News March 07, 2026 Oba Yoruba Kano urges prayers for global peace, appreciates Kano Govt, Emir

 

The Oba Yoruba of Kano, Engr. (Dr.) Murtala Alimi Otisese, has called on Yoruba sons and daughters in Kano and across the world to use the remaining days of the holy month of Ramadan to pray for global peace and stability.

In a statement signed by Prince Zakariyau Rotimi, Palace Secretary to the Oba Yoruba of Kano, the monarch urged the faithful to dedicate the final days of the fasting period to intense prayers, particularly for countries currently experiencing conflicts and unrest.

“These final days of Ramadan carry immense spiritual weight. I call on every Yoruba person, wherever you are, to raise your voice in prayer for our brothers and sisters in all parts of the world facing the horrors of war. May peace reign supreme,” the Oba said.

He specifically appealed for divine intervention in troubled regions, including Iran, stressing the need for global harmony and an end to violence.

The traditional ruler also offered special prayers for the Kano State Government and the Emir of Kano, His Highness Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, while expressing gratitude for the support and peaceful environment enjoyed by the Yoruba community in the state.

According to him, the hospitality and protection extended by the government and the Kano Emirate have strengthened unity and peaceful coexistence in the ancient city.

“We are grateful for the atmosphere of brotherhood fostered by the State Government and the Emirate. Their leadership has ensured that we feel at home, and for this, we pray for their continued wisdom and the prosperity of Kano State,” he added.

The Oba also prayed for a peaceful conclusion of the Ramadan fast and extended advance Eid-el-Fitr greetings to the Muslim Ummah.

Crime News March 07, 2026 Many injured as thugs disrupt Wike-backed PDP congresses in Oyo

 

Violence erupted in several parts of Oyo State on Saturday as suspected political thugs reportedly carried out coordinated attacks on local government congresses organised by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The attacks left a number of party members injured and property damaged.

The disturbances coincided with reports that suspected political thugs also invaded the residence of former deputy governor, Hazeem Gbolarumi, in Ibadan, where property within the compound was destroyed, further escalating tension within the party.

Although full details of the incident were still unclear at the time of filing this report, sources close to the former deputy governor said he and his aides narrowly escaped during the invasion.

Witnesses and party sources stated that hoodlums stormed several venues where the congresses were being held, attacking participants and vandalising vehicles in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the exercise.

Chairman of the Wike-aligned faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Abdulrahman Akinoso, confirmed that the attacks were recorded in different locations, including Ibadan North, Ogbomoso South, Akinyele and Igboora in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area.

According to him, no fewer than ten persons were injured in the violence, while several vehicles were also damaged.

“Our local government congresses were attacked across Oyo State, including Ibadan North, Ogbomoso South, Igboora in Ibarapa Central and Akinyele,” Akinoso said in a telephone interview.

He added that three vehicles were vandalised at Gbolarumi House located on Are Avenue in the Bodija area of Ibadan, where members of the faction had gathered for the exercise.

The incidents have further heightened tensions within the party as rival factions continue to contest control of the party’s structure in the state.

(VANGUARD)

News Politics March 07, 2026 Yari floats ‘Renewed Hope Network’ to mobilise support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

 

Former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West Senatorial District, Abdulaziz Yari, has launched a new political movement, The Renewed Hope Network (TRHN), aimed at consolidating nationwide support for the administration and re-election of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The formation of the group was disclosed in a press statement issued on Saturday by the National Facilitators of the movement, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar and his deputy, Emmanuel Osita.

The facilitators said the movement was conceived by Senator Yari after extensive consultations with political stakeholders, grassroots leaders, youth organisations, women groups and former elected officials across the country who share a common vision of sustaining the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

According to the statement, the newly formed group is a broad-based national coalition made up of grassroots politicians, respected political actors, community mobilisers, women leaders, youth organisations and former councillors drawn from the 774 local government areas of the country.

The facilitators explained that the initiative was designed to unite progressive voices and grassroots political structures under a coordinated national platform committed to national development and political stability.

“Our collective resolve is anchored on the conviction that Nigeria is currently on a path of economic recovery, institutional reforms, and renewed national optimism under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.

It added, “As patriotic Nigerians and stakeholders in the country’s democratic future, we believe it is necessary to consolidate these gains by building a strong grassroots movement that will mobilise support nationwide.”

The statement further noted that the primary objective of the Renewed Hope Network is to galvanise massive grassroots support across the federation for the re-election of Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Beyond electoral mobilisation, the facilitators said the movement would also promote citizen engagement, political inclusion and national unity across the country.

They also disclosed that arrangements had reached an advanced stage for the official national launch of the movement, which is expected to attract thousands of supporters, political stakeholders, youth leaders, women groups and representatives from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“The Renewed Hope Network remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture, deepening grassroots participation in governance, and supporting leadership that prioritises economic growth, national security and social progress,” the statement added.

The group therefore called on Nigerians of goodwill, particularly young people, women, community leaders and political stakeholders, to join what it described as a growing national movement aimed at consolidating the Renewed Hope vision for a more prosperous and stable Nigeria.

It added that details of the official launch and nationwide mobilisation activities would be communicated to the public in due course.

Entertainment News March 07, 2026 Obi Cubana, Seyi Vodi Urge Abuja Residents To Come Out En Masse for Evolution of Washington Comedy Show This Sunday

Socialites and prominent figures in the governing APC City Boy Movement, Obinna Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana and Seyi Vodi, also a prominent fashion designer have called on the residents of Abuja, the nation's capital to come out in their large numbers to be part of the long-awaited comedy show, Evolution of Washington taking place this Sunday, March 8, 2026. 

Tagged, "Wetin Women Really Want 2", the show is aimed at celebrating women and the immeasurably value in nation building. 

Evolution Of Washington comedy show is also incidentally happening same day with the International Women's Day, driving towards appreciating women for the role they play in the society as champions of peace at home front and the society in general. 

Expected to perform at the second "Wetin Women Really Want", are veteran musicians, including Mr. P of the defunct Psquarecomedy icons, notable MC`s and electrifying dancers. 

Because it is a day to specially recognise women, more women artistes have been selected to thrill audiences at the comedy show. 

Spearheaded by Washington, a member of 26 Pals Development Initiative who is leaving a legacy in Abuja, this comedy show will take place on March 8, 2026 at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja. 

It promises to be exciting more than previous editions of the programme, as it seeks to build on those beautiful records. 

Ticket cost has been reduced to 10k, 25k, 2m and 3m for regular, VIP, gold table and premium table respectively.

Washington whose real name is Ernest Anyanwu is a talented MC, event compere and skit maker has anchored high profile events. Very popular in Abuja entertainment and social cycle, he is one man who has developed a unique way of connecting with people.

Meanwhile, it comedy show has continued to generate buzz on the social media, with prominent celebrities promoting the show. 

It has also attracted massive partnership from top brands, including Amanda Group, D-Ben Real Estate, Wincorp Homes, Seman Global, AerialView Group and more.

While the most anticipated after party of the night of fun and laughter will be at Evro lifestyle with all the entertainers in attendance.

Entertainment News March 07, 2026 MC Kpako Set to Hold Comedy Show in Abuja This Sunday, Top Entertainers Expected

All is now set for the long-awaited comedy being spearheaded by Abuja multitalented entertainer, Master of Ceremony (Mc) and radio personality, MC Kpako.

A respected personality in the industry, MC Kpako is known for his energy-filled performances that hold audience spellbound at every event.

The show coming up this Sunday, March 8, 2026 is tagged, "Undefined" and is the third in the series.

Taking place at Ogadis event centre, Dutse Abuja, the event is currently generating massive buzz on the social media as top celebrities have joined in creating awareness around it.

Artistes and entertainers expected to perform include, Destalker, MC Bob, MC Nappy, MC Godpikin, 2Sap, MC Apapa, Dr. Laff Laff, MC Pokiyour, MC Orolee, Holy Mouth, Senior Man, Emperor, Kennedy, MC Archb, MC Matthew and several others.

Promoters urge Abuja residents to come out in their large numbers to have a refreshing moment of laughter, music and dance.

National News March 07, 2026 NiMet forecasts hazy weather condition nationwide

 

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a three-day period of dust haze across the country from Saturday through Monday.

In its weather outlook issued in Abuja, the agency projected moderate dust haze on Saturday over the northern region, with horizontal visibility expected to range between two and five kilometres.

NiMet also warned that some areas of Katsina, Kano and Jigawa states may experience reduced visibility of less than or equal to 1,000 metres during the forecast period.

The outlook further indicated that the North-Central region would experience moderate dust haze throughout the same period.

For the southern part of the country, NiMet predicted mostly sunny conditions with a few patches of clouds. However, it noted slim chances of afternoon or evening thunderstorms accompanied by light rainfall in parts of Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

On Sunday, the agency said moderate dust haze would continue to affect both the northern and North-Central regions.

It also projected largely sunny skies over the southern region with occasional cloud cover, alongside slight chances of isolated thunderstorms and light rainfall later in the day in Ondo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and Edo states.

According to NiMet, Monday’s forecast points to slight dust haze over the northern region and continued dust haze conditions across the North-Central zone.

It added that the southern region would again see sunny conditions with patches of cloud, with slim chances of isolated thunderstorms and light rainfall expected later in the day in Lagos, Edo, Delta and Bayelsa states.

“Dust particles would remain in suspension, the public to take necessary precautions. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions are to be cautious under the prevailing weather conditions.

“Motorists should drive with caution during rainfall while airline operators are to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective operational planning.

“Residents are to stay informed through regular weather updates by visiting www.nimet.gov.ng,’’ it said.

Health News March 07, 2026 Nigeria trains 78,146 health workers as insurance coverage rises to 21.7m

 

Nigeria recorded notable progress in its health sector reforms in 2025, according to the 2025 State of Health of the Nation Report.

The report shows that more than 23,000 additional frontline health workers were trained during the year, increasing the total number of trained workers in the past two years to 78,146.

The 2025 State of Health of the Nation Report was made available on Saturday in Abuja.

It was produced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in accordance with the National Health Act of 2014.

The document provides a detailed evaluation of progress recorded under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Sector-Wide Approach, both designed to coordinate investments and reforms across the health sector.

According to the report, the number of trained frontline health workers represents 65 per cent of the Federal Government’s target of 120,000 workers, aimed at strengthening service delivery, especially at primary healthcare facilities.

The report also highlighted improvements in financial protection for Nigerians through expanded health insurance coverage.

It stated that the number of Nigerians covered by any form of health insurance increased from 19.2 million in 2024 to 21.7 million in 2025, representing about 13 per cent national coverage.

The report further revealed that the government secured a presidential commitment for the full implementation of mandatory health insurance.

It added that capitation and fee-for-service payments were increased by 93 per cent and 378 per cent, respectively, to reflect current economic realities and ensure the sustainability of healthcare services.

The report also noted that the Basic Health Care Provision Fund 2.0, launched in October 2025 with improved fiduciary and operational reforms, had enrolled about 2.7 million Nigerians by the fourth quarter of the year.

On maternal and newborn health services, the report stated that the National Health Insurance Authority signed memoranda of understanding with more than 200 health facilities to expand access to Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) for poor and vulnerable women.

It revealed that CEmONC services reached 19,270 women nationwide, while 20,486 claims were reimbursed to 186 facilities, with 242 facilities across the country empanelled under the maternal component.

The neonatal component of the programme was also launched in seven facilities in Kano and Lagos in September 2025, it added.

Emergency medical response services were also strengthened during the year, with the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System responding to 26,431 maternal emergencies nationwide, according to the report.

In addition, the Rural Emergency Services for Maternal and Newborn Transport initiative assisted 34,331 pregnant women and newborns in 124 local government areas through dedicated rural transport systems.

The report also highlighted gains in disease prevention and treatment programmes.

Nigeria began the implementation of the malaria vaccine in Bayelsa and Kebbi states, marking a significant step in malaria control efforts.

Similarly, the HIV programme maintained treatment coverage above 87 per cent and viral suppression above 95 per cent, contributing to a continued decline in new infections.

In the area of health security, the Federal Government launched the second National Action Plan on Health Security, aimed at integrating disease surveillance, immunisation and veterinary services into a coordinated emergency response framework.

The government also introduced the MSDAT digital platform to host interactive dashboards for monitoring health system performance and quality of care.

On strengthening the health value chain, the report indicated progress in local manufacturing of health products.

It disclosed that tax waivers exceeding six billion Naira were implemented under the Presidential Executive Order on Health Products, benefiting 47 pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Nigeria also inaugurated new facilities, including a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) factory by Codix Bio and a syringe manufacturing plant with a daily production capacity of 750,000 units.

According to the report, 37 pharmaceutical facilities are currently undergoing upgrades to meet international Good Manufacturing Practice standards, while 38 per cent of publicly procured medicines and health commodities are sourced locally.

To strengthen medicine supply chains and curb the circulation of counterfeit drugs, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control seized and destroyed over one trillion Naira worth of banned, expired and substandard medical products in 2025.

The report stated that these efforts form part of broader reforms aimed at improving governance, financing and service delivery under the Health Sector Strategic Blueprint (2023–2027).

It said the reforms focus on improving maternal and child health, accelerating immunisation, expanding health insurance coverage, strengthening the health workforce, improving supply chains and enhancing pandemic preparedness.