Rihanna responds to a gun attack at her house with significant action

On March 8, an AR-15 weapon fired multiple shots into the pop star's Los Angeles property.

Following gunfires at her home, Rihanna is reportedly stepping up protection for herself and her family. Ten gunshots were reportedly fired at Rihanna's house on March 8, shocking her and her family.

Ivanna Ortiz, a 35-year-old woman, was  taken into custody by the authorities on suspicion of shooting an assault weapon at the residence.

 Radaronline.com reported that Rihanna left her Los Angeles residence with her family and began examining her security plans "from an ultra-secure location." The Diamonds artist's relocation was likened by a source to the Crime thriller The Godfather Part II.

 According to the source, "The aftermath was like those scenes from Godfather II when Michael Corleone's house is riddled with bullets, and he flies into a rage before moving his family away."

"After the initial shock subsided, Rihanna became enraged. The bullets may have hit her family, and she is now examining their security plans from an extremely secure area."

 It is worth noting that Rihanna and her partner ASAP Rocky have three children: RZA (three), Riot (two), and Rocki (six months). Days before the attack, the alleged shooter sent a threatening message to Rihanna through her social media account.

ChatGPT planning to turn prompts into videos by merging with OpenAI’s Sora

 

In September 2025, OpenAI launched the Sora mobile application.

In an effort to grow its user base, OpenAI has revealed intentions to incorporate an AI video creator into ChatGPT.

 According to The Information, the action is part of a larger strategy change at OpenAI to obtain a competitive advantage in the technology market.

The tech company has not yet disclosed any additional information. OpenAI's Sora is a text-to-video technology that competes with comparable technologies from other major corporations like Google and Meta. 

In September 2025, OpenAI introduced the Sora smartphone app, which lets users make and distribute videos produced by artificial intelligence. 

These videos can be created by users using copyrighted material and shared on social media platforms. 

According to sources, OpenAI will keep running the Sora as a stand-alone application. 

The Sora app is losing its early momentum, according to a TechCrunch post from January 2026 that used statistics from Appfigures. The app's installation rate dropped by 45% from the previous month.

Oil relief: According to the WSJ, the IEA wants to discharge Substantial oil from strategic reserves ever.

In an effort to lower crude prices, which have skyrocketed as a result of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, the International Energy Agency has suggested the biggest release of oil reserves in its history.

Following the recent announcement of a significant oil reserve stock release, oil hassle has showed a great deal of relief.

 As reported, in an effort to lower petroleum prices that have skyrocketed as a result of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, the International Energy Agency has suggested the biggest release of oil reserves in its history.

On Tuesday, March 9, the Wall Street Journal published a piece. that the release would surpass the 182 million barrels of oil released by IEA member nations in two releases during Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

According to the Wall Street Journal, nations are anticipated to make a decision on the idea on Wednesday after the IEA calls an unusual meeting of its member states on Tuesday. 

The publication stated that even one nation's protests might cause the plan to be delayed, but if no one objects, it would be approved. Following the revelation, futures on Brent and U.S. oil fell.

Monday saw benchmark oil reach nearly four-year highs, but Tuesday saw a decline following U.S. President Donald Trump also said that the Middle East conflict would soon come to an end. 

On Tuesday, G7 energy ministers asked the IEA to evaluate the situation before taking any action, but they did not agree to release strategic oil stocks.

President Trump threatens fire and brimstone against Iran over any oil trade disruption in Strait of Hormuz

Iran has received another warning from President Trump about interfering with commerce in the Strait of Hormuz.

Following President Donald Trump's contradictory signals and harsh statements about the ongoing battle with Iran, global energy markets saw extraordinary volatility. After rising to nearly $120 per barrel at one stage on Monday, oil prices dropped in early trade on Tuesday. 

The notable decline coincides with Donald Trump's prediction that the Iran War will end "pretty quickly," despite the fact that the US has not yet achieved enough. 

If Iran does not permit oil supplies from the Persian Gulf to resume, Trump has promised to inflict "death, fire, and fury."

The US president threatened to eradicate the Islamic Republic entirely until it fully reopens the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for oil exports from Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf petrostates, in a post on Truth Social on Monday night.

The Iranian military, however, has threatened to destroy any ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz and proclaimed that it will be effectively blocked. 

For the first time in three and a half years, the price of petroleum has surpassed $110 per barrel as a result of this action. 

The Persian Gulf's oil-exporting ports are connected to the Indian Ocean and international markets by the Strait of Hormuz, a slender canal that runs between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula

The US government offered to insure oil ships in the area last week, but costs have continued to skyrocket, according to the Independent.

Analysts predict disastrous outcomes for both world food supplies and oil shipments if the strait is closed for longer than a week.

 "If they do play that game, we're going to hit them at a level that they have not seen before," Trump stated in this regard.

 Brent dropped by almost 8.5% to $92.50 a barrel early on Tuesday morning in Asia. Although prices are still over 30% higher than they were at the beginning of the crisis, US crude oil dropped by about 9% to $88.60 per barrel.

However, the volatility has led to an increase in energy prices worldwide. This includes the United States, where voters who are worried about living expenses will have to deal with these increases less than eight months before the midterm elections in 2026.

ENUGU WATER SCARCITY: The Strong man who defeated previous administrations. Is the current Admin loosing it?

Access to clean water is the fundamental rights of citizens in any civilized society.

Even though Enugu State has a sizable metropolitan population and is a reasonably developed state, it continues to struggle to supply its citizens with enough clean water. 

The scorecard of public water supply from previous administrations in Enugu State is incredibly embarrassing. This article won't go into why other administrations had no effect on this sector, but one thing is certain: Water scarcity is always made worse during the dry season, which is also the time when failures in this sector become blatantly obvious.

 It worthy to note that the reservoir which serves the entire city frequently experiences drops in water levels, boreholes and wells are not excluded, so when this happens, there will be a drop in supply, which will no longer be sufficient to meet the demands of Enugu residents.

Meanwhile during rainy seasons water levels in wells, boreholes, etc. reach sustainable levels, both the public and the government adopt a relaxed attitude, leading to the sector's abandonment. This attitude is one of the causes of prolonged water issues in Enugu. It ought not to be so, it should be recognised and treated as a critical problem. A committee should be setup for monitoring and control.

How are the citizens managing?

Citizens rely on private water delivery businesses to make up for the shortfall. 

They choose store-bought bottled water, and some use private water delivery services. However, the majority of low-income households won't get far with their purchases.

For the majority of Enugu citizens, the financial difficulties and high cost of food makes purchasing water unaffordable. Both households and companies are severely impacted by this. 

In the manufacturing  & Agricultural sector,  water purchase reduces a company's earnings. Farmers are the ones who are most affected by the heat because they must irrigate their crops, purchasing water forces them to raise the cost of food.

 Streams and unsanitary locations are preferred by low-income rural communities.

 A photo of a youngster getting water from a gutter recently went viral on the internet. The boy is ultimately exposed to skin infections and water-borne illnesses like cholera, typhoid, etc., which makes this an eye sore. 

Additionally, the majority of streams are subject to inadequate waste treatment techniques and open defecation. 

Governor  Mbah's Assessment of the situation

When Governor Ndubuisi Mbah took office, he stated in an interview with Arise TV that the Oji River and Ajali Water Scheme can produce 130,000 cubic liters. 

Currently, barely 100,000 cubic liters are consumed each day. Additionally, he reiterated that mechanical and electrical flaws are the main cause of the issues. In order to fix the pumps, they go back and forth all the time. The pumps have outlived their designs, and the repairs have not worked. Purchasing and ordering things that are constructed to specifications is crucial.

He added that financial constraint is not a problem because he came from the private sector, he has no trouble obtaining funding. from financial institutions to get a head start,  

He claimed to have obtained money from the French Development Agency. In addition completed the GIS mapping. The French Development Agency has provided financing totaling fifty million dollars. With this money, they can start ordering pumps, which only takes four months to complete.

Shortly after assuming office to Governor Peter Mbah, he promised to find a solution to the water problem within 180 days of taking office, the citizens of Enugu held on to this promise but he clarified issues that the reason is not to boast but to demonstrate how urgent the matter was.

November 25, 2023 marked 180 days, Gov peter Mbah emerged as governor. The general public was invited to 9^th mile corner for 9^th mile water scheme inauguration, with 70 million litres of water daily capacity.

He ensured power supply doesn't create problem by building 4.4 megawatts gas plant to power the scheme.

He constructed 96 water galleries at various locations, in schools and densely populated areas. Water galleries are commendable but the distribution of pipe borne water to major residential areas is still a necessity and it still remains a challenge here. There is urgent need for water to be distributed at all homes and businesses. Efforts in distribution and meter connections in home has not been significant. Most residential areas are not yet in the distribution network. 

Emon Vision blog  gathered that only residents  in old residential areas are connected to the grid examples of such places are New Haven, Independence layout etc whereas residential areas such as Abakpa and Trans Ekulu known to be experiencing rapid urbanization are not connected.

Emon Vision blog gathered facts from Enugu State Water Cooperation, an officer who pleaded anonymity maintained that technical difficulties persists, the pumps are still experiencing mechanical faults especially from the Oji river station. This justified the water scarcity experienced during the festive season.

Lagos Times Newspaper asked about the prospects of expanding the network to cover more areas of the city and surrounding communities especially Abakpa Nike. We were referred to TLD construction company, the company handling the water distribution in Enugu State. As at the time of writing the report, they were unavailable for questioning.

Mr Dave who resides at Ibagwa community in Nike responded to our crew, he lamented that the Governor Mbah once mentioned that some buildings are erected on the water pipelines meant to distribute water in some areas, he should go ahead to demolish the buildings since he didn’t hesitate to demolish his shop at holyghost because he wanted to build Bus terminal.

Miss Nneka who resides at New Haven Extension, one of the areas experiencing growing urbanization revealed she sometimes transport water from New haven water gallery to her home which adds to her expenses

In Conclusion Water Distribution is still a major challenge, there is urgent need to distribute water to a considerable extent around the Enugu metropolis this includes Satellite towns and other places with growing urbanization. Transportation costs is equally high due to high fuel prices, it is still not feasible to transport water from water galleries to individual homes. This made the situation urgent to curtail high cost of water procurement that adds to inflation figures.

Climate changes have caused irregular rainfall patterns and prolonged dry seasons leaving the state more prone to drought, this means the situation of water scarcity and associated problems should be tackled substantially. More reservoirs should be built to counter the climate change and its uncertainties in the future.

GDP: Enugu State goal is to move the state’s GDP from $4.4billion to 30billion dollars by 2031, if businesses, industries and farmers source for water at a costly rate, this projection will not be attainable. Probably production stops during dry season, or dry season becomes a nightmare for industrialists

Public-Private Partnerships

 More companies need to be engaged in the distribution system, this will help to check vandalism, leakages and illegal connections from reservoirs.  Public-private partnerships (PPPs) will be an effective way to fund and implement improvements to the Oji water pipes. By collaborating with private sector companies, the Enugu State government can bring in the necessary expertise and capital to upgrade the water infrastructure. PPPs could also help improve the overall management and efficiency of the water supply system. Enugu State shouldn’t be left at the mercy of one company.

Rainwater harvesting. Enugu state experiences heavy dose of rain during rainy seasons so more storage tanks need to be built to collect  water as much as possible to mitigate the stinging effect of dry season.

Jacqueline C

Data Analyst writes from Enugu

 

Iran is prepared to give up its nuclear program in exchange for a lucrative US offer.

According to a report by Sky News Arabia on Thursday, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister stated that the country is prepared to give up its nuclear program if the US makes a compelling alternative offer.

Market Reaction

The immediate market reaction to this headline helped the risk mood improve and causing the US dollar USD to loose its traction.

An Israeli Minister retaliates against Prince Harry

 Recently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle traveled to Jordan.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent humanitarian tour to Jordan, during which the royal pair met with Palestinian refugees, has outraged Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel. 

Her remarks in a recent interview reveal that she wasn't pleased with Prince Harry's purported comments against her nation.

The Duke of Sussex's remarks that Israel had closed humanitarian corridors are "deeply disappointing," she stated in an interview with an outlet, because they are spreading "false narratives."

Harry, Prince Respectfully, I would advise you to take the extremely easy step of visiting Israel to see for yourself before using your international platform to accuse them. "I personally invite you to come see the humanitarian corridor and see how aid is organized and distributed firsthand," she said. 

The British envoy who serves as deputy commander with the American forces in charge of the flow of humanitarian supplies is the  general stationed at the CMCC center.

 You are welcome to speak with him personally. He will state unequivocally that thousands of trucks come every day and that the corridors are open.

It is extremely disheartening to witness powerful individuals exaggerate statements without conducting due diligence. Words matter because of the power and influence you have as a member of the British royal family. Even more important are the facts. Additionally, the Deputy Foreign Minister published her comments on her official X account.

IRAN's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Drags Dubai (Abu Dhabi) Into his Mess

Following a joint US-Israeli operation that murdered the regime's Supreme Leader, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on Gulf nations, resulting in numerous fatalities and numerous injuries.

President Donald Trump claims that during a Saturday morning operation, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and forty members of his senior leadership were assassinated.

Asserting that it had the "right to defend itself," the Iranian dictatorship promptly retaliated, striking many sites in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as the Middle Eastern countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Jordan. a luxury hotel caught fire during a wave of Iranian retaliatory strikes.

Verified footage showed dense black smoke rising into the sky over the upscale C
Four individuals were injured in the fire, according to Dubai authorities, but it has already been contained. Officials refused to elaborate on the situation.


Online video revealed that the seven-star Burj Al Arab hotel is also on fire. Authorities in Dubai said that the "minor" fire that broke out on the exterior of the well-known hotel was caused by debris from an intercepted drone. There have been no reports of injuries.

A representative said on X that although there was some minor damage to an airport concourse, the situation was "quickly contained."

They stated, "Emergency response teams were immediately deployed and are managing the situation in coordination with the relevant authorities."


"Four employees were hurt, but they were treated right away. The majority of the terminals had already been evacuated of passengers due to pre-existing backup preparations. We'll share more information as it becomes available.

The death of an Asian national was subsequently confirmed.

With tens of thousands of people passing through each day, Dubai International is one of the busiest airports.

Because of the ongoing hostilities, airspace over a large portion of the Gulf Nations remains blocked. It has caused travel mayhem all throughout the world, particularly for Australians.


According to the flight tracking website FlightAware, there have been over 18,000 delays and over 2,350 cancellations worldwide.

Authorities in Dubai also stated that they are attempting to put out a fire at the port of Jebel Ali, which was started by debris from an interceptor.

Attacks have also occurred in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Abu Dhabi. 

As Dangote Refinery gears up for historic NGX listing , Standard Bank Group, and Vetiva. named for its Advisory services

Indications surfaced yesterday that Stanbic IBTC Capital, a prominent investment bank in Nigeria and a member of the Standard Bank Group, along with First Capital and Vetiva Capital Management, will act as advisory firms for the Dangote Refinery as it gets ready for its historic listing on the main board of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). 

The refinery's eagerly anticipated NGX listing is anticipated to change the depth and valuation dynamics of the NGX while positioning it to attract substantial interest from both domestic and global investors. 

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the president of the Dangote Group, revealed last week that Dangote Refinery's shares would be floated on the NGX in the upcoming four to five months.

This was disclosed by Dangote when Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and other senior officials of the state-owned oil company toured the refinery. This year, Dangote announced a historic proposal to float a 10% share in his $20 billion refinery on the NGX. 

He added that in order to provide a hedge against the ongoing difficulties caused by currency volatility, the company is currently in talks with market regulators to enable future dividend payouts in US dollars. In order to finalize the structure for the proposed initial public offering (IPO), Dangote emphasized that his team was working closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the NGX. 

Remarking on advisory firms' names

The Chief Operating Officer of Investdata Consulting Ltd. commented on the names of advisory firms included on NGX in the Dangote Refinery listing. 

According to Mr. Ambrose Omordion, the three companies have been instrumental in the Exchange's significant listing over the years. He went on to say that these companies may serve as advisors to help make the NGX listing a reality.

Shakira and her sons tour california in her world tour known as Las Mujeras

In June of last year, the world-renowned figure began her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

She played for large audiences around California during this performance. After kicking off the California leg of her sold-out tour at Snapdragon Stadium, the singer reportedly took a break at the renowned Hotel del Coronado, according to a resurrected claim from Us Weekly. 

"Shakira recently spent a delightful few days at the renowned Del Coronado Hotel following the thrilling kickoff of the California leg of her sold-out tour at Snapdragon Stadium," an insider revealed.

 "Shakira is turning her tour into a family affair," the insider said, adding that the  hitmaker was accompanied by her sons, Milan and Sasha, whom she shares with her former husband Gerard Piqué.

The insider continued, "She lived it up at the Del Coronado Hotel with her boys, Milan and Sasha. The three apparently enjoyed informal dinners and spent time lounging by the pool while they were there. "They ordered burgers and fries and were really respectful while hanging out by the beautiful pool."

 The singer's parenting approach was also commended by the insider. They went on to say, "Shakira was very sweet and you can tell she's a great mom." 

"She is very hands-on and loving." In addition to being ecstatic to see the celebrity in person, fans were astonished by her demeanor.

 "Shakira was incredibly gregarious, chatting with guests and even posing for a few fan selfies." She was charming and polite.

Google intercepts Chinese-affiliated hacker groups from carrying out international cyber attacks

 

These Chinese-linked hackers attacked 53 organizations globally across 42 countries in cyberattacks.

According to the company's findings, which were exclusively shared with Reuters, the hacking gang, known by the names UNC2814 and "Gallium," has a history of infiltrating government agencies and telecom firms dating back over ten years. 

According to John Hultquist, head analyst at Google Threat Intelligence Group, "this was a vast surveillance apparatus used to spy on people and organizations throughout the world." 

In addition to terminating Google Cloud projects under the hacking organization's control, Google and its unidentified partners also identified and disabled the internet infrastructure the group was utilizing and blocked the accounts it used to access Google Sheets, which it utilized to conduct its targeting and data theft operations. .

The group was able to avoid detection and blend in with regular network traffic by using Google Sheets, which did not affect any Google products.

Charlie Snyder, senior manager of Google Threat Intelligence Group, refused to name the hacked organizations, but said that in one instance, the gang had set up a backdoor, Google called "GRIDTIDE" on a system that had voter IDs, national ID numbers, dates of birth, places of birth, and full names. 

According to the corporation, the targeting aligns with attempts to identify and monitor specific targets. 

Similar campaigns have been used to monitor SMS messages, exfiltrate call data records, and even use the telco's legal intercept capabilities to monitor specific individuals."

Liu Pengyu, a spokesman for the Chinese Embassy says "Cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries and should be addressed through dialogue and cooperation,"  

China adamantly condemns attempts to utilize cyber security issues to disparage or vilify China. while also continuously opposing and combating hacking activities in compliance with the law. 

Google stated that the behavior is different from another well-known Chinese hacking incident that was centered on telecommunications and was known as "Salt Typhoon." Hundreds of American groups and well-known American politicians were the targets of that campaign, which the U.S. government has connected to China.

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol sentenced to life imprisonment for abusing his position of authority and imposing martial law

Yoon was found guilty by the court of misusing his authority and planning an uprising in 2024 because he attempted to impose martial law.

In order to consolidate unbridled authority for a "considerable time," Yoon Suk Yeo attempted to establish military-driven martial law, which the court ruled amounted to "rebellion."

Prosecutors had requested the death penalty in this case, but the new ruling goes against their intentions. 

Yoon's "unconstitutional and illegal emergency martial law undermined the function of the National Assembly and the Election Commission ... actually destroying the liberal democratic constitutional order," according to the prosecution in January. 

If someone is charged with inciting an uprising in South Korea, they could face either life in prison or the death penalty, which is the harshest punishment available.

Furthermore, Yoon misused his power to harass and imprison his opponents, the court would also render a decision on the allegations.

 Additionally, he sent troops to barricade entrance to establishments like the building of the opposition party. 

The 65-year-old refuted these accusations and asserted that he had the presidential authority to declare martial law in order to uphold law and order and stop turmoil sparked by the opposition. 

Yoon was ousted from power on December 3, 2024, when martial law was declared. A political crisis and widespread divisiveness of the nation resulted from the most significant trial for the overthrown leader.

Teacher arrested after admitting to cocaine use in class.

Authorities claim an elementary school teacher in Wisconsin was detained after she admitted to taking cocaine on school property, specifically in the restroom.

 Laurie Laubenstein, a teacher at New London's Lincoln Elementary School, is being charged with possessing cocaine.

Because the alleged possession took place on a school campus, which is a protected area, prosecutors have added a modifier to the allegation, making it more serious. 

WBAY claims that an anonymous report that raised questions about Laubenstein's actions at work sparked the start of the probe. 

According to the tipster, a school resource officer had seen behavioral changes in her and noted that she frequently carried her purse into the restroom.

 Additionally, suspicious objects were discovered in toilet areas, such as bloody tissues and signs of a white powdery substance. After a quick check, police went to the school on February 12 and discovered cocaine in Laubenstein's coat pocket and pocketbook.

She then acknowledged that she began taking cocaine on a regular basis in August of last year. 

She also acknowledged using it in the restrooms of classrooms and teacher lounges during the school day, as well as before and after school. 

Laubenstein reportedly told police that she always cleaned up after herself and that she never intended to put pupils in risk. 

According to the report, the school system informed parents in a letter that they were aware of the investigation but that they did not think there was ever a risk to students or personnel.

How daily consumption of Raw Garlic Clove could rewrite your health history

Cloves of garlic have long been used as a natural remedy for a variety of illnesses. Eating a raw clove of garlic, which is known to have potent health advantages, is one of the numerous ways to optimize its effects. Garlic retains more of its active ingredient when eaten raw, although many people may be put off by its strong flavor and smell.

By adding one clove of garlic to your regular routine, you might substitute the expensive medications. It strengthens your immune system, keeps your heart healthy, and much more. What is garlic made of? Garlic is a Kitchen staple, it can be roasted or baked before adding it to dishes.

It contains a compound known as allicin:

It has several known antimicrobial properties. The primary ingredient thought to be in charge of preventing fungal growth is allicin, which makes up 34% of a single garlic clove. When crushed fresh, cloves have antiparasitic properties in addition to their antimicrobial properties.

Blood Sugar Regulation:

Garlic improves insulin sensitivity and resistance, which helps control blood sugar levels in addition to heart health. This can help people with diabetes.

Supports Brain Health

Garlic's abundant antioxidants can aid our body in fending against aging-related cognitive loss. This may also lower the chance of developing demertia and other brain degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Its advancement is slowed down..

Detoxifies Heavy Metals

New research suggests that garlic contains chemicals that can detoxify lead, calmium, arsenic acid, mercury, and phenylmecury, but bear in mind it does not heal heavy metal intoxication.

Improves Digestion

Eating a raw slice of garlic every day can help with digestion and other processes by supporting healthy gut bacteria and increasing the synthesis of digestive enzymes. All things considered, it facilitates improved food absorption and can alleviate gastrointestinal problems like bloating and extreme constipation.

Cardiovascular Health

Garlic can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which helps decrease the likelihood of heart disease.

By enhancing blood circulation, it also prevents the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, while simultaneously reducing inflammation and aiding overall cardiovascular health, leading to a healthier heart.

 Read also How Cloves work wonders in women's health

FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL, FOREIGN APPEASMENT & TAXATION: President Tinubu’s most hyped Policies. Unfortunately no Empowerment model among them!.

President Tinubu’s governance model since his ascension needs to be investigated and analyzed. Ever since he became the president of Nigeria, all the policies he adopts and implements are always painful and exploitative in nature.

Is it not yet time for President Tinubu and his teams to support and implement policies that promote financial stability? These policies are essential for productivity, job creation, and economic well-being. Clearly this is not the agenda. After 4 years in power and from this article’s analysis we can connect the dots and predict where his policies are headed.

FUEL SUBSIDY IMPLEMENTATION
Before we could sing welcome song for Tinubu in Aso Rock, what greeted us in Radio Waves was FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL. Immediately Fuel prices sky rocketed, retailers with old fuel stock equally jacked up their fuel price, this caused serious ripple effect on essentials such as food, Medicine and Shelter. It was a Nightmare for Nigerians.

Fuel prices surged from N185 per liter in 2023 to N1,025 per liter in 2024, About 82 percent increase while the currency exchange rate weakened from 460 naira to 1,700 naira per U.S. dollar (Punch, 2024).

The combined effects of the fuel-subsidy removal and the unification of the naira’s exchange rate have exacerbated the cost of living for many Nigerians. The rising cost of goods and services has significantly weakened purchasing power, a particular problem for low-income households.

In June 2022, the managing Director of NNPC Limited indicated that daily consumption of (PMS) Motor spirits was 103 Million Litres per day but at least 58 million liters were being smuggled. He iterated that Smugglers and other West African Countries benefit more from fuel subsidy than Nigerians.

This leads to the question Don’t we have Naval Officers or Law enforcement agents at the water ways and borders to check this sharp practice. Clearly it is not enough reason for fuel Subsidy Removal.
The long-term effects of subsidy removal remain a focal point of public discourse and policy debate.

Most Foreign countries also halted operations due to dollar shortages and restrictions on repatriating funds. Coming at a time when Unemployment rate is surging, But company growth were seen in smaller neighbors like Ghana, thereby outpacing Nigeria’s in recent years.

Most economics pointed out that Fuel subsidy removal created big fiscal saving. But it looks most likely that the savings are being used in servicing debts and its charges.

I am of the opinion that before embarking on such painful and drastic measures. The citizens ought to have been empowered with welfare programmes, more industries for job creation, foreign investments. This should have been in place to cushion the pain of subsidy removal. Secondly subsidy removal shouldn’t have been up to 100%. It ought to have been done subtly to some degree or percentage and monitored before going full scale.

FOREIGN APPEASMENT: What? Is it a new economic model that spurs growth? Are we suppose to wait and see how this will transform Nigeria? While it is difficult to link this to any known economic model, according to Sahara Reporters( Jan 2026) President Tinubu approved a controversial $9million lobbying contract with a Republican – linked firm in Washington as it seeks to stave off further military actions and diplomatic measures that could undermine Nigeria’s International Standing.

The contract is aimed at persuading the Trump Administration and key U.S lawmakers that Nigeria is taking concrete steps to address insecurity.

The payment serves as a 6 month retainer, with a second $4.5 million installment due by July 2026. Bringing the total value of the deal to $9 million.

This is one of the most expensive lobbying contract ever signed by an African government. Nuhu Ribadu facilitated this, using US Lobbying firm DCI Group, through a Kaduna based law firm Aster Legal.

The agreement bears the signatures of Aster Legal’s Managing Director Oyetunji Olalekan Teslim, DCI Group’s managing Directior, Justin Peterson (A prominient Republican Strategist and close ally of president Trump who served in Puerto Rico’s Fiscal Management Board during Trump’s First Term in Office).

According to the investigative Report published by the African Report. It is called lobbying contract. This came when president trump of America announced that U.S forces had carried out a military airstrike in Nothern Nigeria, specifically in Sokoto State , targeting suspected Insurgents

It has no effect in improving standard of living for Nigeria, It is not even about soliciting Military operations using US high Tech military and expertise it is not an economic terminology so to speak, confirming my doubts earlier. But It is one of Tinubu’s most hyped and controversial model. Recall President Tinubu affirmed Nigerians that Fuel Subsidy Removal will help public infrastructure, education, health care and jobs. It appears this is the best use of the huge Fiscal Savings coming from the painful Fuel Subsidy Removal.

Some analyst say Tinubu literary walked into bondage, so anytime the Republican US Firms are not paid, military actions resumes, then Nigerian Economy is forced to cough out $9million out of fear.

Some analysts are of the opinion that Tinubu wants a relationship with the Trump administration. But as at the time of writing, there is still travel ban on Nigerians, affecting tourists, business and student visa applicants. The weird diplomatic move didn’t extend to visa application. I guess only time will reveal if this is a step in the right direction.

TAXATION: Former Presidential Candidate Peter Obi through a statement posted on his X (formally Twitter) urged the Federal Government to pause the implementation of Nigeria’s newly gazetted tax laws. According to him a report by KPMG Nigeria highlighted potential issues this includes: Taxation of shares, drafting errors, administrative gaps and glaring policy contradictions.

Various meeting were held between National Revenue Service and KPMG for them to acknowledge these issues. Obi stressed lack of public consultation.

Taxation is a form of public contract and public trust, there is urgent need for it to bring clarity if not it amounts to robbery.

In addition Nigeria cannot afford to place further burdens on its already struggling citizens rather Nigerian's deserve some relief before embarking on another painful programme.

Tinubu’s government has no interest in providing clarity, rather they are good in making hasty extortion from Nigerian citizens. No one needs a prophecy to confirm this as an exploitative behavior, a very callous government. No consultation was made. KPMG pointed out that Joint Revenue Board consists of government employees only so it lacks the independence necessary to provide unbiased Financial analysis. They were advised to get an independent watch dog.

Empowerment Programmes: Late President Buhari, during his tenure setup one of the most successful empowerment programmes in the history of Nigeria, The N Power programme. This programme permeated the nooks and crannies of the six geo political zones of Nigeria. The programme was famous for its success. In every 10 Nigerian youth, you could get 3 beneficiaries; there was no form of exploitation. Average Nigerian youth had one or two things to say about the programme. All this happened in an administration with no subsidy removal.

Tinubu’s Empowerment programme is more of Media headline announcement, with no background work to ensure it gets to grassroot level or to Average Nigerians. A project is as famous as its success. I’m ashamed not to be able to mention one even as a researcher. His empowerment programmes just lacked the hype and fame possessed by his exploitative, extravagant governance models.

In Conclusion, President Tinubu and his advisers have lost it!. All these hyped policies mentioned above none leads to prosperity or poverty eradication. They are all pointing towards a dreaded form of poverty. This is exploitation and extortion at an alarming level. There is urgent need to pend the controversial Taxation and intervene on life essentials such as food, shelter or health. Focus should be shifted towards Programmes that will enable Nigerians afford the basic necessities of life.

Flexible Health Insurance schemes to reduce avoidable deaths. Stories of avoidable deaths have been making waves in the country.  

There should be focus on improving ease of doing business in Nigeria, this will definitely encourage industries, businesses and startups to spring up in Nigeria.  These are the things Nigerians deserve at the moment, to prevent further  surging of poverty index in Nigeria

20 Additional companies have secured power generation permits from NERC

 

NERC National Electric Regulation Commision )disclosed that the firms obtained the permits in the third quarter of 2025, authorizing them to produce electricity independently for internal use. 

The firms opted to generate a combined 5.85 megawatts of electricity for their own operations, a move aimed at reducing reliance on Nigeria’s unreliable national grid. The firms cited persistent power supply shortfalls and grid unreliability.

 NERC explained that due to growing demand for off grid solutions, guidelines are in place,  Power plants above 1MW require NERC permits to ensure it is solely for license holder’s consumption not selling to third parties. There are guidelines when there is intention to sell to third party, to ensure transparency and customer protection.

Licensed off-grid capacity now estimated at over 6,500MW nationwide.  NERC affirms issueing multiple captive permits in the third quarter to support industrial energy security, aligning with Electricity Act provisions. 

NERC concluded that gas supply shortages directly contributed to reduced generation, adding that gas supply constraints directly reduced generation by 602GWh, forcing more firms to go captive, while calling for federal intervention to address sector debts and infrastructure gaps.

DISCOS RECORD IMPROVED REVENUE PERFORMANCES.

NERC (Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission) Report reveals gas supply challenges continues to be a pain on the neck in electricity generation. 

Gas supply challenges led to a reduction of about 602 gigawatt hours electricity reduction. NERC further iterated that Average hourly output syood at 4,179.15 mw/h translating to reduced overall supply. 

But despite these challenges, electricity distribution companies recorded improved Revenue performance. Discos collected 570,21 billion out of N706.61 billion billed on customers. This is representing a collection efficiency of 80.7% yet consumers continued to experience power outages.

 NERC cautions remittance gap still persists and cited Ajaeokuta owing N1.03billion, this is still undermining market stability.

 According to the report there is also an increased bilateral power transactions. These are.longer-term energy contracts that organise renewable energy payments over a predetermined period. Contract lengths can vary from a year to twenty years or more, (NERC) in its Third Quarter 2025 report, noted that Togo, Niger, and Benin were invoiced a total of $18.69m by the Market Operator for electricity supplied during the period; however, they remitted only $7.125m, leaving an outstanding balance of $11.56m 

 NERC commission further disclosed that Government subsidies continued to aid the sector at a 58.63 percent. But he iterated that there was a drop in this government subsidy, FG paid N458.75billion in electricity subsidies which is 10.81 percent drop from 514.35billion. 

NERC stated that the factor which continues to weigh on the sector is poor metering, customer dissatisfaction and unwillingness to affect revenue recovery across the electricity sector. 

 Why shouldn’t there be customers' dissatisfaction?, there is need to add strategy in their operation. For instance the tourism sector expressed dissatisfaction over how DISCOS disappointed them during during Christmas celebration, this is the peak of their revenue generation, there was increased influx of tourists but the power distribution companies made it a nightmare for them.

 They recorded minimal revenue generation, purchasing diesel and fuel to give tourists maximum comfort, restaurateurs couldn’t store their frozen foods the same period paying more to cold rooms in other to preserve their food stuffs. Lets face it, Incidences like this discourages prompt payment. Most of the hoteliers are of the opinion that it is better to reserve gas supply for this season. That’s strategy!. Incessant power outages when tourist are arriving the country doesn’t speak well for the country’s image.

How Cloves work wonders in women's health

 Cloves are low calorie spices, it is easily sourced in Nigerian Market and very affordable. It is a rich blend of eugenol, flavonoids and essential minerals making it essential in women’s wellness.

So let us dive into what Nigerian women stand to gain by making this spice its ally.

1. Regular consumption of just a pinch of ground clove delivers antioxidants that help balance hormones. This is very important in controlling fibroid growths. Excess estrogen spurs fibroid growth. Incorporating cloves in your diet and lifestyle will sure help curb fibroid growths.

1. 2. Its potent antimicrobial properties can keep troublesome vaginal yeast overgrowth at bay, an issue that affects up to 75 percent of women at some point in their lives.  By disrupting the cell membranes of Candida albicans and other pathogens, clove oil not only eases the itching and discharge associated with yeast infections but also supports a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn influences estrogen metabolism and overall hormonal harmony.

• 3. For women managing menstrual discomfort, digestive irregularities, or blood sugar spikes, the modest amount of manganese, vitamin K, and fiber found in clove makes it a simple, natural ally that works from the inside out.

•  4. Manganese – A single teaspoon of ground clove provides about 10 % of the daily value for manganese, a mineral essential for bone formation and the metabolism of carbohydrates and cholesterol. Adequate manganese helps maintain bone density, which is especially important for women as they approach menopause when bone loss accelerates.

• 5. Vitamin K– Though present in small amounts, vitamin K contributes to proper blood clotting and bone health by assisting the body’s use of calcium. For women taking anticoagulant medication, moderation is key, but a modest intake can complement a balanced diet.

• 6. Dietary fiber – The tiny amount of soluble fiber in clove can aid in digestive regularity, a common concern during the menstrual cycle. Fiber also helps moderate post‑meal glucose spikes, supporting stable energy levels.

• 7. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds – Eugenol, eugenyl acetate, and other polyphenols act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to inflammation. Their anti‑inflammatory action alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce the severity of inflammatory skin conditions such as acne or eczema.

How these nutrients translate into everyday benefits

1. Hormonal balance – The antioxidant environment fostered by clove’s polyphenols helps the liver metabolize estrogen more efficiently. A well regulated estrogen cycle can lessen symptoms of PMS, improve mood, and support fertility. as it curbs excessive estrogen. this helps to curb fibroid growth.

2. Menstrual comfort – Manganese’s role in prostaglandin synthesis can reduce uterine contractions, while the mild analgesic effect of eugenol can further ease cramping.

3. Blood sugar management – The fiber and eugenol together slow carbohydrate absorption and improve insulin sensitivity. Studies in animal models suggest that eugenol can enhance the activity of AMPK, an enzyme that helps cells take up glucose, which is beneficial for women at risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Gut health – By curbing the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, clove supports a diverse microbiome. A balanced gut flora is linked to better nutrient absorption, mood regulation, and even skin health.

Ways to incorporate clove into a woman’s routine

– Morning tea – Add a pinch of ground clove to herbal tea or green tea for a gentle antioxidant boost.

– You can boil water in the morning, ground some cloves and drink.

– Smoothie boost – Sprinkle a small amount into a fruit‑based smoothie; the flavor pairs well with cinnamon and ginger.

By incorporating clove into the diet in modest, regular amounts, women can tap into its antimicrobial, anti inflammatory, and nutrient rich profile to support hormonal balance, digestive health, and steady blood sugar levels.

Now that you know, think about other women out who don’t know, but need it. Please share to them.

Healthy women! Happy People!! Healthy Nation

Nigeria's Siemens deal or PPI Initiative.

Nigeria's Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), 

It is a major project with German support to modernize its electricity grid in phases, aiming for 25GW capacity by improving generation, transmission, and distribution. 

Goal: Revitalize Nigeria's power sector by upgrading the national grid to 25GW, addressing infrastructure gaps.

Key Partners: FGN Power Company (Nigerian Gov't SPV) and Siemens AG, with German government backing.

Phases:

Phase 1: "Quick wins" to boost grid capacity to 7GW.

Phase 2: Expand transmission/distribution to evacuate 11GW.

Phase 3: Reach 25GW, including generation expansion.

Initiative Workstreams

The implementation of the PPI is classified into 5 work streams which are Transmission, Distribution, Meter Data Management System (MDMS), Power Technologies International (PTI) and Training.

PPI will upgrade, modernize, and invest in the existing Transmission Company of Nigeria’s sites as well as embark on new projects in the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry.

Distribution Systems: PPI will facilitate construction of feeders, injection substations, distribution substations, and auto reclosers for 11 existing Distribution Companies (Discos).

National Metering Systems: PPI will integrate all the DisCos to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) for prepayment transactions..

Power Simulation: PPI will facilitate the Power System Simulation for Nigeria (PSS4N) and System Development Studies which are the Power Technologies International (PTI) workstreams.

Training: PPI will conduct equipment and product training for Transmission Company of Nigeria and DisCos’ employees on all equipment and products installed.

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, assured Nigerians that 2026 will be dedicated to consolidating gains made in the power sector in 2025 and delivering more reliable, accessible, and sustainable electricity nationwide.

The minister gave this assurance in his New Year message to Nigerians, noting that despite the challenges encountered last year, significant milestones were achieved, particularly in stabilising the national grid and recording of sectoral ‘historic landmarks’ in power generation and distribution.

According to him, sustained efforts under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), popularly known as the Siemens Deal, have played a critical role in strengthening the grid and reducing the frequency of grid collapses experienced in previous years. He expressed confidence that the ongoing Phase One

Nigerian Exchange Delisting Dilemma: Symptom of Chronic ailment?

Share holders explain that it is indeed a troubling trend that should be addressed. A troubling narrative for Africa’s leading stock market . 

Since the dawn of 2020, there has been a rush in NSE delistings most are regulatory induced, the roster of the departed is long, with famed voluntary delistings that include 11 Plc (2021), Ardova Petroleum (2023), ARBICO Plc (2024), and MRS Oil itself (2025).  How about NGX reduce its regulatory demands that look like burden to struggling companies.

MRS Oil Nigeria Plc’s shares were exited from the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on 28 July 2025, it was not an anomaly; it was latest symptom of a chronic ailment, marking yet another chapter.. The petroleum marketer was valued at ₦51.3 billion at exit, citing operational flexibility and cost savings as major motivations for delisting. Dozens of firms have given this and other reasons for fleeing the bourse over the past five years.

Raging inflation, forex volatility, and Naira devaluation has created inclement operating conditions which battered earnings and made public listings onerous, pushing many firms to elect private status or over-the-counter trading to escape pressures from compliance costs. 

Regulatory implementations in 2024 ushered 14 companies like Niger Insurance and RAK Unity Petroleum out of the NGX in 2024 for non-compliance.

Year 2025 has seen eight companies walk out of the Exchange’s door they are Notore Chemical Industries, Smart Products Nigeria, Capital Oil, Goldlink Insurance, Med-View Airline, Tourist Company of Nigeria, Union Homes Savings, Glaxo SmithKline, and Flour Mills of Nigeria all bade goodbye to the gongs. From energy to finance, only a few sectors have been spared.

While NGX has works to do to stem the tide and curb capital erosion, the companies must address persistent reporting failures or weak operations. NGX's market capitalisation hovered around ₦94 trillion as of late 2025, but the value could have been ₦1 trillion or 1.5 per cent higher over five years. Cumulative exit values stood at around ₦330 billion from 2025 alone while previous waves blew away ₦500 billion. The implication is dire as it signals waning investor confidence on one hand and limits capital-raising options for a cash-impecunious economy on the other.

A solution is urgently needed. And that solution must be multiforme. The NGX should review listing costs and compliance requirements to ensure they are not harsh; Market-making mechanisms should be improved to boost liquidity for mid-cap stocks; targeted tax incentives should be fashioned for publicly listed companies. 

Policies that facilitate forex access for foreign portfolio investors must also be formulated to increase the NGX’s attraction.  This way, the core challenge of making public listing a strategically beneficial option rather than a regulatory burden will be collaboratively addressed, and the alarmingly deafening continued silence of the gong for departing companies will be muted.