Nigeria News (Standard)
Oyo Police Arrest Two Suspected Cultists, Recover Locally Made Pistol and Cartridges in Oke-Apo
Command says operation follows intelligence on cult violence; suspects allegedly linked to Eiye Supremo Confraternity activities
Command says operation follows intelligence on cult violence; suspects allegedly linked to Eiye Supremo Confraternity activities
Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command have arrested two suspected cultists and recovered a locally fabricated pistol along with live ammunition during a targeted operation in Oke-Apo area of Oyo town. The arrest took place on Monday, 17 June, as part of ongoing efforts by the police to tackle cult-related violence and criminal activity within the state.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspects—Oparemi Kabiru, popularly called ‘Ikebe’, and Fasasi Taofeek, also known as ‘Bufalo’—were apprehended by the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) after credible intelligence linked them to activities threatening public peace. The search conducted on the duo led to the recovery of one locally made pistol and two live cartridges.
The police said preliminary investigations indicate that both suspects are alleged members of the Eiye Supremo Confraternity, a group believed to be responsible for several violent incidents in Oyo town and surrounding communities. The Command further stated that the suspects have confessed to participating in multiple criminal operations within the area.
Ayanlade described the arrests as part of an intensified crackdown against cultism and other violent crimes in Oyo State. He assured residents that security agencies remain committed to restoring peace and safety. “We urge members of the public to continue providing timely information that can assist law enforcement in curbing crime,” he said in his statement shared with journalists.
As at press time, police investigations are ongoing while efforts are being made to apprehend other suspected accomplices still at large. The Command reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with community leaders and stakeholders across Oyo State to ensure lasting security.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Fidson PLC Donates Theatre Pharmacy to FMC Asaba, Boosts Health Infrastructure in Delta
Donation aims to improve surgical care at Federal Medical Centre Asaba, as hospital management commends pharmaceutical firm’s gesture
Donation aims to improve surgical care at Federal Medical Centre Asaba, as hospital management commends pharmaceutical firm’s gesture
Fidson Healthcare PLC has donated a fully equipped theatre pharmacy to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Asaba, Delta State, on Friday, 19 June 2026. The pharmaceutical company’s intervention is expected to enhance the hospital’s capacity for efficient drug dispensation and patient care during surgeries.
The handover ceremony took place at the FMC Asaba complex, where representatives of Fidson PLC officially presented the facility to hospital management. According to officials present at the event, the new pharmacy is designed to provide immediate access to essential drugs and medical supplies within the surgical theatre environment.
The donation comes as hospitals across Nigeria continue to grapple with shortages of critical medical infrastructure and supplies. The new theatre pharmacy is expected to address bottlenecks that have previously delayed surgeries due to unavailability of drugs within the operating suite. Hospital administrators noted that such interventions from private sector partners are vital for improving service delivery in federal health institutions.
Speaking at the occasion, representatives of FMC Asaba expressed gratitude for Fidson’s support. They said the facility would go a long way in boosting operational efficiency and patient outcomes during surgical procedures. “This gesture from Fidson PLC will significantly reduce turnaround time for surgeries and help save lives,” one official remarked.
The management of FMC Asaba said it looks forward to further collaborations with private organisations aimed at bridging healthcare gaps in Delta State and beyond. Stakeholders urged other corporate bodies to emulate Fidson’s example by supporting public health facilities with similar initiatives.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Education Minister Commends UNIBEN’s ₦100bn Sustainable Funding Drive in Edo State
Federal government says initiative will boost university autonomy and research as sector faces funding shortfalls nationwide
Federal government says initiative will boost university autonomy and research as sector faces funding shortfalls nationwide
The Minister of Education has praised the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State for launching a ₦100 billion sustainable funding initiative aimed at strengthening the institution’s financial base. The minister gave the commendation on Friday, describing the move as a significant step towards ensuring long-term stability and academic excellence at one of Nigeria’s foremost universities.
According to details released by UNIBEN management, the funding drive is designed to attract resources from alumni, private sector partners, and other stakeholders to address infrastructural needs and support research activities. The university said this approach is intended to reduce over-reliance on federal allocations, which have been shrinking due to competing national priorities and economic challenges.
Nigeria’s public universities have faced repeated disruptions caused by underfunding, often resulting in strikes and delayed academic calendars. Experts in the education sector say innovative funding models like UNIBEN’s could set an example for other institutions struggling with budgetary constraints. The government has repeatedly called for universities to seek alternative revenue sources as part of broader reforms.
The education minister noted that such efforts are key to achieving greater institutional autonomy and improved standards across Nigeria’s higher education landscape. “This initiative shows the commitment of UNIBEN leadership to finding homegrown solutions,” he said during an official visit. The university administration also urged its alumni network and corporate organisations to support the fund for lasting impact.
Stakeholders expect that if successful, UNIBEN’s ₦100 billion project could encourage similar drives at other federal and state universities. Government said it will continue working with institutions seeking creative pathways out of persistent funding shortfalls.
Nigeria News (Standard)
UniCal Set to Host 50,000 Athletes for 2026 NUGA Games, Says Vice-Chancellor
University of Calabar targets record turnout as preparations begin; stakeholders emphasise infrastructure and security needs
University of Calabar targets record turnout as preparations begin; stakeholders emphasise infrastructure and security needs
The University of Calabar (UniCal), Cross River State, has announced plans to host an estimated 50,000 athletes and officials during the 2026 edition of the Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Games. The Vice-Chancellor disclosed this in Calabar on Friday, stating that the institution is gearing up for what is expected to be one of the largest gatherings in the history of university sports in Nigeria.
According to UniCal management, preparations are already underway to ensure that facilities meet national standards ahead of the event. The Vice-Chancellor noted that the university will collaborate with state authorities and key stakeholders to upgrade hostels, sporting arenas, and other essential infrastructure required to accommodate thousands of participants from tertiary institutions across the country.
This development is significant for both UniCal and Cross River State, as hosting NUGA typically brings substantial economic activity and national attention. Past editions of the games have spurred local business growth and created temporary job opportunities within host communities. With a projected attendance surpassing previous records, there are heightened expectations regarding logistics, athlete welfare, and security arrangements.
University authorities have emphasised their commitment to delivering a successful tournament. The Vice-Chancellor said efforts would focus on improving security measures on campus and providing adequate medical facilities for athletes. He called on government agencies and corporate partners to support the university in its preparations, noting that such collaboration is essential for a smooth event.
As preparations intensify, UniCal is expected to unveil further details about schedules, participating universities, and volunteer opportunities in coming months. Stakeholders hope that successful hosting will reinforce Nigeria’s reputation for collegiate sports excellence while boosting economic prospects in Cross River’s South-South region.
