UKRAINE AND US HOLD FRESH TALKS IN GENEVA FOCUSED ON ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND PEACE PROCESS
Geneva, Switzerland – Ukrainian and United States delegations commenced a fresh round…
TRUMP DELIVERS LONGEST EVER STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS, HAILS “GOLDEN AGE OF AMERICA”
Washington, D.C. – Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address in American history on Tuesday night, speaking for a record one hour and 47 minutes before a closely watching United States Congress. In his marathon speech, Trump declared what he described as a “golden age of America,” highlighting his administration’s economic record as proof of national resurgence. He pointed to gains in the stock market, progress on inflation, significant tax cuts, and lower prescription drug prices as evidence of his administration’s successes. The president claimed that the stock market had achieved 53 record highs since his second-term victory, asserting that Americans’ retirement savings had grown substantially. He also unveiled a proposal for the federal government to match up to $1,000 in 401(k) contributions for certain workers who currently lack employer-sponsored retirement plans, though he offered limited details on the initiative's implementation. The address unfolded amidst political headwinds. Public opinion surveys have reflected widespread frustration over rising living costs, and Trump’s signature tariff agenda recently suffered a setback after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down much of his import tax framework. Despite ongoing market uncertainty, Trump offered little new information regarding the future direction of his global trade policy. Foreign policy received comparatively brief attention during the lengthy address. Although his administration has overseen an expanded military presence in the Middle East, Trump did not mention Iran until more than an hour into the speech, reiterating that Tehran “must never acquire a nuclear weapon.” References to Russia and Ukraine were limited, and Venezuela was mentioned only briefly. On the critical issue of immigration, Trump renewed his assertions that undocumented migrants are contributing to violent crime, claims that numerous studies have disputed. During this portion of the speech, Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar interrupted from the chamber floor, shouting, “You have killed Americans!” The evening featured other moments of protest. Representative Al Green, who was removed during a Trump address for the second consecutive year, later stated he had brought a sign reading “BLACK PEOPLE AREN’T APES!” to condemn a social media post that had shared and later deleted imagery depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. Delivering the Democratic response, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger painted a sharply contrasting picture of the nation’s economic outlook. She argued that American families remain heavily burdened by tariffs and high consumer prices, accusing the administration of prioritizing corporate interests over working households. Labor leaders echoed this criticism, with Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, dismissing the address as a “fever dream,” contending that it failed to adequately address the economic pressures confronting workers. Throughout his speech, Trump made direct political appeals, labeling Democrats “crazy” for opposing his legislative agenda and accusing them of seeking to “cheat” in elections – a reference to Republican-backed proposals requiring proof of citizenship for federal voting. Despite the charged atmosphere, the president largely adhered to his prepared remarks, even shaking hands with Supreme Court justices days after publicly criticizing the court’s recent tariff ruling. By the conclusion of the night, Trump had surpassed his own previous record for the longest presidential address to Congress. Supporters described the performance as a confident defense of his agenda, while critics argued it offered more rhetoric than concrete solutions to the day-to-day concerns of voters.
GOVERNOR OBOREVWORI LAUDS HIGH CHIEF MATT OFFEH ON 60TH BIRTHDAY
Asaba, Delta State – Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm felicitations to High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, the Eni 1 of Irri Kingdom, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary. Governor Oborevwori described the renowned businessman and philanthropist as a towering figure in enterprise, community development, and regional advancement. In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor lauded the Irri-Isoko-born entrepreneur for his remarkable contributions to the economic growth and social transformation of the Niger Delta, with a particular focus on the Isoko nation. Governor Oborevwori emphasized that High Chief Offeh’s diamond jubilee is not merely a celebration of a worthy life, but a tribute to a life defined by vision, resilience, industry, and an unwavering commitment to community upliftment. “On behalf of the government and the good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate my dear brother and friend, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, on the auspicious occasion of his 60th birthday,” Governor Oborevwori stated. He added, “This diamond jubilee is a milestone that reflects a legacy of hard work, integrity and selfless service.” The Governor commended the celebrant’s sterling leadership as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lesoda Oil & Gas Company Limited, Lesoda Farms, and Peoples Concept Nigeria Limited. He noted that through these thriving enterprises, High Chief Offeh has not only built successful businesses but also created essential employment opportunities and stimulated economic activities across the region. Governor Oborevwori further described High Chief Offeh as a quintessential Isoko son whose investments and philanthropic interventions have significantly strengthened local capacity, empowered youths, supported families, and promoted sustainable development within host communities. “Your commitment to the unity, peace and progress of the Isoko ethnic nationality remains exemplary. You have consistently deployed your resources, influence and experience toward fostering harmony and driving meaningful development in the Niger Delta. For this, we owe you an enduring debt of gratitude,” Oborevwori added. According to the Governor, High Chief Offeh represents the finest ideals of enterprise blended with compassion, stressing that his life story continues to inspire a new generation of Niger Delta entrepreneurs to pursue excellence while remaining firmly committed to the welfare of their communities. The statement concluded with a prayer from the Governor, “As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more years in good health, wisdom and strength to continue your invaluable service to Delta State, the Niger Delta and humanity at large.”
FEDERAL HIGH COURT SENTENCES MAN TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR KIDNAPPING AKWA IBOM JUDGE
Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – A Federal High Court in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, has sentenced Nkereuwem Felix Effiong, a 30-year-old man, to life imprisonment for the kidnapping of Hon. Justice Joy Unwana, a Judge of the Akwa Ibom State High Court. Effiong, a native of Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of the state, was convicted on charges including conspiracy, membership of a terrorist group, and kidnapping, all under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Justice Joy Unwana was abducted on December 18, 2023, along with her driver, Idorenyin Ekanem, at approximately 8 p.m. on the Okobo–Esuk Inwang–Ndon Ebom road. The victims were held captive for five days, during which the Judge’s police orderly, ThankGod Ekanem, was tragically shot dead. The State Security Service (SSS) in Uyo brought the matter to court as the prosecution. Upon his initial arraignment, Effiong lacked legal representation, prompting the court to assign the case to the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, in line with legal provisions. Although Effiong pleaded guilty to all four counts of the charge, the court entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf for count three, the kidnapping charge, due to its grave nature and the severity of the attached punishment. The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria represented the defendant throughout the proceedings, ensuring all trial procedures adhered to due process. The charge, marked ‘Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Nkereuwem Felix Effiong’, alleged that the defendant conspired between November 2023 and May 2024 at Esong Inwang Beach in Uruan Local Government Area with Ubong Effiong, alias ‘Condiment’, Christopher Eyibio, Emem Friday, and others still at large, to commit acts of terrorism. This offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. In count two, the court heard that Effiong knowingly belonged to a terrorist group known as the ‘Bling Bling Marine Strike Force’, headed by Ubong Effiong, alias Condiment, which is contrary to Section 25(1) of the Act. Count three specifically detailed the kidnapping of Justice Unwana and her driver, as well as the killing of her police orderly during the attack, an offence punishable under Section 24(2)(b) of the Act. Count four linked the defendant to concealing information about the activities and location of the kidnapping gang from security agencies, contrary to Section 16(1)(b) of the Act. In his confessional statement, which was tendered in evidence, Effiong admitted joining the gang, also known as the ‘Bling Bling Marine Strike Force’, in November 2023 through a friend identified as Joseph, alias Akpa. He informed investigators that the gang operated across Uyo, Uruan, Nsit Atai, Udung Uko, Okobo, and Oron Local Government Areas, with their base at Esong Inwang Beach in Uruan. Effiong confessed to participating in three kidnapping operations, including the high-profile abduction of Justice Unwana. He further disclosed that the gang received N25 million as ransom for the Judge’s release, and he personally received N300,000 as his share. The convict also admitted involvement in the kidnapping of a pastor of The Apostolic Church in Oron, and another victim whose family paid N5 million for his release. Effiong stated, “We don’t use to cover our faces. Before the woman Judge was released, we received the sum of N25 million as ransom from her family. My own share from the ransom was N300,00. My second operation was the one in which we kidnapped an Apostolic Church pastor in Oron. I don’t know how much was paid before he was released, but I was paid the sum of N100,000 as my own share of the ransom. I also participated in another operation where we kidnapped a man whom the family later N5 million, and I was given the sum of N50,000 as my share from the ransom. We usually use mini bus to carry out our operations. We also used to rob the locals and fishermen to make money.” Effiong was apprehended on July 4, 2024, on Ikot Ekpene Road in Uyo by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS), following months of intensive investigation into the gang’s activities. During the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence linking him to the gang’s operations and their illicit activities at Esong Inwang Beach. Delivering the judgment yesterday, Justice Chigozie Sergius Onah found Effiong guilty on counts one, two, and three, concluding that the prosecution had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The court sentenced him to 25 years imprisonment on count one (conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism); 20 years imprisonment on count two (membership of a terrorist group); and life imprisonment on count three (kidnapping). On count four, which pertained to concealment of information, the court discharged and acquitted the defendant.
FUBARA APPOINTS NEW SSG, CHIEF OF STAFF AMIDST RIVERS STATE POLITICAL TENSIONS
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has…
MAJOR FIRE ERUPTS IN OPOLO, YENAGOA, DESTROYING SHOPS NEAR RAINOIL FILLING STATION
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – A significant fire outbreak has been reported in the Opolo area of Yenagoa, causing extensive damage to several shops and properties. The inferno, which broke out near the Rainoil Limited filling station, has left a trail of destruction in its wake. Details surrounding the cause of the fire are still emerging, but eyewitnesses described a rapid escalation of flames that quickly engulfed commercial structures in the bustling Opolo district. Emergency services were reportedly deployed to the scene, battling to contain the blaze and prevent further spread, particularly given the proximity to the fuel station. The incident has resulted in substantial losses for business owners in the affected area, with numerous shops completely destroyed. The full extent of the damage to property and goods is currently being assessed. Residents and shop owners watched in distress as their livelihoods were consumed by the fire. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the outbreak and to provide support to those affected.
OSIMHEN SHINES AS GALATASARAY KNOCK OUT JUVENTUS IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE THRILLER
Turin, Italy – It was a night of intense drama and decisive moments as Victor Osimhen spearheaded Galatasaray’s charge into the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, overcoming a spirited fightback from Juventus at the Allianz Stadium. Galatasaray advanced 7-5 on aggregate after a nail-biting second leg where Juventus secured a 3-2 victory after extra time, but it wasn't enough to overturn the significant deficit suffered in Istanbul. Holding a commanding 5-2 advantage from the first leg, the Turkish champions arrived in Italy knowing that discipline and composure would be just as crucial as flair. What unfolded was a contest that thoroughly tested both attributes. Juventus began with fierce urgency, pressing high and forcing Galatasaray into hurried clearances. Their relentless intent paid off before halftime when a penalty, calmly converted by Manuel Locatelli, ignited belief among the home supporters. The Italian side pushed relentlessly after the break, continuously narrowing the aggregate margin and dragging the tie into extra time amid rising tension. For a moment, it appeared momentum had fully swung in Juventus’ favour, with the Turin crowd roaring them on. However, as often happens on elite European nights, the outcome was decided by moments of individual authority, and Osimhen delivered precisely that. With Galatasaray under immense pressure, the Nigerian striker capitalised on a defensive lapse, finishing clinically to steady his side and restore crucial breathing space on aggregate. "The goal not only silenced the Turin crowd but shifted the psychological balance of the tie," the report states. Barış Alper Yılmaz added another goal in extra time, further blunting Juventus’ resurgence and ensuring that even a late response from the hosts would not alter the final outcome. Juventus won the match on the night, but it was Galatasaray who rightfully claimed the larger prize of progression. For Osimhen, the performance unequivocally reinforced his growing reputation as a decisive figure on the continental stage. His dynamic movement unsettled defenders throughout the entire contest, and his composure in front of goal proved absolutely pivotal when the tie threatened to tilt away from his team. For Galatasaray, qualification marks a significant European statement, representing a triumphant return to the Champions League Round of 16 after several years of near misses. The aggregate scoreline reflects both their formidable attacking firepower demonstrated in Istanbul and their remarkable resilience under pressure in Turin. Juventus, meanwhile, will undoubtedly reflect on the defensive frailties in the first leg that ultimately cost them progression. Their second-leg response certainly showed character, but the initial deficit proved too steep against a side clinical enough to punish any hesitation. As the prestigious competition moves into its decisive phase, Galatasaray carry considerable momentum, and in Osimhen, they possess a forward fully capable of shaping the narrative of Europe’s grandest club tournament. On a night when Juventus won the battle, it was Osimhen and Galatasaray who ultimately won the war.
COUNCIL CHAIR CONVENES MEETING BETWEEN OBOZOBE NIRO, UGBOKO NIRO COMMUNITIES AND PRESCO PLC OVER LAND ACQUISITION
The Executive Chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Thompson Osagie, on…
SOUTH-SOUTH GOVERNORS PRAISE TINUBU’S EXECUTIVE ORDER ON OIL REVENUE REMITTANCE
Abuja – The South-South Governors Forum (SSGF) has described President Bola Tinubu’s…
MILITARY TROOPS APPREHEND VEHICLE CARRYING SUSPECTED ISWAP SUPPLIES
Abuja – Nigerian military forces have stopped a vehicle believed to be…
