In a viral video from a private party with her sisters, Tolani and Temi Otedola, Cuppy shared that while multiple men are vying for her attention, she intends to give her affection only to the “best man.”
She, however, said out of the men competing for attention, she would only give her affection to the “best man.”
Cuppy disclosed this in a viral video, showing her at a private party with her sisters, Tolani and Temi Otedola.
In the video, she was heard saying, “I’m not dating but I’m talking to people. May the best man win.”
DJ Cuppy’s last relationship was with a British boxer, Ryan Taylor. They got engaged weeks after meeting in 2022, but the engagement was called off in 2023.
Artificial intelligence isn’t just changing education—it might be upending the very foundations of academia. Across campuses worldwide, professors and administrators are asking the same unsettling question: Is ChatGPT killing higher education?
The AI Tsunami and College Life
When OpenAI launched ChatGPT in November 2022, no one predicted that so many students would soon view it as the ultimate homework shortcut. But fast forward to mid‑2025, and the stats are astonishing: a New York Post survey shows 97% of Gen Z students admit to using tools like ChatGPT for essays, homework, test prep—even scholarship and college applications.
That figure should give educators pause, and not just because it points to rampant usage. It signals a deeper fracture in the university ecosystem: student expectations, academic pressure, and campus culture are shifting faster than institutions can respond.
Faculty in Crisis: What Professors Are Saying
Talk to university instructors and the sentiment is overwhelming: they’re worried, if not outright despairing.
One professor told Vox it only takes a little student tweaking to mask a ChatGPT‑generated essay: “AI can write 70%, you polish 30%, and voilà—a credible submission. Worse, current AI‑detection tools are falling short.
Turnitin now claims a 98% accuracy rate—but even that leaves room for false positives, as seen when innocent students were flagged at UC Davis and Cambridge. This unreliability is especially dangerous for neurodivergent and multilingual learners. The result? Many professors, lacking faith in detection methods, question whether any real countermeasures exist.
Some have reacted with existential concern. A TIME magazine educator confided that grading has become an exercise in picking apart AI‑crafted prose, not evaluating student thought. Others have simply walked away from the profession, burned out by the sheer scale of AI‑enabled cheating.
The Curriculum Shake‑Up: Fighting AI with Innovation
In many institutions, old-school plagiarism checks are being traded for creative academic design:
Handwritten essays and in‑person exams. Professors in Australia, Italy, and the UK are bringing back pen‑and‑paper assessments to ensure student-generated content.
Oral defences and impromptu presentations. Some universities now require students to defend their written work verbally, discouraging AI shortcuts.
Process‑oriented writing. Assignments now focus on drafting phases—idea generation, peer review, reflections—emphasising learning how to write, not just what to write.
Prompt‑centric learning. Philosophy and writing courses, such as those at the University of Rochester, require students to collaborate with ChatGPT on complex prompts and then critically evaluate the AI’s output.
These methods signal an institutional shift: universities are choosing adaptation, not resistance. One Reddit user noted:
“Universities are admitting…attempts to block AI‑aided cheating are futile… prompting a shift towards altering teaching methods…”
The Ethical Tightrope: Balancing Aid and Abuse
While AI empowers creativity and supports multilingual or learning‑disabled students, it also blurs academic ethics.
Research from the National Institutes of Health outlines the risks: unchecked AI use can diminish critical thinking, bias learning, distort digital literacy, and isolate students socially. Other scholars warn of “hallucinations,” bias, and the perpetuation of stereotypes, when students accept AI‑generated content as truth.
Fostering meaningful integration means institutions must:
Craft clear guidelines framing acceptable AI usage
Educate both students and staff on AI literacy and digital ethics
Redesign curricula to prioritise analytical thinking beyond AI’s current capabilities.
University leaders are now more inclined to see ChatGPT as a tool, not a threat. At Queen Mary University of London, for instance, educators combine prompt engineering with interdisciplinary programming to blend AI proficiency and human creativity .
The Stakes: What’s at Risk—and What Could Be Gained
Integrity vs. Innovation
If ChatGPT becomes the default, essay-writing risks devolving into algorithmic copying. Many fear we’re entering a “Dark Age” of superficial understanding—writing without reasoning.
Conversely, AI can:
Serve as a scaffolding tool, supporting ELL students and neurodivergent learners
Encourage deeper engagement by letting humans focus on critical analysis.
Efficiency vs. Skill atrophy
AI saves time—but perhaps at the cost of creativity and reasoning. Stanford research links ChatGPT use to declines in cognitive fluency and originality . MIT data found users displayed lower brain activity and mental effort.
Economic pressures
Many universities rely on tuition. A reputational hit from AI cheating could threaten funding and competition. In Scotland alone, incidents rose 700% in a single academic year—a warning sign for fragile institutions.
Australia: Faculty express concern that universities hesitate to fail AI‑using students due to revenue dependence.
New York City & Texas: High-profile disputes over AI detectors led schools to abandon Turnitin’s tool due to misclassification.
Italy: Instituted nationwide ChatGPT bans amid massive adoption—89% of students using it as of 2023.
University of Montana: Shifting entirely to oral exams, leaving essays behind.
Beyond Panic: A Call for Ethical Action
Are we witnessing an existential threat—or a generational scare? The truth likely lies between.
Yes—AI challenges traditional modes of assessment and learning. Faculty fear students may never fully engage intellectually. Detection tools remain unreliable. Universities feel unprepared.
Yet AI also offers a transformative opportunity:
Remote tutoring, live writing support, and personalised feedback
New disciplines (prompt engineering, ethical AI) are emerging across faculties
Real-time experimentation with hybrid learning tools
To pivot positively, institutions must embrace intentional change:
Publish clear, transparent AI usage policies
Prioritise AI literacy across curricula
Innovate assessment beyond traditional essays
Invest in reliable detection as a last resort, not sole defence.
The Road Ahead: Toward a Human‑AI Alliance in Learning
The most forward-thinking campuses are already evolving. Assignments may soon combine AI and student effort, with reflection essays on AI’s role. Oral defences, group problem-solving, handwritten reports, and ethics seminars may become normative.
Universities are at a crossroads: either rehabilitate rigorous education in the AI era, or risk irrelevance. A student-academic ecosystem that teaches how to wield AI responsibly, critically, and ethically could become the hallmark of 21st-century scholarship.
Conclusion:
So, is ChatGPT killing higher education? Not yet—but it’s shaking it to its core. And unless universities adapt smartly, we could lose far more than essays: critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, the very culture of inquiry.
However, an adaptive, principled approach can transform the AI era into a renaissance of learning—one where AI isn’t a shortcut, but a catalyst for deeper, truer education.
In a forward-looking move announced on July 4 & 5, 2025, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) Academy. This free Digital Skills Programme for Educators and Students is designed to equip Nigeria’s academic community with essential 21st-century digital competencies, ranging from cloud computing to artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
Aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), the programme underscores the government’s commitment to scaling human capital development, technology-enabled innovation, and fostering inclusive growth across public and private educational tiers.
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Nurturing a Workforce Prepared for the Digital Frontier
1. In-Demand Skills for a Competitive Edge
Participants will dive deep into high-demand fields such as:
Cloud computing (AWS EC2, S3, VPC)
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
Data analytics
Cybersecurity protocols
With a strong emphasis on hands-on labs and project‑oriented learning, these modules are tailored to enhance real-world employability, preparing students and faculty to seamlessly integrate digital innovation into their career paths.
2. Completely Free Certification
Breaking financial barriers, the programme is offered at no cost. Funding is split evenly—50% by the Federal Ministry, and 50% by AWS, facilitating full access to globally recognised AWS certifications.
3. Pilot Success and Scaling Up
The pilot phase has already engaged 43 federal universities and polytechnics, with hundreds of lecturers and thousands of students enrolled. Reported satisfaction stands at an impressive 92%, and over 6,000 participants have accessed introductory cloud courses.
Building on this momentum, the programme is now expanding to include every federal, state, and private tertiary institution, encompassing universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Pillar of Implementation: Institutional Coordination
Selecting Coordinators and Facilitating Enrolment
Each participating institution designates a campus coordinator—acting as the liaison with AWS and the Ministry—to manage training logistics, monitor progress, and ensure quality delivery.
Once trained, these coordinators then assist in nominating lecturers, who in turn enrol their students, creating a structured, tiered approach to participation.
Clear Registration Pathways
Institutional heads (e.g., vice chancellors, provosts, rectors) are urged to nominate coordinators through the Ministry’s official portal. Federal and state institutions are already onboard; private institutions are now invited to join the initiative via an easy online registration form.
A Vision Aligned with National Digital Growth
Embedding into Broader Digital Strategy
This initiative is part of a sweeping Digital Economy Strategy driven by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, in partnership with global tech leaders such as AWS, Google, and Microsoft.
Notably, Nigeria’s digital economy has already contributed 17.7% of GDP in Q1 2024, underscoring the immense growth potential of digital-capital development.
Amplifying Nigeria’s Tech Talent Base
With plans to engage over 1 million digitally certified youths by 2030, the programme supports Nigeria’s goal of filling part of the projected 230 million digital jobs Africa will demand by 2030.
This initiative also aims to reverse brain drain, reduce youth unemployment, and emerge as a talent pipeline for global digital industries.
Inclusive Access: Breaking the Urban-Rural Divide
A key objective is addressing Nigeria’s long-standing digital access divide. By including both urban and rural-based institutions—whether federal, state-owned, or private—the programme ensures equitable access to transformative digital education.
Participants will enjoy low-bandwidth resources and self-paced digital modules, ensuring no learner is left behind due to geography or infrastructure limitations.
Voices from the Initiative
Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, Minister of Education, described the programme as “timely and transformative,” highlighting its role in preparing graduates and lecturers for success in the global digital economy.
Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press & Public Relations, said: “This initiative marks a major stride in building a future‑ready Nigerian education sector where no educator or student is left behind.”
Clear Implementation Phases
Phase 1 (Pilot – Completed): ✔ Onboarded 43 federal universities and polytechnics ✔ Trained campus coordinators and lecturers; enrolled thousands
Phase 2 (Roll‑out – Ongoing): ► Opened registration to all federal and state institutions ► Enrollment of private colleges underway via online portal
Phase 3 (Scale‑Up – Future): • Nationwide coverage: 170+ universities, 120+ polytechnics, and numerous colleges • Target: 1 million certified youth by 2030 • Integration into national digital frameworks
Why This Matters
1. Jobs of Tomorrow
The demand for cloud-savvy, AI-competent professionals is surging globally. Certified skills like AWS Solutions Architect or Machine Learning Practitioner provide a distinct edge in competitive recruitment pools.
2. Bridging Equity Gaps
By bringing structured digital training to all tiers of academia, the programme levels the playing field for rural and underserved communities.
3. Fostering Innovation Ecosystems
Digitally literate educators will cascade new knowledge to students, embedding digital-first mindsets across curricula and stimulating academic ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.
How Institutions Can Register
Nominate a Campus Coordinator – Institutional leaders submit names via the Ministry’s EdTech portal.
Onboard Lecturers – Coordinators validate and enrol teaching staff.
Student Sign-Up – Lecturers guide students into AWS Academy learning paths.
A second onboarding phase has already begun, and early registration is encouraged to secure participation slots.
The Road Ahead: A Digital Transformation at Scale
Nigeria stands on the cusp of a digital breakthrough. With strategic backing from global tech leaders, this programme can:
Build a robust pipeline of cloud and AI-skilled professionals.
Embed digital fluency into teaching and learning ecosystems.
Reduce youth unemployment by aligning skills with market demands.
Deepen private-sector synergies, as certified youth meet industry needs.
Monitoring metrics—certification numbers, employment outcomes, and inclusion levels—will be central to assessing progress and informing future expansions.
Federal Ministry Education
Putting the Spotlight Back on the Classroom
At its core, this programme reaffirms that education is being reframed by digital transformation. It empowers both lecturers—who gain fresh teaching tools—and students—who gain a competitive career edge.
As Nigeria and Africa embrace digital economies, equipping educators and learners with world-class digital credentials isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential.
Conclusion
The Free Digital Skills Programme for Educators and Students, driven by the Federal Ministry of Education and AWS Academy, marks a significant milestone. It brings high-quality digital education within reach of institutions nationwide hot on the heels of a successful pilot at 43 federal schools.
Fully funded certifications, hands-on labs, and an inclusive rollout strategy place Nigeria firmly on the digital map, preparing its academic communities for tomorrow’s tech-led world.
Institutions and students are urged to act swiftly, register via the Ministry’s portal, and embark on this transformative learning journey.
Four tax reform bills will be signed into law by President Tinubu on Thursday.
The National Coordinator of the South East Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA), Mr. Belusochukwu Enwere, has voiced confidence that the people of the South-East will not be deceived or lured by the newly unveiled opposition coalition.
Speaking in Enugu on Friday during the inauguration of SERHA’s Enugu State chapter, Enwere emphasized that President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated a clear commitment to the development and inclusion of the South-East region in his administration’s agenda.
He noted that under Tinubu’s leadership, the zone has witnessed increased federal attention, dismissing claims that the region has been sidelined.
This comes in the wake of opposition parties earlier this week adopting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their official platform to challenge Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 — a move seen by some as a strategic attempt to sway key regional support.
In a strategic move poised to reshape Nigeria’s telecom landscape, MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and 9mobile have unveiled a three-year nationwide roaming agreement, sanctioned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This partnership allows 9mobile subscribers to seamlessly access MTN’s extensive network, dramatically boosting coverage, service quality, and customer experience across the country.
Table of Contents
Expanding Reach for 9mobile Users
As of early July 2025, 9mobile has suffered a decline in its subscriber base—from over 22 million in 2016 to approximately 3.2 million users currently—primarily due to inconsistent network reach. The roaming agreement is aimed squarely at reversing this trend. By leveraging MTN’s well-established infrastructure, 9mobile users will regain access to reliable voice and data services virtually nationwide, offering a lifeline for retention and expansion.
Guardian reports indicate that 9mobile hopes to restore its lost 22 million customer base through this partnership. The arrangement officially launches in Lagos, with plans to complete the nationwide rollout by the end of July 2025.
9mobile, MTN Seal Nationwide Roaming Deal
A First of Its Kind in Africa
9mobile CEO, Obafemi Banigbe, and MTN’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, jointly announced the plan at a Lagos press event on July 4, confirming that all technical preparations would wrap up by the weekend of July 5–6, clearing the way for full activation.
Banigbe emphasised that this is a pioneering arrangement—not just for Nigeria, but for West, Central, and East Africa—as 9mobile customers will now tap into MTN’s radio infrastructure where their network previously fell short. He clarified that this isn’t a merger, but a commercial partnership designed to enhance operational efficiency and customer service without merging brands or management.
Strategic and Economic Motives
The telecom sector, particularly in emerging markets, has long grappled with expensive and duplicative infrastructure. Network assets typically constitute 70–75% of telcos’ capital costs, making infrastructure-sharing a compelling cost-saving strategy. By accessing shared infrastructure, operators can cut capital expenditures, redirect savings into customer experience, and avoid needless duplication.
Banigbe shared 9mobile’s mantra: “build infrastructure where necessary, share where possible.” He thanked NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, for enabling an ecosystem that prioritises consumer value and resource efficiency.
MTN Commends the Collaboration
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, described this as a “milestone for the sector,” celebrating the shift from competition to “co‑opetition”—a blend of cooperation and healthy rivalry. Lynda Saint‑Nwafor echoed this sentiment, noting that the agreement aligns with the NCC’s goals of digital inclusion and industry sustainability.
The deal also includes plans for spectrum leasing: 9mobile is expected to lease its 900 MHz (5 MHz) and 1800 MHz (15 MHz) spectrum bands to MTN, further boosting network capacity and quality.
What It Means for You: The Subscriber
For 9mobile customers, the benefits are immediate and tangible:
Wider coverage: Even in areas where 9mobile previously struggled, the MTN network now ensures connectivity.
Improved call quality & data speeds: Roaming on MTN’s mature and optimised infrastructure.
Customer retention & peace of mind: Reduced frustration from dropped connections or data blackspots.
Access to emerging technologies: Better platform to roll out 4G/5G services, fintech, IoT, and enterprise solutions.
As Banigbe noted, this marks a “bold resurgence” for 9mobile, helping them “meet the needs of youthful and enterprise users” city by city.
Regulatory & Industry Impact
The NCC has long championed infrastructure sharing as a means of reducing duplication, cutting costs, and rapidly bridging the digital divide in underserved regions. The MTN–9mobile partnership demonstrates a successful, large-scale implementation of this vision.
This kind of collaboration raises the bar: it represents a new framework for healthy competition and co-investment. Telcos can now allocate funds to innovation, customer service, and emerging technologies instead of parallel network buildouts.
The Road Ahead
Key milestones and timelines include:
Date
Event
July 5–6, 2025
Full nationwide rollout across Nigeria is expected
End of July 2025
Full nationwide rollout across Nigeria expected
Next 3 Years
Spectrum leasing and phased infrastructure-sharing implementation begin
Both telcos reaffirmed their shared commitment to this vision and thanked stakeholders—NCC leadership and government officials—who supported and facilitated the pipeline to progress.
Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Digital Economy
By enabling seamless, affordable access to telecom services, this deal supports Nigeria’s broader digital transformation strategy:
Digital inclusion: Especially in rural and underserved communities.
Youth empowerment: Better mobile access supports education, entrepreneurship, fintech, edtech, and health-tech.
Investor confidence: Infrastructure efficiency promotes a healthier telecom ecosystem.
Competitor stimulus: Other providers may pursue similar partnerships.
Conclusion
The 9mobile MTN nationwide roaming deal stands as a testament to what competitive collaboration can achieve. It breaks new ground in Africa, bringing restored connectivity to millions, optimizing costs, and laying the foundation for future innovation. The next months will be pivotal as both operators activate services nationwide, and tens of millions of users witness the transformation.
Amid what appears to be a growing wave of discontent within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, two prominent youth leaders — John Sunday Uttuh and Prince Akola Julius — have officially resigned from the party.
Both leaders attributed their decision to ongoing internal crises, marginalization, and irreconcilable differences within the PDP.
In separate resignation letters addressed to their respective ward chairmen, they voiced deep disappointment with the current state of the party, describing it as plagued by deep divisions, mutual distrust, and failed leadership.
John Sunday Uttuh, who served as the Youth Leader for Zone C (Benue South Senatorial District) and was a well-known figure in Entekpa Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area, stated that his resignation — effective June 30, 2025 — stemmed from prolonged frustrations with the party’s direction and leadership.
“My decision is predicated on the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that no longer prevail or exist within the party. The PDP has been reduced to a pack of cards and subjected to public ridicule,” Uttuh lamented.
He also pointed to the incessant marginalization of loyal party members and a persistent leadership crisis that has plagued the party in recent years.
On his part, Prince Akola Julius, former Councilor of Ai-Oono Ward 1 in Ogbadibo LGA and LGA Director of Youth Mobilization during the 2023 general election, announced his resignation on July 5, 2025.
Akola described his decision as “critical,” citing irreconcilable differences within the PDP. While thanking the party leadership for the platform given to him in the past, he noted that the current political climate within the PDP no longer aligns with his values and aspirations for his constituents.
Their resignations come amid growing concerns about the stability of the PDP in Benue South, with several grassroots leaders reportedly disillusioned over the party’s direction and internal cohesion.
The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has firmly denounced the growing calls for protest surrounding the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging civil society organizations (CSOs) to show restraint and allow due process to prevail.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the NCSCN headquarters in Abuja, the Council’s Executive Director, Amb. Blessing A. Akinlosotu, condemned what he described as an “unwarranted” protest campaign, stressing the importance of respecting the rule of law and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s judicial and legislative institutions.
This appeal for calm comes in the wake of a recentFederal High Court ruling in Abuja, which upheld the Senate’s constitutional authority to discipline its members in the case involving Senator Natasha. The court also imposed a ₦5 million fine and ordered her to issue a public apology within seven days for contempt of court.
Akinlosotu expressed concerns over clandestine meetings and instigation of CSOs towards public protest before the judgment was delivered, stressing that such actions could destabilize the National Assembly and undermine its legislative duties.
“We condemn the unwarranted call for protest and urge CSOs to exercise restraint, allowing due process to take its full course,” Akinlosotu said. “We respectfully appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians and civil society actors to desist from further agitation until the legal process is concluded and the official judgment is publicly available for objective review.”
The NCSCN emphasized the vital roles of Civil Society, including strengthening democracy, protecting the rights of the marginalized, and promoting inclusive development. “We will not hesitate to sanction any member found to be involved in any activity that leads to unrest, violence, or destruction of lives and property,” Akinlosotu warned.
The NCSCN’s call for restraint aims to prioritize stability and allow the National Assembly to focus on its legislative duties for the benefit of all Nigerians and the nation.
The Adamawa State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed deep pride in being chosen as the preferred political platform by influential leaders defecting from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and other major parties.
Speaking to journalists in Yola, ADC leaders warmly welcomed the new members, describing their defection as a bold step toward building a unified, progressive force for the transformational change Nigerians are seeking ahead of the 2027 elections.
ADC Chairman in Adamawa State, Mr Shehu Yohanna, while addressing journalists, said, “We welcome members of the Nigeria national opposition coalition who have recently adopted the ADC as their political platform. The development is a testament to the party’s growing influence in the country.”
He added that new alignments are necessary for the growth of the polity, stressing, “We are honoured to have them join us. Together, we will work to build a stronger, more inclusive and more prosperous Adamawa State and Nigeria.”
The ADC chairman urged the new entrants and other members to respect the constitution and leadership of the party, as discipline is vital for attainment of a unified vision for progress
Dismissing insinuations of division within the ADC in Adamawa State, the party chairman affirmed, “We are one. There is no resignation or dissolution. The current leadership of the ADC in Adamawa State remains intact, no one has resigned and no structure has been dissolved.”
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the vow on Friday at the National Administrative Council, NAC, meeting of the Central Working Committee held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vowed to resist any move by the National Assembly to transfer labour matters—including the minimum wage—from the exclusive legislative list of the Federal Government to the concurrent list, which would allow individual states to set their own wage standards.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the vow on Friday at the National Administrative Council, NAC, meeting of the Central Working Committee held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
Ajaero, who described the move as an exercise in futility, argued that the issue of minimum wage is treated globally as a national matter in line with International Labour Organisation, ILO, conventions, which regard member countries as entities, not sub-national units such as states.
According to him, the plan by the lawmakers was a calculated attempt to bastardise the national minimum wage structure and shift other labour-related responsibilities to the states, including the establishment of state industrial courts that would independently handle wage disputes, a move he said violates ILO principles.
“The National Assembly should not go into this exercise in futility unless members will also allow their respective states to determine their wages,” the labour leader said.
In a recent interview with British-Nigerian media personality Madame Joyce, the Sad Girls Love Money star expressed concern that the genre — and African music more broadly — is at risk of stagnation.
Amaarae argued that Afrobeats needs to evolve, noting that some artists have become so financially comfortable with a particular sound that they’re now hesitant to explore or experiment with new styles.
Amaarae said, “Afrobeats and African music need to evolve. It needs to evolve in a direction that is fearless, and I think right now artists have made so much money from a certain type of sound that they are afraid to step out of the boundaries because they are probably more focused on the financial aspect of it. And as a result, I think Afrobeats has stalled.
“One of my favourite albums last year was Rema’s ‘HEIS.’ That’s what I consider the evolution of Afrobeats. You see how it moved the genre and the culture forward, and you see how it moved his career forward.
“There have been a lot of people that have big hits that aren’t willing to push the boundaries of the music, and as a result, Afrobeats is in a bit of a rut. So, I think Africans need to get it together, get on up, and start to experiment. [African] music needs to evolve, and it needs to excite people again.”
Rapper and activist Folarin Falana, widely known by his stage name Falz, has shared his thoughts on what immediately comes to mind when he hears the name of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking in an interview with Soundcity, the “Wehdone Sir” crooner said that the word “hardship” is the first thing that strikes him whenever President Tinubu’s name is mentioned, reflecting the ongoing struggles faced by many Nigerians.
The interviewer asked: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. What comes to your mind when you hear his name?”
Falz replied: “Hardship. No elaboration.”
Last month, Falz argued that Nigeria has retrograded under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In an interview with Arise TV, he stressed that not much progress has been made, adding that the President has the remaining two years of his tenure to prove himself.
Nigerian Railway Corporation to resume Kano–Minna train services before end of 2025
Nigerian Railway Corporation to resume Kano–Minna train services before end of 2025
In an attempt to revitalize rail transportation and stimulate economic activity throughout Northern Nigeria, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has declared plans to start train services again along the Kano–Minna line by the end of 2025.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), this was announced by NRC Managing Director Dr. Kayode Opeifa during an official visit to the corporation’s Northern District Office in Zaria on Friday.
Nigerian Railway Corporation to resume Kano–Minna train services before end of 2025
According to Opeifa, the company would use funds from the 2025 capital expenditure to revive important equipment in the area.
In order to resume shuttle operations along the Minna–Kaduna and Kaduna–Kano lines, he further disclosed that NRC is collaborating with the governments of Niger, Kano, and Kaduna states.
The Kano–Minna train services would be restored before the end of 2025, according to Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), in an effort to stimulate local economic activity.
Opeifa stated this during a formal visit to the Northern District Office in Zaria on Friday, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Nigerian Railway Corporation to resume Kano–Minna train services before end of 2025
According to the NAN article, “he stated that NRC would also repair the equipment in the Northern Regional District in order to reach the established goal, adding that the corporation was also planning to achieve such a target from the 2025 capital expenditure.”
The NRC MD underlined that the action is consistent with Nigeria’s new railway governance framework, which permits more state involvement because rail operations are now under the concurrent legislative list. He added that the NRC will work with the Kaduna State Government to revitalize Zaria’s railway hospital and assist law enforcement and the NSCDC in preventing damage to railway property.
The NAN report noted that the Regional District Manager for the North, Mr. Adewale Rasheed, described the Northern district as the largest in Nigeria by landmass and staff strength, yet largely inactive.
He stressed the urgent need to revive major routes, such as Lagos–Kano, Kano–Nguru, Kaduna–Minna, and Zaria–Kauran Namoda, to re-engage idle staff and restore full operations across the district.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Union of Railway Workers (NUR), Zaria branch, Mr. Aminu Abdullahi, raised concerns over unresolved staff welfare issues, including unpaid promotion arrears dating back to 2018 and prolonged stagnation in career advancement, especially among gangers. He also called on the NRC to address persistent concerns related to the Railway Property Company, which he said has been a source of frustration for staff.
Nigerian Railway Corporation to resume Kano–Minna train services before end of 2025
The resumption of train services on the Kano–Minna corridor is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and strengthen the role of rail infrastructure in the region’s economic growth.
REACTIONS
@Zee_Mina:Kano to Minna train? Abeg make dem just maintain am well. We no want another train breakdown inside bush again 😩
@UmarFromKano:This one wey dem say “before end of 2025” — na election promise be that o. We go dey watch. 👀
@TolaTheRealist:Good news if it happens. The roads are not safe and flights are too expensive. This train fit help small.
@ArewaGirl:I just hope the train no go dey move like molue. Clean seats, working toilets, and security first please 🙏🏽
@Danlami_Jnr:Kano to Minna by rail again? I remember when my grandpa used to tell us stories. E good say we dey return to that life small small.
Enviable feat for Enugu state as Keyamo to launch Enugu Air, July 7
Congratulations are in order for the Enugu state government as Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s minister of aviation and aerospace development, will formally launch Enugu Air, the state’s commercial airline operated by the Enugu State government, on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Akanu Ibiam International Airport was confirmed as the venue for the launch ceremony.
Based on their performance, passenger comfort, and appropriateness for regional routes, the airline will start operations with a fleet of three Embraer aircraft from the E170 and E190 series.
Just recently, in videos spread across social media, an Enugu Airline’s jet was spotted undergoing tests and runs as it successfully landed its first flight in the state’s airport.
Enugu state governor, Peter Mbah
Dr Obi Ozor, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Transportation, while commenting on the development, stated that Enugu Air is essential to Governor Peter Mbah’s plan to establish Enugu State as a significant aviation hub in Nigeria.
“With a strong foundation built on innovation and sustainability, Enugu Air is poised to transform regional air travel, boost state pride, and raise Enugu’s profile nationally and globally,” he said.
The local airline stated that Abuja and Lagos will be its first destinations, with ambitions to include Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other important Nigerian cities.
2027 Elections: President Tinubu's failure inevitable
Former Sports and Youth Development Minister Solomon Dalung has assured President Tinubu that his defeat in the upcoming 2027 election is inevitable, adding that even if his son Seyi Tinubu is named Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), his administration will still lose in 2027.
In an interview with New Central on Friday, Dalung claimed that the government of President Tinubu had weaponised poverty and declared war on Nigerians.
2027 Election: President Tinubu’s failure inevitable
The only way to save Nigeria, he said, is for opposition party leaders to join the newly formed alliance on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform and run against the APC government in the 2027 election.
He said, “Nigerians should buckle up for 2027 because the battle line has been drawn. The government of President Bola Tinubu has declared war against the Nigerian people. The government has weaponized poverty, hunger and hardship, and has popularised corruption, impunity and injustice.
Former minister of youth and sport development, Solomon Dalung
“The only option we have now is to align with the coalition movement, to reposition ourselves and confront the government in 2027.”
The former minister expressed his confidence that the president will lose the next general election, saying that his administration would still lose even if his family held positions that could affect the results of the 2027 election.
“Like I promised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, even if the 36 state governors defect to the APC and he appoints his son, Seyi Tinubu as the chairman of INEC, and maybe he will appoint his wife, the chief justice of Nigeria and INEC will be the last institution to decamp, he will be defeated in 2027,” Dalung added.
Clout or courage? Meet Emmiwuks, fearless Nigerian cycling from Lagos to United States
Nigerian cylist, Emmanuel Myam, an indigene of Benue state also known as Emmiwuks, has embarked on yet another bold solo bicycle trip from Lagos to the United States of America (USA).
He stated that the journey was in order to be able to raise funds and awareness for IDPs and orphaned children in Nigeria and across Africa
It is approximately 5,327 miles (8,573 km) to ride a bicycle from Nigeria to the United States of America.
Emmiwuks had previously shared a bit about his passion for cycling and what led to his first adventure. Taking to his Instagram account, he had written,
“My name is Emmiwuks, a proud African boy from Benue State, Nigeria, now based in Lagos.
“In 2023, I survived a near-death experience due to appendicitis. That second chance changed my perspective forever.
“I started chasing my dreams, exploring the world and doing all I can to put smiles on faces wherever I go.
“After school, I came to Lagos with nothing but a dream.
“I worked as a crane motor boy, earning N15,000/month.
Nigerian cyclist, Emmiwuks
“I saved what I could and bought a broken bicycle – just the frame.
“With friends’ support, I fixed it and rode from Benue to Lagos in 15 days.
“In Abuja, I hosted a cycling road show with the Cycling Federation of Nigeria to promote cycling for health.
“It didn’t go as planned, but I didn’t give up.”
Since disclosing his intention to break this record and achieve the feat, netizens have expressed mixed reactions with some raising questions as to how Emmiwuks intends to make it across places like the Sahara Desert and African crisis areas on only just a bicycle.
Since the Atlantic Ocean prevents Nigeria and the US from having a continuous land link, is it safe to say this brave yet unclear journey is only a strategy by Emmiwuks to chase clout?
The cyclist revealed that he going to ship the bike across the Atlantic (e.g., to South America), then continue north through Central America.
The 25-year-old biker rose to prominence in 2022 after riding from Makurdi to Lagos to meet Davido, a well-known musician.
He clarified that his goal with this most recent journey is to increase awareness and assistance for displaced and orphaned children impacted by wars throughout Africa.
On Tuesday, Emmiwuks departed from the Lagos State University (LASU) gate to commence his adventure.
Different key factors, including weather conditions, safety risks, shipping logistics, navigating unstable regions, visa requirements and boarder infringement have been raised by concerned social media users as some of the many challenges he encounters on the said adventure.
Despite the odds, Emmiwuks via his verified x account announced that he had arrived Cotonou yesterday July 4 after only 5 days of beginning his bike ride to the US. He wrote, ” On a bicycle standing before the Amazon Statue in Cotonou. I had to pause and pay homage”
He emphasized that his choice of transportation is deeply symbolic.
He said, “This ride isn’t just about me. It’s about resilience, hope, and giving vulnerable kids a future.
“Every mile I pedal represents the strength these kids show every day,”
“Why a bicycle? Because it symbolizes the uphill battles they face and overcome.”
While some users have applauded Emmiwuks bravery and described it as courageous, others have simply mocked the challenge describing it a waste of time only aimed at chasing clout to get social media attention.
