The Olawale PRL Foundation is set to host its 3rd Annual Empowerment Program, a life impacting humanitarian initiative aimed at restoring hope, supporting lives, and empowering the future of vulnerable groups within our society. This year’s program, convened by the Founder of the Olawale PRL Foundation, continues the foundation’s commitment to social responsibility, inclusion, and sustainable empowerment for those who need it most. The empowerment program is specifically designed to reach out to widows, women, youths, and persons living with disabilities, providing them with support, resources, and renewed confidence to thrive despite life’s challenges. Over the years, the Olawale PRL Foundation has remained consistent in delivering people centred interventions that go beyond charity focusing instead on empowerment, dignity, and long-term impact. The Founder of the Olawale PRL Foundation invites members of the general public, community stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries to be part of this impactful gathering,the program promises meaningful engagement, support initiatives, and a shared commitment to uplifting lives and strengthening social bonds. As the year draws to a close, this empowerment program stands as a reminder that collective compassion and purposeful leadership can transform lives and communities.
Former Oyo Lawmaker, Hon. Abdul-Rasak Abdulahi popularly known as “Omo Sheu” Is Dead A former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdul-Rasak Ademola Abdullahi, popularly known as Omo Sheu, has passed away.
Hon. Abdullahi, who represented Ibadan South East State Constituency 1 in the 9th Oyo State House of Assembly, died on Sunday night after a prolonged battle with a kidney-related illness.
During his tenure in the Assembly, “Omo Sheu” was widely regarded as a grassroots politician with strong ties to his constituents. He was known for his commitment to community development and his consistent advocacy for improved social services in Ibadan South East.
His death has plunged the political landscape of Oyo State, particularly Ibadan South East, into mourning. Colleagues, constituents, and party members have continued to pay tribute to him, describing him as a dedicated and compassionate public servant.
The family is yet to announce details of his burial arrangements.
A Nigerian mathematician, Joshuai Adeleke, has earned international recognition for his outstanding contributions to nuclear energy research through advanced mathematical modeling. His work has significantly enhanced the understanding of complex nuclear systems, positioning him as a rising figure in the intersection of mathematics, physics, and energy science.
Adeleke’s research focuses on developing sophisticated mathematical frameworks that improve the accuracy of nuclear energy simulations, reactor safety analysis, and energy efficiency optimization. By applying high-level computational techniques and theoretical models, his studies help scientists better predict nuclear behavior, reduce operational risks, and advance the design of safer and more sustainable nuclear energy systems.
Beyond nuclear energy, his contributions extend to theoretical physics and materials science, where his models are being used to study radiation effects on materials, energy transfer mechanisms, and structural stability under extreme conditions. These applications are critical to improving the longevity and performance of materials used in nuclear reactors and other high-energy environments.
The recognition has been widely applauded within academic and scientific communities, with experts noting that Adeleke’s work underscores the growing impact of African scholars in global scientific innovation. His achievement is also seen as an inspiration to young Nigerian researchers, highlighting the vital role of mathematics in solving some of the world’s most complex energy and sustainability challenges.
The ancient city of Lagos came alive in a blaze of colour, culture and pageantry as the iconic Eyo Festival unfolded in grand style, drawing thousands of spectators from across Nigeria and beyond. The streets resonated with traditional chants, rhythmic drumming and the graceful procession of the white-clad Eyo masquerades, creating a breathtaking spectacle that celebrated the rich heritage of the Lagos people.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu graced the colourful event, adding national prestige to the age-long cultural festival. He was joined by eminent traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry and cultural enthusiasts, all of whom gathered to witness the majestic display that has become a symbol of Lagos’ enduring history and unity. Their presence underscored the festival’s importance as a unifying cultural platform and a major tourism attraction.
From Tafawa Balewa Square to major streets across the city, the atmosphere was electric as the Eyos, adorned in flowing white agbadas and distinctive hats, danced elegantly through the crowd. Tourists and residents alike captured memorable moments, while performers showcased indigenous music and dance, blending tradition with a festive modern flair that kept the audience enthralled.
Beyond the glamour and glitz, the Eyo Festival once again reaffirmed Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s cultural heartbeat. The successful outing not only promoted Yoruba traditions but also highlighted the state’s capacity to host world-class cultural events, reinforcing calls for increased cultural tourism and preservation of indigenous heritage for future generations.
— Says external military actions require urgent internal reforms to yield lasting results
Presidential hopeful, Gbenga Hashim, has described the recent United States airstrikes targeting Islamic State (IS) elements operating within Nigeria as a damning indictment of the country’s security architecture, blaming what he called the persistent failure of governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC-led administration.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Hashim said the US intervention reflects growing international concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, particularly in the North-West, where terrorist groups are steadily consolidating their influence.
According to the former presidential candidate, responsible global actors cannot afford to ignore the emergence of an IS foothold in Nigeria, stressing that the country is “too large, too strategic, and too important to be allowed to fail.”
Hashim revealed that since 2021 , and more intensely over the past year ,his team had repeatedly warned that security modelling in the North-West pointed towards a dangerous trajectory, including the potential emergence of an IS-aligned enclave if urgent action was not taken.
He attributed the worsening insecurity to deepening poverty, prolonged governance failure, and weakened institutions, which he said have emboldened extremist groups while silencing moderate political and secular voices across the region.
“More worrying is the elevation of individuals who enable or rationalise extremism into positions of political influence, creating conditions under which terror groups can aspire to territorial control,” he stated.
While acknowledging that international airstrikes may temporarily degrade terrorist capabilities, Hashim stressed that lasting solutions can only come from within. He added that as external interventions are not expected to be one-off actions, the mechanisms guiding them must be carefully negotiated within the framework of security cooperation between sovereign nations, with clear accountability structures and transparent reporting measures to prevent abuse and ensure long-term stability.
“The situation in the North-West is dire. Without urgent internal reforms, improved governance, and decisive political leadership, external military interventions will not produce sustainable results,” he warned.
Hashim further questioned the readiness of the APC-led government to undertake the critical internal reforms needed to stabilise the country, arguing that Nigeria continues to grapple with fundamental governance and security deficits that threaten its democratic future.
He also alleged that the government’s apparent reluctance to act decisively may stem from political compromises made during the 2015 struggle for power, compromises he said now constrain its ability to confront extremist elements head-on.
Concluding, Hashim warned that Nigeria can no longer afford denial or half-measures in the face of what he described as an existential threat, calling for urgent, courageous leadership to prevent further deterioration of national security.
Primate Ayodele has stated that Nigeria may win some matches in the competition and entertain their fans, but their journey in the AFCON will be limited in the later stages.
According to him, Nigeria will surprise many opponents—especially teams that expect an easy victory—but despite these efforts, he does not believe the Super Eagles will go on to lift the trophy.
His statement has already sparked reactions among football fans, with many debating whether Nigeria can defy the prophecy and prove him wrong.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has fired back at former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, demanding concrete evidence over claims that he received ₦50 billion from President Bola Tinubu following the January 2024 Ibadan explosion.
Fayose had alleged that President Tinubu released the ₦50bn to Makinde as federal intervention funds after the deadly blast but accused the Oyo governor of failing to properly disclose or account for the money. The claim, made during a media appearance, quickly sparked political controversy.
Responding through his media aides, Makinde categorically denied ever receiving such funds, describing the allegation as false, reckless, and politically motivated. He challenged Fayose to publicly produce proof, insisting that no such payment was made to him personally or to the Oyo State Government.
The governor stressed that all interventions and relief efforts following the Ibadan explosion were handled transparently, with verifiable records of support given to victims and affected communities. He maintained that the state government has nothing to hide.
The exchange has deepened political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and is widely viewed as part of early manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections, as both camps trade accusations over credibility, loyalty, and leadership.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taunted politicians who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and publicly pledged support for President Bola Tinubu, saying they were absent when their support mattered most.
Wike, who described himself as one of the most criticised politicians in the country after President Tinubu, said politics in Rivers State would formally commence from January 2026.
He made the remarks on Saturday during a thanksgiving service organised by the Chairman of the South-South Development Commission, Chibudom Nwuche, and his family in Ochiba community, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The former Rivers State governor praised the people of Ahoada East and Ahoada West for standing by him during the 2023 elections, noting that their loyalty contributed to Tinubu’s victory.
“You remember in 2023, when it was tough and many doubted Tinubu’s chances. So many people could not come out to vote. But here, we stood firm and said, ‘On your mandate, we stand,’” Wike said.
Taking a swipe at recent defectors, including a veiled reference to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Wike said their current show of loyalty was belated.
“All these people you see now singing ‘on your mandate we stand’; when they were needed most, they couldn’t. They couldn’t vote for Ahmed Bola Tinubu,” he stated.
Wike stressed the importance of conviction and loyalty in politics, warning against opportunistic alignments. “We have never wavered in our support for Bola Tinubu. When we take a decision, it is based on conviction, not on what people are doing,” he said.
The annual Eyo Festival in Lagos, a major cultural celebration showcasing Yoruba heritage, turned violent after clashes erupted between masquerades and residents in parts of Lagos Island. What was expected to be a colourful and symbolic event quickly degenerated into scenes of chaos, sparking public concern and widespread condemnation.
Viral videos circulating on social media showed Eyo masquerades assaulting a man with their traditional staves during a street procession. In the footage, the victim was seen attempting to shield himself as multiple masquerades struck him, while onlookers watched without intervention.
In a separate incident, residents were captured throwing chairs and other objects at masquerades, allegedly following rising tension during the procession near residential areas. The confrontations disrupted the flow of the festival and heightened fears over public safety.
The incidents triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians expressing disappointment that a festival known for peace, dignity, and cultural pride could descend into violence. While some speculated that alleged breaches of traditional rules may have contributed to the clashes, critics stressed that no cultural violation justifies physical assault.
As of the time of reporting, Lagos State authorities and the Eyo Festival organisers had not issued an official statement on the incidents. However, calls have intensified for better crowd control, clearer enforcement of festival rules, and measures to ensure that future celebrations remain safe for both participants and residents.
Nollywood actress and producer, Allwell Ademola, is dead. She reportedly passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the age of 43.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Ademola suffered a heart attack at her residence before she was rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The news of her death was confirmed by fellow Nollywood actress, Faithia Williams, who announced the development in a post shared on her Instagram page.
“Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke,” Faithia wrote, expressing shock and grief.
Actor Damola Olatunji also confirmed the loss by sharing a candlelight image on his social media page with the caption, “Life is a mirage.”
Reacting to the development, actress Bidemi Kosoko expressed disbelief over the news, describing it as difficult to accept.
“No way. No, no, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name,” she wrote, adding that she was still hoping for a response from the late actress.
Allwell Ademola was a prominent figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for her roles as well as her work behind the scenes as a producer. Her death has sent shockwaves through the Nollywood community, with colleagues and fans mourning the sudden loss.
