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The Naira appreciated slightly against the official foreign exchange market, the United States Dollar, on Wednesday, halting its depreciation trend.

Central Bank of Nigeria data showed that the Naira strengthened moderately to N1,379.46 on Wednesday, up from N1,380.71 recorded on Tuesday.

This means that on a day-to-day basis, the Naira gained N1.25 against the dollar.

Meanwhile, at the black market, the Naira stood at N1,395 per dollar on Wednesday, down from N1,393 traded on Tuesday, according to Abubakar Hassan, a Bureau de Change operator in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

This comes as the country’s foreign reserves extended their decline to $48.37 billion as of April 28, 2026, according to Central Bank of Nigeria data.

Recall that since last week, the Naira had continued its depreciation streak against the dollar at the official foreign exchange market.

Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate Today, April 29, 2026: Nigerian currency records appreciation

France’s far-right leader Jordan Bardella believes the leadership in Iran remains intact despite the loss of influential figures in the United States military operation.

“The Americans have probably underestimated their adversary,” the president of the National Rally noted, likening the current situation to the war in Afghanistan in Iraq.

In an interview with French news network BFMTV, Bardella said it was clear that the desire to destabilize the cohort of Tehran “cannot be achieved with just air operations.”

The leading contender for the 2027 presidential election observed the “Iranian regime seems more solid than expected” and is likely more resilient than expected.

Bardella, president of the National Rally, further argued that the top echelon in the Islamic Republic is “more radicalized” than it was before February 28.

The party leader decried the conflict’s effect on countries suffering the consequences, saying he had been cautious about President Donald Trump’s potential for external interventions.

Bardella described Trump’s policy as “erratic,” as no one can predict his actions. “When you change your position very regularly, you no longer provide certainty,” he said.

Such a capricious disposition, according to the 30-year-old politician, affects the reliability and credibility of the United States on the international stage.

Bardella, however, emphasized that he favors the fall of the Iranian regime but opposes the deployment of French soldiers or European troops onto Iranian soil.

US underestimated Iran before war – France’s Bardella

Residents of the Minannata area in Sokoto have intensified calls for justice following the brutal killing of a teacher in the community.

Usman Halilu, whose death has sparked outrage and grief across the community was murdered by one Mansur also from Minannata area.

Residents say the incident was linked to an earlier grudge stemming from a mobile phone theft case.

According to Maccido Muhammad, a community member, he said that the matter was reported to the police, and the suspect was reportedly found in possession of the phone during investigations

He said that the attack occurred late at night on Saturday as the victim was returning home after closing his shop.

“At about 11 p.m, he was on his way home when the suspect attacked him with a knife. He stabbed him, and the victim cried out for help, asking to be taken to the hospital,” Maccido narrated.

Eyewitnesses said the attacker fled briefly but returned moments later to stab the victim again, leaving residents too frightened to intervene.

The victim was later rushed to the hospital but died on the way.

Following the incident, the suspect reportedly fled but was later apprehended and handed over to the police by members of the community.

“The case was initially reported at a Unguwan Rogo police station before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation”

While commending residents for not resorting to jungle justice, a human rights lawyer Barrister Abdulrahaman Jariri urged authorities to ensure that the case is handled transparently and that the perpetrator is brought to book.

He urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the matter requires legal and government intervention rather than self-help.

“This is not an issue for self-action. It requires due process, legal engagement and government response” he stated.

He called on the Sokoto State Government, stakeholders and lawmakers to take concrete steps, including supporting the family of the deceased.

“We are calling on the government to step in, not only to ensure justice but also to support the family of this dedicated and patriotic citizen”

“While we commend the state governor for visiting the community, we urged authorities to go beyond symbolic gestures and provide meaningful assistance”

He further assured the community of his commitment to pursuing justice through legal means, urging residents to remain patient and resilient as the process unfolds.

“We will do everything within the law to ensure justice is served,” he said.

Another resident, Malam Mudassiru, who said he had known the suspect for over 20 years, alleged that the accused had previously exhibited signs of violent behaviour, though not to this extent.

“There were earlier incidents that raised concerns about his conduct. Even his family was worried,” he added.

Mudassiru further noted that the suspect’s family had distanced themselves from the crime and were not attempting to shield him.

Sokoto Community Seeks Justice As Suspected Phone Thief Murders Teacher is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Nigeria’s apex court has fixed Thursday, April 30, to deliver judgments in the leadership disputes rocking two major opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in rulings that could carry significant implications for the 2027 general elections.

The Supreme Court issued notices on Wednesday indicating it would rule on four separate appeals linked to the crises within both parties. A five member panel led by Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba had on April 22 reserved judgment after parties adopted their final written addresses.

For the PDP, the appeals centre on the validity of the party’s national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025. A lower court had ruled that the party failed to comply with due process, directing it to conduct fresh meetings and congresses with the required 21 day statutory notice to INEC.

The Tanimu Turaki led faction challenged the ruling, but the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, faulting the PDP for proceeding with the convention despite a subsisting restraining order.

Another appeal by the same faction seeks to overturn an order barring INEC from monitoring the Ibadan convention.

In the ADC, the dispute centres on a leadership battle between former Senate President David Mark and a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe. Mark is challenging a March 12 Court of Appeal ruling directing parties to maintain the status quo, arguing that the court interfered in an internal party matter.

The crisis escalated after INEC removed Mark and former Ogun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as ADC National Chairman and Secretary respectively from its portal, citing the appellate court’s directive. The commission said it would not recognise any faction pending final resolution of the dispute.

The rulings are considered crucial as INEC has fixed May 10 as the deadline for political parties to submit membership registers ahead of the 2027 elections.

Lawyers representing the ADC warned in a letter dated April 28 that the commission’s actions had effectively left the party without recognised leadership despite its status as a registered political party.

The judgments are expected to shape the internal structures of both opposition parties and could influence political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls. The ADC ruling has been scheduled for 2pm.

Supreme Court To Rule On PDP, ADC Leadership Crises Thursday is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has inaugurated members of the Abia State Sports Associations Board, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and development in the state.

Represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, the inauguration ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Umuahia Township Stadium Indoor Hall, Umuahia, Abia State.

Speaking at the event, The Governor said the inauguration signals a fresh commitment to harnessing sports as a means of promoting discipline, unity, and talent development among young people.

“Sports remains one of the most powerful tools to engage, inspire, and uplift our young people,” he said.

He noted that Abia is blessed with talents across football, athletics, combat sports, and indoor games, stressing that such potential must be supported with proper structure, investment, and effective administration.

Otti urged the newly inaugurated board members to provide strong leadership, uphold transparency, and create opportunities that would enable athletes to compete successfully at both national and international levels.

“Your appointment comes with responsibilities. You must justify the confidence reposed in you,” he stated.

He further assured that his administration would continue to prioritise infrastructure development, grassroots sports programmes, and partnerships that will expand opportunities for athletes.

The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, described the inauguration as the beginning of a new phase in sports development in the state.

Ananaba emphasised the need for collaboration between the government and private stakeholders to drive growth, noting that the sector requires significant funding.

“Be catalysts, not spectators,” he said.

He encouraged them to leverage their networks and influence to attract sponsorships, organise grassroots competitions, and develop sustainable funding strategies.

The Director of Sports at the Abia State Sports Council, Mr. Obioma George, highlighted recent successes recorded by the state, including the appointment of several coaches to national teams.

“We must intensify grassroots development to sustain these achievements,” he said.

The Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Benand Ezeama, commended the state’s progress, describing Abia as a growing force in Nigeria’s sports landscape.

Ezeama praised the level of coordination among stakeholders, noting that it has positioned the state as a reference point for others.

Speaking on behalf of the board, the Chairman of the Abia State Athletics Association, Mr. Victor Okoror, praised the governor’s leadership and commitment to sports development.

He further assured that the board would align with the government’s vision and work towards building a stronger and more competitive sports system in the state.

The Chairman of the Lawn Tennis Association, Chief Sampson Anaga, expressed appreciation to the government and pledged the board’s readiness to deliver on its mandate.

“We are committed to attracting sporting events, boosting economic activities, and making a meaningful impact,” he said.

Also speaking, the Patron of the association, Prof. Gabriel Okenwa, emphasized the importance of direct engagement with athletes.

He noted that it also served as an on-the-spot assessment of facilities and the responsibilities given to board members.

“After the inauguration, we felt it was important to meet the athletes themselves. This occasion is an on-the-spot assessment of what they have here and the responsibility given to us as board members,” he said.

Okenwa described the moment as a privilege, highlighting the calibre of leadership within the board.

“We are deeply honoured. We have the Chairman of the Board, Reverend Father Dr. Agwi, myself as Patron, and our national coach, Coach George Chukwuma,” he added.

The event attracted key stakeholders and sports enthusiasts, underscoring the government’s renewed determination to use sports as a vehicle for youth engagement, economic advancement, and social unity in Abia State.

Otti Inaugurates Sports Board, Targets Youth Growth is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to participate in the 2027 elections.

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu previously served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A statement by Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said the President also nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as the new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.

“Until his nomination, Ambassador Enikanolaiye, from Kogi State, served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

“Enikanolaiye is a distinguished diplomat and seasoned public servant with over three decades of exemplary service in Nigeria’s foreign service. He has previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and held key diplomatic postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.

“The President noted that these appointments are part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships.

“President Tinubu congratulates the appointees and urges them to work diligently to promote Nigeria’s national interest, advance economic diplomacy, foster regional stability, and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad,” he said.

BREAKING: Tinubu appoints Bianca Odumugu-Ojukwu Foreign Affairs Minister

 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down ahead of his anticipated political move toward the 2027 elections.

Tinubu also nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.

These were contained in a statement by  presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday.

According to him, the changes are intended to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic posture and align foreign policy with the administration’s economic priorities.

“These adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships,” the statement read.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, a veteran diplomat and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, is expected to take over leadership of Nigeria’s external relations at a time when the administration is focusing on economic diplomacy, regional stability, and expanded international cooperation.

The presidency, in the same statement, emphasized her experience in international affairs, noting:

“Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu brings decades of diplomatic experience and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s engagement with the global community,” the statement read.

Enikanolaiye, who previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, is a career diplomat with postings in several international capitals including Addis Ababa, London, Ottawa, Belgrade, and New Delhi.

The statement further described his nomination as part of efforts to strengthen continuity within Nigeria’s foreign service:

“Ambassador Enikanolaiye’s extensive experience across multiple diplomatic missions will support Nigeria’s evolving foreign policy objectives,” the statement added.

Tinubu congratulated both appointees and urged them to prioritize national interest, enhance economic diplomacy, and ensure improved welfare for Nigerians abroad.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu upgrades Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu to Minister of Foreign Affairs 

TINUBU NAMES BIANCA ODUMEGWU-OJUKWU AS MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, NOMINATES AMB. SOLA ENIKANOLAIYE AS MINISTER OF STATE

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to participate in the 2027 elections.

 

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu previously served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In the same vein, the President has nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as the new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.

Until his nomination, Ambassador Enikanolaiye, from Kogi State, served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

Enikanolaiye is a distinguished diplomat and seasoned public servant with over three decades of exemplary service in Nigeria’s foreign service. He has previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and held key diplomatic postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.

The President noted that these appointments are part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships.

President Tinubu congratulates the appointees and urges them to work diligently to promote Nigeria’s national interest, advance economic diplomacy, foster regional stability, and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President 

(Information & Strategy) 

April 29, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Minister of Foreign Affairs after Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar stepped down from the position to participate in the 2027 elections.

Tuggar resigned after President Tinubu directed all political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to leave their positions on or before March 31.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the new appointment on Wednesday.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu was previously the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

Tinubu also nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as the new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.

Until his nomination, Enikanolaiye, who is from Kogi State, served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

According to the statement, Enikanolaiye is “a distinguished diplomat and seasoned public servant with over three decades of exemplary service in Nigeria’s foreign service.”

He was once Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and held diplomatic postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London and New Delhi.

“President Tinubu congratulates the appointees and urges them to work diligently to promote Nigeria’s national interest, advance economic diplomacy, foster regional stability, and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the statement added.

BREAKING: Tinubu Elevates Bianca Ojukwu After Tuggar’s Exit is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Lagos State Parking Authority, LASPA, has issued a strong warning against unauthorised control of parking operations in Lagos, declaring that it will take legal action against individuals or groups attempting to interfere with its duties.

The general manager of LASPA, Adebisi Adelabu, made this known while reacting to recent developments involving a claimed authority over parking management by a local government official.

Adelabu described a letter reportedly issued by a council’s parking manager as misleading and invalid, noting that it was not presented on an official council letterhead and misrepresents the legal structure guiding parking operations in the state.

She stressed that LASPA is the sole government body authorised by law to regulate and manage parking across the state, in accordance with legislation passed by the Lagos State House of Assembly and backed by a collaborative structure involving all 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas.

“LASPA remains the only government agency legally empowered to oversee parking across the state, in line with laws enacted by the Lagos State House of Assembly and supported by a collaborative framework involving all 57 local government areas and local council development areas,” Adebisi said.

The LASPA boss urged registered car park operators and the general public to ignore such unauthorised directives, warning that attempts to harass or mislead licensed operators will not be accepted.

She further cautioned those involved to stop such actions or face legal consequences.

Reaffirming the agency’s responsibility, Adelabu explained that LASPA was set up to bring order to parking systems, improve traffic movement, and deliver efficient, technology-driven services for residents and motorists.

She also made it clear that any suggestion that local governments control parking operations is false and goes against existing laws regulating the sector in Lagos State.

“Any claim suggesting that local government authorities retain control over parking management is not only inaccurate but constitutes a direct violation of the extant laws guiding parking regulation in the state,” she added.

According to her, all parking-related activities and agreements must be handled strictly through LASPA, which works with approved and registered operators under its supervision.

Adelabu added that the actions of the council’s parking manager amount to unlawful interference in a system designed to ensure order, transparency, and convenience for the public.

She maintained that the Authority will not hesitate to take decisive legal steps against anyone attempting to disrupt or undermine its legally established role.

LASPA issues warning over illegal parking control, threatens legal action in Lagos

Paris Saint-Germain face a major setback as they prepare for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, following a severe injury to one of their key players.

Achraf Hakimi, who is the club’s best and most dependable fullback, will miss the second match because of a hamstring injury, as reported by football expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Moroccan player is reported to have a hamstring injury and will not be in PSG’s team next week, according to Romano’s quote from Fabrice Hawkins.

PSG defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 in the first leg of the semi-final on Tuesday night.

Bayern scored first at the Parc des Princes when Harry Kane stepped up and scored from the penalty area.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored to equalize the game at 1-1, and then Joao Neves headed the ball to give PSG the lead.

Michael Olise thought he had scored before halftime, but PSG got another opportunity from a penalty, which Ousmane Dembele successfully converted.

After the break, PSG scored two goals, one each from Kvaratskhelia and Dembele, and then Bayern responded with goals from Upamecano and Luis Diaz.

UCL: PSG suffer major injury blow ahead of second leg clash