Defending champions, Kada Queens of Kaduna State, on Saturday successfully retained their women’s title at the 2026 National Hockey Championship after defeating Plateau State 2-0 in the final played at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The victory reaffirmed Kaduna State’s dominance in Nigerian women’s hockey, as the Kada Queens produced a disciplined and commanding performance to overcome a determined Plateau side and lift the championship trophy for another year.

The Kaduna team controlled the pace of the match with impressive tactical organisation, converting two scoring opportunities while keeping their opponents at bay to seal a deserved victory before an enthusiastic crowd of hockey enthusiasts and officials.

Former Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani as the Guest of Honour, attended the final and congratulated both teams for their outstanding display of sportsmanship and competitiveness.

He commended the Kaduna State Government for its sustained commitment to sports development, describing the team’s success as a reflection of deliberate investment in youth and athletic excellence.

The triumph further strengthens Kaduna State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading hockey centres. Prior to the championship, officials of the Kada Queens had expressed confidence in the team’s readiness to defend its title, citing months of intensive preparations, quality coaching and participation in international competitions.

Team officials also attributed the successful title defence to the support of Governor Uba Sani’s administration, noting that increased funding for sports, improved welfare for athletes and continuous investment in hockey development have played a significant role in the team’s consistent achievements at national competitions.

With the latest triumph, Kada Queens have added another remarkable chapter to their illustrious history, further cementing their status as one of Nigeria’s most successful and formidable women’s hockey teams while setting the benchmark for excellence in the sport.

Aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, while creating a lasting pipeline of young professionals equipped to lead the nation’s energy future. the Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha (DAM Foundation), in collaboration with the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Youth Wing, is set to screen 124 outstanding applicants for the inaugural Mustapha Abdullahi Energy Leadership Fellowship (MAELF),

This is a flagship initiative aimed at grooming Nigeria’s next generation of energy leaders and innovators.

The prestigious seven-day residential fellowship attracted 1,212 applications from young Nigerians and Africans seeking to contribute to the transformation of the energy sector.

The programme is designed to equip participants with cutting-edge knowledge in renewable energy, energy transition policy, climate action, leadership, and governance.

Speaking on the fellowship, APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, described MAELF as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.

According to him. “The future of Nigeria’s economic growth and industrial development depends largely on the quality of leadership within the energy sector.

“Through MAELF, we are building a new generation of energy experts, policy innovators, entrepreneurs, and executives who will drive Nigeria’s energy transition and position Africa as a global force in sustainable energy development,” He said.

Outstanding fellows will benefit from internship placements, mentorship opportunities, policy engagement platforms, field visits, and access to grants of up to ₦20 million to support innovative clean energy solutions.

The Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha (DAM Foundation) and the APC National Youth Wing said the fellowship aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, while creating a lasting pipeline of young professionals equipped to lead the nation’s energy future.

Former lawmaker urges Nigerians to assess Oluremi Tinubu’s public service based on tangible interventions, not one controversial remark

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Former lawmaker and human rights activist, Shehu Sani has defended Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, urging Nigerians to judge her public service record based on her humanitarian interventions rather than the controversy generated by her recent remarks encouraging small-scale entrepreneurship.

Sani made the appeal in a post on his verified X account on Monday, following widespread public criticism of the First Lady’s suggestion that Nigerians facing economic hardship could engage in low-capital businesses such as frying akara, roasting corn and selling kuli-kuli to earn a living.

The remarks sparked intense debate on social media, with critics describing them as insensitive to prevailing economic realities, while supporters argued that they promoted self-reliance and entrepreneurship.

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Defending the First Lady, Sani said her contributions to humanitarian causes since assuming office alongside President Bola Tinubu in May 2023 have been substantial and should not be overshadowed by a single comment.

“The record of the First Lady as one who raised billions for the moribund National Library on her birthday, and financially supported nursing schools, cancer research, tuberculosis eradication, tertiary education, widows and orphans of fallen soldiers, victims of communal and terrorist violence in Plateau and Borno states, the elderly across the states, artists and even victims of tanker explosions, should ideally be assessed and appreciated beyond the Akara comment,” Sani wrote.

He added: “Be fair, use facts and figures and just compare her outings with that of her recent predecessors.”

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Sani’s intervention comes amid sustained public discourse over the role of public officials in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over rising living costs and declining purchasing power.

Supporters of the First Lady have pointed to several interventions undertaken through the Renewed Hope Initiative, including financial support for healthcare, education, social welfare, agricultural empowerment, assistance to widows and vulnerable groups, as well as humanitarian relief for victims of disasters and violent conflicts.

According to publicly announced programmes, the initiative has also committed significant funding to tuberculosis control, breast cancer intervention, nutrition programmes and educational scholarships across the country.

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The debate has continued to generate mixed reactions across political and social circles, reflecting broader public concerns over the nation’s economic situation. While critics insist that government officials should demonstrate greater sensitivity in their public comments, supporters maintain that encouraging entrepreneurship remains a practical response to economic hardship.

Sani, however, maintained that any objective assessment of the First Lady should consider her overall record of philanthropy and social interventions rather than focusing solely on one controversial statement.

A civil society group, under the umbrella of Forum for Good Governance and Accountability (FGGA), has dismissed the bribery allegations levelled against the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, describing the claims as frivolous, baseless and unsupported by evidence.

The group’s reaction comes amid growing public debate over allegations recently made against the former Speaker of the House of Representatives by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claimed that Gbajabiamila demanded and received bribes in connection with the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

The allegations have also attracted calls from opposition figures for an independent investigation.

In a statement signed by Dr. Mohammed Musa Kaura, the group maintained that Gbajabiamila’s long record in public service speaks for itself, insisting that the allegations do not reflect his reputation or career in government.

According to the group, Gbajabiamila served as Leader of the House of Representatives for eight years before becoming Speaker for another four years, and currently serves as Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

“Throughout these years of public service, he has never been found guilty of wrongdoing or corruption. The allegations being circulated against him are not only frivolous but completely unfounded,” the group stated.

It argued that public office holders should not be subjected to trial by media, stressing that accusations must be supported by credible evidence and investigated through lawful institutions rather than the court of public opinion.

The group warned against what it described as politically motivated attempts to tarnish the image of senior government officials through unverified allegations, saying such actions could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.

It further urged Nigerians to allow due process to take its course and refrain from reaching conclusions before competent authorities establish the facts.

The group noted that Gbajabiamila has built a reputation over more than two decades in public service and legislative leadership, adding that his record as a lawmaker, Speaker of the House of Representatives and now Chief of Staff should not be overshadowed by what it described as “unsubstantiated accusations.”

The group however insisted that claims remain unproven and should be subjected to due legal process before any conclusions are drawn.

…Commend Uba Sani for Support, Adequate Funding

Defending champions Kaduna State hockey teams, Kada Stars and Kada Queens, have expressed confidence ahead of the 2026 National Hockey Championship, vowing to retain their titles when the competition begins in Abuja on Friday.

The championship, scheduled to run from June 26 to July 4, is expected to attract some of Nigeria’s finest hockey talents, with 12 teams competing in the men’s category and eight teams battling for honours in the women’s event.

Kada Stars and Kada Queens head into the tournament as reigning national champions and among the favourites to emerge victorious once again, having established themselves as dominant forces in Nigerian hockey over the years.

Team officials and players said preparations for the championship had been completed, adding that both teams were determined to defend the titles they won at the previous edition of the competition.

Several players who spoke ahead of the tournament commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for his administration’s support for sports development, particularly hockey, noting that increased funding and encouragement from the government had contributed significantly to their achievements on the national stage.

According to the players, the Kaduna State Government was recently honoured with the title of Grand Patron in recognition of its commitment to the growth and development of hockey as well as its consistent support for the state’s teams.

Sports stakeholders said Governor Sani’s administration has prioritised sports development as part of its broader youth empowerment agenda, with investments in sporting infrastructure, talent development, grassroots sports programmes and athlete welfare.

The players also acknowledged the contributions of Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, describing him as a committed supporter whose interventions and encouragement have helped sustain the teams’ championship-winning culture.

“The teams are highly motivated and in excellent condition. We have prepared very well, and the support from the state government has boosted our morale. We are optimistic about retaining our titles,” one of the players said.

During a visit to the teams’ training camp, former federal lawmaker and social commentator, Shehu Sani, urged the players to bring home more trophies and assured them that outstanding performances would attract recognition and rewards from the state government.

He charged the athletes to remain disciplined, focused and determined throughout the competition, describing them as worthy ambassadors of Kaduna State.

Sports analysts have consistently ranked Kaduna among Nigeria’s leading hockey centres, citing its long history of producing talented players and maintaining a strong presence in national competitions.

With expectations high among supporters and sports enthusiasts, Kada Stars and Kada Queens will be aiming to reinforce Kaduna State’s reputation as a powerhouse of Nigerian hockey when hostilities commence in Abuja this week.

The championship is expected to provide a platform for emerging talents to showcase their abilities while further strengthening the development of hockey across the country.

…Says Nigeria Will Leverage It’s Massive Natural Gas Reserves To Produce Blue Hydrogen

The Minister noted the technical support from Germany and UNIDO, but cautioned that necessary regulatory work and licensing, belonged strictly to Nigerian institutions.

“Our partners have offered Nigeria a door; they have not offered to walk through it on our behalf.

Mr Godfrey Ogbemudia, Programme Manager for Energy at the European Union Delegation, said that clean hydrogen offers immense opportunities for Nigeria to meet its net-zero and renewable targets.

“We are not only just interested in the knowledge that you are going to get. How does this translate into concrete investment?

“How does this help Nigeria meet its energy target? That is what we will be looking forward to see and we are going to follow this up strictly,” he said.

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Mr Semiu Adeniran, emphasised that low-carbon hydrogen was revolutionary for decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors like manufacturing and transport.

Represented by Kazeem Fatai, a Senior Statistician at the National Bureau of Statistics, Adeniran warned that successful transition frameworks should be evidence-based and economically viable.

“The development of a successful hydrogen ecosystem demands an entirely new baseline of robust statistics.

“We need high fidelity data tracking energy input-output ratios, infrastructure factor flows, green jobs, and crucially disaggregated data on industrial process,” he said.

Etiosa Uyigue, Executive Director of the Community Research and Development Centre, stated that the EU-funded project actively supports multiple core government agencies.

He listed the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency and the Rural Electrification Agency among institutions receiving crucial capacity building and data collection support.

“The overall objective of the project is to support the government efforts to achieve the energy transition goals,” He said

A low-carbon hydrogen economy is an economic model that uses hydrogen as a primary energy carrier and industrial raw material, produced with significantly reduced or net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

It is a critical component of global net-zero strategies designed to eliminate pollution from sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation, shipping, and heavy manufacturing (e.g., steel and cement)

The economic importance of a low-carbon hydrogen economy lies in its ability to decarbonize energy-intensive industries, generate new jobs through infrastructure development, and enhance global energy security by diversifying fuel supplies.

It acts as a critical economic enabler for a sustainable green transition.

A women-focused advocacy organization, the Women Rights Advocacy Group (WOREG), has accused activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, of allegedly using the judiciary and judicial officers as instruments for personal publicity and social media content creation.

The group which made the allegation in a statement signed by the Convener ,Mrs Amina Dikko, condemned what it described as repeated attacks on judges and judicial institutions by the former presidential candidate.

According to WOREG, Sowore’s comments and conduct in relation to ongoing court proceedings amount to a deliberate attempt to undermine public confidence in the judiciary and erode respect for the rule of law.

The group expressed concern that persistent public criticism directed at judges handling sensitive cases could exert undue pressure on the courts and create an atmosphere of intimidation around judicial officers.

“While every citizen has the constitutional right to freedom of expression, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law. The judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy and should not be subjected to reckless attacks aimed at generating publicity or online engagement,” the statement said.

WOREG maintained that disagreements with court decisions should be addressed through established legal mechanisms, including the appellate process, rather than through public campaigns that may be interpreted as attempts to discredit judicial officers.

The organization further warned that sustained attacks on judges could weaken public trust in the justice system and threaten the independence of the courts.

It called on political actors, activists, civil society organizations and members of the public to respect judicial processes and allow courts to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without interference.

The group also urged relevant authorities and professional bodies to continue safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary while ensuring that legitimate criticism of judicial decisions remains constructive and consistent with democratic principles.

According to the statement, the concerns come amid ongoing public debates surrounding several high-profile court cases and growing discussions about the role of social media in shaping public perceptions of judicial proceedings.

WOREG noted that Sowore has on several occasions publicly criticized judicial decisions and institutions, arguing that scrutiny of the justice sector is necessary to promote accountability.

However, the Women group insisted that criticism should not degenerate into personal attacks on judges or attempts to ridicule the judicial system for political advantage or media attention.

The advocacy group reiterated its call for responsible public engagement on judicial matters, stressing that the preservation of judicial independence remains essential to the sustenance of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.

The Access to Justice and Accountability Forum (AJAF) has strongly condemned human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, over what it described as persistent attacks on the Nigerian judiciary and alleged acts of contempt against courts and judges.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Dr. Mustapha Sani, and Secretary, Emmanuel David Mahu, the civil society organisation expressed concern over what it termed Sowore’s repeated public comments and actions aimed at discrediting judicial officers and undermining confidence in the nation’s justice system.

AJAF stated that while citizens have the constitutional right to freedom of expression and the right to seek accountability from public institutions, such rights must be exercised within the boundaries of the law and with due respect for judicial processes.

According to the group, recent remarks attributed to Sowore regarding ongoing legal proceedings and judicial officers amount to an attempt to influence public perception of matters before competent courts, a development it said could erode public trust in the administration of justice.

“The judiciary remains one of the most critical pillars of Nigeria’s democracy. Any attempt to malign judges without verifiable evidence or to subject judicial officers to public ridicule poses a serious threat to the rule of law and democratic governance,” the statement read.

The organisation further noted that criticism of judicial decisions should be pursued through lawful channels, including appeals and established complaint mechanisms, rather than through public campaigns that could bring the courts into disrepute.

AJAF urged political actors, activists and civil society groups to uphold the sanctity and independence of the judiciary, stressing that disagreements with court rulings should not translate into personal attacks against judges.

The forum also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders in the justice sector to remain vigilant in protecting judicial institutions from intimidation and undue pressure.

Reaffirming its commitment to the promotion of justice, accountability and democratic values, AJAF urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at strengthening public confidence in the nation’s legal system.

“The integrity of the judiciary must be protected at all times. Democracy thrives when institutions are respected and disputes are resolved through lawful and constitutional means,” the statement added.

How a Village Boy Became Engineering Royalty

Pastor Shedrach Oka’s Emotional Tribute to His Friend, Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi, As He Ascends to NIEEE Fellowship

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In the journey of life, true greatness is not measured by where a person begins, but by the depth of their resilience, the heights of their achievements, and the lives they touch along the way. Today, Pastor Shedrach Oka joins family, friends, and the entire community in celebrating a man who embodies this truth in its purest form: Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi.

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The news of his induction as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NIEEE) is not just a personal victory; it is a monumental triumph for everyone who believes in the power of hard work, education, and unwavering determination. For Pastor Oka, it is also the proud moment of watching a cherished friend reach a summit few ever attain.

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A Journey Fueled by Resilience

Engr. Inah’s story is a powerful testament to the fact that your background does not define your future. Rising from humble beginnings, he faced the typical life struggles that many young Nigerians know all too well. Yet, where others saw obstacles, he saw stepping stones. Armed with a relentless drive and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he carved a path of excellence in the highly demanding field of engineering.

Achieving the rank of an NIEEE Fellow is the highest professional honor an electrical and electronics engineer can attain in Nigeria. It is a title reserved for the elite—those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, technical prowess, and significant contributions to the profession. For Engr. Inah, this is a well-deserved crowning glory, even as he pushes the boundaries of academia further by currently pursuing his PhD.

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A Friend, a Brother, a Leader of the People

“I have watched this man rise with grace, humility, and an unbreakable spirit,” Pastor Oka shares. “His success is no accident—it is the fruit of discipline, faith, and a heart that genuinely loves people.”

Beyond the laboratories, blueprints, and academic journals, Hon. Inah is a man deeply rooted in the soil of his community. His stint as the former Councilor for the Mkpani Agoi Council Ward in Yakurr LGA of Cross River State showcased his heart for public service.

In a political landscape that often clamors for genuine leaders, Hon. Inah stood out. He brought the precision of an engineer and the empathy of a grassroots leader to governance, proving that politics can be a tool for genuine community development.

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The Beacon of Hope for Mkpani Youths

To the youths of Mkpani and Yakurr LGA as a whole, Hon. Inah Ibor Ubi is more than just a successful engineer or an aspiring politician—he is a living blueprint of possibility.

He has broken the myth that success is reserved only for the privileged. By balancing academic rigor, professional excellence, and grassroots community engagement, he has shown the next generation that they can be intellectually formidable while remaining politically relevant and community-conscious. As Pastor Oka affirms, he is, without a doubt, the ultimate role model for every young person who dares to dream big.

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“True leaders don’t just create followers; they inspire the next generation to lead. My friend Engr. Inah is doing exactly that.”

—Pastor Shedrach Oka

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Congratulations, Champion!

“As you wear the prestigious gown of an NIEEE Fellow and continue your stride toward your doctorate, I salute your tenacity, your intellect, and your golden heart,” Pastor Oka declares. “Mkpani is proud of you. Cross River State is blessed to have you. The engineering community is richer because of you.”

Congratulations, Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi, FNIEEE. From your friend Pastor Shedrach Oka, this is not the peak of your mountain—it is merely the launching pad for the greater national impact ahead!

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By Mark Dauda Lawal

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into a series of allegations against former Zamfara State governor and serving senator, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari, warning that it will initiate legal action if authorities fail to act within the stipulated period.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Deputy Secretary General, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant anti-corruption and security agencies to urgently investigate claims relating to alleged illegal mining activities, financial impropriety and suspected links between illicit mineral trade and insecurity in the North-West.

Ohanaeze said the allegations were of significant national importance and required immediate scrutiny by agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Department of State Services (DSS), and relevant parliamentary committees.

The organisation expressed concern over allegations that proceeds from illegal mining operations were allegedly used to facilitate the acquisition of a controlling stake in Gereru Power Plc through Ma’am Energy Limited.

According to the statement, questions have been raised regarding the ownership structure of the company involved in the transaction, the source of funds used for the acquisition and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Ohanaeze further urged authorities to investigate alleged illegal mining networks operating across Zamfara, Kaduna and Kebbi states, claiming that such activities, if established, could be contributing to revenue losses for the Federal Government and fuelling criminal enterprises in the region.

The group also called for an independent forensic audit of companies and financial transactions allegedly linked to the senator, including a review of beneficial ownership structures, anti-money laundering compliance and banking activities.

“There exists urgent public concern that proceeds from illegal mining activities in the North-West may be indirectly sustaining or enabling violent non-state actors operating in affected regions,” the statement said.

Ohanaeze, however, stressed that only a thorough and impartial investigation by competent authorities could determine the veracity or otherwise of the allegations.

The organisation warned that continued inaction by relevant institutions could undermine public confidence, weaken national security efforts and negatively affect investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

It consequently demanded the immediate commencement of federal investigations, public disclosure of investigative actions by relevant agencies, a forensic audit of all entities allegedly linked to the senator and a parliamentary review of solid minerals governance in affected states.

The group stated that should the Federal Government fail to take action within 14 days, it would institute legal proceedings aimed at compelling enforcement action and ensuring accountability through lawful judicial processes.

Ohanaeze maintained that its intervention was motivated by concerns for transparency, constitutional governance and national stability rather than political considerations.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Yari had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the statement, and efforts to reach him was unsuccessful.