By Esther Ososanya As BRICS leaders gathered for a high-stakes summit in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump escalated tensions by announcing a proposed 10% tariff on countries aligning with what he called the group’s “anti-American policies”. The threat, posted on his Truth Social account, comes as the bloc which now includes …
By Esther Ososanya Security forces have stepped up patrols in Benin City and across Edo State after receiving intelligence on planned cult activities. The alert follows reports that the Black Axe confraternity intends to mark its annual 7/7 celebration. To prevent unrest, officers have been stationed at black spots and other sensitive locations. Edo State …
By Esther Ososanya The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has clarified that Bank Verification Number (BVN) registration remains free for all Nigerians residing in the country, amid widespread concerns over alleged new charges. Reacting to viral reports suggesting a hike in BVN-related fees, the bank on Friday confirmed that the $50 charge applies only to …
By Esther Ososanya Nollywood actress and producer Ruth Kadiri has shared why she keeps her marriage away from the spotlight. She said the choice to protect her private life is one of the best decisions she has ever made. In a recent interview, Kadiri explained that privacy has helped her stay focused and grounded. According …
By Esther Ososanya Global health groups demand financial accountability, stronger laws to counter rising nicotine products As tobacco-related deaths climb past eight million globally each year, the World Health Organisation (WHO), along with global public health experts, is demanding decisive action from governments to counter industry influence and curb new nicotine-driven marketing strategies. The latest …
By Esther Ososanya With just hours to go before the July 9 deadline for sweeping tariff hikes, the United States has signalled that several trade announcements are imminent, sending global markets and foreign governments into a frenzy. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Monday that countries around the world have rushed in last-minute offers …
By Esther Ososanya The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has announced major security gains between May and June 2025. According to Commissioner of Police CP Ajao Saka Adewale, 82 suspects were arrested across 49 reported cases, while victims of kidnapping, rape, and trafficking were rescued. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja today, the …
By Esther Ososanya Enticingly flavoured and deceptively marketed as a safer alternative, electronic cigarettes are swiftly gaining ground among young Nigerians—fuelling a silent addiction crisis as regulation stalls and public awareness remains alarmingly low. Vaping is the act of inhaling vapour produced by an electronic device, typically called a vape pen, e-cigarette, or mod. These …
By Esther Ososanya The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, says he withheld the May and June internally generated revenue (IGR) from area councils to help end the prolonged shutdown of FCT primary schools. Wike disclosed this during a media chat with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, noting that the teachers’ strike, which …
By Esther Ososanya The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended renaming the International Conference Centre (ICC) after President Bola Tinubu, dismissing claims of sycophancy. Speaking at his monthly media parley in Abuja on Thursday, Wike said the decision was based on merit, not politics. He said, “That centre is booked until 2027, …
