Nigeria News (Standard)
Singer 9ice Declares Parents as ‘God’, Ignites Online Debate Over Spiritual Beliefs
Controversial statement follows his earlier revelation of 18 years practising as Babalawo, with Nigerians divided over his rejection of traditional deities
Controversial statement follows his earlier revelation of 18 years practising as Babalawo, with Nigerians divided over his rejection of traditional deities
Veteran Nigerian singer, 9ice, has triggered widespread reactions after publicly declaring that his parents are his ‘God’, rejecting the worship of any other deities. The statement was made in Lagos on Sunday through a video posted on his Instagram page, where he asserted that the reverence often reserved for God should instead be directed at one’s parents.
In the video, 9ice said, “Today I’ll tell you something I don’t really talk about, but I’ll talk today. I love my mum, I love my dad, my god is my mum, my father is my god.” He further emphasised in the comment section that he does not believe in what he described as ‘inferior Gods’, distancing himself from both conventional religious practice and other spiritual beings.
The remarks have sparked fresh debate across social media platforms, with many Nigerians questioning the singer’s motives and mental state. Some accused him of seeking attention or being under influence, while others dismissed his views outright. The controversy comes just months after 9ice revealed in April that he has been practising as a Babalawo—a Yoruba traditional priest—for over 18 years, which itself drew significant public scrutiny and criticism.
Religious discourse remains highly sensitive in Nigeria, where Christianity and Islam dominate and traditional beliefs are often stigmatised. In his previous viral outburst earlier this year, 9ice criticised Nigeria’s religious culture for what he perceived as prioritising rituals over productivity. At the time, he questioned why decades of national prayers had not translated into tangible progress for the country and compared Nigerian work ethic unfavourably to that of London.
While some Nigerians agreed with his critique of performative religiosity affecting productivity, few have supported his latest stance equating parents to God. The majority view online remains critical or mocking rather than reflective. As at Monday afternoon, neither major religious bodies nor government officials had issued formal responses to 9ice’s comments. It is yet unclear whether this will prompt broader conversations about spirituality and cultural values in the country.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/9ice-parents-god-spiritual-comments-2026062311393056938
Nigeria News (Standard)
US Embassy Launches EducationUSA Fund to Support Lagos, Abuja Students Seeking Admission Abroad
Programme targets financially disadvantaged applicants with strong academic records; applications close June 30, says embassy
Programme targets financially disadvantaged applicants with strong academic records; applications close June 30, says embassy
The United States Mission in Nigeria has opened the application window for the 2026 EducationUSA Opportunity Fund Programme (OFP), offering financial and advisory support to academically talented but financially disadvantaged students in Lagos, Abuja and other cities. The call for applications began on June 15 and will end at 11:59 p.m. WAT on June 30, according to the US Embassy and EducationUSA Nigeria.
The EducationUSA Opportunity Fund Programme is designed to help Nigerian students cover the costs associated with applying to American universities, such as standardised testing fees and university application charges. According to officials, the programme does not pay university tuition but provides beneficiaries with guidance throughout the admission process, increasing their chances of securing places and scholarships at reputable US institutions.
US Embassy officials said the fund reflects America’s commitment to expanding access to quality education for young Nigerians who demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential but lack financial means. “The initiative ensures that highly qualified students are not denied international education opportunities due to inability to pay application costs,” an embassy representative said in a statement made available on Sunday.
EducationUSA advisers stated that selected candidates would receive intensive mentoring in addition to funding support. The 2026 edition prioritises applicants pursuing science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), artificial intelligence and related fields, though students from all disciplines may apply. The move comes as more Nigerian students seek educational opportunities abroad amidst naira depreciation and rising demand for global qualifications.
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens residing in Nigeria, show outstanding academic records, demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement, have limited financial resources and intend to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in the United States. Prospective candidates are advised to visit the official EducationUSA Nigeria portal, submit required forms and supporting documents, and complete their applications before the June 30 deadline. Embassy officials say hundreds of Nigerians have benefited from this scheme over the years by overcoming financial barriers linked to foreign admissions.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court Rejects El-Rufai’s Bail Variation in Phone Tapping Case
Judge maintains existing bail terms for former Kaduna Governor as legal team seeks adjustment over ongoing trial
Judge maintains existing bail terms for former Kaduna Governor as legal team seeks adjustment over ongoing trial
An Abuja court on Tuesday declined the application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, seeking a variation of his bail conditions in the ongoing phone tapping case. The decision was delivered during proceedings at the Federal High Court, Abuja, where El-Rufai faces charges related to alleged unauthorised interception of communications.
The presiding judge ruled that the current bail terms would remain in place, citing insufficient grounds presented by El-Rufai’s legal representatives to warrant any adjustments. The defence had argued that certain conditions were too restrictive and hindered their client’s ability to prepare for trial, but the court disagreed after reviewing submissions from both sides.
El-Rufai, who led Kaduna State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), is standing trial over allegations of illegally monitoring private phone conversations—a charge that has attracted national attention due to its implications for privacy rights and political accountability in Nigeria. The case has been closely watched by legal observers and political stakeholders, especially given El-Rufai’s prominence within the APC and his influence in North-West politics.
At Tuesday’s hearing, El-Rufai’s counsel reiterated their request for relaxed bail conditions, emphasising his cooperation with investigators and absence of flight risk. However, the prosecution opposed any variation, stating that the original bail was sufficient to ensure attendance at future proceedings. The judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, emphasising the need for judicial consistency.
With this ruling, El-Rufai is expected to continue complying with the initial bail requirements as his trial progresses. The next hearing date is yet to be announced. Legal analysts note that the court’s refusal may set a precedent for how high-profile defendants are treated in similar cases going forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NEF2026 Committee Launches Industrialisation Drive in Lagos, Targets Value Addition Across Sectors
Forum to convene on June 30 as stakeholders push for jobs, increased exports and sustainable economic growth
Forum to convene on June 30 as stakeholders push for jobs, increased exports and sustainable economic growth
The Nigeria Energy Forum (NEF2026) committee has announced plans to host its 11th annual conference in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, on Tuesday, June 30, focusing on upscaling value addition as a pathway to sustainable industrialisation. Dr Oluwole Adeuyi, Chairman of the forum, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Lagos ahead of the event.
According to Adeuyi, NEF2026 will bring together policymakers, investors, manufacturers and energy sector operators to deliberate on strategies for transforming Nigeria’s vast natural resources into productive industries and job opportunities. The forum, themed “Upscaling Value Addition for Sustainable Industrialisation,” is expected to highlight opportunities across critical minerals, clean energy, manufacturing and technology sectors.
The timing of the conference comes as Nigeria and several African countries are intensifying efforts to create employment, attract investment and grow exports through local production. With the naira under pressure and unemployment rates high according to recent National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data, stakeholders argue that boosting value addition is now essential for long-term economic stability.
“Industrialisation is no longer optional. The nations that will prosper in the coming decades are those that can convert their natural resources, innovation and human capital into value-added products, thriving industries and sustainable prosperity,” Adeuyi stated. He noted that NEF2026 would spotlight initiatives around industrial decarbonisation, circular economy solutions and modern infrastructure needed for Nigeria’s competitiveness.
The committee said the forum would also provide a platform for innovators and entrepreneurs to network with government officials and investors. Discussions are expected on policy reforms required to scale up manufacturing capacity across agriculture, clean energy and technology-driven enterprises. Organisers maintain that outcomes from the conference will feed into national development strategies aimed at accelerating industrial growth.
US Embassy Launches EducationUSA Fund to Support Lagos, Abuja Students Seeking Admission Abroad
Abuja Court Rejects El-Rufai’s Bail Variation in Phone Tapping Case
NEF2026 Committee Launches Industrialisation Drive in Lagos, Targets Value Addition Across Sectors
Osas Ighodaro and Gbenro Ajibade Celebrate Daughter’s 10th Birthday Together in Lagos After Public Split
NCC Unveils Free Internet Access for Students in Abuja, Targets Data Cost Relief Nationwide
Martinez Eyes Tactical Overhaul to Get Best Out of Ronaldo Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Former Super Eagles Star Says 2026 World Cup Is ‘Missing Flavour’
All Eyes on Brazil as Scotland Clash Looms in 2026 World Cup Group C Showdown
Ahịa Ngwa Ngwa $25bn Nigeria Kwupụtara Mgbanwe Iji Ngwa Obodo N’ihi Ọnụ Ahịa Ịrị Elu
Allen Onyema Kpọrọ Ndị Naịjirịa Ka Ha Boycott South Africa Maka Ọgwụgwụ Mmegbu Ndị Ọbịbịa
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
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
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Lagos Residents Spend Over ₦50bn on US Visa Applications Amid Tighter Entry Rules
Lagos FMCG Giants Record ₦18.9bn Rise in Production Costs, Earnings Hit by Inflation in Q1
Lagos Court Declares National Assembly’s ₦110bn Vehicle and Allowance Spending Unlawful
Lagos Police Arrest Doctor, Birth Attendant Over Alleged Sale of Newborn for ₦2.5m
