Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Celebrities Honour Late Alexx Ekubo at Service of Songs, Gospel Ministers Lead Tributes
Nollywood stars, musicians and business figures gather as IK Ogbonna delivers emotional speech; wake-keep set for June 17 in Abia State
Nollywood stars, musicians and business figures gather as IK Ogbonna delivers emotional speech; wake-keep set for June 17 in Abia State
Friends, family and top figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry gathered at The Monarch Event Centre, Lekki, Lagos, on Wednesday night to honour late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo during his service of songs. The event, which marked the commencement of burial rites for the actor who died on May 11, 2026, after a battle with kidney cancer, saw an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues and loved ones.
The service was filled with worship sessions led by renowned gospel artists including Mercy Chinwo, Nathaniel Bassey, Peterson Okopi, Ebuka Songs and Kaestrings. Pastor Jerry Eze was also present at the event. The night featured musical performances and prayers as attendees dressed in white paid their respects.
Among those present were Nollywood stars such as Funke Akindele, Kate Henshaw, Ini Edo, Nancy Isime and Ruth Kadiri. Media personalities like Ebuka Obi-Uchendu and Toke Makinwa joined business moguls including Cubana Chief Priest and E-money in showing support. Other notable attendees included AY Makun, Annie Idibia with her daughter Isabel, Yvonne Jegede, Chike, Yomi Casual, Frank Edoho, Mary Remmy-Njoku, Blessing Obasi, Stan Nze, Bam Bam and Kcee.
The evening was marked by several emotional moments. Actress Shaffy Bello visibly walked out of the venue when approached by reporters for comments about the late actor—a reaction that quickly circulated online. In another incident reported at the event, actress Bam Bam had her phone stolen during proceedings.
The most heartfelt tribute came from IK Ogbonna—Ekubo’s close friend—who described their deep friendship and the late actor’s enduring concern for others even during his illness. “There will never be another Alex,” Ogbonna said while recalling how Ekubo encouraged him to draw closer to God even in his final days.
According to organisers, a wake-keep will hold on June 17 in Ekubo’s home state of Abia (South-East), followed by his burial scheduled for June 18. As industry colleagues continue to pay their respects online and offline, the outpouring at Wednesday’s service demonstrates Ekubo’s impact across entertainment and business circles in Nigeria.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/alexx-ekubo-service-of-songs-celebrities-attendance-2026061109401729451
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ibadan Analyst Warns Unregulated Security Outfits May Undermine National Stability
Angel Folorunso urges compliance with Private Guard Companies Act as Iru Ekun network proposal raises concerns
Angel Folorunso urges compliance with Private Guard Companies Act as Iru Ekun network proposal raises concerns
A political analyst and former lecturer, Angel Folorunso, has cautioned that the unchecked spread of unregulated private security outfits in Nigeria could pose new security risks and threaten national stability. Folorunso made this warning on Tuesday in Ibadan, Oyo State, through a statement addressing recent calls for alternative security arrangements amid rising insecurity.
The analyst specifically referenced the proposed Iru Ekun security network championed by Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo (popularly known as Sunday Igboho), stressing that any group operating outside established legal frameworks might inadvertently create parallel security structures. According to Folorunso, although the worsening state of insecurity across the country has led to increased public demand for community-based or private security solutions, such initiatives must strictly adhere to existing legislation.
Folorunso explained that Nigeria’s private security industry is mainly regulated by the Private Guard Companies Act of 1986. This law stipulates that all private security firms must be licensed, wholly Nigerian-owned, and supervised by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). He noted that any deviation from these provisions could worsen the current situation by creating confusion about legitimate authority and accountability.
He further advised stakeholders considering new security organisations to consult relevant laws before launching operations. “We cannot afford a proliferation of groups acting without oversight. It will only add to our existing challenges,” he said in his statement. Folorunso emphasised that government agencies like NSCDC have both supervisory and enforcement roles under the law.
As debates continue over how best to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity, analysts like Folorunso maintain that strict regulation and adherence to legal guidelines remain crucial. There was no immediate response from proponents of the Iru Ekun network at press time.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kano State Implements 90% of Health Blueprint in Three Years, Says Commissioner
Health ministry reports major progress on blueprint targets; stakeholders urge full implementation for improved healthcare delivery
Health ministry reports major progress on blueprint targets; stakeholders urge full implementation for improved healthcare delivery
Kano State government has achieved 90 percent implementation of its health sector blueprint within three years, according to the Commissioner for Health. The announcement was made in Kano on Thursday, highlighting significant progress in ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare services across the North-West state.
According to the commissioner, the state government rolled out the health blueprint as a strategic plan to improve access and quality of healthcare for Kano residents. Over the past three years, targeted interventions have been executed under the plan, including rehabilitation of primary health centres, recruitment of additional personnel, and procurement of essential medical equipment.
The health sector blueprint was introduced to address longstanding challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and human resources in public hospitals. With Kano being one of Nigeria’s most populous states, officials say improved implementation is vital to reducing disease burden and achieving better health outcomes for millions of residents.
The commissioner stated that most objectives set out in the document have now been met or are near completion. “As at today, we can confidently say that about 90 percent of what we mapped out under this blueprint has been achieved,” he said. He noted that the remaining targets will be prioritised before the end of the current administration’s tenure. Stakeholders in Kano’s health sector commended government’s commitment but urged sustained investment to consolidate recent gains.
With these achievements, Kano State hopes to further enhance access to quality healthcare services and serve as a model for other states seeking effective health system reforms. The commissioner assured residents that efforts will continue until full implementation is realised.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Launches New HIV Strategy, Moves to Cut Donor Dependence
Health ministry unveils plan in Abuja, targets increased domestic funding as international support for HIV response declines
Health ministry unveils plan in Abuja, targets increased domestic funding as international support for HIV response declines
The federal government on Thursday unveiled a new national HIV response plan in Abuja, aiming to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on international donors and prioritise increased domestic financing for HIV prevention and treatment programmes. The announcement comes as major external partners gradually scale back funding commitments amid shifting global health priorities.
At the formal launch event, health officials highlighted the urgent need for more sustainable local investment in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The new strategy seeks to mobilise funds from federal and state governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, to address gaps left by declining donor support. According to the health ministry, Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest HIV burden globally, making continued investment critical for public health.
Officials explained that over the past two decades, Nigeria’s HIV response has depended heavily on international donors such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund. However, with foreign assistance now on a downward trend, there is growing concern about the long-term sustainability of treatment and prevention services for millions of Nigerians living with or at risk of HIV.
Speaking at the event, senior health ministry representatives said government is determined to bridge funding gaps by increasing budgetary allocations and encouraging partnerships with private organisations. They emphasised that enhanced domestic commitment will ensure uninterrupted access to antiretroviral drugs and other essential services. However, some public health advocates have called for transparent monitoring of how new funds are allocated and used at all levels.
The health ministry stated it will work closely with state governments and development partners to implement the new plan nationwide. Experts say success will depend on political will and accountability measures to ensure funds reach frontline services. The government has assured that it will regularly review progress towards national HIV reduction targets under this new approach.
Ibadan Analyst Warns Unregulated Security Outfits May Undermine National Stability
Kano State Implements 90% of Health Blueprint in Three Years, Says Commissioner
Federal Government Launches New HIV Strategy, Moves to Cut Donor Dependence
Senate Approves State Police Bill, Forwards Proposal to Constitution Review Committee
Nigeria Exceeds OPEC Quota as Oil Production Hits 15-Month Peak in May
Minister of Interior Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Mark Democracy Day Nationwide
Nigerian Army Officer Breaks Record at US War College in Pennsylvania
World Cup Stars Among Three Manchester United Players Face Trouble Over Speeding Offences
Army GOC Commissions New Barracks in Rivers, Honours Fallen Soldiers at 29 Battalion
ISWAP Bomb Expert and Senior Commander Surrender to Nigerian Army in Borno
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
Why More Nigerians Are Searching for Casino Bonuses—and What You Should Know Before Claiming
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Ụlọ Ọrụ Nigeria Kwupụtara Nsogbu Nchekwa na Ụtụ Isi N’agbanyeghị Ịrị Elu Obi Ike Ahịa
Somali Referee Omar Artan Blocked From US World Cup Over Visa Row, Misses Dream Debut
Chelsea Set for Blockbuster FA Cup Fifth Round as Manchester City Await at Stamford Bridge
Federal Government Launches Mining Grants for Research and Exploration Across Nigeria
