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IK Osakioduwa Cites Personal Conviction for Stepping Down as AMVCA Host in Lagos

Broadcaster ends 11-year run as Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards anchor, says decision guided by faith not dispute

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Broadcaster ends 11-year run as Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards anchor, says decision guided by faith not dispute

Popular media personality IK Osakioduwa has clarified his absence as host of the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) held in Lagos, stating that he stepped aside from the role based on personal convictions and his faith. The announcement came on Monday during an appearance on The Morayo Show, where Osakioduwa addressed public speculation regarding his departure after anchoring the prestigious event for over a decade.

Osakioduwa, who had been the face of the AMVCA since its inception in 2013, did not feature at the 12th edition of the ceremony. His absence raised questions among fans and stakeholders within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Addressing rumours of a possible rift with organisers Africa Magic, the broadcaster dismissed any suggestion of disagreement. He explained that his decision was rooted in a belief that it was time to move on. “This year, I wasn’t destined to host this year. I strongly believe in where God has sent you to be and at the time they sent you to be,” he said.

The AMVCA has grown into one of Africa’s most prominent awards shows, recognising talent across film and television sectors. Osakioduwa’s consistent presence as host helped shape its identity and appeal to viewers across Nigeria and beyond. His withdrawal marks a notable shift for both the organisers and regular attendees who have associated his style with the event’s success.

While affirming his continued respect for Africa Magic, Osakioduwa described the network as his “first love” in television. He maintained that there was mutual admiration between him and the organisers but emphasised that his absence was a matter of timing and purpose rather than conflict.

Africa Magic is yet to issue a statement regarding future hosting arrangements for subsequent editions of the AMVCA. Stakeholders in Nigeria’s creative industry are now watching to see how this development might influence subsequent award ceremonies and whether a new host can sustain audience engagement at similar levels.

The Morayo Show


Source: https://guardian.ng/life/ik-osakioduwa-breaks-silence-on-2026-amvca-absence/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Senate Approves State Police Bill, Forwards Proposal to Constitution Review Committee

Move marks major step in restructuring Nigeria’s security framework as lawmakers weigh amendment of key constitutional provisions

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June 11, 2026

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Move marks major step in restructuring Nigeria’s security framework as lawmakers weigh amendment of key constitutional provisions

The Nigerian Senate on Thursday passed the long-debated state police bill during plenary in Abuja and has referred the proposed legislation to its Constitution Review Committee for further consideration. The move is seen as a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to address insecurity across the country’s states and regions.

The Senate’s decision followed extensive debate on the floor, with lawmakers from both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties contributing to discussions about decentralising policing powers. Passage of the bill signals strong legislative interest in amending the 1999 Constitution to permit states to establish their own police forces, a demand that has gained momentum amid rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence nationwide.

Calls for state police have persisted over the years as many stakeholders argue that Nigeria’s centralised policing structure is inadequate for tackling localised security threats. Proponents contend that empowering states with their own police formations will boost response times and improve intelligence gathering at grassroots level. However, critics warn that state police could be misused by governors against political opponents or lead to inter-state rivalry.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Thursday’s passage as “a bold move towards addressing insecurity within our federating units.” He noted that “the Constitution Review Committee will now engage with all stakeholders including state governments, civil society groups, and security experts before any final amendments are presented for a vote.” The opposition did not immediately issue an official reaction at press time.

The Constitution Review Committee is expected to hold public hearings in coming weeks, after which its recommendations will return to the full Senate for further debate. Any constitutional amendment must secure two-thirds support in both chambers of the National Assembly and approval by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly before it can become law.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886930-senate-passes-state-police-bill-refers-proposed-law-to-constitution-review-committee.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Nigeria Exceeds OPEC Quota as Oil Production Hits 15-Month Peak in May

Recent figures show Nigeria’s daily crude output surpassed OPEC target, easing pressure on federal revenue and foreign reserves

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40 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Recent figures show Nigeria’s daily crude output surpassed OPEC target, easing pressure on federal revenue and foreign reserves

Nigeria’s oil production climbed to its highest level in 15 months in May, with official data showing the country exceeded its Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota for the first time since early 2023. The increase marks a significant boost for Africa’s largest economy, which has been struggling with declining crude revenues and persistent dollar shortages.

According to industry reports released on Thursday, Nigeria pumped more barrels of crude daily than the quota set by OPEC for the month of May. The surge in production follows months of government efforts to curb pipeline vandalism and oil theft, particularly in the Niger Delta region.

The development is expected to provide much-needed relief for federal finances and strengthen the naira by increasing foreign exchange earnings. Nigeria’s oil sector accounts for over 70 percent of government revenue and nearly all export receipts, making production levels a key determinant of economic stability. In recent years, the country has faced repeated shortfalls due to operational challenges and insecurity along major pipelines.

Energy officials welcomed the new figures, describing them as evidence that government interventions are yielding results. No official statement has yet been released by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) or the Ministry of Petroleum Resources regarding how long the trend is expected to last. Oil market analysts noted that consistent output above OPEC quotas could support budget implementation but cautioned that global price fluctuations remain a risk factor.

Stakeholders are now watching to see if Nigeria can sustain these production gains amid ongoing security concerns in oil-producing communities. Further increases may also prompt renewed negotiations with OPEC regarding future output ceilings. For now, improved oil receipts are projected to ease fiscal pressures and support government programmes across all sectors.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/886925-nigeria-surpasses-opec-oil-quota-as-production-hits-15-month-high.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Minister of Interior Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Mark Democracy Day Nationwide

Tunji-Ojo urges Nigerians to uphold democratic values as government offices, banks and schools to close across all states

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51 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Tunji-Ojo urges Nigerians to uphold democratic values as government offices, banks and schools to close across all states

The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday across Nigeria in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day. The announcement was made in Abuja on Thursday by Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.

According to the ministry, the decision is part of efforts to recognise the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic journey and honour those who contributed to the country’s return to civilian rule. All federal and state government offices, schools, banks and many private businesses are expected to remain closed nationwide on Friday as citizens observe the national holiday.

Democracy Day has been officially celebrated on June 12 since 2019, following a policy shift by the Federal Government to acknowledge the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election—widely regarded as the freest and fairest poll in Nigeria’s history. The day also pays tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, who is believed by many Nigerians to have won that election and became a symbol of the struggle for democratic governance.

In his Democracy Day message, Minister Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians and called for reflection on the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists. “As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding… and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,” he stated. He further urged Nigerians to support ongoing efforts towards national unity, peace and development.

The minister assured citizens that Government remains committed to upholding democratic ideals including respect for rule of law and transparency. He added that security agencies would be working closely with his ministry during the holiday period to maintain peace and order throughout all geopolitical zones. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding the announcement.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/fg-declares-june-12-public-holiday-democracy-day-2026-2026061117135419198

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