ARISE News Channel has announced the tragic passing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly known as “Sommie,” a beloved news anchor, reporter, and producer, who died during an armed robbery incident at her Abuja residence on September 29, 2025.
At just 29, Sommie was celebrated not only for her vibrant voice on television but also as a lawyer, colleague, and friend who left a lasting impact on many. ARISE News has extended condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones while calling for a swift investigation and justice for her death.
As political calculations ahead of the 2027 governorship election intensify in Kwara State, fresh concerns are emerging within APC circles over Senator Saliu Mustapha’s growing ambition and the implications for party unity.
The article questions the rapid rise of Mustapha’s political influence, raising concerns about the source of his financial strength, his past political alignments during the APC presidential primaries, and alleged links with opposition interests in the state. It argues that the APC risks “political suicide” if it allows propaganda, endorsements and media narratives to overshadow deeper scrutiny of aspirants seeking the party’s ticket.
The piece also highlights tensions between Mustapha’s camp and the political structure associated with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, warning that internal divisions could weaken the party ahead of 2027. It calls on President Bola Tinubu and APC leaders to rigorously examine the credibility, loyalty and political consistency of all aspirants before making strategic decisions.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
As political alignments ahead of the 2027 governorship election begin to take shape in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli is increasingly being seen within APC circles as a leading contender for Agodi Government House.
Party stakeholders view the Oyo South senator as a stabilising figure capable of uniting rival blocs and reducing post-primary divisions that have previously hurt the APC. His growing appeal is built on a combination of administrative experience, grassroots visibility, legislative exposure and a relatively controversy-free public image.
From his time as local government chairman and Secretary to the State Government to his current role in the Senate, supporters argue that Alli possesses the institutional knowledge and political maturity needed to navigate Oyo’s complex political terrain. Analysts also say his “Omoluabi” image, accessibility and emphasis on governance over political theatrics are resonating with both party elites and ordinary voters.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
Nigeria’s crude oil production climbed to 99.2% of its 1.5 million barrels per day OPEC quota in April 2026, driven by a sharp reduction in pipeline vandalism and stronger collaboration with host communities.
According to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, output rose by 7.58%, while the Trans Niger Pipeline recorded zero infractions during the period. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited also reported about N276 billion profit after tax for March, citing higher oil and gas production.
Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), responsible for surveillance along the Trans Niger Pipeline and Eastern Gas Network, credited the gains to improved security cooperation, intelligence gathering and stakeholder engagement. Traditional rulers in Rivers State praised the company for restoring stability, reducing sabotage and supporting local communities through scholarships and empowerment programmes.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under a new alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM).
Speaking at a massive rally in Ibadan’s historic Mapo Hall, Makinde warned that Nigeria was drifting towards a one-party state under the APC, insisting that democracy could only survive through a strong and united opposition. He accused the ruling party of weakening opposition voices and called on Nigerians to reject political apathy and actively shape the country’s future.
The declaration followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between PDP and APM leaders as part of broader coalition talks ahead of 2027. Supporters described the alliance as a fresh political force aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu and offering Nigerians an alternative direction amid growing concerns over the economy and security.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for stronger collaboration with the judiciary to tackle rising attacks on telecoms infrastructure threatening Nigeria’s digital economy.
Speaking at a two-day workshop for judges in Lagos, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida warned that persistent vandalism, fibre cuts, theft and sabotage could undermine the sector’s gains, despite broadband penetration rising from 47.7% in 2025 to 54.3% in 2026. He noted that telecom infrastructure has now been designated Critical National Information Infrastructure by President Bola Tinubu, requiring nationwide protection.
NCC Board Chairman Idris Olorunimbe urged the judiciary to “move at the speed of 5G” in addressing digital-era crimes, while judicial leaders stressed the growing importance of court decisions in balancing security, regulation, privacy and digital rights.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s support for initiatives aimed at strengthening professionalism, skills development and quality standards in Nigeria’s growing event industry.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Association of Professional Party Organizers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN), the governor praised event professionals for their role in driving economic activities and enriching Lagos’ social and cultural landscape. He stressed the importance of safety, competence, continuous training and adherence to global best practices to sustain industry growth and public trust.
APPOEMN President Ayiri Oladunmoye said the association is committed to building a globally competitive event industry through training, certification, advocacy and strategic partnerships capable of boosting tourism, employment and national development. The group also honoured Sanwo-Olu with an award of excellence for his support of the creative and hospitality sectors.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
Billionaire investor Femi Otedola has deepened his influence in First HoldCo Plc after acquiring 549.5 million shares worth N43.4 billion through Calvados Global Services Limited. The deal, executed at N79 per share, significantly increases his stake in the financial institution and signals strong confidence in the group’s long-term prospects.
The acquisition comes despite First HoldCo reporting a sharp decline in 2025 earnings, with profit before tax falling 72% to N220.28 billion amid soaring impairment charges of N826.3 billion and rising operating expenses.
Analysts say the aggressive investment sends a powerful signal to the market as Nigeria’s banking sector undergoes recapitalisation. The group also announced the appointment of Dr. Julius Omodayo-Owotuga as Executive Director to strengthen governance, finance and transformation efforts.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump have agreed on a “new vision” for a constructive China-US relationship focused on strategic stability, economic cooperation and global security following high-level talks in Beijing.
Xi urged both nations to act as “partners, not rivals,” warning that mishandling the Taiwan issue could trigger serious conflict between the world’s two largest economies. He also stressed that trade wars produce no winners and called for equal-footed dialogue to sustain improving economic ties.
The White House described the meeting as positive, highlighting discussions on expanding market access, boosting investment and maintaining stability in global energy routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. The talks also drew top US business leaders and signalled a possible reset in relations after years of tension.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
President Bola Tinubu has charged APC leaders, governors and party stakeholders to ensure fairness, transparency and inclusion as the ruling party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general election.
In a statement released before the exercise, Tinubu described the primaries as a test of the APC’s unity, resilience and democratic values. He encouraged consensus arrangements where possible but insisted that direct primaries should hold where agreements fail.
The president warned against “do-or-die politics,” urging winners to remain humble and losers to seek redress through party channels. He also called for special consideration for women and youths while directing security agencies to remain neutral and professional throughout the process.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
The federal government has announced that Nigeria’s long-delayed Digital Switch Over (DSO) project is finally complete and will be rolled out nationwide on June 17, 2026. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting would transform television viewing, advertising and content production across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
According to the government, the new DSO platform will provide free, cleaner and high-definition television services, while also introducing reliable audience measurement tools for broadcasters and advertisers. NBC Director-General Charles Ebuebu revealed that 100 TV channels will be available at launch, with six regional studios already established to support local content creators nationwide.
Officials also said the new system resolves past challenges linked to expensive encrypted set-top boxes, making access more affordable and flexible for viewers.
Read more on thisdaylive.com
