Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has affirmed that the government remains committed to supporting petty traders in the informal sector, dismissing recent criticisms as “wrong reports” that will not intimidate the administration.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The First Lady addressed the backlash sparked by her previous comments regarding the empowerment of Nigerians to launch small-scale businesses—such as selling akara, boli, and roasted corn—which necessitate minimal capital. While some social media users viewed these remarks as insensitive to the current economic climate, Mrs. Tinubu maintained her stance during a visit to Jigawa State.

Key points regarding the development include:

• Support Package: During the event in Jigawa, the First Lady announced a ₦100,000,000 support initiative aimed at assisting 2,000 female petty traders, with each recipient receiving a grant of ₦50,000.

• Administration’s Strategy: The administration emphasizes providing support through direct grants rather than loans.

• Defiant Stance: Mrs. Tinubu stated that the government will continue to empower various small-scale vendors, including those selling tomatoes, vegetables, and boli, noting that the intended beneficiaries appreciate these efforts.

“I know they have been talking,” the First Lady said, emphasizing that she was referring to a broad range of small businesses, not just akara. She added, “We are not intimidated by all those wrong reports”.

Nigerian international midfielder Frank Onyeka has finalized a permanent transfer to Coventry City, moving from Brentford after the club exercised their option to convert his previous loan into a long-term deal. Onyeka originally joined the “Sky Blues” on loan this past January, where he made 14 Championship appearances and scored one goal while playing a key role in the club’s successful promotion to the Premier League. The 27-year-old brings significant top-tier experience to the squad, having previously featured in 75 Premier League matches for Brentford.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In an official statement, Onyeka shared his enthusiasm for remaining with the team as they prepare for the upcoming top-flight campaign. He noted that his primary objectives upon first arriving were to secure the Championship title and assist the club in reaching the Premier League, both of which were achieved. Looking forward, Onyeka pledged to fight for his teammates and utilize his experience to help Coventry City maintain its Premier League status and secure a strong finish in the table. This permanent transfer officially commences on Wednesday, July 1.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government and security services regarding the recurring attacks, profiling, and marginalization of Muslims in Nigeria. Through a statement from its Public Affairs Officer, Abbas Jimoh, the NSCIA emphasized that the Muslim community’s long-standing restraint should not be misinterpreted as weakness or cowardice, noting that there is a breaking point for their endurance.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Council’s key demands and grievances include:

• Justice for Recent Violence: The NSCIA insists that the government must immediately prosecute those responsible for recent killings in Kaduna and Benue states, warning that failing to do so invites anarchy.

• Addressing Public Provocation: Authorities are urged to curb public assaults against the integrity of Islam and Muslims, which the Council argues threatens national peace and cohesion.

• Investigating Misconduct: The Council is demanding thorough, transparent investigations into specific allegations of police misconduct, including reports of officers handing over a female Islamic scholar for burning and suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of a Miyetti Allah official in Benue State.

• Media and Social Bias: The NSCIA criticized what it termed “reckless” rhetoric from certain religious leaders and accused media outlets, specifically Arise Television, of applying double standards in their coverage of criminal incidents. The Council also rejected narratives linking Muslims and the Fulani community to kidnapping cases in Oyo State, citing evidence that contradicts these claims.

• Marginalization in Governance: Beyond security, the Council alleged that Muslims are systematically sidelined in public appointments—particularly in southern Nigeria—and criticized the selective opposition to Muslim-Muslim political tickets, contrasting current attitudes with historical political precedents.

Despite these grievances, the NSCIA reaffirmed its dedication to national unity. The Council concluded by urging the government, security agencies, and media organizations to act with responsibility to prevent further escalation, while simultaneously calling on the Muslim community to remain patient as it pursues lawful avenues to address these concerns.