Year: 2025

NHRC raises alarm over rising rape cases as Nigeria marks International Women’s Day

Lukman Laleye Babalola

As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in rape cases and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV) across the country. The Executive Secretary of NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, described the situation as worrisome, stated that the surge in such crimes undermined the dignity and human rights of women and girls. “The rising cases of rape, wife abandonment, and other gender-based violence reported to the Commission are deeply disturbing. These…

IWD 2025: NUJ FCT Council celebrates Women’s achievements, calls for greater inclusion in leadership

Lukman Laleye Babalola

As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has joined the global movement in celebrating the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women across various sectors.   With this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” the NUJ FCT Council emphasized the progress made in advancing gender equality while calling for sustained efforts to dismantle barriers hindering women’s full participation in leadership and decision-making roles.   In a statement, the Council highlighted the growing representation of women in governance, journalism, and other professional spheres, acknowledging…

Dabiri-Erewa urges Nigerians in Diaspora to uphold Patriotism, contribute to National Development

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has called on Nigerians living abroad to remain patriotic and committed to the nation’s development, emphasizing that their contributions are vital to Nigeria’s progress. Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2025 Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA) Abuja Iftar/Lecture Prayer, themed “Islam and Patriotism”, Dabiri-Erewa underscored the strong link between faith and love for one’s country. “As Muslims, patriotism is a core value embedded in our faith. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) demonstrated deep love…

Family Announces Homegoing Celebration of Ap. Mother Titilayo Sonde

Emporium Reporters

The family of the late Supreme Head of Sacred Cherubim and Seraphim Nigeria, Joseph Olusegun Sonde, has announced the burial ceremony of General Reverend Apostle Mother, Rebecca Titilayo Sonde, who passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 81 after a brief illness. In a statement released on Thursday, signed by Sonde Oluwaseun on behalf of the family, the children disclosed that after consultations, April 24 and 25, 2025, have been fixed to give their beloved mother a befitting burial in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Titilayo Sonde (née Ilori)…

OSSAP-SDGs hosts South-South Regional Consultation on 2025 Voluntary National Review in Uyo

Emporium Reporters

As part of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs) has convened a regional consultation in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, bringing together key stakeholders across the South-South region. The consultation served as a platform for government officials, civil society organisations, the private sector, academia, and marginalised groups to assess progress, identify challenges, and share best practices in the implementation of the SDGs. In a statement by…

Gov Okpebholo approves N1bn Soft Loan for Edo Market Women to Mark International Women’s Day

Lukman Laleye Babalola

As part of activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved N1 billion in soft loans for market women across the state to boost their businesses and improve their livelihoods.   Governor Okpebholo made the announcement while declaring open an event commemorating the global celebration at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, on Friday.   He lauded Edo women for their steadfastness, dedication, and contributions to the state’s development, stressing that his administration remains committed to empowering women and promoting gender…

OF AKPABIO, NATASHA, AND SENATE’S “CIRCUS SHOW” BY Bolaji Afolabi

Emporium Reporters

Many years back as teenagers in Kaduna, which by the way was the political capital of the (then) Northern region, the writer and group of friends, school mates, and play-mates had pleasant taste of access to modernity. Even as children of middle-class parents who were either civil servants, or in the semi, and informal sectors, basic necessities were readily available and accessible; not what is prevalent today. We spent hours playing street football, and devoting quality time on the tracks, and indoor sports hall of the magnificent Ahmadu Bello stadium,…

MUSLIM RIGHTS CONCERN (MURIC) ABUJA CHAPTER Water Sadaqah Project 2025

Emporium Reporters

In the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan, MURIC Abuja Chapter launches the Water Sadaqah Project — a noble initiative to provide clean drinking water to underserved rural communities across Abuja and its environs.   Project Objectives: 1. Alleviate Water Scarcity: Deliver clean, safe drinking water to communities in need, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.   2. Support Vulnerable Populations: Focus on rural communities including Kuje, Abuja Municipal, Gwagwalada, Abaji, Gwali, and Bwari Area Councils.   3. Uphold MURIC’s Philosophy: Demonstrate our commitment to supporting the oppressed, feeding…

The Suspension Of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan: A Test Of Democratic Ethics And The Rule Of Law. An Unbiased Democratic Advocacy Write-up from HallowMace Foundation Africa.

Emporium Reporters

The recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate has sparked widespread debate and raised critical questions about the principles of democracy, ethical governance, and the rule of law. The six-month suspension, which was recommended by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, and adopted in plenary, has been met with mixed reactions. While the Senate claims the suspension is a consequence of Senator Natasha’s alleged violation of Senate rules, many observers see it as a politically motivated move that undermines democratic principles and due…

Nigeria to Host 2026 World Public Relations Forum: A Triumph for Dr. Ike Neliaku Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon

Emporium Reporters

In an exhilarating development for the African public relations structure, Nigeria has been selected as the host country for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF). This significant win reflects not only Nigeria’s growing influence in the global communication arena but also highlights the visionary leadership of Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a prominent figure in the public relations industry. The selection of Nigeria to host the WPRF is a historic moment for the nation, marking its emergence as…