BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Championship to Jump Off in April

The highly anticipated BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship is set to take place at the Lake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State, from April 3 to 4, 2025.

The championship, backed by BetKing’s sponsorship, marks a major boost for wheelchair basketball, which is rapidly growing into one of Nigeria’s premier para-sports.

Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) expressed profound gratitude to BetKing for their unwavering support.

“On behalf of Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, the entire board, and every stakeholder in the sport, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. When we approached them, it felt as though they were already expecting us. Their immediate willingness to support us shows they truly understand Nigeria’s sports history and the vital role Special Sports have played in the country’s international successes over the years,” he said.

The NWBF President emphasized the need for greater corporate involvement in para-sports, noting that such partnerships complement the government’s ongoing efforts to restructure and revitalize Nigerian sports.

With the National Sports Commission (NSC) leading reforms, he called on more organizations to follow BetKing’s example by investing in adaptive sports.

The championship also serves as an important avenue to scout players for the national team, as Nigeria gears up for the Commonwealth Games qualifiers later this year in South Africa.

The President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances of securing a historic spot at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, crediting BetKing’s support for helping the team build momentum.

The BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship will feature elite wheelchair basketball players from across the country, showcasing their skills and resilience in a competition that promotes inclusivity and celebrates athletic excellence. Fans and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and witness the thrilling display of talent and determination.

UNICAL at 50: Each challenge I see, I confront with solution – VC Prof. Obi

By: Celestine Ukah

The Vice Chancellor University of Calabar, UNICAL, Prof. Florence Obi says she confronts challenges with solutions instead of making it affect development.

Prof. Obi stated this on a live interview on ARISETV still on the mood of celebrating UNICAL at 50 which commenced last weekend with an award of honourary Doctorate Degree to distinguished Nigerians at the main campus in Calabar the Cross Rivers State capital.

The UNICAL VC commended all alumnus of the institution for their support and others who have also shun dedication to improving infrastructure in the university.

Prof. Obi, while expressing deep appreciation for those they honoured who are mostly their alumnus, however cautioned mischievous people not to drag the university into politics of any state as they are not part of any political happening in any state, reiterating that the university of Calabar UNICAL is celebrating their 50th anniversary where they used the opportunity to recognise the contribution of their own distinguished fellows.

You’re an exceptional leader, grassroots mobilizer, mentor, Warri North Boss, Ashima congratulates Diden @62

The Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area, Hon. Festus Ashima congratulates the former Chairman of Warri North LGA, Hon. Michael Diden (AKA) Ejele as he marks his 62nd birthday today March 26, 2025.

Hon. Ashima, while hailing Hon. Evang. Diden described him as an exceptional leader, grassroots mobiliser, mentor and a steadfast advocate for the masses.

The Warri North Council Boss, commended Diden’s lasting impact on his senatorial district and beyond, adding that his guidance and influence has inspired many.

Hon. Ashima in his congratulatory message on behalf of the good people of Warri North Local Government Area acknowledged Diden’s astonishing contributions to the development of Warri North, Delta State as well as his unwavering dedication to public service.

Hon. Ashima wished the former Delta State House of Assemby member, Hon. Diden continued success, good health, and prosperity in the years ahead.

**As Comrade Ovakporunye urges match officials to be professionals, shun sentiment

By Ogo Clarkson

As the inaugural Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda Peace and Unity Cup sets to kick off Saturday, March 29 at the Ughelli Open Soccer Field, Comrade Ovakporunye Fortune of Agbon Kingdom has urged the Local Organizing Committee and ACP Ademola Adebayo, Ughelli Area Commander, to ensure match officials remain impartial and objective.

While addressing attendees during the draws ceremony for the Ughelli Kingdoms Cup, comprising 14 kingdoms, Comrade Ovakporunye emphasized the importance of fair play and sportsmanship. “The match officials should be professionals without sentiment. They must remain objective, especially in a knockout competition like this, where surprise results are expected.”

He advised participating kingdoms to focus on fostering unity and strengthening relationships rather than solely pursuing the winning prize.

The tournament schedule is as follows:

Olomu vs. Uwheru – 10:00 am

Agbon vs. Arhavwarien – 12:00 pm and Agbarho vs. Ogor – 3:00 pm

All matches will be played at the Ughelli General Field.

FG to stop Solar Panel Imports, Encourages Local manufacturing

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to ban the importation of solar panels to promote local manufacturing and accelerate Nigeria’s shift toward clean energy solutions.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, disclosed this during the recent unveiling of the NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja. He explained that the decision aligns with Presidential Executive Order No. 5, which prioritises local content in science, engineering, and technology.

According to Nnaji, Nigeria is making significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure and can meet its solar energy needs locally. He highlighted the role of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and other private manufacturers in driving solar panel production within the country.

“We have lithium in abundance here in Nigeria, so Mr. President is already taking action. The lithium we have will be processed and used as batteries for electric vehicles,” he stated.

Nnaji also projected that expanding local solar panel manufacturing will enable more homes and institutions to transition to off-grid power solutions, reducing dependence on the national grid and fossil fuels.

Regarding concerns about Nigeria’s power supply and its impact on electric vehicle adoption, Nnaji clarified that the country is already deploying mini-grid solutions to enhance energy access.

“We have power. It depends on the source of power we are talking about. Today, if you look at our budget, you will see mini-grids everywhere. In less than four months, hospitals and institutions will be powered by solar,” he said.

The minister emphasised that the government is actively reducing reliance on diesel and petrol-powered energy sources by investing in non-carbon emission infrastructure.

As part of its broader strategy, the government intends to support local manufacturers and ensure that Nigerian-made solar panels become the primary source for domestic and commercial energy solutions.

“With NASENI and other private manufacturers already producing solar panels, we will stop importation and focus on growing our local industry. Soon, most houses will go off-grid. Personally, I have been off-grid for over three years, and it is working,” Nnaji stated.

This move signals a bold step towards energy self-sufficiency, fostering job creation, technological innovation, and a sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

I have never received ₦500 million or any amount from Senate President,Akpabio, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clarifies

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has dismissed as false and malicious the rumors claiming she alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio credited her account with ₦500 million to facilitate a meeting at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. The Kogi Central senator described the claims as a complete fabrication designed to mislead the public and damage her reputation.

In a statement on Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan categorically denied ever making such allegations and emphasized that no such transaction ever took place. “Let me be clear: I have never received ₦500 million or any amount from Senator Akpabio. At no time did I make any statement suggesting such. This is nothing but a deliberate falsehood aimed at causing unnecessary controversy,” she said.

The senator expressed deep concern over the increasing spread of fake news and politically motivated falsehoods, calling on the public to disregard the claims. She warned that the propagation of lies for personal or political advantage poses a significant threat to the country’s democratic values. “It is unfortunate that certain individuals are willing to fabricate such blatant lies. I urge Nigerians to verify information before believing or sharing it,” she added.

Akpoti-Uduaghan also challenged those behind the rumor to provide any credible evidence backing their claims, maintaining that she has always upheld the highest standards of integrity and accountability in public service. “Falsehoods like this are unacceptable. My focus remains on serving my constituents with transparency and dedication, not engaging in baseless distractions,” she stated.

The senator called on security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation and take necessary action against those responsible. She reaffirmed her commitment to the principles of truth and justice, declaring, “Defamation and character assassination should have no place in our society. I am confident that the truth will always prevail.”

Vice Admiral Ibas appoints, Prof. Worika  as Secretary to Rivers State Government

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, has approved the appointment of Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

Ibas said the appointment, which takes immediate effect, follows a rigorous selection process that considered Professor Worika’s extensive experience in academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles.

According to the him, the decision aligns with the broader goal of ensuring peace, stability, and security in Rivers State, in line with the mandate of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu .

Lucky Worike is a Professor of Comparative Petroleum and International Environmental Law and Policy.

Director, Centre for Advanced Law Research, Rivers State University & Professor of Law, Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law, Rivers State University.Ph.D (Dundee, UK); LL.M (Unilag); B.L. (NLS); LL.B (Hons) (Unilag)MNALT; MNBA; MIBA; MCESG, CEL, IUCN; MALSN; CMC; FIMC-Nigeria; MNIArb.

Prof. Worika is an outstanding international lawyer, who demonstrates the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, while striving to achieve results, meeting or exceeding expectations through genuine interest and understanding of institutional/organizational objectives and dedicated to its principles and values.

Professor Worika holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Petroleum law and International Environmental Law and Policy from the University of Dundee in Scotland, UK under a Commonwealth Academic Staff Scholarship administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in London between 1995 and 1999.

He was a post-doctoral researcher at the Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy, at the University of Dundee , Scotland, UK between 1999 and 2000. He holds an LL.M. and LL.B (Hons) degrees from the University of Lagos in 1989 and 1986 respectively; and, was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987. He is widely published and travelled.

He has at various times consulted for Fichtner Consulting Gmbh of Germany, Forster in Nigeria, Oxford Policy Management (OPM) of the UK, United Nations Institute for Advanced Legal Studies (UNU-IALS) in Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), MacArthur Foundation, Niger Delta Human and Environmental Rights Organization (ND-HERO), Rivers State Government of Nigeria, Ministry of Petroleum Resources of Nigeria and the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) in Congo Brazaville, amongst others.

Prof. Worika is a member of various professional associations world-wide, including the International Bar Association (IBA), Climate and Energy Specialist Group (CESG) of the Commission on Environmental Law (CEL), International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Admiralty Law Society of Nigeria (ALSN) to mention a few.

His areas of Specialisation are Comparative Petroleum & International Environmental Law and Policy.

Prof. Worika is widely published in both national and international peer-reviewed journals.

His recent research interest was on the Policies, Laws and Institutional Framework for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Nigeria; and, he has, amongst others, delivered a paper as well as power point presentation to the 45th Senior Executive Course at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos on Climate Change Policy, Law and Institutional Framework.

He is expected to bring in his wealth of experience to the emergency rule in Rivers State.

**Doles out millions of naira for Infrastructural upgrade of Mosques in Warri and Environs

**Ereyitomi’s gesture, first of its kind to us in Warri, Says Spokesman of Muslim Community

The Member House of Representatives, representing Warri Federal Constituency in Delta State, Hon. Chief Dr.Thomas Ereyitomi, on Saturday March 22 hosted Arewa Muslims and other Islamic faithfuls in his constituency to an Iftar dinner in Warri, the commercial hub of the state.

The Islamic faithfuls, including Imams, women and youths, were drawn from the various mosques in Warri Federal Constituency, particularly those in Warri and neighbouring Effurun.

Members of the political class in Warri South, Warri South West and Warri North LGAs, which made up the Warri Federal Constituency, were present at the gathering.

Seated to assist Chief Ereyitomi to host the Muslim Community were business mogul, Evangelist Tony Aderojo, alias TONCO, Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Community Development, Amb Dr. Toyin Agbolayah, Chairman, Warri South LGA, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, his Vice, Mr. Kingsley Edafiadjebre and his Warri South West LGA counterpart, Mrs. Christy Omamofe.

Also, former Chairman of Warri North LGA, Ambassador Adughe Okorodudu, former Vice-Chairman, Warri South West LGA and Senior Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Political Affairs, Mr. Bleson Omadoye, Secretary, Warri South LGA, Mr Emma Nunu, PDP’s Chairman, Warri South, Mr. Richard Pessu, PDP’s Publicity Secretary in Warri South LGA, Mr. Emiko Oghomienor and PDP’s Woman Leader, Warri South West LGA, Ms. Rose Tulu, among other notable personalities, were guests of the federal lawmaker at the Iftar dinner.

In his welcome address, Ereyitomi, urged Muslims to continue to dedicate their time for prayers to Delta State in particular and Nigeria in general, adding that the Ramadan period offers a moment for every Nigerian to reflect and pray for the country.

Chief Ereyitomi, according to excerpts of his speech revealed by his Special Assistant in charge of New Media, Mr. Great Kpenosen, reflected on the significance of Ramadan, which coincides with the Lenten season and called for a deep introspection and reaffirmation of commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

Dr. Ereyitomi, is also the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources, Training Funds, appreciated the Arewa and other Muslim adherents for living in harmony and concord with their hosts and urged them to sustain the tempo.

“Let us try to know that we are a community of one people. Let us try to know that the North, South and West are just for administrative convenience. Let us be united for if we are segregated, we are not helping ourselves and the government at all levels.”

“This sacred month (Ramadan) of reflection and renewal reminds us to choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict and dialogue over discord,” Ereyitomi further implored his guests.

Highlight of the ceremony was a special prayer session for Chief Ereyitomi, his family and constituents by the elated Muslim faithfuls.

They were later treated to a sumptuous Iftar dinner ahead of presentation of Ramadan gifts and cheques for the cash donations to the various mosques in Warri and its neighbourhood.

No fewer than 15 mosques in Warri and Effurun received a cash donation of N1m each from Ereyitomi in aid of Infrastructural upgrade, amidst ecomiums poured on the lawmaker by jubilant recipients.

The appreciative recipients described the gesture variously as “unprecedented and uncommon.”

In his vote of thanks, the spokesman to the Muslim faithfuls, Mallam Ahmed Abdul-Kadiri Shuru, prayed and thanked Ereyitomi for his usual sense of benevolence to the Muslim community in Warri and its environs.

Shuru particularly thanked him for the huge Ramadan gifts and donations he made to them, ìncluding the women, youths and others whom they represented in the visit.

He assured Ereyitomi of their unwavering support and solidarity, now and in the future.

“Permit me to say the truth. We have had some individuals representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja, since the advent of the ongoing political dispensation in 1999
to date. No one has shown such a kind gesture as you, Rt. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi. We thank you for always showing respect and concern for the Muslim community in your constituency, especially the Arewa nucleus of the Islamic faith.”

“No Representative of Warri Federal Constituency has ever invited the Muslim faithfuls to his house to celebrate a Muslim festival. In fact, your own is quite unique because you invited us at a time that every Nigerian needed help. Thank you sir”, Shuru added.

The cheques were presented to beneficiaries by Ereyitomi and his guests.

No matter what society does man and man can never be recognised as couple by God- PST. Faseru

By: Tino Kevwe

The Pastor in Charge of Kingsway International Christian Centre, KICC in Lagos, Nigeria, Pastor Femi Faseru says no matter what the society does man and man can never be recognised as husband and wife by God.

PST. Faseru in his sermon titled. Attributes of a Mother Part 1, took his text from Romans 12

According to the Man of God no man can submit himself like a mother because no man can carry a child like a woman and give birth like a woman as God never destined men to do so.

He stressed that such marriage between man and man is illegal in heaven and not known by God in all aspects.

The KICC Pastor also used the preaching to commend women for their resilience and love in building homes for better society.