News September 16, 2026 Remi Tinubu rewards international Qur’anic competition winner with ₦20m

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday rewarded 19-year-old Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, winner of the women’s category of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’an Competition in Saudi Arabia, with ₦20 million.

Mrs Tinubu, who received the young Qur’an reciter at the State House, Abuja, also offered to support her pursuit of a master’s degree, describing her achievement as a source of pride to Nigeria and an inspiration to the girl-child.

Maryam emerged winner of the women’s category of the international competition, which attracted participants from 133 countries.

The First Lady said the feat demonstrated what Nigerian youths could accomplish through hard work, discipline and dedication, stressing that education remained a priority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

According to a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady told Maryam, “You have brought joy to us, showing Nigeria to the world again, about her worth and the good that can come from her”.

She described Maryam as a worthy example for young girls, saying her success had shown her generation the value of diligence and commitment.

“You are a pride to the girl child. You are a pride to the girl child. You are showing your generation the way which to go, and that is hard work, pursued with divine wisdom, and God has crowned your efforts”, she said.

The First Lady also commended Maryam’s father for giving her a sound upbringing, which she said had translated into honour for Nigeria, Gombe State, the family and Maryam herself.

She urged the teenager to remain focused on her education and embrace mentorship as she progresses academically, assuring her of support towards attaining a master’s degree.

The First Lady subsequently presented Maryam with the ₦20 million reward in recognition of her international achievement.

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who accompanied Maryam to the State House alongside his wife, Dr Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya, her father and other state government officials, traced the teenager’s journey to the international title.

Yahaya said Maryam had distinguished herself in Qur’anic recitation competitions from the local government level, progressing to the state and national stages before qualifying to represent Nigeria at the international competition in Saudi Arabia.The governor described her victory as a source of pride to both Gombe State and Nigeria.

Responding, Maryam thanked the First Lady for the reception, honour and support accorded her.

She said participating in the competition in Saudi Arabia provided her with an opportunity to interact with contestants from different parts of the world.

Maryam expressed hope that her success would encourage other young Nigerians to work harder, remain dedicated to their pursuits and strive for excellence.

News September 16, 2026 ‘Let him finish the good work’ — Oba of Benin backs Tinubu for second term

Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, has endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term, asking Nigerians to allow him to complete his “good works”.

The monarch spoke on Tuesday when the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council (PCC) visited the Benin palace to seek his blessing and support ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The delegation was led by Abdulaziz Yari, director-general of the campaign council, and included George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF); Aliyu Wamakko, former governor of Sokoto; Abdullahi Ganduje, former national chairman of the APC, among others.

Speaking during the visit, Yari conveyed Tinubu’s regards and appealed for the Benin monarch’s support ahead of the 2027 election.

The former governor of Zamfara listed the reduction in food prices, stability of the exchange rate, and construction of inter-regional roads among the achievements of the current administration.

In his response, the Oba of Benin thanked the president for the warm reception he received during his own visit to the State House in Abuja and welcomed the PCC’s decision to visit the Benin palace.

The monarch said the president deserves a second term in office due to his performance in his ongoing first term.

“For somebody who is doing well, it is our prayer that he gets a renewed mandate,” the monarch said, adding a Pidgin expression to underscore the point: “As e dey pain them, e dey sweet us.”

Referring to the Biblical passage in John 8:7, the Oba urged critics to let the president continue his work unimpeded.

“Let he who is without sin cast the first stone,” he said.

“If one is doing well, why not join hands with the president to do what he is doing well? Let President Tinubu finish the good work.”

While noting that not everyone would become Nigeria’s president, the monarch urged opposition parties to support Tinubu’s re-election bid.

TheCable

News Politics September 16, 2026 INEC integrates NIN to clean National Voter Register ahead 2027 elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has systematically integrated National Identification Numbers (NIN) to audit, verify, and clean the national voter register to improve the register’s integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The acting Chairman of INEC, Prof. Rhoda Gumus, disclosed this on Tuesday, while receiving members of the African Union (AU) Pre-Election Needs Assessment Mission at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Gumus, who is a national commissioner, said that INEC was preparing to accredit and facilitate voting for a voter population rapidly consolidating towards the 100 million mark, deployed across 176,846 polling units.

“Through our strategic collaboration with the NIMC and the implementation of our continuous voter registration portal, we have systematically integrated NIN to audit, verify, and clean our national voter register.

“This is to ensure that Africa’s largest democratic identity roll enters the 2027 polls with unassailable integrity,” she said.

Gumus reaffirmed INEC’s strict commitment to neutrality, independence, and professionalism, under Prof. Joash Amupitan, who is presently on an international assignment.

“Under our watch, every administrative decision will strictly follow the law, every technical deployment will serve transparency and the outcome of the 2027 general election will reflect nothing but the sovereign will of the Nigerian electorate,” she said.

On INEC operational readiness, Gumus said that the commission had treated all recent off-cycle elections, including Anambra, FCT, Ekiti, and Osun, as a crucial proving ground for reform under the new legal framework provided by the Electoral Act 2026.

She cited that in Osun, INEC recorded over 94 per cent early morning logistical opening rates, optimal performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), seamless result viewing on the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, and disciplined security management.

Gumus, however, acknowledged the complex technological, logistical, and political challenges inherent in managing elections across a vast country.

The acting chairman, while describing electoral integrity as a multi-stakeholder endeavour, added that international technical support remained vital to bridging operational gaps in line with the AU assessment mission.

Gumus outlined specific areas where technical and institutional support from the AU would be valuable, including digital training for ad hoc election personnel.

Other areas are countering election-related disinformation and deepfakes, strengthening the Election Monitoring and Support Centre, and deepening inclusivity and gender-mainstreaming frameworks.

She described the mission’s visit to Nigeria as a pivotal event in the country’s democratic journey, which underscored its shared commitments to the principles aimed at consolidating constitutionalism, institutional integrity, and credible electoral governance across the continent.

Earlier, Demeke Mekonnen, leader of the AU delegation and former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, said that the visit was to engage key stakeholders to gauge overall election preparedness.

Mekonnen noted that the mission would examine critical areas, including voter register readiness, technology applications such as BVAS and IReV, logistics, timely funding release, gender and youth inclusion, and security coordination,

Other areas are dispute resolution mechanisms to help ensure a credible, transparent, and fair electoral process.

He emphasised the need for a credible and transparent process, a fair landscape for all players, and inclusivity, which he described as the acceptable standards for elections.

“We are here to also find out if INEC technology applications were fully tested and ready, lessons learnt from the previous elections, logistical and operational challenges and how the commission was addressing them.

“To find out if INEC had received adequate and timely funding through parliament for all the entire election process, which are very important to ensure credibility, fairness and transparency; availability of necessary resources is very crucial, on time,” he added. (NAN)

News September 16, 2026 JUST IN: Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His wife, actress Joke Silva, and their son announced his death on social media on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

The family said the celebrated actor, whom they described as the “Lion of Lufodo,” died on Wednesday.

In a statement announcing his death, the family said:

 “It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.

 “Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR). 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026.”

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.

“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the statement read.

Career and legacy

Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.

His death comes after years of false reports about his passing, which his family repeatedly debunked.

The actor celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, 2026.

This report will be updated as more details emerge.

News September 16, 2026 Dr. Omoaefe Ejere Emerges President of 36 Pals Development Initiatives in Abuja

....Pledges Service-Driven Leadership in acceptance speech

Abuja, Nigeria — Dr. Omoaefe Ejere has been elected President of the 36 Pals Development Initiatives, an Abuja-based social club made up of a group of friends.

The election was held some days ago. He formally took over the mantle of leadership on September 15, 2026, during a swearing-in ceremony.

He received his Certificate and Oath of Office alongside other newly elected executive members.

Dr. Ejere is a hospitality practitioner. He is the Chief Operating Officer of Cubana and Managing Director of Harvard Restaurant.

In his acceptance speech, he thanked Almighty God and every member who participated in the electoral process for entrusting him with the mandate.

He said he was not there to rule 36 Pals but to serve it. The office of President, he added, is a position of responsibility, not privilege.

He said his administration would be guided by four principles: service, empowerment, ownership and community development.

He unveiled a two-year vision focused on creating value for members. Membership, he said, should not be only about meetings and dues, but about opportunities, support, friendship and belonging.

Among his initiatives are the 36 Pals 100 Teachers Vision Support Project for eye screening and prescription glasses, and the 36 Pals Community Traffic and Safety Volunteers Project.

Others include the 36 Pals 1,000 Trees for the Future Project, school fees support for deserving pupils, and proposed feeding interventions for homeless families and displaced persons.

He also proposed a “Membership Own One Land” Initiative, which will allow members to access land in the Federal Capital Territory with payment spread over an agreed period.

He called for unity, saying disagreement must never become division. He urged members to put 36 Pals first, respect one another and correct one another with love.

He promised transparency, accountability, proper documentation, financial responsibility and regular reporting. Every contribution, he said, must be treated with respect.

To his executive team, he said the administration is a team effort. He promised to listen, consult and welcome constructive criticism.

He thanked immediate past President Pal Amb Victor Okon for his service, sacrifice and commitment. He said past leaders and outgoing EXCO will remain part of the association, offering experience and counsel.

He constituted committees to drive implementation. They include Strategy & Implementation, Project & Media Services, Contact & Mobilization, Protocol & Entertainment, Reconciliation & Members’ Affairs, Legal & Secretariat Affairs, and Diaspora Affairs.

He named Pal Daniel Oniko, Pal Victor Okon and all serving EXCO as Elder Statesmen and Advisers. Their role, he said, will be advisory and strategic.

He urged members to move from talk to action, from friendship to fellowship, and from empowerment to measurable development and impact.

He thanked those who voted for him and welcomed those who did not. “There are no camps. There are no winners and losers. There is only Thirty Six Pals,” he said.

He asked members to believe in the administration and in what they can achieve together. He promised that their voices would matter and their ideas would be welcomed.

He ended with a call for collective progress: “Together, we can do more. Together, we can give more. Together, we can build more.”

The speech was signed by Dr. Omoaefe Ejere, President, Thirty Six Pals Development Initiatives, 15th September 2026.

News Politics September 16, 2026 TKC Takes Grassroots Crusade to House of Reps, Unveils Empowerment Agenda for Amuwo Odofin

Hon. Thankgod Kenechukwu Ibeh, fondly called TKC, is contesting for the House of Representatives seat under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency. He has become a rallying point for youths, women, and community leaders who believe in true grassroots representation.

As a long-standing stakeholder of APGA, TKC has not just talked about change; he has worked for it. He has invested time, resources, and influence in strengthening the party at the grassroots, mobilizing support, and ensuring that the voices of ordinary members are heard.

His achievements in Amuwo Odofin are evident in his empowerment drive. He has supported young people through skills acquisition, vocational training, and small business grants. Many youths have received educational support, mentorship, and opportunities to stand on their own.

He has also extended a compassionate hand to widows, the less privileged, and vulnerable families. Through community outreach and philanthropic gestures, he has provided relief, hope, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.

From facilitating job linkages to supporting market women and small-scale entrepreneurs, TKC has consistently placed the needs of the people above personal comfort. His empowerment footprint continues to inspire confidence across the constituency.

TKC's commitment to youth engagement is not seasonal. He has consistently created platforms for young people to participate in politics, decision-making, and community development. His message is simple: the youth are not just future leaders; they are today's partners.

As the campaign gathers momentum, the tent is expanding every day. TKC urges residents to mobilize and join the grassroots movement to amplify the voices of youths in Amuwo Odofin.

He believes that history is beckoning and that the people must be part of a new dawn. "Your future and your voice are in your hands. Join our grassroots movement and shape your destiny," he tells the people.

With the rallying cry of "One Team! One Vision!!", TKC is presenting himself as the choice for real representation. He insists that the people are the priority and that APGA is the platform to deliver genuine change.

For Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency, the message is clear: vote APGA, vote TKC, and send a true grassroots champion to the House of Representatives.

Noel Akor

Beke Media Consult.

Entertainment News September 16, 2026 Peter Obi Receives N4m Table Ticket, Confirms Attendance at Vintage With Gana

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Peter Obi, has confirmed his attendance at the forthcoming 2026 edition of the popular Abuja comedy and entertainment show, Vintage With Gana, after receiving a premium table ticket worth N4 million from the organisers.

The former Anambra State governor was presented with the Premium Table ticket as part of preparations for the much-anticipated entertainment event, which is scheduled to take place at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

Obi, according to the organisers, expressed support for the initiative and encouraged Nigerians, particularly young people, to continue to embrace talent, creativity and enterprise.

The former governor also promised to be physically present at the event, signalling his support for the creative industry and the efforts of entertainers who continue to provide platforms for talent development and cultural expression.

The 2026 edition of Vintage With Gana, regarded as one of Abuja's prominent annual comedy and entertainment gatherings, is billed for October 3, 2026, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Abuja, with the show scheduled to commence at 6pm.

Ticket categories include Regular at N15,000, VIP at N30,000, Silver Table for 10 at N1.5 million, Gold Table for 10 at N2.5 million and Premium Table for 10 at N4 million.

The event is the brainchild of veteran Abuja comedian, master of ceremonies and broadcaster Peter Ogbudu, popularly known as Gana, who has over the years built Vintage With Gana into an annual platform combining comedy, music, social commentary and entertainment.

Gana has held several editions of the show in Abuja, attracting some of Nigeria's biggest names in entertainment as well as prominent personalities from different sectors of society.

The Vintage With Gana, held in 2023, featured celebrated entertainers including 2Baba, Gordons, I Go Save, Maleke and Kelvin Sapp, among others. The event was described at the time as a premium comedy show with a difference and attracted a high-profile audience at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

The following year, Gana returned with the Deeper Than Thought edition, which featured a strong lineup of entertainers including African China, Oritse Femi, Akpororo, I Go Dye and Koboko Master, among others. It has a yearly carnival in Abuja, drawing high-profile personalities to the Transcorp Hilton.

The last edition strengthened the brand's reputation, featuring performers such as Duncan Mighty, I Go Dye, MC Pashun, Acapella, Koboko Master, Abarecom and Sarkin Dariya. Reports said the event attracted Abuja's entertainment elite, socialites and lovers of comedy and music, while tickets reportedly sold out days before the show.

Gana, who has spent about 29 years in the Nigerian entertainment industry, has also a notable voice in broadcasting, social commentary and humanitarian activities. 

Beyond entertainment, Gana has used his platform to draw attention to social issues and support vulnerable members of society. 

The 2026 event is expected to combine comedy, music, celebrity appearances and social interaction, with Obi's planned attendance adding a significant political and public-interest dimension to the show.

For the organisers, the confirmation by the NDC presidential candidate highlights the growing influence of Vintage With Gana as an entertainment platform capable of bringing together personalities from politics, business, entertainment and wider society.

With its established history of attracting leading Nigerian entertainers and high-profile guests, expectations are high that the 2026 edition will once again deliver an evening of comedy, music and celebration while providing a platform for creativity and emerging talent.