PRESS RELEASE | Notification of Death: Bishop Emeritus John Okeoghene Afareha

Notification of Death: Bishop Emeritus John Okeoghene Afareha

The Catholic Diocese of Warri has announced the passing of Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who was called to eternal rest on Sunday, January 18, 2026. 

The Diocese expressed deep sorrow at his departure while holding firm to the Christian hope in the resurrection.

Bishop Afareha, born into a life of faith and service, was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973. He was later consecrated as Bishop on May 14, 1997, a role in which he served with devotion and humility. His decades of ministry left a profound impact on the lives of countless faithful across the Diocese. Even after his retirement, he remained a man of prayer and continued to be regarded as a cherished spiritual father.

Nigeria’s Readiness for Artificial Intelligence: Promise and Pitfalls

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Nigeria’s Readiness for Artificial Intelligence: Promise and Pitfalls

Nigeria’s journey toward artificial intelligence readiness is a story of ambition, progress, and lingering challenges. In recent years, the country has made notable strides in positioning itself as a player in the global AI landscape.

According to the Oxford Government AI Readiness Index 2025, Nigeria climbed from 103rd place in 2023 to 72nd out of 195 countries, marking one of the most significant leaps worldwide. 

This 31-place jump reflects a growing commitment by government, industry, and academia to harness AI for economic growth and public service reform.

2027: Voting Tinubu will return South-East to mainstream of national politics – Anyim

2027 - Voting Tinubu Will Return South-East to Mainstream of National Politics, Says Anyim

In a recent political discourse, Dr. Nyerere Chinenye Anyim, former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, made a bold assertion regarding the future of the South-East region in Nigeria’s national politics.

Speaking in an interview, Anyim emphasized that the 2027 presidential election presents a pivotal opportunity for the South-East to reposition itself within the mainstream of national governance by voting massively for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to him, such alignment would guarantee the region increased infrastructural development and greater access to political appointments.

Opposition parties differ on Atiku’s son’s defection to APC

Opposition Parties Differ on Atiku’s Son’s Defection to APC

The defection of Abba Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked sharp reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape, exposing divisions within opposition parties and raising questions about Atiku’s political influence ahead of the 2027 elections.  

Abba Abubakar formally announced his defection at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where he was received by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and other APC leaders from the North-East.

MachadoNobel committee says peace prize non-transferable after Machado gives medal to Trump

Nobel Committee Clarifies Non-Transferability of Peace Prize After Machado’s Gesture to Trump

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has issued a firm clarification regarding the rules governing the Nobel Peace Prize, following an unprecedented gesture by Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado. 

Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025 for her tireless efforts to promote democracy and a peaceful transition in Venezuela, presented her Nobel medal to U.S. President Donald Trump during a visit to the White House.

Sade Adu trends as she celebrates 67th birthday

Sade Adu Trends as She Celebrates 67th Birthday

Global music icon Sade Adu marked her 67th birthday on January 16, 2026, sparking worldwide celebrations and online trends that highlighted her timeless influence on music, culture, and style.  

Helen Folasade Adu, known universally as Sade, was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1959 to a Nigerian father and an English mother before relocating to the United Kingdom at a young age.

‘Why we must fix our public varsities’

Why We Must Fix Our Public Varsities

Public universities in Nigeria, once the pride of Africa’s higher education system, are now in a state of deep crisis. The decline is evident in their infrastructure, funding, administration, and overall morale.

This situation has sparked urgent calls for reform, most notably articulated by Prof. Jonathan Oyebamiji Babalola, Vice Chancellor of Bowen University and former Provost of the Postgraduate College at the University of Ibadan.

Omotosho: New hand on the wheel at MultiChoice Nigeria

Omotosho - New Hand on the Wheel at MultiChoice Nigeria

Kemi Omotosho has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria, succeeding John Ugbe after his nearly 15-year tenure.

Her appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first female CEO of the company, stepping into leadership at a time of economic strain and heightened competition.

Cooking Gas: FCT residents express relief as price drops

Cooking Gas - FCT Residents Express Relief as Price Drops

In recent weeks, residents of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have breathed a collective sigh of relief as the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), popularly known as cooking gas, has finally begun to decline after months of relentless increases.

This development has been met with widespread optimism, particularly among households that had struggled to cope with the financial strain of soaring energy costs.

According to market surveys conducted in Abuja on January 18, 2026, the price of cooking gas now ranges between ₦1,080 and ₦1,400 per kilogram, with NIPCO outlets offering the lowest rate at ₦1,080 per kg.

Tinubu may pick Musa, Kukah, two others as running mate in 2027

Tinubu may pick Musa, Kukah, two others as running mate in 2027

Tinubu’s 2027 Running Mate Calculations

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political strategy for the 2027 elections has begun to attract significant attention, particularly with speculation surrounding his choice of running mate.

According to reports, Tinubu is considering a shortlist that includes Defence Minister Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, alongside two other unnamed figures.

FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Alejandro Rosales Castillo Captured in MexicoFBI Charlotte Special

Capture of FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Alejandro Rosales Castillo in Mexico

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has announced the capture of Alejandro “Alex” Rosales Castillo, one of its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico. Castillo, who had been on the run for nearly a decade, was wanted in connection with the 2016 murder of his former co-worker, Truc Quan “Sandy” Ly Le, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

His arrest marks a significant milestone for the FBI Charlotte Field Office and its partners, who pursued him relentlessly since he was added to the Ten Most Wanted list in October 2017.

London property: ICPC files criminal charge against Ozekhome

ICPC Files Criminal Charge Against Mike Ozekhome Over London Property

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has formally filed a criminal charge against Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mike Ozekhome, over allegations of fraud and forgery linked to a London property.

The case, now before the Abuja High Court, marks one of the most high-profile corruption prosecutions in recent years. 

Rivers State House of Assembly Holds Press Briefing

The Rivers State House of Assembly has intensified its political standoff with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, holding a press briefing in Port Harcourt to reaffirm its impeachment proceedings despite mounting calls for restraint. The briefing highlighted deep divisions within the Assembly, with some lawmakers urging reconciliation while others recommitted to the impeachment process.

Rivers State House of Assembly Holds Press Briefing

The Rivers State House of Assembly convened a press briefing in Port Harcourt amid escalating political tensions between the legislative and executive arms of government.

The briefing was called to address the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu. Speaker Martin Amaewhule and key members of the Assembly emphasized their determination to proceed with the impeachment, citing allegations of gross misconduct, unauthorized spending, and the controversial demolition of the Assembly complex.

Fire Guts Petrol Tanker at Fuel Station Opposite Kogi Varsity

Fire Guts Petrol Tanker at Fuel Station Opposite Kogi Varsity

A devastating fire incident occurred on Thursday night at the Himsu, now MRS fuel station, situated directly opposite Prince Abubakar Audu University in Anyigba, Kogi State.

The blaze erupted while a petrol-laden tanker was dispensing fuel within the station premises, sparking immediate panic among motorists, students, and residents in the university community.

Defamation, Power, and Speech - Nigeria’s Moment in Context Across African Democracies

Defamation, Power, and Speech - Nigeria’s Moment in Context Across African Democracies

The striking out of the defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after the Federal Government’s discontinuance is a revealing snapshot of how law, politics, and speech collide in Nigeria, and a useful lens for comparing trajectories across African democracies.

At stake is not just one politician’s legal reprieve, but the broader question of whether criminal defamation remains a viable instrument of political control in societies striving for deeper democratic norms.

The Striking Out of Natasha’s Defamation Case and Its Implications for Nigerian Politics

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The Striking Out of Natasha’s Defamation Case and Its Implications for Nigerian Politics

The decision of the Federal Capital Territory High Court to strike out the defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after the Federal Government’s discontinuance is more than a legal technicality, it is a moment that reverberates across Nigeria’s political landscape.

At its core, the case was emblematic of the fraught relationship between political power, public discourse, and the boundaries of free speech.

Senator Natasha’s allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello were explosive, touching on claims of assassination plots and deliberate withdrawal of her security. The Federal Government’s choice to prosecute her under defamation laws raised immediate concerns about whether the judiciary was being used as a tool to silence dissenting voices. 

Court Strikes Out Defamation Suit Against Senator Natasha After Discontinuance By FG

Court Strikes Out Defamation Suit Against Senator Natasha After Federal Government Discontinuance

On January 15, 2026, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja struck out the defamation case instituted by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.

The presiding judge, Justice Chizoba Orji, delivered the ruling after the prosecution counsel, Aderonke Imana, formally applied to discontinue the matter. Following this application, Natasha’s counsel, West Idahosa, urged the court to strike out the case and release all documents belonging to the senator and her sureties.

Tinubu leads Nigerians to observe 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, Remembrance Day

Tinubu Leads Nigerians to Observe 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, Remembrance Day

On January 15, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Nigerians in commemorating the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.

Although President Tinubu was represented at the national ceremony in Abuja by Vice President Kashim Shettima, his message resonated deeply across the country. Delivered through his verified X handle, the President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and dignity of the Armed Forces, assuring serving personnel that Nigeria stands firmly behind those who defend its sovereignty.

The Historical Journey of Nigeria’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day

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Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria is a solemn national occasion observed annually on January 15, dedicated to honouring fallen heroes of the military and reflecting on the country’s turbulent history of wars, peacekeeping missions, and internal security challenges. It has evolved from colonial traditions into a uniquely Nigerian commemoration tied to the end of the Civil War in 1970.

The Historical Journey of Nigeria’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day

Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria is steeped in history and symbolism, serving as a bridge between the nation’s colonial past and its post-independence struggles for unity.

Originally, Nigeria marked Remembrance Day on November 11, in line with the British Commonwealth’s tradition of Poppy Day, commemorating the end of World War I in 1918. This date honoured Nigerian soldiers who fought and died in both World Wars under the British flag, alongside other colonial troops.

Nigeria - Armed Forces Celebration and Governors’ Welfare Announcements for Families of Fallen Heroes

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Nigeria’s Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration in 2026 was marked by solemn tributes and concrete welfare commitments from governors across the country, who unveiled empowerment packages aimed at supporting the families of fallen heroes and strengthening morale among serving personnel.

Nigeria - Armed Forces Celebration and Governors’ Welfare Announcements for Families of Fallen Heroes

The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria was commemorated nationwide with ceremonies of wreath-laying, prayers, and reflections in honour of soldiers and officers who paid the ultimate price for the nation’s unity and peace.

Governors across different states used the occasion not only to pay tribute but also to announce welfare and empowerment initiatives targeted at the widows, children, and dependents of fallen heroes.

Disclaimer | Catholic Order Distances Itself From Disruptive Incident At Nnewi Cathedral Dedication

DISCLAIMER NOTICE

The office of the Supreme Subordinate President, Nights of St. John International, Supreme Subordinate Commandery, Nigeria, has issued a public statement regarding an Incident in Nnewi Diocese.

According to the statement dated January 15, 2026, the attention of the Knights of St. John International, Supreme Subordinate Commandery, Nigeria, has been drawn to an unfortunate incident that occurred in the Nnewi Diocese during the solemn dedication of the Cathedral on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, involving Mr. James Okoye.

Planned Expansion Of Dangote Refinery Can Be Completed Within Three Years, Says MD

Planned expansion of Dangote refinery can be completed within three years, says MD

Executive summary

Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s Managing Director, David Bird, says the company will expand processing capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day within three years, leveraging a “ruthless replication” strategy that avoids redesign and enables immediate procurement and construction. He cites extensive pre-investment and site readiness as key enablers for the accelerated timeline, with long‑lead equipment orders and early construction commencing in early 2026.

Morocco Beat Gallant Super Eagles On Penalties To Reach AFCON Final

Morocco Beat Gallant Super Eagles On Penalties To Reach AFCON Final

In a dramatic semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, hosts Morocco overcame Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a tense penalty shoot-out to secure their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

The match, played on January 14, 2026, ended goalless after 120 minutes of intense football, but Morocco triumphed 4-2 in the shoot-out, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebrations.

The hero of the night was Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, whose composure and reflexes proved decisive. He denied Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi from the spot, paving the way for Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the winning penalty.

The Ekiti PDP Primary Ruling and Its Political Implications

Editorial: The Ekiti PDP Primary Ruling and Its Political Implications

The recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, which nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election in Ekiti State and ordered a fresh exercise, is more than a legal pronouncement, it is a turning point in the state’s political trajectory. Justice Babs Kuewumi’s ruling, which invalidated the emergence of Wole Oluyede as the PDP candidate, has sent ripples across the party’s structures, raising questions about internal democracy, credibility, and the party’s readiness for the electoral battles ahead.

Court nullifies PDP Primary in Ekiti, orders fresh exercise

Court Nullifies PDP Primary in Ekiti, Orders Fresh Exercise

A Federal High Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has delivered a landmark ruling that has reshaped the political landscape of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

On January 13, 2026, Justice Babs Kuewumi nullified the emergence of Wole Oluyede as the PDP candidate, ordering the party to conduct a fresh primary election.

The case was brought before the court by Funso Ayeni, who challenged the conduct of the PDP primary. In his judgment, Justice Kuewumi declared that the exercise which produced Oluyede was riddled with fundamental flaws and could not stand. He identified serious procedural breaches, including a blatant disregard for the PDP’s electoral guidelines and internal regulations.