Nigeria News (Standard)
Nine States Conclude Hajj 2026 Return Airlift, Pilgrims Arrive Safely Across Nigeria
States complete repatriation of pilgrims after Hajj, as authorities commend smooth operations and urge early preparations for next year
States complete repatriation of pilgrims after Hajj, as authorities commend smooth operations and urge early preparations for next year
Nine Nigerian states have successfully concluded the return airlift of their pilgrims from Saudi Arabia following the completion of the 2026 Hajj rites. The return flights, which began shortly after the end of this year’s pilgrimage, saw thousands of pilgrims safely transported back to their respective states.
The repatriation process, coordinated by state Muslim pilgrim welfare boards in partnership with relevant aviation authorities, was carried out in batches to accommodate the large number of participants. According to officials involved in the exercise, all nine states managed to finalise their return schedules without major incident, ensuring that pilgrims reunited with their families promptly.
The timely completion of the airlift marks a significant milestone for the states involved and reflects ongoing improvements in Nigeria’s Hajj operations. In recent years, Nigerian authorities have faced challenges including flight delays and logistical bottlenecks during both outbound and inbound Hajj movements. This year’s success is expected to bolster confidence among intending pilgrims and stakeholders ahead of future exercises.
Pilgrimage officials commended the cooperation between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), airline operators, and Saudi Arabian authorities for facilitating a seamless operation. They also advised intending pilgrims and state boards to commence preparations early for the next Hajj season to avoid last-minute rushes or complications.
With this development, attention now shifts to remaining states yet to conclude their return arrangements. Authorities assured that efforts are ongoing to ensure that all Nigerian pilgrims are returned safely in line with international standards and best practices.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Firm Launches Training to Boost Creative Sector with Equipment Access, Business Skills
Rewind Associates targets filmmakers and content creators at Lagos masterclass, stressing need for professional tools and mentorship
Rewind Associates targets filmmakers and content creators at Lagos masterclass, stressing need for professional tools and mentorship
Rewind Associates Limited has launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s creative industry by providing filmmakers, cinematographers and content creators in Lagos with greater access to professional equipment and business knowledge. The announcement was made at the maiden edition of The Business of Cinematography and Content Creation Masterclass, which concluded recently in Lagos.
The three-day training programme brought together both emerging and established creatives for hands-on workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities. Participants received practical instruction on the use of camera systems, lenses, lighting setups, equipment management, as well as guidance on storytelling techniques and strategies for building sustainable creative businesses. Sessions also focused on the business aspects of content creation, including pricing models, client management and how to navigate Nigeria’s fast-growing creative economy.
Organisers said the masterclass was designed in response to industry challenges such as limited access to high-quality production equipment and a gap in business knowledge among many creative professionals. Speaking at the event, representatives of Rewind Associates noted that equipping practitioners with both technical skills and business acumen is critical for the sector’s growth. “Supporting creatives through mentorship, capacity building, and making essential tools available will help drive innovation and competitiveness within Nigeria’s creative sector,” one facilitator said during a workshop session.
Industry observers say improved access to modern production tools remains a major obstacle for Nigerian filmmakers and content producers seeking to compete regionally and globally. The firm added that ongoing training programmes like this masterclass are vital for nurturing talent across the country.
With Nigeria’s creative economy projected to expand further as demand for original content grows across Africa, Rewind Associates stated that it will continue to develop similar initiatives targeting other regions. Stakeholders expect that such efforts will contribute to job creation and help position Nigeria as a leading hub for film and digital content production.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ocheme Secures Knockout Victory as Adeshina Suffers Defeat at PFL Africa Warri Showdown
Historic mixed martial arts event in Delta State sees local fighters deliver dramatic finishes and mark new milestone for Nigerian combat sports
Historic mixed martial arts event in Delta State sees local fighters deliver dramatic finishes and mark new milestone for Nigerian combat sports
A night of high drama unfolded in Warri, Delta State on Sunday as Ocheme delivered a stunning knockout victory while Adeshina was defeated in a landmark evening for Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa. The event, which drew significant attention to the burgeoning mixed martial arts scene in Nigeria, showcased both triumph and heartbreak for homegrown talent.
The main card featured Ocheme’s emphatic finish that sent the crowd into wild celebration, underscoring the growing profile of Nigerian fighters on the continental stage. In contrast, Adeshina’s defeat came after a hard-fought contest, highlighting the fierce level of competition at this historic event. Both bouts headlined a packed schedule that saw athletes from across Africa vie for supremacy and recognition.
PFL Africa’s decision to bring its showcase to Warri marks a significant milestone for combat sports in Nigeria, reflecting increased investment and fan interest across the South-South region. The league’s expansion into Africa is seen as an opportunity for local athletes to compete at the highest levels without leaving the continent.
Organisers described the Warri event as a breakthrough moment for sports development in Delta State. Officials expressed optimism that such high-profile competitions would attract more youth participation and inspire future champions. However, some observers noted the need for sustained support from government and private sector stakeholders to ensure continued growth of the sport.
With PFL Africa promising more events across major Nigerian cities, attention now shifts to how local fighters will build on these performances. The success of Ocheme’s knockout win is expected to inspire aspiring athletes nationwide, while Adeshina’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead in elite-level competition.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abdulsalami Abubakar Explains Why He Transferred Power to Civilian Government in Less Than One Year
Former Head of State says Nigeria needed stability after years of military rule; transition paved way for Fourth Republic
Former Head of State says Nigeria needed stability after years of military rule; transition paved way for Fourth Republic
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has disclosed the reason behind his decision to hand over power to a democratically-elected government within just eleven months in office. Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Abdulsalami said his main motivation was to restore stability and set Nigeria on the path of democracy after prolonged military rule.
Abdulsalami, who took office following the death of General Sani Abacha in June 1998, oversaw a rapid transition process that culminated in the swearing-in of President Olusegun Obasanjo on 29 May 1999. The former leader explained that Nigeria was at a crossroads at the time, and there was urgent need to end military intervention in governance.
He noted that Nigerians had become weary of repeated coups and instability, and that confidence in the country’s leadership had eroded. “I realised that the nation needed healing and a sense of direction. We had spent too long under military regimes, and it was clear that only a return to civilian rule would restore hope,” Abdulsalami said during an interactive session.
The retired general added that his administration’s swift timetable for elections was deliberate, as he wanted to avoid any suspicion or accusations of self-perpetuation. He emphasised that he did not want to be seen as clinging to power or derailing the country’s democratic aspirations. Abdulsalami’s move marked the beginning of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and brought an end to over fifteen years of successive military administrations.
Political observers credit Abdulsalami’s decision with setting a precedent for peaceful transitions in Nigeria’s recent history. The restoration of democracy in 1999 paved the way for continuous civilian governance, with subsequent elections held every four years.
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