Author: CKN

  

Funke Akindele, the Nigerian movie producer, has revealed why she no longer attends church physically.

In a video shared on her Snapchat story, the actress said she lost interest in attending church because the attention often shifted to her rather than the service.

“Anytime I go to church, I’m always the one they take pictures of. So I would join online,” she said.

The filmmaker had previously spoken about her faith. In 2022, she said she would not hide her identity as a member of the Celestial Church of Christ.

Two U.S. Army soldiers went missing in southwestern Morocco on Saturday night after going on a recreational hike near rugged ocean cliffs, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) said Sunday.

The soldiers disappeared at around 9 p.m. near the Cap Draa Training Area close to the coastal town of Tan Tan, according to the Moroccan military. The area features mountainous terrain, a mix of desert and semi-desert plains bordering the Atlantic Ocean.

The service members were not actively engaged in training when they vanished. “The day’s exercises had concluded, and, from our understanding, they were out on a recreational hike,” a U.S. defense official told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

“The soldiers were last seen near ocean cliffs in the vicinity of the Cap Draa Training Area during scheduled training. When they did not return as expected, U.S. and Moroccan personnel immediately initiated a joint search effort,” the official added.

AFRICOM confirmed that a search and rescue operation involving the U.S., Morocco and other participating nations is now underway. The search team includes helicopters, ships, mountain rescue units and divers. “The incident remains under investigation and the search is ongoing,” AFRICOM said in a statement.

The soldiers were participating in African Lion, the largest annual U.S. joint military exercise on the African continent. Now in its 21st edition, the exercise has been held since 2004 and this year spans four countries Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana and Senegal with over 7,000 personnel from more than 30 nations taking part. The exercise began in April and is scheduled to conclude in early May.

U.S. military officials have described African Lion as a key venue for strengthening regional security cooperation and sharpening the readiness of participating forces for global crises.

The incident is not the first tragedy to occur during the exercises in Morocco. In 2012, two U.S. Marines were killed and two others injured when a helicopter crashed in Agadir during African Lion.

Morocco is a major U.S. ally in a region experiencing significant political turbulence. Since 2020, military coups have toppled democratically elected governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, with the new juntas increasingly distancing themselves from Western powers.

Search Underway For Two U.S. Soldiers Missing In Morocco is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

For many Nigerian publishers, the model that once sustained journalism is no longer working. Advertising, long the backbone of print, radio, and television, has been declining.

At the same time, the wider entertainment and digital media market is growing and is projected to reach $4.9 billion by 2026.

This creates a clear gap. The old revenue streams are shrinking, but new ones are emerging—driven largely by digital platforms and changing audience behaviour.

Today, revenue is no longer just about traditional ads. It includes earnings from platforms like Google through ad networks, creator payouts on X (formerly Twitter), and content monetisation on YouTube and Spotify.

These channels reward reach, engagement, and consistency, but they also require a different way of thinking about content.

For publishers, this means shifting from a single-format approach to a multi-platform strategy—taking one piece of content and adapting it across video, audio, and text formats to reach audiences wherever they are.

This shift was the focus of The Monetised Content Masterclass, hosted by FCMB in partnership with BHM.

The session brought together publishers across the ecosystem, including reporters, editors, bloggers, and content creators, to examine how to move beyond traditional revenue models.

One message came through clearly: financial sustainability now sits at the heart of editorial independence.

Discussions focused on how publishers can create real value, not just traffic or impressions, but content that travels well across platforms and can be monetised in different ways.

This includes building direct audience relationships, forming the right brand partnerships, and using data to guide both content and commercial decisions.

Participants explored practical options such as paid memberships and subscriptions, branded content collaborations, and platform-based earnings.

The emphasis was on execution, how to take what already exists and make it work harder across multiple channels.

Speaking at the session, Divisional Head, Corporate Affairs, FCMB Group, Diran Olojo, pointed to the need for a shift in mindset: “We are at a point where publishers must move from content production to platform thinking, building systems that can sustain value over time.”

For BHM’s CEO, Ayeni Adekunle, the issue is urgency: “The model has changed. The question now is whether the industry will adapt quickly enough to secure its future.”

Moderated by Fatu Ogwuche, the masterclass featured Fisayo Soyombo, Chris Ihidero, Jennifer Mairo, and Peter Oluka. Speakers shared practical insights, from repurposing content across formats to building audience loyalty and unlocking new revenue streams.

The takeaway was simple. Publishers can no longer rely on a single source of income. Growth will come from combining platform earnings, partnerships, and direct audience support, while making content work across multiple formats and channels.

For FCMB, the initiative reflects a clear commitment to supporting the growth and long-term sustainability of the media sector, given its role in informing the public, shaping opinion, and supporting national development.

Why Nigerian Publishers Must Rethink Revenue Models

An Advocate for a New Nigeria, Peter Akah, has called for proper welfare for the Nigerian military.

Akah made this call on Monday while fielding questions in an interview on Channels Television’s ‘The Morning Brief’.

He stated that nobody should turn a blind eye when Nigerian service men are seen not to be taken care of.

“A well-taken care of military is a well-protected nation. A person is being questioned and detained for speaking up for military welfare.

“And as we are talking, there are reports that an officer has been dismissed for that complaint. Are military laws made for the officers or the officers made for the laws? Why is it always a reaction? There could be a simple response.

“If you know as a military that you are doing better, put out the information and debunk it. Say, no, this is wrong. This is what we are doing, and it takes away or answers that question,” he said.

Peter Akah makes case for Armed Forces’ welfare

The chairman of First Bank Holding, Femi Otedola, has dismissed claims that he is part of the financiers of the Dangote Refinery.

He made this known in a statement he posted on his X account, Monday.

Recall that report had emerged that Otedola, chairman of United Bank of Africa, and Chairman of Globacom, Mike Adenuga, had financed the Dangote Refinery.

However, the Dangote Refinery at the weekend dismissed claims as false.

Reacting to the development, Otedola clarified that the purported claims are completely and utterly false.

However, he said that he plans to request a special allocation to participate in the refinery’s forthcoming public offer in the Nigerian Exchange Limited.

“Let’s set the record straight:

“Reports claiming that Femi Otedola funded the Dangote Petroleum Refinery are completely and utterly false. He has not invested a single kobo, not one dollar, not one naira.

“The real story, which those peddling these lies conveniently ignore, is that Mr. Otedola has actually been requesting a special allocation to participate in the refinery’s forthcoming public offer.
“I can categorically state that at no point did Alhaji Dangote request financing from Mr. Elumelu, Mr. Adenuga, and myself.

“To those behind this: desist immediately… And to everyone else, social media is not a tool for manufactured drama. Nigeria deserves truth, not lies dressed up as insider information,” he wrote on X.

I’ve not invested single naira, dollar – Femi Otedola speaks on funding Dangote Refinery

Rising tension was recorded in Daddare Development Area on Friday as youths and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, staged a protest over an alleged move to zone the Obi I Constituency seat in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly to Agwatashi ahead of the 2027 elections.

The protesters, who marched through major streets in Daddare, expressed strong opposition to the reported arrangement, describing it as an attempt to sideline their community from political representation.

Speaking to journalists, the leader of the group, Abdullahi Alhassan Liman, said Daddare has been consistently excluded from elective positions and should be given the opportunity to produce the next lawmaker.

“We are demanding fairness and inclusion. Daddare has remained loyal to the party but has not been given a chance for over 16 years, while Agwatashi has benefited from key political positions,” he said.

Liman warned that any decision to deny Daddare the ticket could have political consequences for the party in the constituency.

“If this seat is not zoned to Daddare, it may affect the level of support the APC enjoys from our people,” he added.

He called on Governor Abdullahi Sule and party leaders to ensure equity and fairness in the zoning process.

Other protesters echoed similar concerns, insisting that allowing Daddare to produce the next representative would promote unity and strengthen the party’s chances in the upcoming elections.

As of the time of filing this report, APC officials have not issued an official statement on the alleged zoning plan, although party sources indicate that consultations are still ongoing.

2027: Daddare youths protest alleged plan to zone Assembly seat to Agwatashi

In an era where citizens increasingly demand visible and measurable results from those in public office, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu has embraced a leadership style that places people at the center of governance.

As Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly and representative of Arochukwu State Constituency, his approach reflects a deep understanding that leadership must go beyond speeches and translate into real impact.

For Okoro, lawmaking is not merely about drafting bills or participating in debates; it is about solving problems that affect everyday life. His philosophy is rooted in the conviction that governance must be responsive to the needs, aspirations, and challenges of the people he represents.

This mindset has influenced his priorities since assuming office in 2023. Rather than pursuing legislation for prestige, he has focused on initiatives that directly improve living conditions—whether through better infrastructure, access to healthcare, or economic empowerment.

By consistently aligning his work with the realities on the ground, Okoro has narrowed the gap between government and the governed. His actions reflect a deliberate effort to ensure that policies are not detached from the people they are meant to serve.

This people-centered approach has also fostered trust. Constituents see a leader who listens, engages, and responds, rather than one who operates in isolation. It has strengthened the bond between representation and accountability.

In a political environment where public confidence is often fragile, such an approach is both refreshing and necessary. It underscores the idea that leadership is not about authority, but about service.

Ultimately, Okoro’s philosophy is redefining lawmaking as a tool for transformation, one that prioritizes people over politics and impact over rhetoric.

Let’s take a look into some of his legislative strides in Abia State.

A Robust Legislative Portfolio

One of the most defining features of Okoro’s legislative agenda is the breadth and depth of his legislative contributions. In less than three years in office as Majority Leader, he has sponsored over 40 bills, covering a wide range of sectors critical to the development of Abia State.

His early work on appropriation laws helped set the tone for his legislative agenda. By contributing to and 2024, 2025 and 2026 budgets, he played a key role in shaping the financial direction of the state, ensuring that resources were allocated to priority areas.

These appropriation laws were not just routine exercises; they formed the foundation upon which development projects and government programmes were built by the administration of Governor Alex Otti. They reflected a careful balancing of fiscal responsibility and developmental needs.

Among his standout achievements are the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) Law and the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA) Law. These laws are designed to stimulate economic growth, improve urban planning, and enhance service delivery in key regions.

The Abia State Electricity Law further demonstrates Kalu’s forward-thinking approach. By addressing the persistent challenge of power supply, the law has assisted in transforming the state’s economic landscape.

Beyond these, his legislative efforts extend to healthcare, security, taxation, and institutional reforms. Each bill contributes to a broader framework aimed at sustainable development.

Taken together, his legislative portfolio reflects not just productivity, but strategic vision and a commitment to building systems that will serve the state for years to come.

Championing Accountability And Reform

In addition to development-focused legislation, Hon. Okoro has emerged as a strong advocate for accountability and governance reform. His efforts in this area highlight a commitment to fairness, transparency, and responsible leadership.

The repeal of the Governor’s and Deputy Governor’s Pension Law stands out as a landmark achievement. This move signaled a shift toward fiscal discipline and equity, addressing concerns about excessive privileges for public office holders.

By championing this reform, Okoro has demonstrated a willingness to confront sensitive issues in the interest of the public good. He has reinforced the principle that leadership must be accountable to the people.

His sponsorship of the Procedure for Disclosure of Public Information Law further strengthens transparency. By making it easier for citizens to access government information, the law has empowered the public and promoted open governance.

Other reforms, including amendments to tax laws and procurement processes, have assisted to streamline governance and eliminate inefficiencies. These measures have contributed to a more effective and responsive public sector.

Such reforms are essential in building trust between government and citizens. They ensure that public resources are managed responsibly and that decisions are made in the best interest of the people.

Through these initiatives, Okoro has helped to create a governance culture that values integrity, accountability, and transparency.

Strengthening Security, Public Institutions

Security and institutional strength are fundamental to sustainable development, and Okoro has prioritized both through his legislative efforts. Recognizing that progress cannot thrive in an environment of instability, the Abia Assembly Majority Leader has supported measures aimed at enhancing safety and governance structures.

The establishment of the Abia State Homeland Security Agency and the Security Trust Fund reflects a strategic approach to addressing security challenges. These frameworks have provided the mechanisms for coordination, funding, and effective response.

In a broader context, such initiatives are crucial in fostering an environment where businesses can operate and communities can flourish without fear.

Beyond security, Okoro has focused on strengthening public institutions. His legislative work has contributed to the creation and reform of agencies across key sectors, ensuring that governance systems are robust and efficient.

The establishment of the Medicines and Health Commodities Management Agency is a notable example. It addresses critical gaps in healthcare delivery, ensuring that essential drugs are available and properly managed.

His efforts also extend to environmental management, public procurement, and planning agencies. These reforms enhance the capacity of institutions to deliver services effectively.

By strengthening institutions, Okoro is laying a solid foundation for long-term development,one where systems, rather than individuals, drive progress.

Bridging Policy And Impact Through Projects

While legislation is essential, Hon. Okoro understands that governance must also be felt on the ground. His commitment to delivering tangible projects across Arochukwu Constituency underscores this understanding.

The construction of a modern market at Atan Abam is one of his flagship projects. It provides a structured space for commerce, supporting traders and boosting local economic activity.

Access to clean water has been significantly improved through borehole projects in communities such as Ahia Nkwo and Amaeke Abam. These interventions address a basic but critical need.

The reconstruction of the Women Hall at Umuzomgbo highlights his attention to social infrastructure, creating a space for community engagement and empowerment.

Each project is carefully targeted to address specific needs, ensuring that development is both relevant and impactful.

These initiatives also complement his legislative work, demonstrating how policy and implementation can work hand in hand.

Through these projects, Okoro is ensuring that governance is not just seen in policies, but experienced in everyday life.

Empowering Women, Small Businesses

Economic empowerment is central to Okoro’s development agenda, particularly in supporting women and small businesses. His initiatives in this area reflect a commitment to inclusive growth.

The market support programme, which provided financial assistance to over 50 women, has had a meaningful impact on beneficiaries. It has enabled them to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

Such interventions recognize the vital role women play in local economies and community development. By empowering them, Okoro is contributing to broader social and economic progress.

Small businesses, often the backbone of local economies, have also benefited from his support. These enterprises create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and sustain families.

By providing financial assistance and creating enabling environments, he is helping to build resilience among entrepreneurs.

These efforts also contribute to reducing poverty and inequality, fostering a more balanced and inclusive economy.

Through targeted empowerment programmes, Okoro is creating opportunities that extend beyond immediate beneficiaries to entire communities.

Investing In Education, Youth Development

Hon. Okoro’s commitment to education reflects his belief in its transformative power. By investing in young people, he is helping to shape the future of his constituency.

His sponsorship of free JAMB registrations for over 220 students has removed financial barriers for many families. It has given young people the opportunity to pursue higher education.

For students who might otherwise have been excluded, this support is life-changing. It opens doors to new possibilities and aspirations.

Scholarships facilitated through partnerships have further expanded access to education, ensuring that more students can achieve their goals.

These initiatives are not just about academic success; they are about building human capital and preparing a skilled workforce.

Youth development also extends beyond education, encompassing mentorship and exposure to opportunities.

By prioritizing young people, Okoro is investing in long-term development and sustainability.

Supporting Agriculture, Food Security

Agriculture remains a key pillar of rural development, and Hon. Okoro has taken practical steps to support farmers in his constituency. His interventions are aimed at boosting productivity and ensuring food security.

The distribution of free fertilizers has significantly benefited farmers, enabling them to increase yields and improve their incomes.

Such support is particularly important in addressing challenges related to food production and rising costs.

By empowering farmers, Okoro is strengthening local economies and promoting self-sufficiency.

Agricultural support also has a ripple effect, benefiting traders, consumers, and the broader community.

These initiatives demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of agriculture in sustaining livelihoods.

Through consistent support, he is helping to build a resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Driving Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development has been a major focus of Okoro’s leadership, reflecting its importance in economic growth and social progress. Through advocacy and legislative action, he has attracted significant projects to his constituency.

The reconstruction of key roads, including the Ndi Okereke-Arochukwu Road, has improved connectivity and facilitated movement.

Sections of the Ohafia-Arochukwu Federal Road have also seen improvements, enhancing access and reducing travel time.

The construction of the Abam Ring Road represents a major milestone, opening up communities and boosting economic activity.

The new bridge over the Omenuko River further demonstrates the scale of these interventions.

These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are about transforming lives and enabling opportunities.

By prioritizing development, Okoro is laying the groundwork for sustained growth.

Commitment To Transparency

Transparency and accountability are central to Okoro’s leadership style. He has consistently engaged with his constituents, ensuring that they remain informed about his activities.

Through regular town hall meetings, he provides updates and receives feedback, fostering a culture of participation.

This approach strengthens trust and ensures that governance is inclusive.

By maintaining open communication, he has built a strong relationship with the people he represents.

Transparency also enhances accountability, ensuring that public office is used responsibly.

Such engagement encourages citizens to take an active role in governance.

Ultimately, Okoro’s commitment to openness reflects a belief that leadership must be both accessible and responsive.

A Vision For Inclusive Development

Looking ahead, Hon. Okoro’s vision for Arochukwu Constituency is rooted in inclusivity and sustainability. He has set a clear goal of delivering at least one project in each of the 11 wards.

This ambition reflects a commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in the development process.

By focusing on equitable distribution of resources, he is promoting balanced growth.
His collaboration with the state government has further enhanced his ability to deliver results.

This synergy ensures that projects are aligned with broader development goals. As he continues his work, Okoro remains focused on expanding opportunities and improving lives.

His vision is not just about the present, but about building a future where every constituent can thrive.

Onuba, a Chartered Accountant wrote from Abuja

Okoro Uchenna: Redefining Lawmaking Through People-Centered Projects In Abia is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The senatorial aspirant for Sokoto East Senatorial District under the APC Umar Ajiya has unveiled his political agenda to centred on security, education, and equitable distribution of national resources.

Declaring his intention on Sunday in Sokoto, Ajiya described his bid as a response to the call of his constituents, pledging to represent their interests with commitment and integrity at the National Assembly.

“This is a defining moment for me. My people have entrusted me with this responsibility, and I am determined to justify that confidence through purposeful representation” he said.

“I am like a bridge between Sokoto East and the federal government and I know the political importance of effective legislative engagement, particularly in influencing the appropriation process”

“Representation at the Senate is not symbolic rather it is strategic. I will work closely with Senate leadership and fellow lawmakers to ensure that Sokoto East and Sokoto State are not sidelined in national budgeting and development programmes”

He stressed the need for fairness in the distribution of federal projects across states, arguing that inclusive governance is key to national unity and progress.

On national issues, Ajiya aligned his campaign with the growing political discourse on insecurity, describing it as the central challenge shaping Nigeria’s future.

He said that insecurity remains the most urgent issue confronting Nigeria that affects every sector.

According to him, addressing it requires not just government action, but a united front involving all citizens.

He cautioned against irresponsible reporting, urging the media to play a constructive role in national security while holding authorities accountable.

As part of his campaign promises, Ajiya outlined a three-point agenda of strengthening security through intergovernmental collaboration, revitalising the education sector, and promoting people-centred development.

He expressed concern over the impact of insecurity on education, noting that the displacement crisis has forced many schools out of operation.

“Our children are paying the price of insecurity. Some schools have been converted into shelters for displaced persons, disrupting learning. Rebuilding the education system will be a priority”

He also called for policies that directly improve livelihoods, particularly in rural communities where agriculture remains the primary source of income.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by both federal and state governments, he argued that stronger legislative advocacy and oversight are needed to accelerate development.

Ajiya Unveils Security, Education Agenda For Sokoto East Senate Bid is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Kano State chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has postponed its planned state congress for the election of party executives.

This was contained in a statement signed by Adam Said Adam, Director-General of Social Media for the NDC in Kano State.

According to the statement, the decision was explained by the State Chairman of the party, Hon. Husaini Isah Mai Riga, who said the postponement became necessary following a recent influx of prominent political figures into the party.

Mai Riga noted that the development required additional time to properly accommodate new entrants and make adequate arrangements for a smooth and inclusive congress.

He added that a new date for the congress would be communicated once all necessary preparations have been concluded.

Kano NDC postpones state congress amid surge of new members

Suspected vandals have destroyed newly planted roadside trees along the route leading to the Government House in Nassarawa, Kano, raising environmental and political concerns in the state.

The incident, which occurred early Monday morning, targeted trees planted by the Kano State Government months ago as part of an urban beautification and climate initiative.

The affected stretch located in the heart of Kano metropolis, had been undergoing greening efforts aimed at improving environmental sustainability.

Commissioner for Environment, Dahir Hashim confirmed the development by sharing images of the damaged trees on his official Facebook page.

He expressed frustration over the act, describing tree cultivation as a demanding process.

“Nurturing trees is one of the most difficult tasks, despite the effort we invested in raising these trees for over a year, some miscreants have destroyed them,” Hashim said.

While no group has claimed responsibility, the incident comes at a time of heightened political activity in Kano.

Observers suggest that the destruction may not be entirely unconnected to the growing tensions within and between political parties in the state, although no direct evidence has been established.

As of the time of filing this report, the police have not issued an official statement identifying suspects or confirming an investigation.

Environmental advocates warn that the act undermines ongoing efforts to improve urban infrastructure and combat climate challenges through tree planting.

The destruction is also seen as a setback to the state’s broader initiative to enhance public spaces and promote ecological balance.

Authorities are expected to intensify surveillance and community engagement to prevent further acts of vandalism and protect public assets.

Vandalism of roadside trees sparks concern in Kano amid rising political tensions