The Senior Pastor of, Kingsway International Christian Centre (KiCC), Pastor Mathew Ashimolow has called on leaders to emulate the leadership model and kingdom-minded approach of Pastor Korede Komaiya.
Ashimolowo made the remark during his visit to the newly dedicated Dreamland complex at Master’s City, Warri, where he ministered on the theme, “Timely Technology for Timeless Truth.”
Speaking at the event, he emphasized the need for a generation of leaders who are spiritually grounded and equipped for contemporary challenges.
According to him, “This time requires leaders who are spiritually deep, mentally sharp, emotionally stable, and financially wise. What we see here today is the result of Pastor Komaiya’s kingdom-mindedness, heart and unwavering commitment to God’s work.”
Commending the vision behind the project, Ashimolowo noted that many leaders would have prioritized personal luxury over such a monumental kingdom investment.
“One thing I can tell you about this big work is that, many people would not build something this massive when they could build mansions for themselves. Yet, he still lives more or less in a rented place and modestly because his heart is kingdom-first,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of sacrificial leadership and investment in God’s work, adding that leaders must set the example for those they lead.
“Kingdom-mindedness is not common in this generation, especially among founders. If you cannot invest in your own ministry, how do you expect your members to invest? People are watching your priorities and your commitment,” Ashimolowo stated.
Expressing his admiration for the project, he recalled his reaction when he first saw images of the completed facility.
“I had never been here before, but when they sent me pictures after the finishing touches were completed, I was overwhelmed. I found myself speaking in tongues because I did not know what else to do,” he added.
The newly dedicated Dreamland complex, located at Master’s City, KM 3 Refinery Road, Warri, Delta State, features two four-storey wings equipped with elevators, a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, as well as a state-of-the-art main auditorium built to international standards.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and AKADEMIYA2063 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), climate and weather data analytics, climate information services, and evidence-based research to enhance climate resilience, agricultural productivity, and food security.
The MoU was signed on behalf of NiMet by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Prof. Charles Anosike, while Dr. Debisi Araba, Managing Director, and Dr. Racine Ly, Director of Data Intelligence & Governance and National Representative for Senegal, signed on behalf of AKADEMIYA2063.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prof. Anosike said NiMet is positioning itself for the future by embracing artificial intelligence and digital innovation. He noted that the Agency had already constituted an AI Research Team to explore the application of AI and machine learning in weather forecasting, climate services, and operational efficiency, adding that the partnership with AKADEMIYA2063 would further strengthen these efforts.
Dr. Araba described the collaboration as an important step towards strengthening Africa’s capacity in data, analytics, and evidence-based policymaking, noting that combining AKADEMIYA2063’s expertise with NiMet’s meteorological capabilities would deliver practical solutions for climate resilience, food security and sustainable development.
As part of the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both organisations agreed to collaborate on the application of artificial intelligence to support climate monitoring, seasonal forecasting, early warning systems, and evidence-based decision-making, with the goal of strengthening AI-enabled climate services and agricultural planning in Nigeria. To drive the partnership, the two organisations will establish a Joint Technical Committee that will work closely with NiMet’s AI Research Team to identify priority areas of collaboration, coordinate activities under the MoU, and develop joint initiatives that advance climate services, AI research, innovation, and sustainable development.
Sixty years after the assassination of Nigeria’s first Military Head of State, Late General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the late military leader’s legacy of patriotism, courage and selfless service remains a powerful symbol of national unity, urging Nigerians to uphold the values of sacrifice and cohesion that he stood for.
The President’s tribute was delivered by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) OFR, at the 60th Memorial Celebration held in Umuahia, Abia State, on July 29, 2026, where political leaders, military chiefs, elder statesmen and members of the Aguiyi-Ironsi family gathered to honour the country’s first indigenous General Officer Commanding and First Military Head of State.
In the presidential message, Tinubu described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as an exceptional military officer whose distinguished career was defined by discipline, loyalty and unwavering dedication to Nigeria, noting that he assumed leadership at one of the nation’s most turbulent moments with an unshakable commitment to preserving the country’s unity.
The President said although General Aguiyi-Ironsi’s time in office was short, his leadership reflected courage, integrity and a willingness to place national interest above personal considerations.
According to him, the sacrifices made by the late military leader continue to inspire the Federal Government’s determination to strengthen national security, deepen democratic governance and preserve Nigeria’s unity despite its diversity.
Tinubu stressed that the administration remains committed to building a peaceful and prosperous nation through justice, mutual respect, tolerance and strong institutions, describing Nigeria’s diversity as one of its greatest strengths rather than a source of division.
He also conveyed the appreciation and enduring gratitude of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the family of the late General, while commending the organisers of the memorial for ensuring that the contributions of one of Nigeria’s foremost national heroes are not forgotten.
The ceremony also featured tributes from former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, who described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriotic soldier who found himself at the centre of one of the country’s defining historical moments.
Obasanjo said the late military leader’s life should remind every generation that Nigeria’s unity came at enormous sacrifice and must never be taken for granted.
He urged Nigerians to honour the fallen leader not merely through annual commemorations but by safeguarding the peace, professionalism and institutional integrity of the Armed Forces while promoting national cohesion.
Host Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as one of the state’s greatest sons whose courage and supreme sacrifice remain a source of pride for Abia and the nation.
The governor thanked the Federal Government, the military high command and distinguished guests for honouring the late statesman in Umuahia, adding that his administration draws inspiration from the late General’s legacy in pursuing good governance, justice and unity across Nigeria.
Among dignitaries present at the memorial were former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, former Chief of Army Staff Lt General Azubuike Ihejirika, serving and retired military officers, lawmakers, traditional rulers and other prominent personalities.
The event concluded with prayers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Aguiyi-Ironsi family and the continued peace, unity and prosperity of the country.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will soon announce a new salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen troop welfare and reward their sacrifices, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has disclosed.
General Musa made the announcement on Monday in Abuja during a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of service personnel, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and their families through strategic policies and partnerships.
The Minister said the planned pay review would build on the previous increase that raised the minimum salary for soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000 during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.
Honourable Minister of Defence,General Christopher Gwabin Musa
“I want to state here that a few weeks ago, I mentioned that soldiers are now receiving ₦100,000. When I was Chief of Defence Staff, soldiers were receiving ₦49,000. About two years ago, I pushed for an increase to ₦100,000, and that was achieved. We are, however, making further efforts to increase it again,” General Musa said.
He added, “I am confident that very soon, Mr. President will announce another salary increase for our men.”
Speaking on the theme, “Renewed Hope for Families of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development,” the Defence Minister stressed that the strength of the military depends not only on operational capability but also on the economic stability of the families of serving personnel.
He commended military spouses for supporting their loved ones serving on the frontlines and paid tribute to widows whose husbands died in service to the nation.
“To the spouses gathered here today, your resilience, patience, and steadfast support give your loved ones the confidence to remain focused on their responsibilities,” he said, adding that the courage and perseverance of military widows remain a source of inspiration.
The capacity-building programme was organised by the Federal Ministry of Defence in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
Earlier, the Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii, announced the disbursement of ₦25 million to 500 widows and wives of soldiers currently serving on the frontlines to support their businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.
According to him, the initiative is part of a nationwide programme aimed at equipping beneficiaries with financial knowledge and entrepreneurial skills, while promoting financial inclusion across the country.
The event was attended by the wife of the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, senior officials of the Ministry of Defence, SMEDAN development partners and other stakeholders.
The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, S.A. (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.
The Institute of Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IBIE) has officially launched its operations in Nigeria, positioning the country as a strategic hub for entrepreneurship education, innovation, and business leadership in West Africa.
The institute announced the appointment of Mr. Oru Leonard as its Faculty Member and Authorized Representative for Nigeria, entrusting him with the responsibility of driving institutional partnerships, professional training, startup ecosystem development, research initiatives, and entrepreneurship programmes across the country.
IBIE said the Nigerian expansion would receive academic direction from its Lead Faculty, Mahamud Hasan, who will provide strategic leadership in curriculum development, international collaboration, faculty coordination, and innovation-driven learning to ensure the delivery of globally relevant entrepreneurship education.
Mr. Oru Leonard,Faculty Member and Authorized Representative for Nigeria,IBIE
According to the institute, its Nigerian operations will focus on building partnerships with universities, government agencies, private sector organisations, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and development partners to provide executive education, professional certification, business incubation, research, and leadership development programmes.
Speaking on the expansion, Mahamud Hasan described Nigeria as one of Africa’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems with immense entrepreneurial potential.
“Nigeria is one of Africa’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems, rich with entrepreneurial talent and opportunities. Through IBIE Nigeria, we are committed to building strategic partnerships, empowering innovators, and developing future business leaders who will drive sustainable economic growth across the continent,” he said.
The institute noted that the expansion aligns with its long-term vision of building a strong international network focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, research excellence, and cross-border collaboration.
It added that Nigeria’s strategic position in West Africa would enable IBIE to deepen entrepreneurship education, strengthen innovation ecosystems, and support the growth of high-impact startups across the sub-region.
IBIE reaffirmed its commitment, alongside Mahamud Hasan, Mr. Oru Leonard, and its partners, to empowering innovators, transforming businesses, and advancing the future of entrepreneurship across Africa.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded sweeping operational gains across the country, eliminating a top Boko Haram commander, rescuing kidnapped victims, dismantling terrorist networks, arresting scores of criminal collaborators, and destroying illegal oil refining sites in coordinated military operations carried out between July 17 and July 23, 2026.
The nationwide offensive, which cut across all operational theatres, underscores the military’s renewed push to degrade terrorist groups, kidnappers, separatist agitators, militias and crude oil thieves while securing major highways, rail corridors and critical national assets.
The Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed the achievements during the weekly operational briefing on Friday, saying troops maintained sustained pressure on criminal elements through intelligence-led ground and air operations across the country.
A major highlight of the operations was recorded in the North East, where troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralised Abu Salim Al-Barnawi, identified as a senior Boko Haram commander and the group’s propaganda chief, during a failed terrorist attack on Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The military described the development as a significant setback to the insurgents’ command structure and information network.
In another decisive strike, the Nigerian Army Aviation bombarded terrorist positions in Yaganari, Bama Local Government Area, killing scores of ISWAP/JAS fighters, while troops successfully foiled an attempted infiltration of the University of Maiduguri, killing two terrorists and reinforcing security around the institution.
The operations also led to the destruction of terrorist camps and hideouts across Borno and Yobe States, while troops rescued several victims, including a mother and her two children alongside two young girls who had been held captive since August 2025.
Military operations further resulted in the arrest of suspected ISWAP members, logistics suppliers, collaborators, a terrorist kingpin, a foreign fighter from Sudan, an illegal immigrant from Ghana, a female terrorist collaborator and several suspected kidnappers across the North East.
In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA intensified operations against terrorist groups operating in Kaduna and Zamfara States.
The troops arrested suspected collaborators who allegedly supplied logistics, facilitated ransom payments and provided intelligence to terrorist groups.
Security forces also repelled attacks on communities, recovered arms and ammunition, and rescued 11 passengers abducted after terrorists blocked the Gummi-Sokoto Road in Zamfara State.
Among those arrested was Mr Abubakar Tanimu, who is alleged to have played key roles in ransom collection, sale of rustled cattle, harbouring terrorists and identifying targets for criminal attacks.
In Kwara State, troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, working with local vigilantes and forest guards, stormed kidnappers’ hideouts in Kaiama Local Government Area, killing four suspected kidnappers, rescuing one victim and arresting two suspects who have since been handed over to the police.
Meanwhile, Operation ENDURING PEACE sustained efforts to curb militia violence in Plateau State, recovering weapons from criminal hideouts and engaging armed attackers during clashes in Riyom Local Government Area, forcing them to retreat after intense fighting.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE also recorded significant successes across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Kogi States by rescuing kidnapped victims, neutralising terrorists, arresting militia members, logistics suppliers and informants, while recovering several assault rifles, pistols and large quantities of ammunition during clearance operations.
The military also sustained pressure on crude oil thieves in the Niger Delta through Operation DELTA SAFE, dismantling multiple illegal refining sites and bunkering camps in Rivers State.
Working in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Tantita Security Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, troops recovered thousands of litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products, destroyed illegal refining infrastructure and intercepted six vehicles conveying products suspected to be stolen crude oil.
Several suspects linked to oil theft, gun running and kidnapping activities were also arrested in Rivers and Edo States. In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA arrested three suspected IPOB/ESN members during intelligence-led operations in Enugu State.
The troops also raided a suspected criminal hideout along the Omoku-Ogbaku-Ndoni axis in Rivers State, recovering rifles and ammunition believed to have been used for kidnappings and attacks on security personnel.
Speaking on the overall outcome of the operations, Major General Michael Onoja said the achievements reflect the Armed Forces’ growing operational effectiveness and commitment to dismantling criminal networks across the country.
He reaffirmed that troops remain determined to sustain offensive operations until terrorists, kidnappers, militias, oil thieves and other criminal elements are completely degraded.
The Defence Headquarters also appealed to Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the country.
The War Against Corruption Initiative International (WACI) has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating condition of the Iru-Imesi Road in Ondo State, warning that the neglected highway has become a major threat to livelihoods, commerce and public safety while urging authorities to immediately commence work on the long-delayed project.
The call followed a firsthand assessment by the organisation’s Director of Operations, Thomas Kahinde, who, according to a statement signed by War Against Corruption Initiative International (WACI), was caught in a prolonged traffic standstill that exposed the scale of hardship being endured daily by commuters and residents.
Kahinde recounted that what was expected to be a routine journey turned into several frustrating hours after vehicles became trapped on the road. Curious about the cause of the gridlock, he said he stepped out of his vehicle only to discover that the highway had remained in a deplorable condition for a long period.
He said interactions with residents, commercial drivers and other road users revealed that although the road project had reportedly been awarded, the contractor handling it had yet to receive adequate mobilisation to begin substantial work.
The WACI official lamented that commercial buses, private vehicles and trucks conveying goods were left stranded for hours, leaving passengers exhausted and disrupting business activities across the corridor.
He warned that beyond the inconvenience, the road’s poor condition is inflicting serious economic losses through delayed deliveries, rising transport costs and damage to vehicles.
He added that farmers are struggling to move produce to markets, while emergency cases involving pregnant women, patients and other vulnerable persons risk fatal consequences because of the inaccessible road.
“The suffering on this road is unimaginable until one experiences it firsthand. Spending several hours on a single stretch of road is unacceptable in a country striving for economic growth and improved infrastructure. Every minute lost on this road translates to lost productivity, wasted resources and unnecessary hardship for citizens,” Kahinde said.
WACI appealed to the Federal Government, Ondo State Government, Federal Ministry of Works, the Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District, Olajide Ipinsagba Emmanuel, and the Minister of Interior to urgently intervene by ensuring the contractor is mobilised and construction begins without further delay.
The organisation stressed that rehabilitating the Iru-Imesi Road would ease the suffering of commuters, strengthen security, enhance trade, improve access to markets and restore confidence in government’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure.
WACI reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and responsive governance, pledging to continue speaking out on abandoned projects and policies that negatively affect the welfare of Nigerians.
The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel with the commissioning of a 20-unit one-bedroom staff accommodation built by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Nyanya, Abuja, as the Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, declared quality housing essential to boosting morale, operational efficiency and national security.
The project, commissioned on Thursday, aligns with the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, under the Renewed Hope Administration to reduce the accommodation deficit facing personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Dr. Matawalle, who performed the commissioning as Special Guest of Honour, also urged beneficiaries to ensure proper maintenance of the facility to guarantee its longevity.
Addressing officers and personnel at the event, the minister described decent accommodation as a critical component of troops’ welfare, stressing that comfortable housing enhances peace of mind, dedication to duty and overall operational effectiveness.
“Accommodation remains one of the most critical needs of our personnel. A comfortable home is not a luxury but a necessity. It provides peace of mind, enhances morale, and improves efficiency and dedication to duty,” he said.
Dr. Matawalle commended the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, for initiating the project, describing it as a commendable intervention and evidence of the achievements recorded by the Defence Intelligence Agency
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has commended the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for expanding access to technology-driven vocational training with the commissioning of a Skills Acquisition Centre in Owerri North Local Government Area.
The centre, established under the NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP) in partnership with the senator representing Imo East Senatorial District, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi, is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills to promote entrepreneurship, self-reliance and job creation.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Uzodimma described the project as a strategic investment in youth empowerment and economic development, noting that technology remains critical to Nigeria’s economic growth.
He said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by providing young people with marketable skills capable of creating sustainable livelihoods.
“This is not about giving people fish; it is about teaching them how to fish,” the governor said, urging that graduates of the centre should be supported with start-up capital to enable them establish businesses and create employment opportunities.
Uzodimma also praised NASENI’s contributions to development in Imo State and appealed to the host community and stakeholders to safeguard the facility for future generations.
Photo Caption: L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on NASENI, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi; First Lady of Imo State, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma; Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, and other dignitaries during the commissioning of the NASENI Skills Acquisition Centre in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State, on Tuesday.
In his remarks, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, described the project as part of the agency’s commitment to developing the skilled workforce needed to drive Nigeria’s industrialisation.
According to him, the centre will provide training in high-demand areas including solar installation and maintenance, graphic design and printing, phone repair, fisheries and aquaculture, among other vocational and technology-based disciplines.
“The commissioning of this centre is not merely the opening of another facility. It is the opening of opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire practical skills that solve real problems, create businesses and generate employment,” Halilu said.
He added that the project aligns with NASENI’s strategic focus on creation, collaboration and commercialisation aimed at strengthening local innovation, expanding indigenous capacity and reducing dependence on imported technologies.
Halilu also commended Senator Onyewuchi for partnering with the agency to deliver the project.
Speaking at the event, Onyewuchi said the centre was established to address youth unemployment through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. He disclosed that beneficiaries would receive support to establish small businesses after completing their training, enabling them to become employers of labour.
NASENI said the Skills Acquisition Centre underscores its commitment to empowering Nigerians through practical skills development, innovation and workforce capacity building under the NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has commended the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for expanding access to technology-driven vocational training with the commissioning of a Skills Acquisition Centre in Owerri North Local Government Area.
The centre, established under the NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP) in partnership with the senator representing Imo East Senatorial District, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi, is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills to promote entrepreneurship, self-reliance and job creation.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Uzodimma described the project as a strategic investment in youth empowerment and economic development, noting that technology remains critical to Nigeria’s economic growth.
He said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by providing young people with marketable skills capable of creating sustainable livelihoods.
“This is not about giving people fish; it is about teaching them how to fish,” the governor said, urging that graduates of the centre should be supported with start-up capital to enable them establish businesses and create employment opportunities.
Uzodimma also praised NASENI’s contributions to development in Imo State and appealed to the host community and stakeholders to safeguard the facility for future generations.
Photo Caption: L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on NASENI, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi; First Lady of Imo State, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma; Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, and other dignitaries during the commissioning of the NASENI Skills Acquisition Centre in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State, on Tuesday.
In his remarks, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, described the project as part of the agency’s commitment to developing the skilled workforce needed to drive Nigeria’s industrialisation.
According to him, the centre will provide training in high-demand areas including solar installation and maintenance, graphic design and printing, phone repair, fisheries and aquaculture, among other vocational and technology-based disciplines.
“The commissioning of this centre is not merely the opening of another facility. It is the opening of opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire practical skills that solve real problems, create businesses and generate employment,” Halilu said.
He added that the project aligns with NASENI’s strategic focus on creation, collaboration and commercialisation aimed at strengthening local innovation, expanding indigenous capacity and reducing dependence on imported technologies.
Halilu also commended Senator Onyewuchi for partnering with the agency to deliver the project.
Speaking at the event, Onyewuchi said the centre was established to address youth unemployment through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. He disclosed that beneficiaries would receive support to establish small businesses after completing their training, enabling them to become employers of labour.
NASENI said the Skills Acquisition Centre underscores its commitment to empowering Nigerians through practical skills development, innovation and workforce capacity building under the NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme.
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