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FG $9m Lobbying Contract: PDP, ADC Knock Tinubu’s Govt

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Distrust Nigerians have called out the federal government over the reported $9 million contract awarded to a United States lobbying firm, Aster Legal to assist in resolving allegations of Christians genocide with the President Donald Trump administration.

Not a few Nigerians, opposition political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, ADC and others have condemned the act, as unnecessary and defective.

Recall that the Trump administration had last year ramp up pressure on the Nigerian government to reign in Islamist terrorists killing Christians in the country, failure which it vowed  to act militarily.

On December 25, 2025, President Trump ordered the US African Command, Africom to launch an air strike  against alleged terrorists in Sokoto state, in what security analysts insist was Trump’s attempt to put more pressure on the Nigerian government to act against those killing Christians in the country.

Last December, the federal government delegation led by the National Security Adviser, NSA Nuhu Ribadu met with some Trump’s administration officials, in Washington D.C., including US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, Secretary of War , Pete Hegseth, and some congressmen in an attempt to douse the diplomatic tension between the two countries.

According to the PDP, the Tinubu administration is trying to use the lobby firm to cover up the problems at home,  the party also questioned why the federal government chose to engage the firm when there are countless agencies that can do the job.

On its part, the ADC said the federal government’s action was indefensible, stressing that the amount paid the lobbying firm is too huge, at a time many Nigerians are facing serious economic crisis and find it hard to survive.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP described the contract as shameful and disgraceful, saying despite the “litany of media aides” available the administration chose to hire a foreign firm to launder its image” with the Trump administration.

‘’This revelation is as disturbing as it is shameful that a government with a full Ministry of Information and a litany of media aides will be paying a foreign firm to launder its image.

‘’This is a clear indication that the president does not have confidence in the Ministry of Information and his media aides, whereas the Ministry of Information is manned by a seasoned professionals led by a Public Relations expert-who has in the last few years exhibited maturity and responsibility in the management of government information.

“Furthermore, we seek clarification from the presidency on the following: Was this contract budgeted for in the 2025 budget? Why was it done through a private law firm and not the Federal Ministry of Justice?

‘’What are the duties of the Information and Public Relations officers in the diplomatic missions abroad? What are the Key Performance Indicators for this contract?’’ the party sought to know.

“We remind the APC-led federal government that no lobbying or strategic communication firm can create narratives that will replace the lived experiences of the people, in contemporary times, where the world is a global village.”

Ememobong added that ‘’If the Tinubu administration is desirous of changing the perception of the country abroad, it should invest more in the security of lives and property, not in deceptive communication. The undeniable truth is that Nigerians have not felt this insecure, even during the civil war.

‘’The president should be more interested in ensuring that all Nigerians, irrespective of religion, are safe and free to worship God in their chosen way, and that mass killings are reduced to the barest minimum. When these feats are achieved, Nigerians will reflect safety, and that will concomitantly dictate the global perception of Nigerians.”

According to the ADC, in a statement signed by it National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, it’s a wasteful expenditure on the part of the federal government to hire a lobbying firm with such a humongous amount, noting that no amount of lobby can bring about security of life and property of citizens.

What the Tinubu administration should do, the ADC said, is to address the problem of insecurity in the country squarely instead of wasting scarce public resources on image laundering abroad, noting that Nigeria is the only country in Africa to have spent so much to lobby a foreign country, describing the act as “misplaced priorities and moral blindness.”

Part of ADC statement: “While the ADC recognises the importance of representing Nigeria’s interests internationally, spending $9 million on image management at a time when millions of Nigerians cannot afford food, fuel, or basic healthcare is a clear case of misplaced priorities and moral blindness.

‘’This decision is also an admission of diplomatic failure. A government that has left key ambassadorial positions vacant now seeks to outsource diplomacy to lobbyists, further weakening Nigeria’s institutional credibility and reducing foreign policy to transactional propaganda.

‘’More troubling is the illusion that paid lobbying in Washington can erase the reality of mass killings, widespread insecurity, and state failure at home. No amount of image laundering can wash away the blood of thousands of Nigerians killed under this administration’s watch.’’

AFCON 2025: Rabiu Showers  Super Eagles With $500,000 Despite Loss To Morocco

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Super Eagles
Super Eagles

By Akinwale Kasali

“As a token of your remarkable journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfill the pledge of $500,000 USD.”

Businessman and founder of BUA, Abdul Samad Rabiu, says he is going ahead with gifting the Super Eagles the sum of $500,000 despite the team’s loss in the semi finals.

In the aftermath of their impressive run, keeping a clean slate, but for this loss, especially, the decisive  4-0 victory against Tunisia in the Quarter Finals, Rabiu had promised the team the sum of $500,000  if they win the Semi Finals against host country, Morocco, plus extra $50,000 for each goal scored. And if they bring home the cup, he doubled the pledge.

But the Super Eagles in the nerve-wrecking semi-finals lost to host Morocco 2-4 in a penalty shoot-out.

But Rabiu in a swift reaction to the loss in a post on his official Instagram page, hailed the players for their courage, determination and unity on the pitch.

“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud”, he wrote.

Abdul Samad Rabiu
Abdul Samad Rabiu: Gifted Super Eagles $500,000.

In consoling them, he noted that atimes, even the best efforts hardly bring the expected results, but emphasised, that the spirit, passion and teamwork which the team displayed are what truly mattered. For that and more, he said the team still deserve the $500,000 he had earlier promised.

His words:

“abdulsamadrabiu_asr 14 Jan.2026

“To our brave Super Eagles,

“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud.

“Sometimes, even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we hope for, but the spirit, passion and unity you displayed are what truly matter. You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration.

“As a token of appreciation for your remarkable journey and effort,  I am still going ahead to fulfill the pledge of $500,000 USD. This is in recognition of your hard work, dedication and the joy you have brought to our nation.

“Keep your heads high, Super Eagles  – the experience, lessons, and spirit will fuel even greater success next time. Nigeria will always be proud of you, and we believe in your future victories.

#ASR #AbdulSamadRabiu”

The Super Eagles lost 4-2 after a120- minute of pulsating football action between  it and the Atlas Lions of Morocco after both teams deadlocked and went into  penalty shoot-out in what has been described as the “real final before the final” in the 2025 African Cup Of Nations, AFCON.

Substitute, Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaichi lost their spot kicks, while the Moroccans converted four of their kicks to claim victory.

The game was a cagey affair, as both teams were  careful and mindful in their engagement of each other. Their defences were equal to the task, foiling several attacks.

Calvin Bassey was outstanding in the match as he caged Ayooub El Kaabi and Brahim Diaz all through the entire of the match.

There were complains in the officiating as the Centre Referee from Ghana made some very questionable calls in favour of the host.

Despite Moroccans dominance of the match, the Super Eagles defence was outstanding, and gave a good account.

The Nigerian Coach has been criticised, in some quarters, for substituting Victor Osimhen in the dying minutes of the match with Chukwueze who eventually lost his spot kick.

With the loss, the Super Eagles will battle the Pharaohs of Egypt in the third place match slated for Saturday, while the Teranga Lions of Senegal who defeated the Egyptians 1-0, courtesy of a Sadio Mane strike in the 78th minute will face the host, Morocco, on Sunday. It will be Morocco’s first final outing in about 40 years.

“I Am Done With Christianity, This Is My Last Day In Church – Catholic Knight

By
The Source
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Senator Ifeanyi Ubah
Late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

By Charles Igbo

A Knight of the Roman Catholic Church, Sir James Louise, was so disgusted by the ingratitude meted out to late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah that he renounced Christianity. “I am done with Christianity”, he said. He then went ahead and derobed himself of his Knighthood uniform vowing never to set foot in Church again.

Trouble began at the inauguration ceremony of the magnificent Our Lady of Assumption, Nnewi Anambra State on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

The construction of the Cathedral was a baby of the late Senator Ubah. He, by all accounts, volunteered to build the Cathedral and was through with over 85 per cent of the project when “confusion” set in.

In deed, his plan was to single-handedly finish the construction of the Cathedral. It was his way of showing appreciation to God. But his plan was, allegedly, truncated when a new Bishop, Dr. Jonas-Benson Okafor was posted to the Nnewi Diocese in 2022.

The Bishop, for a yet-to-be disclosed reason ordered Senator Ubah to hands-off the building of the Cathedral.

That order did not go down well with Senator Ubah and not a few people who wondered why the glory for the construction of the Cathedral should be taken away from Ubah after he had sunk hundreds of millions of Naira into it. But he obeyed.

Things came to a head on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the day of the inauguration of the Cathedral. And, to the shock of many, Senator Ubah, without whose contribution the Cathedral would not have come to fruition was not acknowledged.

His name was not mentioned. Neither his  name nor photograph was in the brochure. Nobody acknowledged him. Allegedly, no invitation was extended to any member of his family. Yet, the late Senator was the one who volunteered to build the Cathedral and had completed its construction to over 85 per cent when he was inexplicably ordered to hands-off.

The snub, the ingratitude, was too much for Sir James Louise to bear. And he showed it in a most unusual manner. He protested the unfair treatment meted out to the late Senator. He protested that Ubah’s contribution was neither acknowledged in the brochure nor even orally. That hurt him.

In a video which went viral online, Sir Louise broke down and cried after mass. He wept for Senator Ubah and what he rightly saw as ingratitude and injustice and unfairness.

Distraught, he pulled off his shoes, and removed his cap both of which constitute his knighthood unform. And capped it by  renouncing Christianity.

“This is my last day as a Christian. I’m done. This is awful.

“How could anyone believe that this Cathedral which Ifeanyi Ubah slaved to build could be inaugurated without a mention of his name. This is bad, I’m done with Christianity. This is my last day as a Christian.”

Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, businessman, born on September 3, 1971, until his death on July 26, 2024, represented Anambra South  Senatorial District at the National Assembly. He was a native of Nnewi.

At the time of this report, there has been no statement from the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi.

Follow Peter Obi To The ADC Now – Obidient Movement Urges  Gov Otti

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Alex Otti - Governor of Abia State

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Obidient Movement has called on the Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, to urgently consider joining the emerging opposition Coalition platform the African Democratic Congress in order to continue enjoying its support.

The Obidient Movement’s position is coming amidst the mutual exchange of tirades and brickbats between the Senator Orji Uzor Kalu-led Abia opposition Coalition and Governor Otti’s camp over the 2027 polls.

At a media briefing on Wednesday January 14, 2026, in Umuahia, the State Capital, the Abia State Chapter spokesperson for the umbrella body of the movement committed to the Peter Obi’s vision of creating a new Nigeria Dr Chibuzor Obiesili, insisted that it would be practically impossible for it not to queue behind any other gubernatorial candidate chosen by the ADC in the next general elections.

To avoid such an unfortunate spectacle in which the movement will be compelled to switch allegiance, it called on the Governor to immediately join the ADC train.

The Source reports that Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, had a couple of weeks ago formally joined forces with the ADC which he co-repositioned alongside other prominent figures including Former Vice president Atiku Abubakar earlier in 2025.

However, Dr Otti, who is the only Governor elected on the platform of LP in 2023, and a known ally of Obi, opted to  remain with Labour Party.

The Obidient Movement, however, noted that much as the Abia State Governor has so far performed creditably, as well as projecting the image of the group which played a significant role in his victory in 2023, it nevertheless emphasized the urgent need for alignment with its principal ,Obi in the ADC.

This is as the movement condemned what it described as the unwarranted and unprovoked reckless attacks on Governor Otti by “the so-called Abia opposition Coalition led by the trio of former Governors Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Ahamefule Orji and Dr Victor Okezie Ikpeazu.

The group, particularly, took a serious exception to the assertion credited to the Abia opposition Coalition that Governor Otti ,will go down in history as a one-term-Governor.

The movement described the assertion as a serious insult to the generality of Abians who are currently feeling relieved by the purposeful leadership of Governor Otti, after 24 years in darkness.

“On this note, we wish to state our resolve and stand as Obidient Movement Abia state chapter. firstly, Governor Otti was elected on a clear mandate of the good people of Abia State, which the Obidient tsunami contributed to, out of a growing concern to clean up the mess by past administrations and transform the state.

“That Dr Alex Otti, since assumption of office, has proven that Abia can be better through his people-oriented projects ,is the reason Abians elected.

“We are glad that Abia is becoming like a State that the citizens can be proud of Governor Otti has shown that the state can be better governed, through the establishment of quality infrastructural facilities, and other amenities.

“The Obidient Movement played a critical role in mobilizing support for this change,and as such, cannot keep quiet in the face of this challenge and desire by these individuals to stage a comeback in the governance space of Abia state”. Obiesili noted.

The group while expressing its  unflinching support, also urged Governor Otti not to be distracted by orchestrated smear campaign by the Abia opposition Coalition, but to remain focused and committed to the task of delivering on the people’s mandate.

Impeachment:  More Rivers State Lawmakers Withdraw

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Two Rivers State Lawmakers

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The ranks of the combat-ready  Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday January 14, 2026, continued to deplete. Two more members have opted out of the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy Prof Ngozi Odu bringing the total to four.

Hon Baile Nwakoh representing Khana 1 State Constituency and Hon Emilia Amadi , representing Obio/Akpor II State Constituency are the latest of the initial 26 members that signed the impeachment notice to announce their withdrawal.

The Source reports that the pro-Nyesom Wike State Lawmakers had on Thursday January 8, 2026 voted to commence impeachment proceedings against the Rivers state Governor and his Deputy, citing gross constitutional and administrative breaches including extra-budgetary expenditure and withholding of funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission as part of  the reasons for their action.

But on Monday January 12, two members – Hon Sylvanus Nwankwo, the Minority Leader representing Omuma State constituency and Peter Abbey (Degema state Constituency) while announcing their withdrawal, urged their colleagues to temper justice with mercy ,and halt the ongoing impeachment proceedings in the over all interests of peace and stability of Rivers State.

According to them, although there are enough impeachable offences committed by the Governor, and his Deputy, the House should in the interest of the long-suffering people of Rivers State, explore other options in resolving any disagreements between it and the Executive arm of Government.

In the same vein, Hons. Nwakoh and Amadi, while stating their positions on Wednesday, noted that much as Governor Fubara and his Deputy may have run foul of the constitution, the Legislators should  reconsider the impeachment option.

They predicated their stand on the interventions by respected elders and major stakeholders of the state ,as well as the urgent need to steer Rivers state back to the path of peace and stability.

They, therefore, called on the House to explore other veritable alternatives to resolve the political impasse.

This is as they expressed the fear that a prolonged leadership crisis and tension may spell doom for the State, and distabilize the country at large.

The development is coming as the House gets set to resume plenary on Thursday, January 15, 2026, after a week-long break.

FG, ASUU Sign New Agreement For Industrial Harmony

By
Ayodele Oni
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ASUU

By Ayodele Oni

Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed hope that the Federal government will not wait until its members embark on another strike before honouring agreement with the union.

The union’s remark follows the Federal Government and  ASUU’s fresh formal signing and unveiling a new agreement aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s university education system and promoting lasting industrial harmony.

The agreement was signed and publicly unveiled on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja, marking a fresh round of engagement between the government and the lecturers’ union.

The ceremony attracted key stakeholders in the education sector, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, among other dignitaries.

Speaking at the event, ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, acknowledged the long and often turbulent history between the union and successive governments, but said ASUU remains cautiously optimistic that the new agreement would be honoured.

According to him, the union hopes that implementation of the agreement would not follow the familiar pattern where strikes become the only means of enforcement

“We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history,” Prof. Piwuna said.

He expressed confidence in the current leadership of the education ministry, stressing that ASUU expects a departure from past practices.

“It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented.

“As you always say, you are open and accessible; ASUU is also open and accessible,” he added.

Rivers Crisis: PANDEF Urges Governor Fubara, Wike To Sheath Swords

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike
L-R; Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike

By Akinwale Kasali

Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, the apex socio-political body of the Niger Delta has waded Into the face off between Governor Siminialayi Fubara of Rivers State and Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, which has led to political turmoil.

In a decisive move to halt the deepening political crisis in Rivers State, PANDEF has officially launched a high-level peace and reconciliation intervention, calling Wike, and Fubara ro sheathe their swords and rise above political rivalry and assume their historic responsibility as pillars of peace, unity and inclusive reform.

The intervention, led by a distinguished Reconciliation Committee chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Godwin Agabi, SAN, commenced in Port Harcourt with an urgent appeal for dialogue, restraint, and statesmanship, as political tension continues to threaten governance, security, and economic stability in the state.

Agabi addressed the Media after the meeting, describing the Rivers crisis as “a defining moment” that requires wisdom, humility and courageous leadership. He stressed that Rivers State, as the economic nerve centre of the Niger Delta, cannot afford prolonged political hostilities that weaken institutions, erode public confidence and distract from development.

“This is not a contest of personalities; it is about the destiny of Rivers State. Leaders must choose peace over pride, dialogue over division, and reform over revenge,” Agabi declared.

The committee, made up of respected statesmen, traditional leaders, legal luminaries and elder statesmen of the Niger Delta, is engaging a wide spectrum of stakeholders including political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, youth organisations and women’s bodies, in what PANDEF described as a comprehensive peace architecture designed to rebuild trust, restore political cooperation and entrench inclusive governance.

The Niger Delta Apex Group, however, warned that the lingering crisis has already begun to stall development programmes, strain security structures and unsettle investor confidence, with grave implications for the state’s economy and the wider Niger Delta region.

PANDEF appealed to Wike and Fubara, and urged both leaders to subordinate personal grievances to the collective good, noting that their cooperation is indispensable to any meaningful reconciliation process.

“History has placed before you a rare opportunity to redefine leadership through peace, inclusion and reform. Rivers people expect nothing less,” the forum stated.

Political analysts opine that the PANDEF initiative represents the most credible intervention since the crisis erupted, given the moral authority of the forum and the calibre of personalities driving the negotiations.

While some see the effort as a potential turning point capable of resetting Rivers State’s political trajectory and restoring its reputation as a stable hub of commerce and governance.

While Edo Arrests Innocent Students, Kidnappers Operate Freely – CAPPA

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Monday Okpebholo - Governor of Edo State
Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State.

By Akinwale Kasali

The Edo State Government has come under strong criticism over the unlawful arrest and incarceration of 52 Students of Ambrose Alli University, AAU), Ekpoma, in Edo State.

Civil Society Group, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA condemned in strong words the development, and described it as an assault on the fundamental human rights of the students.

The students were arrested in connection with a protest against rising kidnappings in the area.

CAPPA in a statement signed by its Communications Officer, Robert Egbe, Communication Officer, said the organization has demanded their immediate and unconditional release.

CAPPA described the remand of the students at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre on charges of malicious damage and robbery as “absurd, unjust, and morally bankrupt.”

The organization accused the Edo State Government and operatives of the Nigeria Police Force of turning State violence on victims while kidnappers continue to operate freely.

It was reported in the Media following an alleged eyewitness account that Security Officers carried out a midnight raid on Student Hostels in the early hours of Sunday, at about 3 a.m.

Armed Officers were alleged to have forced their way into rooms, dragged students from their beds, and arrested them in a sweeping operation that threw the campus into fear.

Some of those detained were reportedly unconnected to the protest and were taken away in their sleepwear.

The protest itself, which took place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, was a desperate cry against the wave of abductions plaguing Ekpoma, the headquarters of Esan West Local Government Area.

Students, alongside community members, had marched to demand basic security after repeated abductions near hostels and along school routes.

Just a day after the protest, another kidnapping was caught on CCTV, reinforcing claims that the area had become very unsafe.

CAPPA said the state’s response exposed a warped sense of judgment.

“Instead of hunting kidnappers who operate openly and violently, the government is punishing innocent victims who simply asked for protection,” the statement said.

Zikora Ibeh, Assistant Executive Director of CAPPA, said peaceful protest remains a constitutionally guaranteed right in Nigeria and a basic tool for holding power to account.

“These students are victims twice over. First by kidnappers and organised gangs, then by the state.

“Young people now risk abduction on their way to school and violence where they live. This situation damages learning and scars mental health. Female students face even higher risks, including sexual violence. The cost is long-term and devastating.”

CAPPA warned that students now live under siege.

“Journeys to school are becoming more and more dangerous. Hostels have become targets.

“Learning is collapsing under fear and trauma. Yet leaders hide behind privilege while ordinary people pay the price,” the statement noted.

The organization expressed solidarity with the detained students and all Nigerians living under insecurity.

CAPPA called on the Edo State government and security agencies to drop all charges and release the 52 students immediately and also demanded an independent investigation into the arrests and accountability for abuses recorded during the raid.

“Jailing frightened students will not stop kidnappings. Only political will and genuine commitment to public safety will,” CAPPA said.

Super Eagles Vows To Defeat Morocco, As Gusau Quashes Fear Of Manipulative Officiating

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Super Eagles
Super Eagles

By Akinwale Kasali

As the Super Eagles of Nigeria file out for their Semi Final clash against the Atlas Lions of Morocco, host of the the ongoing African Cup of Nations, AFCON, Championship, President of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Ibrahim Musa Gusau has dismissed fears of possible biased officiating.

Gusau quashed insinuations of possible biased officiating against the backdrop of widespread fears among Nigerian players and fans across the world that the match officials could blatantly or surreptitiously work in favour of the host nation, which is looking for a second AFCON title after its maiden gong 50 years ago.

“Last summer, we were here in Morocco, for the Women Africa Cup of Nations, and we played the host nation in the Final, even coming from two goals behind to achieve victory.

“There is nothing to fear. This is the highest level of football on the African continent, and the officials know that CAF as well as the whole world is watching, and will not do anything untoward.”

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles camp continues to radiate confidence and self-belief ahead of the encounter, as the players keep strictly and professionally to their daily schedule at the Hotel Rihab and at the training ground – Complexe Sportif Mohamed VI.

The only time Nigeria and Morocco’s senior national teams have clashed in Morocco’s administrative capital, Rabat, Nigeria dug their feet into the ground to earn a scoreless draw, win the ensuing penalty shootout and secure qualification to the 14th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire.

Date was Saturday, 28th August 1983. Two weeks earlier, in Benin City, both teams had ended the first leg match 0-0. The return leg took place in Rabat, with Coach Adegboye Onigbinde making a number of changes to the squad that featured in Benin City.

Goalkeeper, Late Peter Rufai came in for Wilfred Agbonavbare, and Kingsley Paul, Amos Edoseghe, Anthony Edward, Segun Odegbami and Sunday Daniel came in for Charles Osuji, Henry Nwosu, Rafiu Yusuf, Dehinde Akinlotan and Tarila Okorowanta.

Coach José ‘Mehdi’ Faria, the Brazilian minder of the Atlas Lions, stuck to his regular group, including goalkeeper Badou Ezzaki, Mustapha El Haddaoui, Abdelaziz Bouderbala, Mohamed Timoumi, Abdelmajid Lamriss, Mustapha El Biyaz, Noureddine Bouyahyaoui and Khaled Labied. A closely-fought battle ended 0-0, necessitating a penalty shootout.

Nigeria won 4-3 to qualify for the AFCON finals in Cote d’Ivoire, where she emerged runner-up.

As the Super Eagles file out to the turf of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Wednesday, they will remember they had never lost a match to the Lions in Rabat.

Feelers from the Atlas Lions camp reveal that the players are in trepidation of the impact that Nigerian midfielder Alexander Iwobi can have on  tonight’s game.

Iwobi, who has become the Super Eagles Midfield generalissimo supplied 22 line-breaking passes in the Round of 16 game against Mozambique (which Nigeria won 4-0) and 14 against Algeria’s Desert Foxes in Saturday’s quarter final duel in Marrakech.

Nigeria won both games, scoring six goals and conceding none.

The 29-year-old, who debuted for Nigeria against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a friendly in Belgium on 8th October 2015, also supplied the assists for Nigeria’s first two goals of the competition, in the 2-1 win over Tanzania in Fés on 23rd December.

He will earn his 96th cap for the Super Eagles on Wednesday night.

SUPER EAGLES, ATLAS LIONS IN HISTORY

16 Nov 1963: Nigeria 3-0 Morocco (Olympic Gamesq: Lagos)

08 Mar 1964: Morocco 4-1 Nigeria (Olympic Gamesq: Casablanca)

26 Mar 1964: Morocco 2-1 Nigeria (Olympic Gamesq: Dakar)

21 Sep 1969: Morocco 2-1 Nigeria (FIFA WCq: Casablanca)

08 Nov 1969: Nigeria 2-0 Morocco (FIFA WCq: Ibadan)

20 Feb 1972: Nigeria 3-0 Morocco (Friendly: Lagos)

06 Mar 1976: Morocco 3-1 Nigeria (AFCON: Dire Dawa)

11 Mar 1976: Morocco 2-1 Nigeria (AFCON: Addis Ababa)

03 Apr 1976: Nigeria 3-1 Morocco (Olympic Gamesq: Lagos)

18 Apr 1976: Morocco 1-0 Nigeria (Olympic Gamesq: Tangier)

19 Mar 1980: Nigeria 1-0 Morocco (AFCON semi: Lagos)

14 Aug 1983: Nigeria 0-0 Morocco (AFCONq: Benin City)

28 Aug 1983: Morocco 0-0 Nigeria (AFCONq: Rabat) – Nigeria win 4-3 after penalties

11 Feb 1984: Nigeria 0-0 Morocco (Olympic Gamesq: Lagos)

26 Feb 1984: Morocco 0-0 Nigeria (Olympic Gamesq: Casablanca) – Morocco win 4-3 after penalties

12 Dec 1996: Morocco 2-0 Nigeria (Friendly: Casablanca)

03 Feb 2000: Nigeria 2-0 Morocco (AFCON: Lagos)

27 Jan 2004: Morocco 1-0 Nigeria (AFCON: Monastir)

25 Jan 2014: Morocco 3-4 Nigeria (CHAN: Cape Town)

04 Feb 2018: Morocco 4-0 Nigeria (CHAN Final: Casablanca)

FCT Minister Approves Promotion Of  FCTA, FCDA Workers

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Nyesom Wike - FCT Minister
Nyesom Wike

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as part of measures to encourage workers, has announced elevation of some staff of the Federal Capital Development Authority, (FCDA) and Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, gave approval for the immediate promotion of over 2,000 workers of the FCDA and FCTA.

The promotion was sequel to the examinations held from Tuesday, November 25 to Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Emeka Ezeh, said on Wednesday that the over 2,000 civil servants cut across 165 cadres.

He described the promotion as a clear demonstration of the FCT Minister’s commitment to staff welfare and career progression, promising that promotion examinations will be conducted as and when due.

The Chairman urged civil servants to begin early preparation for the 2025 and 2026 promotions, saying “as only diligent and hardworking staff will be promoted.”

He reiterated that the commission will continue to conduct promotion examinations, using the Computer-Based Test (CBT), adding that this will deepen the newly introduced digital platform for promotion examinations that was approved by the FCT Minister.

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