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Nigeria at 65: Kebbi Governor Urges Citizens to Pray for Peace

Published

1 year ago

October 1, 2025

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has called on Nigerians to pray for peace, unity, and progress as the country marks its 65th Independence Day anniversary.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking on Friday during celebrations in Birnin Kebbi, Idris said the nation’s survival depends on the collective efforts of its citizens to overcome insecurity, poverty, and division. He urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to building a stronger country despite the challenges facing Africa’s most populous nation.

“Peace is the foundation of every society,” Idris said. “Without peace, there will be no development. I call on all Nigerians to continue to pray for our country and to work together to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams.”

Independence Day Message

Nigeria gained independence from Britain on Oct. 1, 1960. Each year, the anniversary is marked with speeches, parades, and prayers across the country. This year’s celebration comes at a time when the nation continues to grapple with inflation, insecurity, and widespread hardship.

Governor Idris noted that Nigeria has faced many trials since independence but has remained united. He praised the resilience of Nigerians and encouraged them not to lose hope in the face of economic and social challenges.

“Sixty-five years is a long journey,” he said. “We have made progress in education, health, and infrastructure, but there is still a lot to be done. Let us unite to move our country forward.”

Security and Unity

Security remains one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges. Armed groups continue to carry out attacks in the northern states, while kidnapping for ransom has spread across the country. The governor stressed that prayers, combined with government action, are key to restoring stability.

“Government alone cannot do it,” Idris said. “Citizens must play their part by supporting security agencies, rejecting violence, and living in peace with one another.”

He also warned against hate speech, ethnic tensions, and political rivalry that could divide the country. According to him, unity is the most powerful tool Nigerians have to face the future.

Citizens’ Reactions

Many Nigerians welcomed the governor’s call. Local traders in Birnin Kebbi said peace is essential for business growth. “Without security, we cannot sell our goods,” said market trader Aisha Musa. “We want the government to protect us, but we also believe prayer is important.”

Civil society groups also echoed the message, urging leaders to match words with action. “Prayers are good, but Nigerians also need good governance,” said activist Ibrahim Shehu. “If leaders provide jobs, security, and justice, then peace will come naturally.”

National Context

At 65, Nigeria remains a country of contrasts. It is rich in oil, gas, and agriculture but struggles with high unemployment and a cost-of-living crisis. The currency has lost much of its value in recent months, and millions face rising food prices.

Despite these difficulties, the spirit of independence remains strong. Across the country, schools, churches, and mosques held events to mark the anniversary. Many Nigerians dressed in green and white, the national colors, to show pride in their country.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to address the nation in a televised speech, where he will outline government efforts to revive the economy and strengthen security.

Looking Ahead

Governor Idris said the anniversary should serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by past leaders and citizens who fought for freedom. He called on the younger generation to carry that spirit forward.

“Our forefathers gave us independence,” he said. “Now it is our duty to protect it, to nurture it, and to hand over a better Nigeria to our children.”

As Nigerians reflect on 65 years of independence, the call for peace and unity remains at the heart of the celebration. Whether through prayer, civic action, or government reform, many agree that the nation’s future depends on a shared vision of stability and progress.

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Lyon Win Five-Goal Thriller Against Crystal Palace As Sunderland Strike Late [Europa League Full Results].

Published

10 minutes ago

October 16, 2026

NivoNews

Lyon took the lead in the 10th minute when Corentin Tolisso reacted quickly to a loose ball following a corner kick.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The French side extended their advantage in first-half stoppage time, with Ernest Nuamah finishing off Keito Nakamura’s cross after an impressive attacking move.

Crystal Palace reduced the deficit shortly after the restart through Yeremy Pino, who converted a well-executed set-piece routine.

However, Lyon restored their two-goal advantage when Pavel Sulc scored with a close-range flick.

Daichi Kamada brought Palace back into contention with nine minutes remaining, but Lyon defended their lead to secure their second consecutive victory in the league phase.

Sunderland Snatch Dramatic Late Victory

Sunderland produced a late comeback to defeat Torreense 2-1 in Portugal, with Noah Sadiki scoring the decisive goal in the 93rd minute.

The hosts took the lead in the 37th minute after Volnei Feltes beat his marker before unleashing a long-range effort beyond Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs.

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris responded by introducing Granit Xhaka and Enzo Le Fee shortly before the hour mark, helping his side regain control of the contest.

Jules Ahoka subsequently equalised for the visitors before Sadiki struck deep into stoppage time to complete the comeback.

The closing stages were marked by a lengthy VAR review that ultimately denied Sunderland a late penalty, but the visitors still left Portugal with all three points.

Leverkusen, AC Milan Record Convincing Wins

Bayer Leverkusen moved to the top of the standings after defeating Lech Poznan 4-0.

Patrik Schick scored twice from the penalty spot in the first half, while Malik Tillman also found the net before the interval. Ibrahim Maza completed the scoring late in the game.

AC Milan recorded an identical scoreline away against Salzburg, with teenage forward Alphadjo Cisse netting a hat-trick. Goncalo Ramos added the fourth goal in the 72nd minute.

However, Filippo Terracciano’s red card took some shine off Milan’s emphatic victory.

Other Europa League Results

Elsewhere, Bournemouth defeated Sturm Graz 3-0, while Juventus claimed a 2-1 away victory over Celta Vigo. Olympiacos also secured a narrow 1-0 win against Marseille.

Real Sociedad were held to a 1-1 draw by Union Saint-Gilloise, while Dinamo Zagreb defeated Anderlecht 1-0.

Benfica cruised to a 4-1 victory over Celtic, AZ Alkmaar beat Hapoel Be’er Sheva 2-1, and Besiktas edged Hoffenheim 3-2 away from home.

Other results saw Celje lose 0-3 to Omonia, Ferencvaros defeat Plzen 2-1, Jagiellonia beat Ararat-Armenia 3-1, and Nijmegen draw 1-1 with Levski Sofia.

2026/2027 Europa League Matchday 2 Results

AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Hapoel Be’er Sheva
Celje 0-3 Omonia
Lech Poznan 0-4 Bayer Leverkusen
Lyon 3-2 Crystal Palace
Union Saint-Gilloise 1-1 Real Sociedad
Salzburg 0-4 AC Milan
Sparta Prague 1-1 Lillestrom
Torreense 1-2 Sunderland
Benfica 4-1 Celtic
Bournemouth 3-0 Sturm Graz
Celta Vigo 1-2 Juventus
Dinamo Zagreb 1-0 Anderlecht
Ferencvaros 2-1 Plzen
Hoffenheim 2-3 Besiktas
Jagiellonia 3-1 Ararat-Armenia
Marseille 0-1 Olympiacos
Nijmegen 1-1 Levski Sofia

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Full List: APC Map Out 12 States For Tinubu To Visit For 2027 Campaign Rallies.

Published

24 minutes ago

October 16, 2026

NivoNews

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has proposed a schedule for President Bola Tinubu’s campaign rallies across 12 states ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to the proposed timetable, the campaign is expected to commence in Kaduna State on October 24, 2026, and conclude with a grand rally in Lagos State on January 9, 2027.

reports that the planned rallies will cover Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with Tinubu scheduled to attend campaign events in 12 locations across the country.

Other proposed destinations include Port Harcourt, Jos, Ibadan, Maiduguri, Enugu, Bauchi, Sokoto, Asaba, Kano and Yola.

Full List of Proposed Campaign Dates and Locations

The proposed timetable outlines the following dates and venues for Tinubu’s campaign appearances:

Kaduna, Kaduna State – Saturday, October 24, 2026
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Saturday, November 7, 2026
Jos, Plateau State – Saturday, November 14, 2026
Ibadan, Oyo State – Saturday, November 21, 2026
Maiduguri, Borno State – Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Enugu, Enugu State – Saturday, November 28, 2026
Bauchi, Bauchi State – Sunday, November 29, 2026
Sokoto, Sokoto State – Friday, December 4, 2026
Asaba, Delta State – Saturday, December 12, 2026
Kano, Kano State – Thursday, December 17, 2026
Yola, Adamawa State – Monday, January 4, 2027
Lagos, Lagos State – Saturday, January 9, 2027

Momodu Questions Tinubu’s Commitment to Free and Fair Elections

Meanwhile, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has expressed doubts about President Tinubu’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections in 2027, claiming that even some of the President’s supporters harbour similar concerns.

reports that the veteran journalist made the remarks during an interview on Arise News’ Prime Time programme.

Momodu alleged that some Nigerians fear Tinubu might be unwilling to relinquish power if he loses the next presidential election.

He, however, insisted that Nigerians would resist any attempt by the President to remain in office after an electoral defeat.

The ADC chieftain further claimed that some governors elected on the APC platform, alongside judges and legislators, were apprehensive about the possible outcome of the 2027 elections.

Speaking during the interview, Momodu said many Nigerians would question whether Tinubu could be trusted to oversee a credible and transparent electoral process.

He argued that some supporters of the President were confident of victory but, according to him, struggled to explain the basis for their optimism beyond their belief in Tinubu’s political influence.

Momodu also maintained that his confidence in the opposition’s efforts was not based solely on his party, but on what he described as the growing determination of ordinary Nigerians who do not want Tinubu to secure another term.

He recalled Tinubu’s political struggle to win a second term as governor of Lagos State, suggesting that opposition figures were also working behind the scenes to challenge his bid for re-election as President.

The ADC chieftain added that some political figures who publicly support Tinubu were allegedly concerned about the current political climate but were reluctant to express their reservations openly.

He concluded by describing the President’s position within the political establishment as one that many were unwilling to challenge directly.

Momodu’s remarks reflect his personal assessment of the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections and his criticism of the Tinubu administration.

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CAF Delegation Arrives In Nigeria For Crucial Final Inspection Ahead Of Assembly, Awards.

Published

53 minutes ago

October 16, 2026

NivoNews

A 15-member delegation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Friday, October 16, to conduct a final inspection of facilities ahead of the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly and the 2026 CAF Awards.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The delegation, led by CAF Head of Safety and Security, Dr Christian Emeruwa, will assess venues and related arrangements in Lagos and Abuja to ensure they meet the standards required for hosting the two major continental events.

During their visit to Lagos, the CAF officials will inspect the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, Eko Hotel and Suites, and Murtala Muhammed International Airport. They are also scheduled to meet with representatives of the Lagos State Government.

The team will then proceed to Abuja, where it will assess the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

The delegation is also expected to pay courtesy visits to the Chairman and Director-General of the National Sports Commission.

A six-member delegation from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by Dr Ademola Olajire, will accompany the CAF officials throughout the inspection exercise.

The visit follows an earlier assessment conducted between July 31 and August 4, during which initial operational agreements were established.

The final inspection will focus on verifying the readiness of the venues, security provisions and logistical arrangements to ensure the successful hosting of both events.

The 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly is scheduled to hold on Saturday, November 21, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.

Meanwhile, the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony is slated for Monday, December 7, at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos.