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FEC: Tinubu, Ministers flop, recite old Nigeria’s national anthem

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President Tinbu

President Bola Tinubu and members of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, were heard reciting Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” during a Federal Executive Council meeting, despite the Federal Government’s reinstatement of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s official anthem.

 

The incident was captured in a video from the FEC meeting that circulated on Monday.

 

In the footage, President Tinubu and several ministers were seen reciting “Arise, O Compatriots,” the anthem that ceased to be Nigeria’s official national anthem after the President signed the National Anthem Act, 2024, into law on May 29, 2024.

 

The legislation restored “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the anthem first used at Nigeria’s independence in 1960, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been adopted in 1978.

 

The video has sparked questions over why the former anthem was used during an official government meeting more than two years after the policy change.

 

As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued any official explanation regarding the recitation of the old national anthem during the FEC meeting.

BREAKING: NIMC enrols 136m Nigerians, residents as new Act takes effect

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The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has successfully enrolled more than 136 million Nigerians and legal residents into the National Identity Database (NIDB).

In a statement on Tuesday by the Commission’s spokesperson, Dr Kayode Adegoke, NIMC Director-General, Engr Abisoye Coker-Odusote, announced this milestone during the Commission’s courtesy visit to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. The visit forms part of ongoing stakeholder engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) regarding the implementation of the new NIMC Act.

Engr. Coker-Odusote presented the new Act, which repeals and replaces the 2007 legislation. The updated framework modernises Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem by positioning the National Identification Number (NIN) as the foundational identifier under the “one person, one identity” policy. It establishes NIMC as the root certificate authority for the national digital infrastructure and introduces robust data protection and cybersecurity measures, as well as digital credentials.

The Director-General reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enrolling and issuing NINs to all Nigerians and legal residents within the shortest possible time. She expressed NIMC’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on leveraging the NIN for economic planning and national development initiatives. She also extended appreciation to the Honourable Minister, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, for his leadership and support in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

In his remarks, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s full commitment to the successful implementation of the NIMC Act 2026. He described the legislation as a transformative milestone that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem and accelerate national planning and development.

 

The Minister commended the Director-General and the leadership of NIMC for their sustained efforts in securing the passage of this landmark legislation. He noted that the Act provides a solid legal foundation for a trusted, secure, and inclusive national identity management system.

 

Senator Bagudu emphasised that the true measure of the Act’s success will lie in its effective implementation and the tangible benefits delivered to citizens. He called for stronger collaboration across federal, state, and local governments to build public confidence in the national identity system and eliminate the duplication of identity databases across government institutions.

 

“The National Identification Number (NIN) should serve as Nigeria’s single, universally accepted identity standard, supporting efficient service delivery and good governance,” the Minister stated.

 

 

 

Nigerian govt directs harmonised approach to internet regulation, online intermediaries

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The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has directed for regulatory status quo be maintained on matters relating to the regulation of Internet platforms, online intermediaries and other cross-cutting digital economy issues, pending the development of a harmonised national policy and governance framework.

The decision follows a high-level strategic meeting convened by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, with the leadership of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

 

The meeting recognised that Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy has naturally created areas where the statutory responsibilities of sector regulators intersect. While each institution possesses clearly defined mandates under its enabling legislation, the convergence of telecommunications, digital platforms, artificial intelligence, online safety and data governance requires a coordinated whole-of-government approach to policy development and implementation.

 

The Honourable Minister noted that regulatory coordination is not only essential to preserving legal certainty but is also fundamental to promoting investment, innovation, consumer confidence and Nigeria’s long-term competitiveness as Africa’s leading digital economy.

 

Following deliberations, the Honourable Minister issued the following policy directives:

 

The existing regulatory status quo shall be maintained with respect to matters relating to Internet platforms, online intermediaries and other cross-cutting digital economy issues currently undergoing inter-agency policy harmonisation under the ministry’s coordination.

 

Relevant agencies are to defer the implementation or enforcement of any recently issued regulation, code, guideline, framework, directive or administrative requirement relating to Internet platforms, online intermediaries or other cross-cutting digital economy matters to the extent that such provisions concern areas currently undergoing policy harmonisation under the ministry’s coordination.

 

The above direction is without prejudice to the statutory responsibilities of the respective institutions. Accordingly, all other provisions of existing regulations, guidelines, codes and directives that fall squarely within the express mandates of the relevant agencies under extant laws shall remain fully operational and enforceable, provided they are consistent with the policy direction issued by the Honourable Minister.

 

The Ministry shall establish a Joint Technical Coordination Committee comprising representatives of the Nigerian Communications Commission, the National Information Technology Development Agency and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission under the leadership of the Office of the Honourable Minister. The Committee will coordinate technical engagements, undertake broad consultations with industry, civil society, academia and other stakeholders, and develop recommendations for a harmonised national policy and governance framework.

 

The ministry reaffirmed that the objective of the harmonisation exercise is not to diminish the statutory mandates of any institution but to ensure that the government speaks with one coherent voice on cross-cutting digital economy issues through a coordinated, predictable and future-ready regulatory framework.

 

The harmonised framework will clearly delineate institutional responsibilities, eliminate unnecessary regulatory overlap, reduce compliance uncertainty, strengthen investor confidence, promote innovation and ensure that Nigeria’s regulatory architecture supports the country’s ambition to become Africa’s leading digital economy and a globally competitive destination for digital investment.

 

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy remains committed to working collaboratively with all relevant institutions and stakeholders to develop aligned policies that protect citizens, foster innovation, strengthen digital trust and position Nigeria for sustained leadership in the global digital economy.

Spotify: Nigeria’s Burna Boy becomes first African artist to surpass 50 million monthly listeners 

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Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has become the first African artist to surpass 50 million monthly listeners in Spotify history.

The Gbona crooner hit the 50 million mark on Monday July 6th, setting an all-time African record.

 

Burna Boy’s streams are primarily driven by his World Cup song with Shakira, ‘Dai Dai,’ which has topped the Spotify Global Top Songs chart for days.

 

The song continues to break streaming records amid the ongoing FIFA World Cup with Shakira recently hitting 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the first time in her career and the second Latino artist to achieve the milestone after Bad Bunny.

 

‘Dai Dai’ also recently made history as the first music video to surpass 300 million views on YouTube in 2026.

 

 

 

 

Headline:

Burna Boy becomes first African artist to surpass 50 million monthly Spotify listeners

 

Writing

Nigerian music star Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has made history by becoming the first African artist to surpass 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

 

The ‘Gbona’ crooner reached the milestone on Monday, setting a new record for an African artiste on the streaming platform.

 

The achievement has been largely driven by the success of his FIFA World Cup collaboration with Shakira, titled Dai Dai, which has dominated Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart for several days.

 

The song has continued to shatter streaming records during the ongoing FIFA World Cup. It also contributed to Shakira reaching 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the first time in her career, making her only the second Latino artist, after Bad Bunny, to achieve the feat.

 

In another milestone, the music video for Dai Dai recently became the first to surpass 300 million views on YouTube in 2026, further cementing its global success.

Telecoms infrastructure: Details of meeting between NCC, NANS emerge

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EVC NCC, Aminu Maida

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on Nigerian students to actively protect telecommunications infrastructure across the country, describing such facilities as critical national assets that support education, innovation, economic growth and digital connectivity.

 

In a statement by the Commission’s spokesperson, Nnenna Ukoha, on Monday, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, made the call during a courtesy and familiarisation visit by the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to the Commission’s Head Office on Friday in Abuja.

 

The EVC, who was represented by Ukoha, congratulated the newly elected NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, and members of the association’s executive council on their emergence while commending the smooth transition in the leadership of the student body.

 

Dr Maida noted that the longstanding relationship between the NCC and NANS has continued to flourish because of mutual respect, dialogue and constructive engagement and expressed confidence that the current leadership would build on the achievements of its predecessors.

 

The EVC encouraged the student body to remain actively involved in the Commission’s stakeholder engagement processes, particularly public consultations on regulatory and consumer-related initiatives, to ensure that the interests and perspectives of Nigerian students are adequately represented in policy development.

 

Speaking on challenges facing the telecommunications industry, Dr Maida identified vandalism of telecommunications facilities, theft of fibre optic cables and network equipment, destruction of infrastructure, and right-of-way challenges as major factors affecting service delivery across the country.

 

He urged NANS to support ongoing awareness efforts by sensitising students on the importance of safeguarding telecommunications facilities located within and outside educational institutions.

 

“Telecommunications infrastructure remains the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy and plays a crucial role in learning, research, innovation and communication. Students can support national efforts aimed at protecting telecommunications infrastructure through awareness and responsible civic engagement,” he said.

 

The EVC also highlighted several initiatives being implemented by the Commission to advance digital inclusion and create opportunities for young Nigerians. These include the deployment of digital infrastructure through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), the establishment of digital parks in tertiary institutions across the country, and ongoing efforts to support digital learning and innovation.

 

“The Commission is currently consulting stakeholders on a proposed framework that may enable access to certain approved educational platforms under specific conditions without data charges.” He said.

 

On consumer protection, Dr Maida reiterated the NCC’s commitment to ensuring adequate protection of consumers under the regulatory framework while encouraging students to utilise consumer education resources available on the Commission’s website to better understand data management, consumer rights, and complaint resolution mechanisms.

 

Earlier, the President of NANS, Comrade Akinteye, expressed appreciation to the NCC for maintaining a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the student body over the years and commended the commission for its openness to strengthening engagement between the commission and the student body through dialogue and mutual understanding.

 

He acknowledged the role of the NCC in fostering a culture of dialogue and stakeholder engagement, noting that the Commission’s approach has continued to encourage the student body to pursue peaceful and responsible advocacy on national issues.

2026 World Cup: Ronaldo names country that will reach Final after Spain eliminates Portugal 

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YEREVAN, ARMENIA, SEPTEMERT 6, 2025: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying match between Armenia and Portugal at Republican Stadium in Yerevan, September 6, 2025

Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, has backed Spain to reach the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his side’s elimination from the tournament.

Portugal crashed out of the competition after a 1-0 defeat to Spain in their Round of 16 clash.

With the match seemingly destined for extra time, substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner to seal Spain’s place in the quarter-finals.

Reacting after the match, Ronaldo praised the Spanish side, describing them as one of the strongest teams in the tournament.

“We played a good game, the performance was well done,” Ronaldo told reporters.

“We could have done better but Spain are among the best, they will get to the final or close.”

Spain will now take on Belgium in the quarter-finals as they continue their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title.

2026 FIFA World Cup: Lukaku sets historic record as Belgium thrashes USA to reach quarter-finals

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Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after scoring in his side’s emphatic 4-1 victory over the United States in the Round of 16 on Sunday.

The veteran forward came off the bench to score late in the match, becoming the first player to find the net as a substitute in four different FIFA World Cup matches.

Lukaku replaced a teammate in the 67th minute before sealing Belgium’s dominant display with a goal in the 93rd minute, helping his side book a place in the quarter-finals.

His latest strike adds to substitute goals he previously scored against Senegal in the Round of 16, and against New Zealand and Egypt during the group stage.

Belgium will now turn their attention to a blockbuster quarter-final clash against Spain, with Lukaku expected to play a key role as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.

The USA’s defeat comes despite President Donald Trump’s intervention with FIFA to allow Folarin Balogun to feature in the last 16 game against Belgium amid suspension.

PFIPC: It happened to me- Babachir Lawal reveals only reason SGF failed to flag fake agency

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Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has said it was the responsibility of the Office of the SGF to detect and flag issues surrounding the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

 

The chieftain of the African Democratic Congress said an SGF should not ignore such matters, even if some influential figures within the Presidency attempt to sideline the office.

 

His comments come amid growing controversy over the alleged N1.3 billion PFIPC scandal. Nigerian Newssphere had reported that the Nigeria Police Force allegedly detained the father of the council’s director, Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, as investigations into the purported “ghost agency” linked to the Presidency continue.

Adeyemi, who claimed to be the Director-General of the PFIPC, is currently standing trial at the Federal High Court on charges bordering on conspiracy, forgery and impersonation. The Federal Government has listed the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside 10 others, as prosecution witnesses in the case.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Lawal maintained that the SGF’s office should have identified the alleged irregularity before it escalated.

“In my own time, all the 23 agencies that report directly to the SGF, when it’s time to defend their budget, I attended with the MDA that’s going to defend the budget,” he said.

“If that MDA is part of the presidency, that is, it reports to the president through the SGF, the SGF should be able to know, because before it gets to the National Assembly, that budget goes to the SGF in that regard.

“I can tell you, unless there’s a dereliction of duty by the SGF’s office, the responsibility to flag this fake agency would have come from the SGF. But if sometimes, maybe they feel so much sidelined that they don’t care, they just look the other way. But the responsibility to flag that fake agency comes from the SGF’s office. If that happens to me, I’ll go to the president. If you sideline me, I’ll go to the president and protest immediately.”

2026 FIFA World Cup: Spain eliminates Ronaldo’s Portugal to reach Quarter-finals 

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World Cup 2026

Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Portugal 1-0 in a thrilling Round of 16 encounter.

The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time as Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 90th minute, handing Spain a dramatic victory over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

The late strike ended Portugal’s World Cup campaign and secured Spain’s progression to the last eight, where they will continue their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title.

Spain is expected to play winner between USA and Belgium at thd quarters  finals.

Tinubu orders FCCPC to Investigate Google, Meta, X, AI Platforms

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President Tinbu

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate leading global technology companies and Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms over allegations of anti-competitive practices and the unlawful exploitation of content belonging to Nigerian media organisations.

 

The directive follows a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO).

 

In a statement issued on Monday, the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the investigation would examine allegations against major technology firms, including Meta, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, and X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as certain Generative AI platforms operating in Nigeria.

 

According to the statement, the probe is aimed at addressing concerns over anti-competitive conduct, the alleged unauthorised use of news content, and other potentially unfair market practices.

 

The statement read in part: “Big technology companies have come under the radar of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission following allegations of anti-competitive practices, unlawful exploitation of news content, and other potentially unfair market conduct.

 

“Also to be investigated are Generative Artificial Intelligence platforms operating in Nigeria. This is in sequel to a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to FCCPC to look into a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation.”

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