Amid rising political tension in Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he cannot forgive the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, since he has not indicated interest in seeking forgiveness from the predecessor to end the feud.

The FCT minister stated that Fubara must initiate the peace meeting through public admittance of wrongdoing and seek forgiveness over his conduct in the past months in the state.

Wike’s position was made public through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, while responding to a peace appeal by former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, who urged the former governor to bury the hatchet and embrace peace, expressing optimism that a dialogue between both political gladiators could bring an end to the crisis rocking Rivers State.

In a firm response to the peace call on Wednesday, Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, stated that Fubara has neither accepted that he erred nor shown any willingness to make peace with the FCT minister.

“The minister didn’t say Fubara offended him personally. He simply expected the governor to govern with integrity, respect those who lifted him into power, and adhere to due process.”

Wike is reportedly disappointed that Fubara, who once worked under him and benefitted from his political mentorship, now treats him like a political adversary. He questioned how a trusted ally could so quickly become defiant and disregard his political benefactor.

Drawing on an African proverb, Wike’s aide likened the situation to offering medicine to someone who is sick, only for the person to reject it. He said no peace effort could succeed if the person responsible for the conflict refused to take the first step.

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According to him, Wike believes reconciliation is impossible unless Fubara acknowledges his actions and formally requests forgiveness.

For now, with no such gesture from Fubara, Wike insists there’s no basis for reconciliation—leaving Rivers State’s political crisis far from resolution.

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be careful of the involvement of the American government in Nigerian politics because of his 2027 second term ambition.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, the prophet revealed that American government will be Tinubu’s strongest opposition in 2027 and if he isn’t mindful of their involvement, it would cost him a lot. … Continue Reading.

REVEALED: 13 companies owned by Nigerian billionaire (FULL LIST)

The prophet made it known that the US government has plans to seize his second term ambition for reasons known to them and that Tinubu should not joke with it in anyway.

“President Tinubu needs to be very careful and watch his back because the American government is trying to gang up against his second-term ambition. With what I am seeing, the US government would be Tinubu’s major opposition in 2027.”

“If he likes, he should joke with this warning, he is the one who has everything to lose. I am only delivering what I have seen. He needs to be very careful of external involvements in Nigerian politics, they are seriously planning against him.”

Continuing, Primate Ayodele urged President Tinubu to pay more attention to the foreign opposition instead of the opposition parties in Nigeria, as he hasn’t seen anyone at the moment showing seriousness to win in 2027.

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He blasted Nigerian opposition candidates for always putting their interests ahead of the country, stating that it is the reason they won’t be able to take power from Tinubu in 2027.

“In fact, President Tinubu should be more worried about foreign political actors rather than Nigerian opposition parties. The opposition candidates are not serious about taking over power, they are only doing what they like out of their selfish interests. They can’t come up with any reasonable coalition that can win the presidency in 2027.

“The only thing President Tinubu should work on is opposition parties not getting international backing from foreign political actors like the US government. Tinubu needs to work very hard to prevent it otherwise, his second term is under attack.”

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With the 2027 presidential race gaining momentum, political maneuvers are becoming increasingly intense across the nation.

Aspiring candidates are actively engaging in lobbying efforts, seeking support from influential godfathers and strategic political allies to bolster their campaigns.

Notably, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has been making headlines by meeting with former President Muhammadu Buhari. These discussions, shrouded in speculation, have raised eyebrows and sparked rumors of potential political alliances and strategies being plotted behind closed doors. …CONTINUE READING.

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Tensions are rising within former Vice President Atiku’s political camp as IBB, has publicly endorsed his preferred candidate for the upcoming 2027 presidential election. This unexpected endorsement has sparked significant concern among Buhari’s loyalists, who fear that the backing of such a prominent figure could shift the balance of support in the political landscape.

General Ibrahim Babangida has expressed optimism regarding the potential re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Fresh prophecy reveals who wins 2027 election as Tinubu warned

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The former military ruler expressed his views on the political landscape, praising Bola Tinubu for exhibiting remarkable political resilience and strategic leadership.

During an in-depth interview with a carefully chosen group of journalists conducted in the serene capital of Niger State, Minna, Babangida articulated his belief that Tinubu’s qualities and experience make him a strong contender for a second term in office.

He emphasized that Tinubu’s ability to navigate complex political challenges has positioned him favorably for continued leadership, highlighting the significance of his past achievements and adaptability in the ever-changing political arena.

It is said that Tinubu is an expert in political survival. Despite the fact that he has been subjected to pressure, criticism, and enormous challenges, he continues to move forward.

The Nigerian people will reward that kind of strength, Babangida announced.

He acknowledged the challenges that Nigerians are experiencing as a result of the financial reforms that are currently being implemented, but he insisted that Tinubu’s policies would be validated by the long-term benefits. Pain is not something that lasts forever.

He went on to say, “I have witnessed governments in the past making difficult decisions, and I am confident that Nigerians will see the results if patience is managed effectively.”

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Fresh prophecy reveals who wins 2027 election as Tinubu warned

Economy: IBB breaks silence on Tinubu’s government, reveals what Nigerians should do

A few people in Nigeria’s modern history command as much intrigue as General Ibrahim Babangida. A man of immense power and wealth, Babangida ruled the country as military Head of State from 1985 to 1993, leaving behind a legacy of economic reforms, political controversies, and an empire of investments that continues to fuel speculation decades later.

Often called “IBB” or the “Evil Genius” by critics, Babangida is a master strategist—both on the battlefield and in business. While his economic policies shaped Nigeria’s economy, his fortune, rumored to be between $5 billion and $8.5 billion, remains shrouded in secrecy. …CONTINUE READING.

Born on August 17, 1941, in Minna, Niger State, Babangida grew up in a modest setting. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1962, training at elite military institutions in Nigeria, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. He quickly gained a reputation for bravery, a quality that defined his military career.

During the failed coup attempt of 1976, Babangida reportedly confronted the mutineers at a Lagos radio station unarmed, disarming them and helping to restore order. His military acumen earned him the role of Chief of Army Staff in 1984 under the administration of Major General Muhammadu Buhari. Just a year later, Babangida staged a bloodless coup, overthrowing Buhari and assuming power as Nigeria’s new leader.

His administration was marked by sweeping economic policies, including introducing the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), which aimed to stabilize the economy through privatization, foreign investment, and currency devaluation. Though the SAP had some success in boosting exports and deregulating key industries, it also led to widespread hardship due to inflation and job losses.

The business of power: How Ibrahim Babangida built his fortune

Babangida’s time in office gave him access to vast state resources, and reports suggest that he used this influence to secure substantial wealth. While Nigeria has no official record of his assets, multiple reports place his fortune among the largest in Africa.

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One of the key sources of Babangida’s wealth is believed to be Nigeria’s oil sector. During his tenure, billions of dollars in oil revenues were controlled with little oversight. Allegations of misappropriation surfaced, most notably concerning the $12.4 billion in Gulf War windfall funds that reportedly vanished during his administration. While no formal charges have ever been brought against him, suspicions persist that these funds played a role in his financial empire.

Beyond oil, Babangida’s business interests span multiple industries, including banking, telecommunications, real estate, and agriculture. He is rumored to hold significant shares in some of Nigeria’s largest financial institutions, including First Bank and United Bank for Africa (UBA). These investments allow him to remain a powerful, albeit behind-the-scenes, figure in Nigeria’s economy.

The mansion in Minna and a lifestyle of luxury

Despite keeping a relatively low profile in his later years, Babangida’s opulent lifestyle is challenging to ignore. His private residence in Minna, Niger State, is an architectural marvel, reportedly costing over $3 million. The sprawling estate features state-of-the-art security, expansive gardens, and luxurious interiors that reflect his status.

His car collection is equally impressive, featuring high-end vehicles such as a Rolls-Royce and a Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman, among others.

A polarizing legacy: Philanthropy and political influence

Despite the controversies surrounding his tenure, Babangida remains influential in Nigeria’s political and business circles. He is frequently consulted by politicians seeking endorsements, and his financial power ensures that he remains a key player behind the scenes.

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Babangida has also engaged in philanthropy in his later years, particularly in education and healthcare. The Ibrahim Babangida University in Niger State stands as one of his contributions to Nigeria’s academic sector.

However, for many Nigerians, Babangida’s legacy remains tainted by the annulment of the 1993 presidential election—widely considered the freest and fairest in the country’s history. The decision to nullify businessman Moshood Abiola’s victory led to political unrest and ultimately paved the way for the dictatorship of General Sani Abacha.

A billionaire in retirement

Now in his 80s, Babangida lives a quieter life but remains one of Nigeria’s wealthiest individuals. His financial empire, built on decades of strategic positioning, thrives. His ability to amass and maintain such wealth speaks to his skill as a tactician, whether in governance or business.

For some, Babangida is a genius who understood power and wealth better than any of his contemporaries. For others, he symbolizes the corruption and opacity that have long plagued Nigeria. His impact remains undeniable—on Nigeria’s economy, politics, and the elite business class that continues to shape the country’s future.

In a nation where wealth and power often go hand in hand, Ibrahim Babangida’s story continues to captivate, even decades after his exit from public office.

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The divorce news of former U.S First Lady, Michelle Obama surfaced regarding her 32-year marriage to former President Barack Obama simply by her making her own decisions about how to spend her time.

Mrs. Obama now has offered at least a partial answer: She is making decisions for herself.

“I chose to do what’s best for me, not what I had to do,” she said this week on an episode of “Work in Progress,” a podcast hosted by the actress Sophia Bush, referencing a “real big example” of something on her calendar that she skipped. Continue Reading.

Michelle dispelled the rumours during a chat with Hollywood actress, Sophia Bush, for an episode of her podcast on Tuesday.

She explained that her decision to skip President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and President Donald Trump’s inauguration were simply decisions she made for herself.

Her absence at both high-profile political events sparked divorce rumours, with Obama admitting last week that he was in a ‘deep deficit’ with his wife.

“That’s the thing that we as women, I think we struggle with: disappointing people. I mean, so much so that this year people were, you know, they couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself that they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing.

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“That this couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself, right?’ she continued.
Obama added: ‘That’s what society does to us.’

‘We start actually, finally going, “What am I doing? Who am I doing this for?” And if it doesn’t fit into the sort of stereotype of what people think we should do, then it gets labeled as something negative and horrible.’

The former first lady turned 61 on January 17 and spoke candidly to Bush about questions she’s asking about how she wants to spend the twilight of her life.
‘So you know, now is the time for me to start asking myself these hard questions of who do I truly want to be every day,’ she said.

Michelle said that looks ‘like whatever I want it to look like.’

“And I still find time to, you know, give speeches, to be out there in the world, to work on projects. I still care about girls’ education.

“We, you know, the library is opening a year from now.”

The former first lady acknowledged that there are ‘certain things I am and am not doing’ with President Obama’s presidential library, which is being constructed on Chicago’s South Side.

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“But the interesting thing is that when I say no, for the most part, people are like, I get it, and I’m OK, right?” she added.

The fact-check revealed that the divorce speculation is false!

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in on 29 May 2023, he took over an economy that was facing a massive headwind. However, things are already looking up, going by a statement by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Entitled “Nigeria Posts $6.83 Billion Balance of Payments Surplus in 2024, Signaling Economic Resurgence,” and signed by Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, the statement says that Nigeria recorded a Balance of Payments (BOP) surplus of $6.83 billion in 2024.

This marked a decisive turnaround from deficits of $3.34 billion in 2023 and $3.32 billion in 2022.

BOP is when the value of a country’s exports outweigh its imports.

The central bank said the improvement reflected the impact of wide-ranging macroeconomic reforms, stronger trade performance, and renewed investor confidence in the nation’s economy.

Under the review period, the current and capital account recorded a surplus of $17.22 billion, underpinned by a goods trade surplus of $13.17 billion.

Petroleum imports declined by 23.2 per cent to $14.06 billion, while non-oil imports fell by 12.6 per cent to $25.74 billion.

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On the export side, gas exports rose by 48.3 per cent to $8.66 billion, while non-oil exports increased by 24.6 per cent to $7.46 billion.

Remittance inflows remained resilient, with personal remittances rising by 8.9 per cent to $20.93 billion.

Also, International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO) inflows surged by 43.5 per cent to $4.73 billion, compared to $3.30 billion in 2023, reflecting stronger engagement from the Nigerian diaspora.

Official development assistance also rose by 6.2 per cent to $3.37 billion.

Net financial assets acquisitions amounted to $12.12 billion while portfolio investment inflows more than doubled, increasing by 106.5 per cent to $13.35 billion.

In addition, resident foreign currency holdings grew by $5.41 billion, indicating stronger confidence in domestic economic stability.

Although Foreign Direct Investment fell by 42.3 per cent to $1.08 billion, the overall financial account posted notable gains.

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The country’s external reserves increased by $6 billion to $40.19 billion by year-end 2024, bolstering its external buffer.

Notably, net errors and omissions narrowed significantly by 79.5 per cent to negative $5.10 billion in 2024, down from $24.90 billion in 2023, reflecting substantial improvements in data availability and capture.

According to CBN, this represented a major advance in data accuracy, transparency, and overall reporting integrity. The year’s surplus highlighted the effectiveness of the country’s ongoing reform agenda.

The liberalisation and unification of the foreign exchange market, a disciplined monetary policy approach to managing inflation and stabilising the naira, and coordinated fiscal and monetary measures have all contributed to enhanced competitiveness and investor sentiment, the apex bank stated.

Responding to the economic feat, CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said, “The positive turnaround in our external finances is evidence of effective policy implementation and our unwavering commitment to macroeconomic stability.

“This surplus marks an important step forward for Nigeria’s economy, benefiting investors, businesses, and everyday Nigerians alike.”

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