through the wind.
• The Royal Court: A place of intrigue and deception.
• The Desert Frontier: Where Jabari and Nia face trials that test their faith and love.

The Full Story

Scene 1 – The Prophecy Under the ancient Baobab Tree, Nia kneels before Chief Baraka.

Baraka: “The tree’s roots weaken, Princess. The ancestors grow silent.” Nia: “Then we must listen harder. Silence is not death.” Baraka: “Only the union of courage and compassion can awaken the Baobab.” Nia: “And where shall I find courage, old one?” Baraka: “In the heart of a wanderer who carries sorrow like a blade.”

Scene 2 – The Meeting In the desert, Nia encounters Jabari, wounded and weary.

Nia: “You bleed, stranger.” Jabari: “Better to bleed than to bow.” Nia: “You speak like a warrior.” Jabari: “I was one. Until war taught me that victory can taste like ash.” Nia: “Then fight for something sweeter — fight for peace.”

Scene 3 – The Betrayal Back at the palace, General Kato confronts Nia.

Kato: “You consort with a vagabond while your people starve?” Nia: “He is no vagabond. He is the courage our kingdom lost.” Kato: “Courage cannot feed the hungry.” Nia: “Nor can greed.”

Atiku’s Campaign Council – A Coalition of Power and Strategy

File: Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has unveiled a sweeping Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 elections, naming Kashim Ibrahim-Imam as Chairman, Nasir El-Rufai as Deputy Chairman, Dele Momodu to head Media and Communications, and Dino Melaye to lead Contact and Mobilisation. The council is designed to reflect Nigeria’s pressing economic realities and includes a wide array of political heavyweights and technocrats.

Atiku’s Campaign Council – A Coalition of Power and Strategy

The unveiling of Atiku Abubakar’s Presidential Campaign Council marks a decisive moment in Nigeria’s political landscape as the ADC prepares for the 2027 general elections. The council’s composition is not only a reflection of Atiku’s political reach but also a deliberate attempt to balance technocratic expertise with grassroots mobilization.

At the helm is Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, serving as Chairman, with Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State Governor, as Deputy Chairman. This pairing signals a blend of political experience and administrative acumen. Senator Austin Akobundu assumes the role of Director-General and Campaign Manager, tasked with translating strategy into coordinated action across the nation.

APO-KARSHI, BWARI-KUBWA ROADS WILL BE READY BY DECEMBER — FCT MINISTER

FCT Minister, Mr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, addressing a mammoth crowd during an inspection tour of ongoing construction work on the Bwari-Kubwa Road on Thursday, September 24, 2026

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

APO-KARSHI, BWARI-KUBWA ROADS WILL BE READY BY DECEMBER — FCT MINISTER

...SAYS PRESIDENT TINUBU WILL WIN THE FCT ON ACCOUNT OF ADMINISTRATION’S ACHIEVEMENTS

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that the long-awaited Apo-Karshi road and the Bwari-Kubwa road will be completed by December this year and opened to residents.

The Minister gave the assurance in Abuja on Thursday, September 24, 2026, while addressing journalists, following an on-site inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects across satellite towns in the FCT.

He recalled that the Apo-Karshi road contract was originally awarded in 2010 but stalled under the previous administration, prompting the current administration to revoke and re-award it. He said the contractor had given assurances that the road will be handed over by November this year.

“I am so happy in the sense that we have been able to conquer the Apo Karshi road. You know the importance of that road. That road was awarded in 2010…. To the glory of God, today we were there, and we can see with our eyes that indeed by November they would have handed over that very important road", Wike said.

The Minister who was also in Bwari where excited residents turned out in large numbers during the inspection visit, said the contractor working on the Bwari-Kubwa road, SCC, has promised handover by the end of the year, despite delays caused by heavy rainfall.

He commended the Federal Government for expanding development beyond the city centre to satellite towns, noting that more than ten projects would be commissioned in the FCT before the next elections, exceeding an earlier pledge of just ten projects.

“Just like I said yesterday, the Tinubu Administration has redefined infrastructure delivery as far as FCT is concerned, not just within the city but also within the Satellite Towns”, the Minister stressed.

Responding to questions on the political outlook for the FCT ahead of the 2027 general elections, Wike expressed confidence in the ruling party's prospects, citing the administration's infrastructure record as evidence of good governance. He said he had no fear whatsoever that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other candidates, including Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, would win the FCT elections, urging residents to turn out and vote for candidates who have shown commitment to their welfare.

According to the Minister, “If really indeed that good governance is a barometer to measure whether a government has succeeded or not, then we have nothing to fear. If we are saying that we want to have a government that listens to us, we want to have a government that cares for us, we want to have a government that solves our problems…Now the Tinubu administration has come, it's not only listening to you, it's not only caring for you, it's solving your problems.

“So why would the people again who have said this is what they want, now change their mind to say oh let's go and try people that we do not know what will happen? Nobody does that.

“I can beat my chest; I can close my eyes and go home and sleep with my two eyes closed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu will emerge and other candidates such as Philip Aduda and John Gabaya will win this election. I have no fear at all”, Wike further stated.

The Crown of Two Hearts - A Play

Prince Kelechi and Amara, frontline Characters on the set of "The Crown of Two Hearts"

The Crown of Two Hearts

SYNOPSIS

The drums of war echoed faintly across the savannah, carried by the restless wind. Prince Kelechi tightened the hood over his head, hiding the royal mark that betrayed his lineage. Beside him walked Amara, the maiden whose quiet strength had already steadied his wavering resolve.

The kingdom they fled was crumbling under betrayal and famine, yet the elders whispered of a prophecy: only the union of royal blood and humble heart could restore balance. Now, with danger at every turn, their journey back was not just about survival — it was about destiny.

Characters

• Prince Kelechi: A runaway prince torn between duty and freedom. His guilt for abandoning the throne weighs heavily, but he fears becoming a puppet of corrupt advisors.
• Amara: A village maiden with wisdom beyond her years. She values community and resilience, and her grounded perspective challenges Kelechi’s royal upbringing.

Setting

• The Kingdom: Once prosperous, now fractured by famine, rebellion, and whispers of betrayal. The land itself mirrors the turmoil, rivers drying, crops failing, and villages divided.
• The Journey: Their path back could take them through dangerous forests, sacred mountains, or war-torn villages, each place revealing the kingdom’s decline and testing their resolve.

Conflict

• External threats: Rebels who see Kelechi as a traitor, rival clans who want to seize power, and natural hardships like drought or wild beasts.
• Internal struggle: Kelechi must accept that leadership is sacrifice, not privilege. Amara must decide if she can trust him enough to bind her fate to his.

FCT HAS ACHIEVED 60 PERCENT IMPLEMENTATION OF ITS 2026 CAPITAL BUDGET – WIKE

L-R: Regional Manager, Julius Berger PLC, Mr Oliver Berger; FCT Minister, Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike; Mr Joaquin Wike, at the Minister's inspection tour of the ongoing remodelling of the IBB Golf Course, Maitama, on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCT HAS ACHIEVED 60 PERCENT IMPLEMENTATION OF ITS 2026 CAPITAL BUDGET – WIKE

…AS HE INSPECTS ONGOING KEY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has revealed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has successfully recorded a 60 percent implementation rate on its 2026 capital budget, despite initial delays in fund releases.

The Minister made the revelation in Abuja on Wednesday, September 23, while addressing journalists, following an extensive field tour of five ongoing key infrastructure projects slated for completion and commissioning ahead of next year's general elections.

Addressing the budget implementation, the Minister dismissed political debates over infrastructure financing and loans, noting that execution remained on track following presidential assent and release of funds.

"We are implementing the budget strictly and we are happy with the work we are doing. At least, we can say that for the 2026 budget, we have achieved 60 percent implementation despite the fact that the budget was released late", Wike stated.

The Minister’s tour covered critical infrastructure corridors aimed at expanding the territory's road networks and rehabilitating key diplomatic and commercial assets. Projects visited include the Arterial Road S1 in Kaura District—being executed by Infiouest, to connect Ring Road II with Oladipo Diya Way (Arterial Road S20), with a target handover date of December 15.

He further inspected the collector road C2 in Life Camp being constructed by Julius Berger, also scheduled for handover in December, as well as Jereton Mariere Street, off Ahmadu Bello Way (opposite Apo Legislative Quarters) in Gudu district.

Additionally, the Minister inspected the Arterial Road N16 in Gwarimpa, a major dual carriageway spanning Ring Road II through Gwarinpa to Ring Road III near Karsana, which the contractor committed to handing over by the first week of January 2027.

Other ongoing projects inspected include the IBB International Golf Course, where comprehensive remodeling and renovation works are being carried out by Julius Berger following a presidential directive to restore the facility after earlier internal membership disputes. The Minister noted that the facility, which serves both Abuja residents and the diplomatic community—is set to reopen and host its first tournament by November.

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ONGOING ROAD PROJECTS WILL FORM PART OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CHRISTMAS GIFT TO FCT RESIDENTS — FCT MINISTER

Reflecting on the pace of progress across the territory, the FCT Minister noted that the rapid transformation of the FCT serves as a clear testament to President Tinubu’s vision for modernizing federal infrastructure. "So, I think that we are on track, we're happy, and we can see that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu has redefined infrastructure as far as FCT is concerned. So, I'm happy if these projects are completed before the election time; it will be a Christmas gift to the residents of Abuja by Mr. President", the Minister remarked.

Remain Steadfast, Focused, We're Proud of You, PDP BoT Tells Wike

Remain Steadfast,  Focused, We're Proud of You, PDP BoT Tells Wike

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT) has urged the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister,  Nyesom Wike, to continue to be steadfast and focused, adding that the party and its members are proud of him.

The PDP BoT members, who were in the Minister's residence in Abuja on Tuesday evening, to condole with him over the death of the party’s National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih, described his (Dan Orbih) death as shocking and painful to the party, particularly members of the BoT.

The BoT delegation led by its Chairman,  Senator Mao Ohuabunwa,  also had Senator Zainab Kure, former Minister of Sports, Hon Damishi Sango, the BoT Secretary,  Isah Dansidi, among others.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting,  the BoT Chairman said; "These are select few members of the Board of Trustees of the People's Democratic Party of Nigeria. You know that the BoT has over 100 members, but because of the shortness of the time, we had to pick those that are within the FCT vicinity. And in this selection, we made sure that all the geopolitical zones are represented. 

"We came here purely for two major reasons. To condole with and console our National Leader, Barr. Nyesom Wike, on the demise of one of our great members, a pillar of the party, a consistent member of the party, Chief Dan Orbih, who was also a member of the Board of Trustees and the National Vice Chairman (South South) of our party.

"The news of his demise was shocking and painful to us. He was not only a committed party member, he was a very close associate of our national leader. And like one of us, Chief Sango said earlier, when he was praying, Chief Dan Orbih was one of our political generals and close associates of our national leader, the honorable minister.

ONGOING ROAD PROJECTS WILL FORM PART OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CHRISTMAS GIFT TO FCT RESIDENTS — FCT MINISTER

L-R Senator Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Honourable Ken Chikere and Nda Moses as the Minister addresses residents during an inspection of ongoing Zaudna-Kaba-Kagini road project in Abuja on Tuesday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

ONGOING ROAD PROJECTS WILL FORM PART OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CHRISTMAS GIFT TO FCT RESIDENTS — FCT MINISTER

…DISMISSES ALLEGATIONS OF LOAN ACQUISITION WITHOUT NATIONAL ASSEMBLY APPROVAL

Ongoing major road projects across urban and rural corridors of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will be completed and commissioned by December 2026 as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Christmas gifts to residents, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has declared.

The Minister gave the assurance in Abuja on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, during a routine inspection tour of critical infrastructure projects scheduled for completion ahead of the upcoming general elections.

Among the project sites evaluated were the Arterial Road N1 connecting Wuye to Ring Road 2 (RR2), the Tunga Madaki to Zuba Road, and the 5.6-kilometer rural road network spanning Zaudna, Kabba, and Kagini communities near Dei Dei, complete with solar-powered street lighting systems.

FCT MINISTER TARGETS JANUARY 2027 FOR COMPLETION OF ONGOING PROJECTS

L-R Deputy Managing Director, CGC, Lu Haiming, Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr Richard Yunana Dauda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Senator Philip Aduda and former Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Hon Victor Ihunwo during the Minister's inspection of ongoing construction of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX), Abuja on Monday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCT MINISTER TARGETS JANUARY 2027 FOR COMPLETION OF ONGOING PROJECTS

…VOWS TO EXPOSE REASONS BEHIND OPPOSITION TO HIS 'RAINBOW COALITION'

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that major ongoing infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory will be completed and handed over by January 2027.

Speaking with journalists on Monday, September 21, 2026, after an extensive inspection tour of critical road networks and bridge constructions within Abuja, the Minister expressed optimism that all targeted developments will be delivered to residents well ahead of the upcoming general elections.

He evaluated the progress of work on the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) project being executed by CGC Nigeria Limited, praising the contractor for the high quality of work and their firm commitment to handing over the project by December 2026.

The Minister subsequently inspected the Southern Parkway project at Gaduwa—where construction work on a second bridge was underway following weather delays—and concluded at the Nile University axis leading to Ring Road 3, being handled by CCECC.

Speaking on the pace of work and contractor commitments across the sites, Wike expressed satisfaction that the projects remain firmly on track to fulfill the developmental pledges of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

"I'm very impressed. I came back yesterday and as usual, I have to go round to check the projects which were promised to residents of Abuja to be completed before the elections. We visited ISEX first and you can see the work going on, quality job they’ve done. I commend the contractor, CGC, who has repeatedly said that by December they are going to hand over that project.

"We moved to the Southern Parkway at Gaduwa where a second bridge is ongoing. And they have said that but for the heavy downpours, they would have started the earthworks. However, by the time the rain subsides, they will start earthwork to ensure that the project is completed before the elections on the 10th of January. And now we are here at Nile University Road that leads to Ring Road 3. I want to sincerely commend CCECC. The last time I came here I was really worried. But the management has also committed themselves that latest by the first week of January, they will have handed over the project. So, one feels very happy that we are on schedule".

Addressing lingering concerns regarding ability of contractors to meet the tight December and January deadlines given the sheer scale of the engineering tasks, the FCT Minister reaffirmed his confidence in the construction firms.

WHY PRESIDENT TINUBU WILL WIN FCT IN 2027 – WIKE

Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, F.C.T Minister

FCTA PRESS RELEASE 

WHY PRESIDENT TINUBU WILL WIN FCT IN 2027 – WIKE

…REVEALS REAL REASONS SOME APC GOVERNORS ARE OPPOSED TO 'RAINBOW COALITION'

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure a decisive victory in the Federal Capital Territory during the 2027 presidential election based on an unparalleled record of infrastructural development and good governance.

Speaking on Monday, September 21, 2026, during a live interview on national television, Wike contrasted the current administration's transformative achievements with previous governments and cited tangible governance, structural reforms, and historic project completions across the territory and its satellite towns as some of the reasons why the political dynamics in the FCT will differ from the 2023 elections.

According to the Minister, “The people of the FCT have never felt the impact of governance. What is governance? Governance is—look at the road here. Governance is—look at education. Governance is—look at the health sector. Governance is—look, see what I'm benefiting at the end of the day."

"Asiwaju came, and he said, 'Look, what is the problem in FCT? What has impeded their development? What has made the satellite towns not to feel the impact of governance? I'm going to make sure those obstacles are no longer there.' And he did it! It takes leadership, it takes boldness, it takes a man of courage to do those things people are afraid of."

The Minister highlighted President Tinubu’s bold decision to exit the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) as the financial catalyst that unlocked critical infrastructure funding across the territory.

"Leaving the Treasury Single Account made us to be independent, to be able to access commercial banks, to get money to carry out infrastructure. So today, that's what this administration, that's what the leadership of Asiwaju has been able to do. How many presidents took that initiative?"

"Under Buhari, I remember vividly, we inherited 25 projects; we have completed 23 projects. And under my administration, we have awarded 107. We have completed 70-something. And as I speak to you, from now to January, we'll complete another 20. Take for example, Apo-Karshi was awarded in 2010—16 years ago! Today, by November this year, under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, that project will be handed over."

Nigeria 2027 Elections – Can ADC Challenge APC in Lagos State?

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Nigeria 2027 Elections – Can ADC Challenge APC in Lagos State?

Nigeria 2027 Elections – Can ADC Challenge APC in Lagos State?

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), led in Lagos by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, is positioning itself as a serious challenger to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections, but APC’s entrenched political machinery and incumbency advantage make the task formidable. The contest is shaping up as one of continuity versus disruption in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

APC’s Stronghold in Lagos

Since 1999, Lagos has been under the control of the political tendency founded by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, evolving from AD to ACN and now APC. The party has built a sophisticated grassroots network, backed by the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), which ensures cohesion and discipline across the state’s 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs. For 2027, APC has fielded Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the current Deputy Governor, with Damilola Sonayon-James as running mate. Their campaign emphasizes continuity in infrastructure, digital transformation, and human capital development.

ADC’s Rising Profile

The ADC’s candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (GRV), is one of the most recognizable opposition figures in Lagos. Having contested in 2023 under the Labour Party, where he gained significant traction due to the Obidient movement, GRV now seeks to build an independent coalition under ADC. His challenge lies in detaching from Peter Obi’s influence and proving that his appeal extends beyond the 2023 momentum. GRV has spent the intervening years building grassroots structures across Lagos communities, signaling a more organized opposition effort than in past cycles.

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The Electoral Battlefield

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed ADC’s presence across Lagos senatorial districts, fielding candidates against APC in Lagos Central, East, and West. This demonstrates ADC’s commitment to contesting statewide, not just at the governorship level. However, Lagos remains a high-stakes battleground, with PDP and the newer Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) also in the fray, potentially splitting opposition votes.

Tears, Triumph, and Thunderous Applause: Fans Celebrate Céline Dion’s Paris Return

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Tears, Triumph, and Thunderous Applause: Fans Celebrate Céline Dion’s Paris Return

Tears, Triumph, and Thunderous Applause: Fans Celebrate Céline Dion’s Paris Return

Fans in Paris responded to Céline Dion’s comeback with overwhelming emotion, describing the concert as “magical, grandiose, and moving.” While some critics noted slight vocal strain, the majority of fans defended her passionately, praising her resilience, couture fashion, and ability to deliver powerhouse performances despite her health challenges.

Emotional Atmosphere

At the Plénitude Arena in Nanterre, nearly 33,000 fans witnessed Dion’s first full concert in six years. Many were moved to tears as she opened with “On ne change pas”, visibly emotional herself. Audience members described the night as “a dream come true” and “phenomenal,” with one fan telling RFI that her rendition of “All By Myself” was “the best spectacle of Céline ever”.

Online Reactions

Clips of the concert quickly spread across TikTok and Instagram, sparking debates. Some viewers claimed her voice had changed, while others insisted she remained a “legend” who owed no explanations. Fans rallied to defend her, emphasizing that her tone was intact and only the musical keys had been adjusted to accommodate her condition.

Céline Dion Returns To Stage In Paris After Six-Year Hiatus

Céline Dion Returns To Stage In Paris After Six-Year Hiatus

Céline Dion Returns To Stage In Paris After Six-Year Hiatus

Céline Dion has triumphantly returned to the stage in Paris after six years, opening her highly anticipated residency at Plénitude Arena on September 12, 2026, before a sold-out crowd of 35,000 fans. Her comeback marks a powerful victory over stiff-person syndrome, the rare neurological condition that had cast doubt on her future as a live performer.

A Historic Comeback

After announcing her diagnosis in 2022, Dion faced years of uncertainty, canceling tours and stepping away from the spotlight. Her return in Paris is not just another concert series, it is a testament to resilience. Fans who once feared they might never see her perform again were treated to an emotional evening that blended her French and English repertoires. Dion opened with “On ne change pas”, visibly moved, before delivering classics like “My Heart Will Go On,” “Because You Loved Me,” and “Pour que tu m’aimes encore.”

The Venue and Audience

The residency is staged at Plénitude Arena, formerly Paris La Défense Arena, Europe’s largest indoor venue. Originally planned for 10 shows, overwhelming demand expanded the run to 16 performances through October 2026, with additional dates scheduled for May 2027. The opening night drew not only devoted fans but also high-profile attendees, including former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and French dignitaries.

Preparation and Determination

Dion’s comeback was the result of months of rigorous preparation. She underwent Pilates, ballet, physiotherapy, and voice therapy to rebuild her strength and vocal stamina. Despite the incurable nature of stiff-person syndrome, she demonstrated remarkable control and artistry, proving she could still command the stage with her legendary voice.