News
Gov. Bello Upgrades stool of Oba of Ekirin-Ade to a first class status after Coronation
The Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello on Saturday attended the coronation of the Akinrin of Ekinrin Oba Johnson Kolade-Otitoju where he re affirmed his respect for the traditional institution in the state and particularly Ekirin-Ade, a community he described as peaceful and courageous.
At the occasion, the Governor also directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Deedat Ozigi to immediately commence the process of upgrading the stool of the Oba of Ekirin-Ade to a first class status noting that for fairness, justice and equity which his government represents, the community deserved such recognition.
Governor Bello congratulated the newly coronated traditional ruler, who he recalled to be a pioneer teacher at Abdul-Azeez Atta Memorial College, Okene describing him as a disciplinarian while also attesting that the Royal Father have lived a fulfilled life with point of reference to successful wards the Oba has raised.
While assuring the Royal Father of continued support from the government, he noted that Ekirin-Ade would benefit from several of his administration’s plan for the traditional institution including the plan by the Ministry of LGA and chieftaincy Affairs to give traditional palaces a befitting appearance across the state.
The governor also used the occasion to congratulate Kogi West senatorial district whom he described as great lovers of education over the recent approval of the establishment of Kogi State University, Kabba. He also thanked the citizens for their efforts and cooperation towards the actualisation of this long desired aspiration by the people of the region.
He pointed out that his government was solely interested in ensuring that the people make progress and they feel the impact of good governance while he again appreciated the traditional institution for their support and encouragement which he noted has compelled his government to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.
In his vote of thanks, Veteran journalist and son of the coronated traditional ruler, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju thanked the governor and his entourage for gracing the occasion to rejoice with the community and gift such a pleasant surprise of the stool upgrade.
He noted that the governor made the occasion a memorable one adding that his good deeds would continue to be remembered in the history of the state.
The Governor was accompanied to the event by the November 11 Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressive Congress, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, his Chief of Staff, Pharm. Abdulkareem Jamiu, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Deedat Ozigi, State Accountant General, Alhaji Jubril Momoh as well as other top government functionaries.
News
JAMB releases Thursday’s UTME results
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the results of candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination on Thursday, April 16, 2026, with a total of 632,788 results now available for viewing.
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
JAMB clarified that at this stage, candidates can only view their results, as printing options are not yet available.
It also issued a strong warning against attempts to manipulate or alter result messages received from official channels, stressing that such actions constitute a criminal offence.
The Board added that it is already taking action against offenders, revealing that some suspects are currently in custody.
“Currently, two candidates and one parent are in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means. Any candidate found culpable will face the full consequences of the law,” it stated.
News
Arise TV Deputy Director News Win Editor of The Year Award
The award’s: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Deputy Director of News, Arise TV, Ohi OIdiai, has won Editor Of The Year 2026 Awards category, courtsey of The Industry Newspaper.
In a statement, the organiser said that the award was: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Details later…
News
JUST IN: Tinubu Signs ₦68.32 Trillion 2026 Budget
……Extends 2025 Implementation to June 30
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given assent to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, approving a record aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the fiscal year.
The President also signed legislation extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget specifically its capital component from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
According to details of the new budget, ₦4.799 trillion is allocated for statutory transfers, while debt service is pegged at ₦15.8 trillion. Recurrent expenditure stands at ₦15.4 trillion, with the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure receiving ₦32.2 trillion.
Capital spending thus accounts for approximately 50 percent of the total budget, reflecting the administration’s focus on infrastructure development, national security, economic stability, and inclusive growth.
A statement from the State House described the allocations as striking a strategic balance between mandatory obligations, debt servicing, day-to-day government operations, and productive capital investments aimed at boosting productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
President Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which formally extends the 2025 capital projects window. Officials said the extension will allow Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to complete advanced-stage infrastructure and development projects, improve execution rates, and deliver better value for public funds.
The 2026 Appropriation Act takes effect from April 1, 2026, paving the way for full implementation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President has directed all MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient use of resources, with strict emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.
President Tinubu commended the National Assembly for its swift consideration and passage of the budget, describing it as a demonstration of diligence, cooperation, and patriotism.
He reaffirmed the need for continued collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches to advance national development goals.
The President further assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to deepening fiscal reforms, boosting revenue generation, stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening social protection programmes.
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, on April 17, 2026.
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