Federal Government Announces 21-Day Partial Closure of Ijora-Marine Bridge for Critical Repairs

In a move aimed at enhancing public safety and improving infrastructure integrity, the Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the Ijora-Marine Bridge in Lagos, beginning 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, for an urgent 21-day repair exercise.

According to Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, the bridge—one of the city’s crucial transportation arteries—requires essential maintenance work to ensure long-term safety and functionality. The intervention will involve both full and partial closures of various sections of the bridge throughout the repair period.

The scope of the project includes lifting the bridge deck to replace worn-out bearings, as well as other structural reinforcements and maintenance procedures necessary for extending the bridge’s lifespan.

“We fully understand the inconvenience this will cause to road users, but it is a necessary step to safeguard lives and restore the structural integrity of the bridge,” Kesha stated in an official release on Tuesday. “Our ultimate goal is to provide a safer, more comfortable passage for motorists and pedestrians alike.”

To minimize disruption during the period, the Federal Ministry of Works has mapped out traffic diversion strategies, with traffic management officers deployed to help redirect commuters and maintain order.

Kesha urged Lagos residents, business owners, and daily commuters to plan ahead and cooperate fully with authorities during the period. “Advance warning signs, safety notices, and alternative route indicators will be strategically placed. We kindly appeal for patience and understanding as we work to improve this vital transport link,” she said.

The Ijora-Marine Bridge, a vital connection between the Lagos Mainland and Apapa port areas, sees heavy vehicular activity daily. This timely intervention is expected to boost road safety, prevent further deterioration, and enhance the overall efficiency of Lagos’ traffic network once completed.

“While we sincerely regret any inconvenience caused, we also thank the public for their support and cooperation as we embark on this critical rehabilitation project,” Kesha added.

After 10 Years in Darkness, Bekwarra Community in Cross River Reconnects to Power Grid in Landmark Restoration

In a remarkable turnaround for a community long shrouded in literal and metaphorical darkness, electricity has finally been restored to Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State after more than a decade without power—ushering in a wave of hope, opportunity, and economic renewal.

The announcement, made by the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra LGA, Hon. Theresa Ushie, has been met with jubilation across the region. In a heartfelt statement, Ushie credited Governor Bassey Otu for the monumental achievement, describing it as a “historic milestone” that reflects the governor’s people-first leadership and unwavering commitment to rural development.

“For over ten years, the people of Bekwarra have lived in darkness—facing not just the absence of light, but the ripple effects of halted economic activity, reduced educational advancement, and weakened community security,” Ushie said. “Today, that chapter closes. We now step into a brighter, more prosperous era.”

The return of electricity is expected to deliver transformative change. From revitalizing small and medium-scale enterprises to boosting digital connectivity, improving healthcare delivery, and strengthening local security, the ripple effects are already being felt.

Ushie emphasized that the power restoration is not merely about illuminating homes—it is about restoring dignity, reigniting hope, and empowering future generations. She also praised Governor Otu’s wider vision for Cross River State, particularly his infrastructure interventions across the Northern Senatorial District, describing them as timely and impactful.

“This project is more than wires and transformers; it is a promise fulfilled, a future secured. On behalf of our royal fathers, the youth, women, and elders of Bekwarra, I say: thank you, Your Excellency. You have etched your name in gold in the story of our people,” Ushie declared.

The Bekwarra power reconnection forms part of Governor Otu’s ambitious rural electrification and infrastructure revitalization agenda, aimed at closing the development gap between urban and rural communities across Cross River.

As electricity hums back to life across Bekwarra, a long-awaited sense of renewal spreads through its towns and villages—proof that with purposeful leadership, even the darkest chapters can give way to light.

REA, Huawei, and Partners Unite to Tackle Nigeria’s Power Gap as 80 Million Remain in Darkness

In a powerful call to action at the "Huawei Day 2025 Nigeria" event, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Mr. Abba Aliyu, revealed a staggering reality: nearly "80 million Nigerians" still live without access to electricity—a deficit that continues to hinder development, especially in underserved rural communities.

Speaking at the energy-focused event, Aliyu underscored the urgency of the situation and the strategic role REA is playing to bridge this energy divide. According to him, the agency is tasked with delivering stable electricity to 17.5 million individuals, 237,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and over 3,000 state-owned healthcare facilities across the nation.

Aliyu also lauded the technological innovations provided by Huawei, which are transforming the rural energy landscape. “Huawei’s smart energy infrastructure—particularly its string inverter technology—allows for modular energy storage. Each battery pack comes equipped with a built-in energy optimizer, enabling round-the-clock real-time balancing and seamless scaling," he explained.

He further highlighted that Huawei’s Smart PV Management System is revolutionizing off-grid power solutions by offering string-level photovoltaic (PV) monitoring and cell-level battery management. These technologies reduce on-site maintenance by 50% and enhance fault detection and diagnostics by 80%, resulting in faster repairs and more reliable power supply.

Joining the conversation, Engr. Obinna Agwu, Managing Director of Ventura and a key implementation partner, showcased the Ebonyi Rural Solar Project as a model of successful collaboration. "We are proud to work alongside Huawei to illuminate rural Nigeria. Our projects utilize Huawei’s SUN2000-100KTL inverters and LUNA2000-200kWh smart string energy storage systems (ESS)—technologies that deliver high electricity availability with outstanding reliability."

Agwu pointed out that Huawei’s solutions offer several competitive advantages, including an all-in-one modular design, future-ready scalability, streamlined operations, and significantly reduced long-term costs—a winning formula for sustainable electrification.

Mr. Cruise Ni, Head of Huawei Digital Power Nigeria, reaffirmed the company's commitment to Nigeria’s clean energy goals. “Huawei remains devoted to working hand-in-hand with local partners to push forward the country’s energy transition,” he said. “Our mission is to deliver stable, green, and sustainable power to even the most remote corners of Nigeria.”

As Nigeria intensifies its push towards universal energy access, this public-private synergy between REA, Huawei, and implementation partners like Ventura stands as a beacon of progress, offering hope for millions still living in energy poverty—and lighting the path toward a more electrified and empowered nation.

Tensions Mount as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Faces Senate President Akpabio in Court Over Alleged Contempt

In a dramatic legal showdown that has gripped national attention, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, ready to confront a contempt claim filed against her by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The high-profile hearing, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, is the latest development in an escalating feud between two prominent figures in Nigeria’s legislative arm. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) confirmed that today’s proceedings are centered on Akpabio’s allegation that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan defied a standing court order—a charge that could carry serious legal and political consequences.

However, in a twist that underscores the deepening complexity of the dispute, the court will also hear a separate contempt application filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio, the Nigerian Senate, and other involved parties. Her petition alleges that they disobeyed an earlier judicial directive barring any disciplinary actions against her.

The roots of this legal battle stretch back to a heated altercation during a Senate plenary session in February, which reportedly began over a disagreement involving seating arrangements. What started as a parliamentary tussle soon spiraled into a full-blown scandal, with Akpoti-Uduaghan later accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment during a televised interview.

Determined to protect her integrity and legislative mandate, the senator representing Kogi Central turned to the judiciary. She filed for an interim injunction at the Federal High Court, requesting that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions be barred from launching any probe into her alleged misconduct.

Responding to her ex parte motion, the court granted a restraining order on March 4, instructing the Senate to halt any disciplinary proceedings. But in a surprising and controversial move just two days later—on March 6—the Senate defied the order and handed Akpoti-Uduaghan a suspension. The basis for the punitive action, they claimed, stemmed from a committee report that accused her of “gross misconduct.”

Today’s court session is expected to set a precedent on the limits of legislative power versus judicial authority, with both sides accusing each other of disrespecting the rule of law.

As the legal fireworks unfold, political analysts and civil society observers are closely watching how the judiciary will navigate this faceoff between two titans of Nigeria’s legislative chamber—one that pits the rising influence of a vocal female lawmaker against the institutional power of the Senate’s top brass.

The outcome may not only determine Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political future but also redefine the boundaries of accountability, gender dynamics, and legal compliance within Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Toyin Abraham Sets Instagram Ablaze with Trailer Release for Her New Epic Film ‘Iyalode’

Beloved Nollywood powerhouse, Toyin Abraham, has once again captured the attention of fans and film lovers alike with the official trailer release of her highly anticipated movie "Iyalode". Shared via her Instagram page on May 12, 2025, the gripping teaser has since ignited a frenzy of excitement and countdowns ahead of its cinematic debut on June 6, 2025.

"Iyalode" not only marks a powerful return to the silver screen for the award-winning actress and producer, but also continues her streak of compelling storytelling following the success of "Alakada: Bad and Boujee", which premiered on December 20, 2024.

This new cinematic venture is directed by veteran filmmaker Adebayo Tijani and produced by Kolawole Ajeyemi—Toyin’s husband and fellow actor—alongside Film One Studios. The movie is scheduled for nationwide distribution by Film One Nigeria.

A stellar ensemble cast adds further prestige to the project, with appearances by screen legends and fan favorites including Muyiwa Ademola, Gabriel Afolayan, Wale Ojo, Peju Ogunmola, Bukky Wright, Kehinde Bankole, and Kolawole Ajeyemi himself.

In her caption accompanying the trailer, Toyin delivered a dramatic hint at the film’s premise:

“The crown doesn’t come without a fight. The battle for ÌYÁLÓDE has begun—and only one woman can claim the title. The official teaser is here. In cinemas June 6th.”

With themes of power, legacy, and feminine strength woven into its core, "Iyalode" promises to be a cultural and emotional rollercoaster, capturing the resilience and complexity of womanhood in a society steeped in tradition and power dynamics.

As excitement continues to build online, many industry watchers are already predicting "Iyalode" to be a major contender in upcoming film award seasons and a box office hit.

Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for what is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about Nollywood releases of the year.

Parents Storm JAMB Office, Demand Answers Over Mass Failure in 2025 UTME

A wave of frustration and concern swept across a JAMB office recently, as a group of aggrieved Nigerian parents staged a peaceful protest over what they described as “shockingly low” scores recorded by their children in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The demonstration comes in the wake of a startling report released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, which disclosed that over 70% of candidates who sat for this year’s UTME scored below 200 out of a possible 400 marks. The revelation has since triggered a nationwide conversation about the credibility and transparency of the examination process.

With placards in hand and voices filled with emotion, the parents expressed deep dissatisfaction, alleging that the unusually poor results do not reflect their children's academic preparedness or prior academic records. Many of the students, they claim, had performed admirably in mock exams and in previous UTME attempts—making the drastic drop in performance both confusing and distressing.

One parent, speaking on behalf of the group, said, “We are not here to attack JAMB, we are here for clarity. We want an independent review of the marking system. These results are inconsistent with our children’s academic history.”

Another parent echoed similar sentiments, calling for transparency: “We’re simply asking JAMB to be accountable. We owe it to our children to ensure that their futures are not jeopardized by what may be a system error or deeper issue.”

The protest adds to growing pressure on JAMB to address mounting concerns over technical glitches, grading criteria, and alleged inconsistencies in the 2025 UTME results. Education stakeholders, students, and civil society groups are also beginning to weigh in, demanding urgent reforms in the examination process to restore public trust.

While JAMB has yet to release an official response addressing the parents’ demands, the protest serves as a stark reminder of the emotional toll such outcomes take on families—and the critical role transparency plays in national examinations.

“From Uniform to Spotlight”: Cute Abiola Opens Up About Juggling Navy Duties with Content Creation

Popular actor and skit maker, Abdulgafar Abiola, better known as *Cute Abiola*, has opened up about the intense challenges he faced trying to balance his career in comedy with life as a serving officer in the Nigerian Navy.

In a candid interview with HipTV, the entertainer described his time in the military as “the most critical phase” of his life, revealing just how demanding it was to pursue his creative dreams while upholding the discipline of naval service.

“That period taught me resilience like nothing else,” he said. “I worked almost every day—Monday to Saturday—but I still found a way to consistently produce and release my skits.”

According to Abiola, juggling his responsibilities wasn’t easy, but his drive to meet personal and financial targets kept him going. Despite the rigid schedule and physical demands of naval life, he managed to release two to three videos weekly, a feat that earned him admiration from fans and peers.

“I’m a very goal-driven person,” he explained. “I set monthly targets for myself—financially and creatively. That mindset pushed me to always aim higher, no matter how tired I was.”

Before his full transition into entertainment, Abiola underwent training at the Nigerian Navy School and served diligently until November 2022. His official exit from the force, he said, came with the blessing of the Chief of Naval Staff, a moment he described as both humbling and liberating.

“I was truly overwhelmed with gratitude when I received approval to leave the Navy,” he said. “It gave me the freedom to fully chase my passion and focus on the craft that brings me joy and connects me to millions.”

Since leaving active service, Cute Abiola has become one of Nigeria’s most recognizable online comedians, using humor to entertain, educate, and sometimes even advocate on social issues.

His story is a testament to dedication, passion, and the power of staying focused—even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Tragedy in Ikorodu: 19-Year-Old Girl Dies by Suicide After JAMB Result, Receives Admission Email Moments After Death

In a heartbreaking turn of events, 19-year-old Opesusi Faith Timilehin, a young woman from Abeokuta residing in the Odogunyan area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, tragically took her own life on Monday after reportedly becoming distraught over her score in the recently released 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.

Timilehin, who had aspired to study Microbiology at the university level, reportedly ingested a rodenticide known as ‘Push Out’ following what she believed was a disappointing result. She scored 190—lower than her 2024 performance, according to family sources.

Those who knew her described Timilehin as a gentle, respectful young woman with a quiet determination. She had been staying with her elder sister in Ikorodu, where the incident unfolded.

According to a close family source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Timilehin appeared visibly troubled after the results were released. Her distress took a darker turn when, at her sister’s workplace, she suddenly requested palm oil—a common emergency remedy for poisoning—complaining of severe stomach discomfort.

Initially unaware of the gravity of the situation, her sister reportedly dismissed the request until the girl collapsed, prompting panic among onlookers. Sympathisers quickly gathered, and Timilehin was rushed to Kolak Hospital in Odogunyan.

On the way to the hospital, the teenager allegedly confessed that she had consumed poison at home before heading to her sister’s office. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

In a cruel twist of fate, just 30 minutes after her passing, an email arrived in her inbox from JAMB notifying her of a "provisional admission" offer to a tertiary institution—an opportunity she had desperately hoped for.

“The timing was devastating,” a neighbour said. “To think that she died not knowing her dream had just come true... it’s a tragedy that words can’t explain.”

The news sent shockwaves through the Odogunyan community, where neighbours and local residents gathered in mourning. Many expressed anger and sadness, directing their frustrations at the examination body and the immense pressure placed on young Nigerians to achieve near-perfect academic results.

When Timilehin’s parents arrived from Abeokuta to retrieve her remains, grief quickly turned into outrage among the locals. Some residents were seen cursing the system that they believe contributed to her despair.

This tragic incident has once again ignited a national conversation about the mental health crisis among students in Nigeria, the pressure of academic expectations, and the urgent need for emotional support structures within the education system.

FG Unveils Bold Electricity Reform Plan, Targets Revamp of DisCos with North-South Pilot Scheme

In a decisive move to address Nigeria’s longstanding electricity distribution woes, the Federal Government has rolled out a strategic reform plan aimed at overhauling underperforming Distribution Companies (DisCos), starting with a pilot intervention in two key regions.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, confirmed the development on Tuesday, outlining a vision to restore efficiency, accountability, and service excellence in the nation's power distribution sector—a crucial component of Nigeria’s energy value chain.

According to the minister, the reform follows a rigorous diagnostic assessment of systemic failures plaguing DisCos, including weak governance structures, aging infrastructure, poor commercial viability, and widespread customer dissatisfaction.

To kick off the initiative, the government has partnered with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which presented a comprehensive roadmap titled “Revamping of the Distribution Sector in Nigeria.” The roadmap details actionable strategies aimed at repositioning the sector for sustainable growth and improved delivery.

As part of the pilot phase—set to run between May and August this year—one DisCo in the northern region and another in the southern region will undergo an intensive transformation process. These two companies will serve as test beds for a national-scale turnaround, combining targeted internal reforms with technical support from international partners and enhanced regulatory oversight from federal authorities.

Adelabu noted that this model is designed to be scalable and replicable across other DisCos nationwide. The pilot will focus on structural reorganization, operational efficiency, customer metering, revenue collection improvements, and the integration of modern grid technologies.

“Our objective is to demonstrate that with the right mix of reforms, investment, and oversight, even the weakest of our DisCos can be transformed into viable, customer-focused entities,” Adelabu stated.

The Minister emphasized that the reform is not just about infrastructure, but about instilling discipline, transparency, and professionalism in the power distribution ecosystem.

Energy experts have welcomed the move, describing it as a long-overdue intervention that could finally unlock the bottlenecks stifling electricity access in Nigeria. With only a fraction of generated power reaching end-users efficiently, the reform is seen as a potential game-changer in the nation's energy landscape.

If successful, the pilot scheme will mark a significant turning point in Nigeria’s decades-long struggle with erratic power supply, and set a new standard for performance within the sector.

“Keep Dancing to the Rhythm of Good Governance” — Atiku Celebrates Governor Ademola Adeleke on His 65th Birthday

In a warm and heartfelt tribute, Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, took to social media to celebrate Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, as he marked his 65th birthday in grand style.

Describing him as “the people’s governor, my brother, and friend,” Atiku’s message radiated admiration, unity, and deep personal respect for the governor, whose tenure has become synonymous with grassroots connection and spirited leadership.

The former Vice President praised Adeleke not only for his commitment to public service but also for his unwavering focus on the needs of the people—a leadership style that has earned him admiration far beyond the borders of Osun State.

“Your joyful spirit, dedication to service, and people-centered leadership remain inspiring,” Atiku wrote, in a message that quickly gained traction online.

But it was Atiku’s parting line that captured the essence of Adeleke’s persona and political style—one that blends governance with infectious charm: “Keep dancing to the rhythm of good governance.”

The phrase, which cleverly alludes to Governor Adeleke’s well-known love for dancing, served as both a personal nod and a metaphor for his dynamic, engaging approach to leadership—one that continues to resonate with everyday citizens.

Atiku’s tribute underscores the camaraderie among political allies within the opposition party and showcases the human side of leadership often overshadowed by political headlines.

Adeleke, fondly known by supporters as “the dancing senator,” has become a symbol of cheerful resilience in Nigerian politics—a man whose infectious energy complements a growing reputation for responsive governance.

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from across the nation, Atiku’s birthday greeting stands out not just for its sincerity but for its subtle call to continue serving with joy, humility, and authenticity.

In a political climate often marked by tension and rivalry, this gesture reminds Nigerians of the power of friendship, shared values, and mutual respect among leaders. And for Governor Adeleke, it is yet another moment that proves you can lead with both your heart—and your feet.