Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of 11 persons involved in a fatal road accident on the Enugu to Port Harcourt Expressway.

    The Sector Commander of FRSC Enugu State Command, Mr Franklin Agbakoba, gave the confirmation to newsmen in Enugu on Saturday after the tragic accident that involved two vehicles..

    Agbakoba said, “The accident happened at about 6:46 p.m. today, Saturday, at a location adjacent to the FRSC Ozalla Unit Command in the expressway.”

    He said that the 11 persons that lost their lives included 10 males and one female.

    “A total of 36 persons, which included 27 males and nine female, got involved in the collision between a commercial Toyota Coaster Bus and an articulated Mercedes Benz trailer this evening in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

    “Apart from those that unfortunately lost their lives due to the accident; seven persons, which included three males and four female, were injured in the accident.

    “The injured victims have been taken to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla for medical attention.

    “The dead victims were taken to the UNTH Morgue,” he said.

    The sector commander said that FRSC personnel had cleared off all obstruction on the expressway caused by the accident, adding: “we have restored free flow of vehicular traffic on the accident axis of the expressway.”

    Agbakoba added that preliminary investigations suggested Route Traffic Violation (RTV) and Loss of Control (LOC) as possible causes of the carnage.

    He appreciated officers and Marshals of FRSC Ozalla Unit Command for their swift response to the accident scene; rescue and taking the injured victims to UNTH for medical attention and clearing of obstruction.

    “Further information on the accident will be made known to the public soon,” he said.

  • Breaking:  PDP has no Candidate in Osun governorship election – INEC announces

    Breaking:  PDP has no Candidate in Osun governorship election – INEC announces

     

     

    The Independent National Electoral Commission has released the personal particulars of candidates and their running mates for the upcoming governorship election in Osun State with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) missing.

    This was seen from the content of a statement issued on Sunday by INEC’s Public Affairs Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurode.

    The statement, on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, confirmed that 14 political parties successfully uploaded the names and required documents of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.

    “The submission followed the conclusion of party primaries and the closure of the designated portal for uploading candidates’ particulars,” the statement said.

    The qualifying parties are Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), All Progressives Congress (APC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

    The PDP, which produced the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, however missing in the published list.

    INEC said the list was released from its headquarters in Abuja after verifying that all submissions met constitutional and regulatory requirements.

    The publication was carried out in accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Item 4 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Osun State Governorship Election.

    The Commission noted that copies of each candidate’s Form EC9, academic credentials, and other supporting documents will be displayed at its state office and all local government offices.

    The documents will be available for inspection from Monday, 16 February 2026, at the state office, all 30 local government area offices, and the Area Office in Osun State.

    “The Commission hereby notifies political parties and the general public that fourteen political parties have successfully complied with the requirements within the stipulated timeframe,” the statement added.

    INEC advised political parties, candidates, and members of the public to inspect the published documents as provided by law and clarified that only the fourteen listed parties are eligible to participate in the forthcoming governorship election, having met the necessary conditions within the prescribed period.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Agboke reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s commitment to transparency and professionalism.

    “The Commission remains firmly committed to the conduct of credible elections in accordance with the law and best democratic practices,” he said.

    The election is fixed for August 8, 2026, while political campaigns are slated to kick off on March 11, 2026.

     

  • NCS slashes Red Tape, engages American business council

    The Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele,The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, during a meeting at Eko Hotel to strengthened trade ties between Nigeria and the United States following a high-level stakeholder engagement with the American Business Council (ABC)

     

    NCS slashes Red Tape, engages American business council
    Lagos, February, 13, 2026, The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced investor confidence and strengthened trade ties between Nigeria and the United States following a high-level stakeholder engagement with the American Business Council (ABC) .
    The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, mad this known in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of customs, Deputy Comptroller, Abdullahi Maiwada and make available in Lagos on Friday.
    The engagement brought together senior Customs officers, including the  executives of American companies, and key industry stakeholders to deliberate on trade facilitation, dispute resolution, regulatory reforms, and policy strategies aimed at improving Nigeria’s investment climate.
    Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka
    Speaking at the forum, held at Eko Hotel, the CGC, described stakeholder engagement as a critical pillar of modern customs administration.
    Adeniyi noted that sustaining dialogue had played a key role in resolving longstanding operational challenges between the service and the private sector.
    The Chief Superintendent of Customs, Akinnyene Edeminam, Zone ‘A’  Zonal PRO, National PRO of Customs, Deputy Comptroller, Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs, PRO FOU Zone ‘A’, Husain, Chief Superintendent of Customs, PRO Tincan Island Customs Command, Oscar Ivara
    He cited the recent resolution of a seven-year classification dispute involving a council member as a clear example of the progress achieved through consistent engagement.
     “Stakeholder engagement is one of the major pillars of any modern customs administration. We have realised that when we address issues in a mutually beneficial manner, everybody becomes a winner.”
    Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Timi Bomodi, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, PhD.Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Caroline Niagwan
    He also announced the introduction of a unified dispute resolution mechanism designed to streamline procedures, reduce delays, and lower the cost of resolving trade-related conflicts.
    The NCS boss reaffirmed the service’s commitment to transparency, ongoing modernisation reforms, and the creation of a business-friendly environment capable of attracting foreign investment.
    Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Timi Bomodi
     “This engagement forms part of the Nigeria Customs Service’s broader strategy to deepen partnerships with international business communities while enhancing trade facilitation and economic growth.”
    In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, commended the NCS for maintaining open communication with the private sector and taking practical steps to address longstanding trade concerns.
    Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Babatunde Olomu
    “We are seeing positive outcomes from these engagements, including the resolution of long-standing issues affecting our members.
    “While not every concern can be resolved immediately, sustained dialogue helps balance national interests with the need for an efficient business environment,” Olele said.

     

  • China’s “Space Town” Takes Shape: Rocket Launches Drive Industrial and Tourism Growth

    China’s “Space Town” Takes Shape: Rocket Launches Drive Industrial and Tourism Growth

     

    WENCHANG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – China has launched a Long March-12 carrier rocket from Wenchang, successfully sending the 19th group of low-orbit internet satellites into preset orbit.

    This mission marked the 12th launch since the country’s first commercial spacecraft launch site entered service, signaling that the facility has entered a phase of high-density, routine operations.

     


    An aerial drone photo shows seaside homestays and coffee shops in Longlou Town, Wenchang, south China’s Hainan Province. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

    Wenchang benefits from distinct natural and geological advantages. As China’s southernmost launch site, its proximity to the equator improves payload efficiency. The expansive surrounding sea areas ensure safety for launch drop zones, while accessible maritime transport solves the logistical challenge of shipping large rocket.

    The steady launch capacity, together with Hainan Free Trade Port policies such as zero tariffs, low tax rates, and a simplified tax system, is attracting aerospace companies from around the world. To date, more than 700 space-related enterprises have settled in the Wenchang International Aerospace City (WIAC), covering the entire industrial chain from rocket manufacturing and satellite design to data applications.

    In 2025, the WIAC recorded annual revenue exceeding 20 billion yuan (approximately 2.9 billion U. S. dollars). With core infrastructure facilities gradually put to operations, a complete industrial chain—from manufacturing and assembling to launch operations—is rapidly taking shape.

    “What attracted us here is not only the launch capability, but the entire industrial ecosystem,” said a senior executive of a satellite-related company based in the WIAC. “Finding partners and testing solutions here is extremely efficient.”

    Space launches are also reshaping the local tourism landscape. According to official statistics, Wenchang recorded more than one million tourist trips in 2025. Many of the tourists were “rocket-chasers.” Launch viewing areas and the local aerospace science and education center have become popular destinations, boosting business for nearby homestays, restaurants, and related services.

    “We used to live by the weather, now we live by the rockets,” a local homestay operator remarked, which highlighted the area’s transition from a traditional fishing community to a modern aerospace hub.

    It was revealed that multiple launch pads are under construction at the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site. As infrastructure continues to improve, a “Space Town” featuring the aerospace industry and themed tourism is taking shape along China’s southern coast.

     

     

  • PRESIDENT TINUBU TO VISIT YOLA, INTERACT WITH LEADERS, INAUGURATE COMPLETED PROJECTS

    PRESIDENT TINUBU TO VISIT YOLA, INTERACT WITH LEADERS, INAUGURATE COMPLETED PROJECTS

     

     

    By Flowerbudnews
    President Bola Tinubu will on Monday pay an official visit to Adamawa State, less than 48 hours after he made a similar visit to Kebbi.

    During the one-day visit, President Tinubu will inaugurate completed projects, meet with top government officials, and traditional rulers, a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy disclosed on Sunday.

    Billed for inauguration in the capital, Yola, and Jimeta, is the eight-lane Galadima Aminu Road linking Gimba and the capital. The model school, comprising pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary classes, will also be inaugurated by the President.

    Others include the new multipurpose hall, the remodelled High Court, the newly built officers’ complex, and the renovated Government House.

    The President will return to Abuja after the inauguration and the interaction with the state’s indigenes.

     

  • El-Rufai Alleges NSA Acquisition of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical compound

    El-Rufai Alleges NSA Acquisition of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical compound

     

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has accused the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, under Nuhu Ribadu of procuring thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical compound, and has demanded urgent clarification over the alleged transaction.

    El-Rufai made the allegation on Sunday in a post on X, where he shared a copy of a letter addressed to the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.


    @?ebq@a
    “As part of my duty as a citizen, I wrote to the NSA to seek clarification on reports about the importation by his office of thallium sulphate, a very dangerous toxin. It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one,” El-Rufai wrote on X.

    In the letter, he said information available to opposition political leaders indicated that the ONSA had reportedly procured approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from a supplier in Poland.

    Describing thallium salts as highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, El-Rufai said public safety, democratic accountability and trust in national institutions required immediate clarification.

    He requested details on the intended purpose and end-use of the chemical, the identity of the supplier, and whether the importation was carried out under an existing chemical or defence permit.

    El-Rufai also sought clarification on the total quantity and specific form or concentration procured, as well as storage and security arrangements upon arrival.

    The former governor further asked about regulatory oversight and coordination with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, including whether public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans had been developed.

    “I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland,” parts of the letter read.

     

  • Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

    Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

    Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The lawmaker representing Ibadan North Constituency I in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olufunke Comforter Olajide, has inaugurated Community Projects, supports for traders, said her legislative efforts are driven by a sense of destiny to bring development closer to her people.

     

    Olajide, who also chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, made the remarks during an empowerment programme and commissioning of projects held at Mount Olivet Grammar School, Ashi Bodija, Ibadan.

     

    The event, organised as part of activities marking her birthday anniversary, featured the inauguration of several community-based projects across the constituency.

     

    Among the projects commissioned were a newly constructed Amotekun Office in Ashi Bodija; renovated shops belonging to the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) in Yemetu that were recently destroyed by fire; and newly drilled boreholes with generators installed at Yemetu, Oje Market and Ashi Bodija to provide alternative power supply.

     

    In addition, the lawmaker provided financial assistance to traders affected by the recent fire incident, distributed food items and gas stoves to vulnerable groups, and empowered over 200 trained youths with vocational start-up grants and tools.

     

    Speaking at the event, Olajide reaffirmed her commitment to delivering tangible dividends of democracy to her constituents.

     

    “I see myself fulfilling destiny by bringing development closer to my people in my own way,” she said.

     

    She assured residents that more projects would be delivered before the end of her current tenure and expressed optimism about achieving greater impact if given another mandate.

     

    “By the special grace of God, if given the opportunity to serve a second term, they should expect even greater impact. Even within the remaining period of this first term, there is still more to come,” she said.

     

    Olajide attributed her passion for service and her desire to make meaningful contributions to society.

     

    She also acknowledged the influence of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, noting that her initiatives align with the administration’s grassroots-focused development agenda.

     

    “As we follow in the footsteps of our governor, we are ensuring that governance is felt at the grassroots,” she added.

     

    As part of her education support initiative, the lawmaker announced free JAMB and NECO registration for 20 outstanding students of Mount Olivet Grammar School.

    Earlier, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Olufunke, commended Olajide for her commitment to community development, describing the projects as reflective of the people-oriented policies of the Makinde administration.

     

    Similarly, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Dayo Ogungbenro, urged beneficiaries to safeguard and properly maintain the facilities, especially the boreholes and generators.

     

    Other dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi Bibiire; member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON); Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun.

     

    Representative of the Speaker. Rt Honorable Adebo Ogundoyin, the Deputy Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly. Hon Fadeyi, Alhaja Bose Adedibu, Chairman Oyo State Youth Agency, Prince Adebowale,  Alhaja yeye Aare Mariaham Akinola (De Damac).

     

    Representative of Ayaba Mutiayat Olayinka Ladoja, Mogaji Abayomi, ODUDUWA women Advocacy Initialitative (OWAI) Ibadan North Party Chairman, Hon. Ademuyiwa Mustephea, All local Governments Excos, All councillors, Supers, Ward Excos, Wards chairmen and members of PDP families, friends and Host of others.

     

    Hon. Daud Olalere (Ibadan North West); Hon. Olasunkanmi Babalola (Egbeda); Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Seun Onifade; party leaders, community representatives and residents.

  • Primate Ayodele commissions mosque, names it after Tinubu’s mum + Photos

    Primate Ayodele commissions mosque, names it after Tinubu’s mum + Photos

     

    The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has commissioned a mosque he built and named it after the mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji.

    The commissioning took place during his annual thanksgiving ceremony on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Oke-Afa, Lagos State.

    The event was attended by several dignitaries from the religious, traditional, political, and entertainment sectors, among others.

    Among the dignitaries were the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, who is the first daughter of President Tinubu, who sent several delegates due to her unavoidable absence; Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, represented by his Special Adviser on Islamic Matters; delegates of the Etsu Nupe, HRH Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; House of Representatives member representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency II, Hon. Joe Oke; Chief Imam of Ikorodu Division, Sheikh Seifudeen Ademoritan Ayinla; Osolo of Isolo, Oba Isa Abiodun Olakunle; Chairman of Egbe/Idimu LCDA, Hon. Idris Balogun; Chairman of Isolo LCDA, Hon. Adebayo Olasoju; and Eze Ndigbo of Ejigbo.

    Speaking on the mosque commissioning, Primate Ayodele explained that it is simply a house of worship for God and that it was a divine instruction given to him, which he would not dare to go against.

    The prophet stated that the mosque would be handed over to a Muslim cleric, whom he presented to the audience during the event, making it clear that he has no interest in the operations of the mosque.

    He said: “Building this mosque isn’t because I want attention or anything from anyone; it was a divine instruction that I cannot ignore.

    “It’s a place of worship just as we have churches, and I am not afraid of what anyone might say about this.

    “I am only answerable to God, so whatever anyone says doesn’t matter to me as long as God is pleased with me.”

    When asked about the reason for naming the mosque after Tinubu’s mother, Primate Ayodele revealed that it was God who gave him that direction and that he had initially wanted to name it after someone else, but God instructed him to change it.

    He said: “People see me as someone who hates Tinubu or as an APC critic, and I think that’s why Governor (Babajide) Sanwo-Olu doesn’t respond to our letter of invitation, but it doesn’t matter.

    “I named it not because I want Tinubu to give me an appointment or anything at all.

    “I initially wanted to name it Folawuyo Mosque, but God said no.

    “God chose the name.

    “If anyone likes, they can condemn me.

    “I don’t care.

    “We have done it already.”

    While speaking on the mosque building, one of the invited Muslim clerics, who began his speech by singing Christian hymns, appreciated Primate Ayodele for promoting unity through the prayer house he built for Muslims.

    He quoted Proverbs 3:3 while commending the prophet for his decision.

    He said: “This is a sign that we are one, and we will always reciprocate.

    “Our father loves Primate so much, and we thank God for what he has done.

    “There is a difference between religion and character.

    “With this act, Primate Ayodele has shown that we are one, as stated in Proverbs 3:3.”

    Likewise, the Chief Imam of Ikorodu Division, through his representative, preached on the need to fear God.

    He affirmed that God has indeed sent Primate Ayodele as a true prophet, comparing him to Prophet Elias in the Holy Quran.

    He said: “There is no one who does not know God, and that is why we should all fear Him.

    “Primate Ayodele Elijah has been sent by God, and that is why he is able to do this.

    “His name, Elijah, has significance in the Holy Quran, and everything he is doing aligns with the character in the Quran.

    “We also want to urge everyone not to fight because of religion; we need unity across the board.”

    Continuing, the Etsu Nupe prayed for Primate Ayodele and called on other clerics to emulate the good works the prophet is doing.

    He said: “I thank God for our prophet.

    “God will always see you through.

    “We see the good things you do, and God will always be with you.

    “If we have more people like you in the country, we will be much more united.”

    Apart from the mosque donation, Primate Ayodele engaged in extensive empowerment programmes, including the donation of about five vehicles, multiple tricycles and minibuses, free WAEC forms, accommodation payments, sewing machines to tailors’ associations, and home appliances such as televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines, among others.

    While speaking, the Osolo of Isolo Kingdom applauded Primate Ayodele for his philanthropic works and his decision to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of humanity. He noted that the prophet is supporting the government by assisting the people.

    He said: “I appreciate you for all you have been doing.

    “If we have more pastors like this, the world would be a better place, but most of them just want to buy private jets.

    “I am happy that what you desire is not a private jet.

    “What you have done is more than that.

    “There are many churches in Nigeria, but I have never seen anyone do something like this—selling items at subsidised prices and giving to the people.

    “Unity is very important for our nation, and you have brought everyone together with your own resources. I am so happy to witness this today.”

    Furthermore, Eze Ndigbo praised the man of God for his wisdom and declared that the Igbo community will always support him.

    He also promised to assist an ailing man, Emmanuel Udoh, who is battling kidney disease and is due for a transplant.

    He said: “Thank you, my good daddy, Primate Ayodele.

    “The Lord who gave you this knowledge will take you higher, and I wish you many more years.

    “I have known you for so long, and I declare that every support you need from the Igbo community will be granted.”

  • Mud Carnival Party in Southern Brazil Thrills

    Mud Carnival Party in Southern Brazil Thrills

     

    PARATY, Brazil (AP) — Revelers heading to Carnival parties in Brazil typically don colorful, skimpy outfits and splatter glitter everywhere, but near an old colonial town in the south of the country people cover themselves in something very different – mud.

    Partakers in this unusual Carnival party in Paraty drape gray sludge on themselves and roll around in the silty shallows of a beach, forming a unified mass.

    “Everyone is kind of the same (…), those who have money and those who don’t: everyone comes here to jump into the mud,” said Charles Garcia Pessoa, a 37-year-old entrepreneur.

    Under a blazing sun, the mud-covered partygoers danced and grunted cavemen chants — “Uga! Uga!” — while marching along the sand, accompanied by musicians.

    The tradition started in 1986, according to Paraty’s tourism site. Friends were playing in the mangroves at Jabaquara Beach, and realized they weren’t recognizable. They went strolling into the city’s historic center and caused a stir.