News March 03, 2026 IWD 2026: NIPR Secures NEMA's Partnership

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has secured the partnership of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) towards hosting of the Institute's first International Women's Day celebration scheduled to hold on 30th March, 2026, at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, Abuja. 

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the NIPR, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar said that she was impressed with the quality initiatives of the Institute in the last two years; while confirming her attendance and NEMA's partnership for the 2026 International Women’s Day.

Engaging further, the NEMA boss said, "You can see that all of a sudden, everybody is aware of the NIPR. I would like to really praise the leadership of the Institute for the hardwork and the difference that we see in the affairs of the NIPR in recent time. NIPR is now known all over and congratulations on this". 

Earlier in her presentation, the leader of the delegation and Chair, 2026 NIPR IWD Planning Committee, Hajia Lami Tumaka, fnipr, remarked that the programme is designed to showcase the value and contributions of women in societal development.

She expressed delight at the Agency's current leadership that priorities planning and prevention, describing Mrs. Umar as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation of leaders.  

Some members of the Planning Committee that were part of the visit are: Council Member - Mrs. Maryam Sanusi, Chairman, NIPR FCT Chapter - Mr. Stanley Ogadigo, Fellow Grace Ayoola, Dr. Tope Ojeme, Fatima Abaji and Suwaiba Baba.

News March 03, 2026 Okpebholo joins Edo Youths protesting power outages, billing issues

 

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday identified with youths and residents who staged a protest over persistent power outages and billing concerns associated with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

The demonstrators gathered at Ring Road in Benin City, displaying placards with messages such as “We say no to BEDC oppression,” “No light, no bill,” and “Edo people say no to bulk billing.” They decried prolonged blackouts, estimated billing practices, and what they described as the exorbitant cost of prepaid meters.

Governor Okpebholo, who was reportedly driving past the area, stopped to address the protesters and expressed his support. He said he halted after noticing the crowd and learning about their grievances, adding that he stood with them as fellow youths seeking fairness.

He acknowledged that electricity challenges cut across both rural and urban communities in Edo State and appealed for calm as the government engages relevant stakeholders to find solutions. According to him, issues affecting electricity supply impact everyone — from villagers to city dwellers.

While clarifying that BEDC is privately owned and not under the direct control of the state government, the governor assured residents that efforts would be made to tackle the concerns raised. He suggested liberalising the electricity distribution sector to attract new investors and end what he described as a monopoly.

Drawing a comparison with the telecommunications industry, Okpebholo said introducing more players would provide consumers with options and improve service delivery. He further announced plans to convene a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday and urged the protesters to nominate five representatives to participate in discussions.

Speaking for the group, Comrade Ogbidi Emmanuel said residents were compelled to protest what he termed oppressive practices by the distribution company. He questioned the transparency of BEDC’s free meter distribution initiative and challenged the company to publicly disclose beneficiaries.

“We pay for light and they give us darkness,” he said, alleging that prepaid meters cost between ₦150,000 and ₦400,000.

The protest remained peaceful, with security personnel on ground to ensure order. The demonstrators dispersed after the governor’s address. As of press time, BEDC had yet to release an official statement in response to the claims.

News March 02, 2026 Two pregnant IDP women die within five days in Benue community

 

At least two pregnant internally displaced women have died within a span of five days in Agagbe, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

Local sources confirmed on Monday that the women — Aondona Dooshima, 30, and Sumali Blessing, 28 — passed away on February 26 and March 1, 2026, respectively.

A resident of the community, Terna, who spoke anonymously, attributed the deaths to poverty and poor access to healthcare services. He explained that Dooshima, who was displaced from Tse Nongu Tswarev in Gaambe Ushin Council Ward, developed severe abdominal pain on February 26.

According to him, the family could not afford adequate medical care. She was eventually taken to a clinic in Agagbe when her condition worsened, but she later died.

Terna added that while the community was still mourning her death, another expectant mother, Sumali Blessing, also lost her life. Blessing, said to be from Tse Ameen in Mbapa Council Ward, reportedly fell ill but was unable to access proper treatment due to financial constraints.

Her husband later took her to a primary healthcare centre in Abani on Sunday, but it was too late. She died the following day, and her body was deposited at the Agagbe morgue.

The source noted that both women and their families had sought refuge in Agagbe after fleeing attacks in their ancestral communities. He called on the state government, humanitarian organisations, and concerned individuals to urgently assist displaced families in the area, particularly with healthcare and welfare support.

When contacted, the Information Officer of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Tema Ager, clarified that although the women were internally displaced persons, they were not living inside the official camp.

“The two women were not staying in the camp but within the host community,” Ager said.

The deaths highlight the continuing challenges faced by displaced families in Benue State, many of whom struggle with limited access to healthcare, food, and other essential services after years of violence that forced them from their homes.

Agagbe is one of the 14 officially recognized Internally Displaced Persons camps in the state.

News Politics March 02, 2026 Atiku’s Son, steps down as Adamawa commissioner

 

Adamu Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has resigned from his role as Commissioner for Works and Energy Development in Adamawa State.

In a resignation letter dated March 2, 2026, and addressed to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Adamu stated that his decision came after “deep personal reflection and careful consideration.”

“I write to formally tender my resignation from the office of Honourable Commissioner for Works and Energy Development, Adamawa State, effective from today, 2nd March, 2026,” the letter read.

He described his tenure as a distinct honour and expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve. According to him, it was a privilege to work under Fintiri’s leadership and contribute to the state’s infrastructural advancement.

Adamu also thanked the people of Adamawa State for their support throughout his time in office. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by the governor and noted that the enabling environment provided allowed him to discharge his duties with commitment and diligence.

Concluding his letter, he offered prayers for the governor, asking Allah to grant him continued strength and guidance in serving the state.

Adamu chose not to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was absent from the group of 22 commissioners who accompanied Governor Fintiri to formally announce their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC on February 27, 2026.

News Politics March 02, 2026 Wave of resignations rocks Okpebholo’s cabinet

 

A series of resignations has swept through the cabinet of Monday Okpebholo, following a directive issued to political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections.

The development came after a circular dated February 28, 2026, signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and made public on March 2, 2026. The directive instructed all political appointees, civil servants, and officials in the administration aspiring to contest elective positions in 2027 to step down immediately.

Among those who have submitted resignation letters are Dr. Washington Osifo, Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation; Dr. Lucky Eseigbe, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development; Bar Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC); and Pius Alile, Deputy Chief of Staff to the State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa.

In separate letters addressed to the Secretary to the State Government, the officials declared their intentions to contest seats in the House of Representatives for their respective constituencies.

Dr. Osifo stated that he resigned to pursue the House of Representatives seat for the Orhionmwon/Uhumwonde Federal Constituency, currently represented by Chief Billy Osawaru, who is reportedly seeking a second term.

Pius Alile stepped down from his role in the office of the Deputy Governor to contest for the Egor/Ikpoba Okha Federal Constituency. In his resignation letter dated February 27, 2026, Alile cited compliance with provisions of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026, which mandates that political appointees and public office holders resign before contesting elections.

The Egor/Ikpoba Okha seat is presently occupied by Hon. Omoruyi Murphy Osaro, who recently defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from the Labour Party.

Dr. Lucky Eseigbe also resigned to contest the Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency seat.

Meanwhile, Bar Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie stepped down from his position as Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Party Affairs to contest in the party’s March 3, 2026 State Congress for the office of State Publicity Secretary.

The mass resignations mark a significant political shift within the Okpebholo administration as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

News March 02, 2026 Pastor Mrs Becky Enenche Unveils Dee Utensils' Abuja Showroom, Massive Sales Recorded

The long-awaited unveiling of the new Abuja Showroom of Dee Utensils, a popular kitchenware has come and gone but not without the long-lasting memories the colourful event created. 

In addition to massive presence of high network individuals, such as Veteran Nollywood actress, Rita Edochie and renowned fashion expert, Sheyi Vodi, CEO of Vodi Group, DG Frin, Dr. Zacharia Buba Yaduma (PhD) among others, the massive sales which was as a result of 20% discount magnanimously introduced by Dee Utensils. 

Located at Plot 965, Aminu Kano Crescent Wuse II, Banex Junction, beside LG showroom, the facility boasts of unique and luxurious kitchenwares that meet global standard. 

Speaking at the event, the CEO of Dee Utencils, Dr (Mrs) Andrew Lois Ihwo described the new showroom as a testament of Dee Utencils' commitment to make its products more accessible to residents of the nation's capital. 

She said the organization's products are among the very best that can be seen anywhere across the world. 

"I travel a lot because I want the best for my clients. I want something different from what people know or sell out there. I just want Dee Utensils to be unique and outstanding. To the glory of God, we are dominating the market. 

"Most of our goods are supplied from Turkey, Germany, the US, the UK, China, Dubai, and India, among other countries. We have connections with most of these factories and we go as far as giving specifications and designs for the products we want", she said. 

Before the unveiling, the facility was committed to God by Pastor Mrs. Becky Enenche of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre. 

Dr. Andrew Lois Ihwo wields massive influence in Abuja business landscape and has largely impacted women folks generally. 

With multiple awards to her kitty, she is renowned for her investment in philanthropy and humanitarian interventions. 

Not long ago, she was conferred with Honorary Doctorate Degree by American Management University California USA as well as prestigious award of Most Inspiring Entrepreneur of the Year, a recognition accorded her at the 15th Peace Achievers Award 2025.

In December, she bagged the traditional title conferment of Trauraruwan Matan Kasar Jiwa (the shinning star of Jiwa land) an honour bestowed on her by the Emir of Jiwa, His Royal Highness, Alh. Dr. Idris Musa in recognition of her achievements, especially her humanitarian commitment and impact to communities as well as her organisation's giant strides in business and the nation's economy.

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Entertainment News March 02, 2026 From Abuja to Lokoja: Aminu De Comedian’s Historic Double Triumph Earns Powerful Government Endorsement and Redefines Middle Belt Entertainment

Abuja & Lokoja, Nigeria — February 2026

In what industry observers are already describing as a defining moment for Nigeria’s creative sector, Nigerian comedian, content creator, and entertainment entrepreneur Aminu De Comedian has achieved a rare back-to-back entertainment milestone, successfully headlining two major comedy shows in Abuja and Lokoja that not only drew massive audiences but also secured high-level endorsement from the Kogi State Government.

The journey began in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, where the Abuja edition of his comedy special transformed the prestigious Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton into a vibrant arena of laughter, culture, and artistic excellence. The event attracted an impressive cross-section of society, including entertainment stakeholders, business leaders, public figures, and cultural enthusiasts who gathered to witness a performance widely regarded as one of the most compelling comedy showcases hosted in the Middle Belt region in recent times. Beyond comedy, the evening reflected strategic growth, professionalism, and brand maturity, signaling Aminu De Comedian’s evolution from a rising talent into a nationally relevant entertainment figure capable of commanding elite stages and large audiences.

Riding on the overwhelming success recorded in Abuja, Aminu De Comedian returned to his roots for what would become an emotional and historic homecoming in Lokoja. The Lokoja edition surpassed expectations, drawing unprecedented attendance and creating an atmosphere that celebrated not only entertainment but identity, youth aspiration, and regional pride. The significance of the event was further elevated by official recognition from the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside the Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu Oyibo, whose endorsement underscored the growing role of the creative industry as a catalyst for economic opportunity and youth empowerment within the state.

The presence and commendation of the state’s highest leadership transformed the show from a conventional entertainment event into a symbolic moment of alignment between governance and creativity. It reflected an administration willing to recognize entertainment as a legitimate vehicle for development, social engagement, and positive youth expression. For many attendees and industry watchers, the endorsement represented a powerful validation of years of grassroots effort invested by Aminu De Comedian in building platforms that nurture emerging talents while projecting Northern and Middle Belt creativity onto national and global stages.

The Lokoja edition, proudly sponsored by Hon. David Excel Onuche, CEO of Page Mansions and Special Adviser to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilization, further demonstrated institutional confidence in the entertainer’s vision and influence. The collaboration highlighted how entertainment continues to evolve into a bridge connecting governance, private enterprise, and community development.

Reflecting on the historic success of both shows and the unprecedented support received, Aminu De Comedian expressed profound gratitude and admiration for the leadership backing the creative industry in Kogi State, stating:

> “His Excellency, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has proven himself to be a visionary leader and a true pillar of support for youth development and the creative industry in Kogi State. His endorsement and encouragement mean more than words can express. It sends a clear message that this administration believes in the dreams of young people and is committed to empowering talents to thrive. I am deeply honored by his support, and I am inspired more than ever to continue making Kogi State proud on national and global stages.”

Having previously showcased his talent internationally across the United Kingdom and Ireland, Aminu De Comedian continues to build a reputation rooted in authenticity, cultural storytelling, and social relevance. His performances seamlessly blend humor with lived experiences, creating relatable narratives that resonate across diverse audiences while opening doors for upcoming performers seeking visibility and opportunity.

The twin successes recorded in Abuja and Lokoja mark more than a personal achievement; they signal the emergence of a new entertainment movement anchored in regional identity, youth empowerment, and creative excellence. As Nigeria’s entertainment landscape continues to expand beyond traditional hubs, Aminu De Comedian’s trajectory stands as compelling evidence that innovation, consistency, and community connection can elevate local talent into national influence.

With growing institutional recognition, expanding audience reach, and increasing international exposure, Aminu De Comedian now stands positioned as one of the leading cultural ambassadors redefining comedy and creative entrepreneurship from Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria. His journey from Abuja’s elite stage to Lokoja’s historic homecoming represents not just success, but a powerful narrative of talent meeting opportunity, vision meeting leadership support, and entertainment evolving into a force capable of inspiring a generation.