🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
National Rescue Movement rules out merger with APC, other parties for 2027 elections
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
The National Rescue Movement NRM has stated it will not merge with the All Progressives Congress APC or any other political party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party plans to focus on selecting its own candidates, including a presidential flagbearer, through its internal electoral process. Speaking in Abuja, NRM National Chairman Prince Chinedu Obi affirmed the party is not considering political alliances. Obi also noted that recent court rulings, including one by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, have resolved internal disputes, strengthening unity within the NRM. He emphasized the party's stability and its commitment to supporting qualified aspirants for elective offices, prioritizing competence. Obi stated that the NRM is prepared to address Nigeria's current challenges.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Premier League is guaranteed five places in next season's UEFA Champions League due to England securing one of the new European Performance Spots. A sixth spot could be added if Aston Villa wins the UEFA Europa League and finishes fifth in the Premier League. If Aston Villa achieves this, their league-based Champions League spot would become redundant, and the unused spot would then go to the team finishing sixth in the Premier League. This scenario would mean England gains an extra team in the Champions League but loses one Europa League place, which would be allocated to another country. The race for sixth place in the Premier League is currently highly competitive, with only six points separating sixth-placed Chelsea F.C. from 14th-placed Newcastle United F.C.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention NCDC has confirmed a single case of COVID-19 in Cross River State, stating that the situation is under control with no signs of widespread transmission. The confirmed patient has been isolated and is receiving care, with the NCDC reporting the individual is in stable condition. Following the confirmation, the Cross River State Ministry of Health, in coordination with NCDC and partners, activated response measures including contact tracing, surveillance, and infection prevention and control. All identified contacts are being monitored, and there is no evidence of further spread. The NCDC highlighted that the detection demonstrates the effectiveness of Nigeria’s ongoing disease surveillance systems. The agency advised the public to remain vigilant, practice proper hygiene, stay home when unwell, and seek medical care if needed, while also urging reliance on official public health authorities for information. The NCDC reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation and providing updates. Nigeria first recorded COVID-19 in February 2020, and while cases have declined, surveillance systems remain active to detect and respond to sporadic infections, which public health experts note are not unexpected as the virus circulates globally.
The Federal Fire Service, Gombe State Command, has issued a safety advisory regarding the dangers of poorly installed rooftop solar power systems, citing a rise in fire incidents and electrical hazards. According to ASF Bashir Muazu, the command’s Public Relations Officer, the widespread adoption of solar energy necessitates public awareness of safety standards. He warned that improperly installed or substandard solar photovoltaic systems can lead to fire outbreaks, electric shock, battery explosions, and roof damage. The Service is particularly concerned about unqualified installers and the use of low-quality components. The Federal Fire Service advises engaging only qualified and certified installers and using standard, quality components like panels, batteries, inverters, and cables. Users are urged not to overload systems, ensure proper earthing, circuit protection, and surge arrester installation. Batteries should be in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas to prevent overheating. Routine inspection of wiring and components, secure mounting of rooftop panels, and having fire extinguishers readily available are also recommended. In case of a fire, Muazu cautioned against pouring water on live electrical equipment, advising to switch off the system only if safe, evacuate occupants, and alert emergency responders immediately. Landlords and business operators are advised to inspect existing solar installations before occupation to prevent hidden faults leading to night-time elect
The Federal Government of Nigeria is hosting a three-day Western African Sub-Regional Ministerial and Technical Advisory Committee consultation in Abuja, focusing on the Africa Water Vision 2063 and its first implementation plan for 2026–2033. The event, convened by the African Ministers’ Council on Water AMCOW in collaboration with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, brings together ministers, technical experts, development partners, and regional stakeholders to enhance water governance and service delivery across West Africa. Engr. Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation and AMCOW Vice President for West Africa, emphasized Nigeria's commitment to strengthening water and sanitation systems, aligning national programs with continental development goals. He highlighted that water security is crucial for economic growth, public health, and climate resilience, noting that Africa's water systems are under strain from rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate variability. The consultation aims to define measurable targets, strengthen financing frameworks, and identify priority investment areas to accelerate access to safe drinking water and sanitation services. Segun Babarinde, Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee, described the consultation as a key step in translating continental aspirations into practical programs. Dr. Nyambe Nyambe of the African Union Commission stressed the need to protect water resources and pre