Podium Reporters

"I'm a product of democratic process and I will always be on the side of primary. The APC has lost its bearing, its vision and the danger of consensus is implosion." — Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti state

The bar for entry into politics is so low that anybody feel they can just get in and do what they want, and this is the pathway to leadership, and it's disheartening to me personally. - Ismael Ahmed, APC Chieftain

Only f00lish people believe I’m working for Tinubu behind the scenes ~ Kwankwaso says

TRENDING: Basketmouth Blames Society And Blogs For Promoting Scandals Instead Of Real Success LAGOS, NIGERIA: Comedian and filmmaker Basketmouth has expressed his displeasure with how society and media platforms treat success and failure. He stated that people now reward controversy and ignore real achievements. The entertainer made this known in a recent message shared on his Instagram page. He accused some Nigerian blogs of focusing too much on embarrassing moments rather than true hard work. He pointed out that individuals who build successful businesses, create job opportunities, and make a positive impact rarely get the attention they deserve, according to reports monitored by Podium Reporters. Basketmouth noted that bloggers have learned how to turn bad news into top content. He mentioned that a scandal can be the main topic for days, while real success gets very little attention. The filmmaker wondered why people no longer get excited about success stories. He explained that when someone does great things like selling out shows or changing lives, the public stays quiet. However, once there is an embarrassing event, every platform suddenly wants to report it. He questioned when it became a normal thing to celebrate failure. He gave a warning that always highlighting a person's downfall will discourage others from doing great things and achieving their goals. Basketmouth added that a society that loves negative news will raise a generation of people who do not respect hard work, creativity, and good behavior. He stated, "A society that only amplifies failure slowly teaches people that greatness is irrelevant. And that's dangerous." To end his message, the comedian advised Nigerians to change their focus. He urged the public to start celebrating good ideas, discipline, and positive actions instead of always talking about gossip, anger, and the downfall of others.

"Peter Obi is the only Nigerian politician that has the code to reset Nigeria…" — Sergius Ogun

VIDEO: Lagos APC governorship aspirant, Obafemi Hamzat, arrives at the venue of the primary election Today

PROFILE SPOTLIGHT: Meet 39-Year-Old Professor Segun Aina, the newly appointed JAMB Registrar! From serving his NYSC at the very same institution to returning as its youngest-ever leader, Prof. Aina’s trajectory is nothing short of inspiring. 📌 Key Highlights: 🎓 Record Breaker: Attained Professor of Computer Engineering at OAU at just 39. 🌍 Global Expertise: UK-trained with a BEng, MSc, and PhD in engineering & digital signal processing. 💼 Veteran Consultant: Over 15 years of advising NECO, NABTEB, and the VP's Job Creation Unit. He officially takes over the reins from Prof. Is-haq Oloyede on July 31, 2026. #JAMB #SegunAina #EducationInNigeria #NigeriaNews #OAU #PodiumReporters

BREAKING NEWS: Tinubu Appoints 40-Year-Old Professor Segun Aina as New JAMB Registrar ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. According to reports monitored by Podium Reporters, the incoming head of the board will turn 40 years old this July. He takes over from Professor Is-haq Oloyede, whose two terms in office will officially come to an end on July 31, 2026. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga released a statement describing the new appointee as an outstanding academic and systems specialist. He noted that Aina possesses deep experience in managing national examination setups, digital technology setups, and reforms within public sector institutions. Professor Aina earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent. He later obtained both his Master of Science degree in Internet Computing and Network Security and his PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom. Additionally, he completed the Senior Management Programme at the Lagos Business School. The new registrar is a Professor of Computer Engineering at the Obafemi Awolowo University located in Ile-Ife. Interestingly, his professional journey with the board started during his compulsory National Youth Service Corps assignment, where he picked up early experience in handling national admissions and data-driven administrative systems. These early exposures have continued to guide his work in improving examination methods and system efficiency. Professor Aina holds active memberships in multiple professional groups. These include the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the Institution of Engineering and Technology. Onanuga added that President Tinubu expects the newly appointed registrar to apply his extensive experience, deep knowledge, and practical insights to the operations of the examination body. The President expects him to push the vital educational agency to heights that go even beyond the impressive achievements of his predecessor.

UPDATE: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Secures PDP Senatorial Ticket For Kogi Central Ahead Of 2027 OKENE, Nigeria: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is officially the candidate representing the Peoples Democratic Party for the Kogi Central Senatorial District in the upcoming 2027 general elections. This development was confirmed in a public statement released on Thursday in Abuja by her Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mike Idoko, according to reports monitored by Podium Reporters. Idoko explained that loyal party members and supporters took part in an affirmation process that happened at the same time across all the 57 wards within the senatorial district. Following the ward exercises, everyone moved to Kahal Cinema in Okene for the final collation of the results. Party leaders, important stakeholders, and a large crowd of supporters gathered there to witness the successful end of the process. To make sure everything was fair and followed the rules, officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission were present. Members of the press were also there to watch the exercise and promote complete transparency. Shortly after the results were collated, Natasha expressed her gratitude to the party members and her followers. She noted that their actions showed a massive level of trust and unity. She described the event as a clear sign of the confidence the people of Kogi Central have in their shared goal for progress, development, and inclusion. The lawmaker also pointed out that the huge turnout from all the 57 wards proved how committed the party members are to building a stronger democracy. She assured her supporters that she would keep defending the interests of the district and promised to stay closely connected with the local communities. "I accept this responsibility with gratitude and renewed commitment," she noted, adding that with the continued support of the people, her team will remain focused on bringing lasting development, fairness, and new opportunities for everyone in Kogi Central.

"For Jonathan, we must make it clear that he is not barred from contesting, but he will not be allowed to be sworn in for the third term if he wins. The law is the law..." - Babajide Otitoju

UPDATE: UEFA Plans Major Champions League Style Overhaul For 2030 World Cup Qualifiers UEFA is preparing a massive change to the qualification format for the 2030 FIFA World Cup and future European Championships. The football governing body wants to introduce a new system inspired by the Swiss model currently used in the UEFA Champions League. According to reports monitored by Podium Reporters, this new setup will replace the old qualifying groups. Instead, teams will play in a league-style tournament. The main goal is to make matches more competitive and cut down on one-sided games between Europe's strongest and weakest countries. How the New Format Works The new plan divides the competition into different levels based on team rankings: League A: This tier will feature the 36 highest-ranked European national teams, which will be split into three groups of 12. Instead of playing every country home and away, each team will play against six different opponents during the qualification stage. League B: Lower-ranked nations will play in this separate division. Playoff paths will still be included to give these teams a chance to reach major tournaments. While UEFA is still polishing the final details, group winners from League A are expected to get automatic spots in the tournament finals. Impact on the Nations League and 2030 Hosts This reform will also change the UEFA Nations League starting from the 2028-2029 season. The competition will drop its current four-tier system and move to three leagues made up of 18 teams each. In this format, countries will face five different opponents. Spain and Portugal, who are co-hosting the 2030 World Cup along with Morocco, will automatically qualify for the World Cup finals. However, they will still participate in these qualification matches to achieve their Nations League objectives. Official Approval Expected Soon UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin shared that these changes aim to modernize European international football. He noted that the adjustment will happen without disrupting the existing international match calendar. The UEFA executive committee is expected to meet in September to give formal approval to the proposal.

“Delta North APC primary result was manipulated by the state government,I won the election” — Sen. Ned Nwoko

UPDATE: FG Urges Nigerian Startups to Lead African Trade Growth, Announces New Support Programme The Federal Government has stated that the African Continental Free Trade Area is now in its active phase. Nigerian business owners and tech companies have been called upon to take the lead in trading across African borders. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, made this call during the Biashara Africa 2026 forum. She challenged African leaders and business owners to remove old barriers that stop trade and investment within the continent. Moving From Talk to Action Dr. Oduwole, who will soon take over as the Chair of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers, noted that African countries are now turning their promises into real actions. According to reports monitored by Podium Reporters, the minister explained that after years of planning and signing papers, the focus must shift to creating real wealth for citizens and businesses. She praised the Government of Togo for canceling visa requirements for Africans and investors visiting for short trips. She thanked Togo’s President Faure Gnassingbé for the move, adding that making travel easier will help remove the usual government delays that frustrate trade and partnerships. "A significant milestone has been recorded for African economic integration," she noted, calling the visa removal a major breakthrough for mobility and investment. The Role of Businesses The minister made it clear that government rules alone will not make AfCFTA successful. She stressed that digital platforms, manufacturers, and creative business owners must be ready to trade outside their home countries to build strong continental networks. AfCFTA Startup Acceleration Programme 2026 To support this goal, Dr. Oduwole announced a new initiative called the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration Programme 2026. This project is a joint effort between the AfCFTA and the Korea Africa Foundation. Here are the key details of the new programme: Goal: It will help 30 top African startups grow beyond the continent and reach global markets, especially South Korea. Target Sectors: Nigerian startups in financial tech, online selling, delivery networks, farming tech, manufacturing, and digital platforms are encouraged to apply. Deadline: Interested business owners have until May 24, 2026, to send in their applications. The programme will give these businesses the chance to improve their models and get ready for international growth. Why This Matters for Nigeria AfCFTA began official trading in January 2021 and connects 54 African countries into one massive market. However, trade between African nations is still very low because of bad roads, strict visa rules, and poor delivery networks. Experts believe Nigeria will play a major role in fixing these issues. As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria has a massive consumer base, a growing digital space, and many active startups. By joining this new programme and taking advantage of open borders, Nigerian businesses can unlock new export opportunities and rely less on markets outside the continent.

UPDATE: Presidency Approves NCC Request to Review 2003 Telecom Laws for a Better Digital Economy The Federal Government has given the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) the green light to review the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003. This development comes, according to reports monitored by Podium Reporters, as the country seeks to build a stronger and more competitive digital economy. Hadiza Usman, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, shared this information yesterday in Lagos during the National Telecommunications Policy Review Workshop organized by the NCC. She explained that Nigeria cannot succeed in the modern digital space using outdated policies and weak action plans. Usman noted that the Information and Communications Technology sector has changed a lot over the last two decades. Telecom is no longer just about making voice calls. Today, it serves as the backbone for financial technology, digital buying and selling, education, healthcare, agriculture, and national security. "A policy that was fit for purpose in the year 2000 cannot simply be assumed to remain adequate in 2026," Usman stated. She warned that unclear and outdated laws cause poor coordination, discourage investors, and create confusion among government agencies. She advised that the updated policy must focus on making internet access cheaper, expanding broadband reach, improving service quality, protecting consumers, and including rural communities. Usman also called for better teamwork among federal and state governments, local authorities, regulators, and investors. She reminded everyone that the government is now strictly focused on making sure policies are actually put to work to bring measurable results for the citizens. She added that this review is an important national development project tied to economic reforms, rather than just a routine regulatory task. Speaking earlier at the event, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, agreed that the telecom market has grown far beyond the ideas behind the old National Telecommunications Policy of 2000. He mentioned that the old rules were made when Nigeria simply wanted to open up the market and get private companies involved. Today, the sector has grown into a massive digital system that supports banking, entertainment, cloud services, and government operations. Maida pointed out that the industry is now driven by advanced technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence, satellite internet, and cybersecurity. He described the telecom sector as the main support system for the entire Nigerian economy. Maida stressed that the new policy must solve long standing structural problems like fiber cable cuts, vandalism, high energy costs, multiple taxes, and delays in getting permits. These issues directly affect the quality and reach of internet services across the country. He explained that the ongoing workshop aims to find gaps in the current system, listen to experts, and create a solid National Telecommunications Policy for 2026. He urged all stakeholders to work together with open minds to make Nigeria a leading digital economy in Africa.

UPDATE: Tinubu Reveals Death Threats Over New Policies, Promises Better Governance at NADECO Anniversary Lagos, Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu has revealed that powerful individuals unhappy with his removal of fuel subsidies and multiple exchange rates want him dead. The President made this known in Lagos during the book launch of "The NADECO Story" written by Chief Ayo Opadokun. Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba represented the President at the event, which also served as an award ceremony organized by the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). According to reports monitored by Podium Reporters, President Tinubu stated that the people profiting from currency round-tripping are wishing for his death. However, he remains committed to fixing the economy. Tinubu pointed out that the gap between the official and parallel exchange markets is now closed, with the Naira standing around 1,380 to a dollar. He added that he does not want the Naira to become too strong, as this could cause financial trouble for business people who imported goods when the dollar was at 1,500 Naira. The President promised Nigerians a better experience in his second term if re-elected. He noted that he is currently focusing on the economy and security, especially as security challenges are gradually moving into the South West region. He also thanked NADECO members, noting he would not be in power without their past struggles. Untold Stories of the Democratic Struggle Professor Wole Soyinka, who chaired the event, praised Opadokun for writing a truthful book. Soyinka shared a shocking past experience involving the late Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti. He revealed that Beko once obtained a special single-shot weapon that could pass through security detectors, with the intention of assassinating former Head of State General Sani Abacha. Soyinka explained that he had to forcefully take the weapon away from Beko to save his life. Olusegun Osoba also shared his personal survival story. He explained that Sergeant Rogers was sent to kill him during the military era. Osoba escaped death because soldiers at a military checkpoint near the Sagamu interchange recognized him and let him pass, causing his attackers to lose track of him. Osoba also cleared up a historical fact. He explained that NADECO was formed in Ikeja at the home of General Adeyinka Adebayo to restore total democracy, not just to fight for the June 12 election. He added that Chief MKO Abiola only joined the group later after returning from South Africa. Honoring Heroes and History Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO's General Secretary, said the event was a historic step to end years of silence and honor those who fought against military oppression between 1994 and 1998. He praised the media, civil rights groups, and foreign diplomats who stood against tyranny. Other notable voices at the event included the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rasheed Ladoja, who prayed for Nigeria's democracy to last. Veteran actress Joke Silva praised the deep sacrifices made during the NADECO days. Professor Sylvester Odion-Akhaine reviewed the book, tracing NADECO's roots back to the Committee for Unity and Understanding. Awards and Roll Call The event featured special awards for media houses that played brave roles during the military era. The recognized media organizations included: Vanguard Newspapers The Guardian Punch Concord Tell The News Classique Posthumous honors were given to past NADECO leaders and supporters, including Michael Ajasin, Abraham Adesanya, Arthur Nwankwo, Anthony Enahoro, Beko Ransome-Kuti, Kudirat Abiola, and Alfred Rewane. The gathering attracted many respected elders and activists, including: Mr. Sam Amuka Professor Anya O Anya Dr. Ogaga Ifowodo Mr. Akin Omojola Chief Fred Agbeyegbe Professor Anthony Kila Mr. Labaran Maku Dr. Olisa Agbakoba Chief Solomon Asemota Senator Bode Olajumoke Mr. Wale Oshun Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin Mr. Lade Bonuola Dr. Obi Nwakanma Mrs. Jumoke Anifowoshe Mr. Wale Adeoye

BREAKING: Rivers Governor Fubara Withdraws from APC Primaries, Pledges Support for Party Candidate

VIDEO: Socialite Cubana Chiefpriest flaunted a brand-new Lexus LX 700 luxury SUV. Inside sources allege the multi-million naira vehicle was gifted to him by the APC as a consolation package following his loss in the party's House of Representatives primary election.

Q: Have you seen that some people are saying you’re working for Bola Tinubu? Kwankwaso: I think only foolish people would believe that. They have been saying it, especially when we are in NNPP. Now, they will realize we are very serious people.

"Everybody that constituted the leadership at the top sat me down, and when your elders are talking to you, you have to listen. You can't work in isolation. — Samuel Ajose, Lagos APC governorship aspirant, speaking on withdrawing from the 2027 race.

BREAKING: Tonye Cole has withdrawn from the Rivers State APC governorship primary scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday).