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Sports University Of Nigeria Announces Admission Into 2025/2026 Academic Session

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Hill Nigeria
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By Austin Oyibode

The Chancellor of Sports University of Nigeria, Idumuje-Ugboko, Senator Ned Nwoko has announced the commencement of admissions into the 2025/2026 academic session at the university, describing the institution as “a national vision made manifest.”

In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, the Senator and Chancellor of the university expressed immense pride in the progress of the institution, which he said was the result of years of strategic planning, policy advocacy, and a firm commitment to youth empowerment through the synergy of education and sports.

“This university is more than an academic institution,” Senator Nwoko stated. “It is the culmination of unwavering efforts to empower Nigeria’s youth through the fusion of education and athletic development.”

The Sports University of Nigeria is the first of its kind in the country, offering a diverse array of academic and athletic programmes.

Areas of study include Sports and High Performance Disciplines such as football, taekwondo, swimming, and golf, as well as courses in Mass Communication, Management, Social and Allied Health Sciences, General Sciences, and Architecture.

According to the announcement, the university will admit students through Diploma, Certificate, and Direct Entry programmes, ensuring inclusivity and access to educational and professional advancement.

A distinctive feature of the university is its requirement for all students to participate in compulsory physical training under Category A.

Senator Nwoko emphasized that this approach fosters discipline, resilience, and excellence, qualities essential for success both on and off the field.

“As Chancellor, I have insisted on a holistic approach to education, one that prioritizes moral values, national service, and global relevance,” he added.

“Our facilities are world-class, our curriculum is forward-thinking, and we are committed to producing graduates who will thrive not only locally but internationally.”

Calling on prospective students, parents, athletes, and professionals, Senator Nwoko extended a warm invitation to join the institution.

“The Sports University of Nigeria is ready. We await your brilliance, your talent, and your dreams,” he said.

The university’s motto, “A Citadel for Champions,” reflects its mission to nurture future leaders in sports and beyond.

 

APC 14th NEC Meeting: Senator Ned Nwoko Joins Delta Stakeholders as Party Charts Path Forward

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Hill Nigeria
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The All Progressives Congress (APC) convened its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, on Thursday, bringing together key stakeholders as the party recalibrates ahead of critical electoral milestones.

Among those representing Delta State was Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, the distinguished lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District. He was one of only 21 senators accredited to participate in the party’s 14th NEC meeting. Also in attendance from Delta State were Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, APC State Chairman Elder Omeni Sobotie, and party stalwart Stella Okotete.

The NEC meeting, which marks a critical point in the APC’s internal review and planning calendar, focused on strengthening party structures ahead of the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election and other scheduled bye-elections. The National Organizing Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, who presented the directorate’s report, described it as a “comprehensive compendium” that will guide party decisions going forward.

A major development at the NEC meeting was the announcement of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, as the new National Chairman of the APC. He was nominated by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma. The motion was seconded by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and subsequently ratified through a voice vote by NEC members present.

With political activities gradually picking up ahead of 2027, observers say the presence of serving lawmakers at the NEC meeting, many of whom are expected to return to the ballot, signals internal consolidation and reinforces confidence that the party is building around tested forces for the battles ahead.

The 21 senators accredited for the NEC meeting include Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin, Senate Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Mungono, Deputy Majority Leader Oyelola Yisa Ashiru, Deputy Chief Whip Nwebonyi Onyeka, Mustapha Salihu, Sani Bello Abubakar, Ibrahim Bomai, Jim Kuta, Aliyu Wamako, Abdul’aziz Yar’adua, Ned Munir Nwoko, Patrick Ndubueze Chuwuba, Kenneth Eze, Fadahunsi Francis Adenigba Adams Oshiomhole, Abdulfatai Buhari, Asuquo Ekpenyong, Adeola Solomon Olamilekan, and Etang Williams Jonah.

13 Percent Derivation: Niger Delta Leader, Chief Wellington Okirika Lauds Senator Ned Nwoko’s Push for Direct Allocation to Host Communities

By
Hill Nigeria
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…says “You are so unique and very dedicated in all ramifications”

The Bolowei (Traditional Prime Minister) of Gbaramatu Kingdom and renowned Niger Delta elder statesman, Chief Dr. Wellington O. Okirika (CON), has commended Senator Ned Munir Nwoko for his bold stance on the proper implementation of the 13 percent derivation fund, describing the Delta North Senator as a true patriot and fearless advocate of equity for the oil-producing region.

Chief Okirika, also known as “Mr. 13 percent Derivation Fund” due to his long-standing activism for host communities, expressed his appreciation during a visit to Senator Nwoko, which included engagements both at the senator’s residence and office.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the elder statesman, who is the founding Executive Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and a founding father of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), said his confidence in Senator Nwoko’s leadership prompted him to take the 30-year injustice allegedly perpetuated by some governors in the region directly to the lawmaker.

“You proved to me that you are a true leader by your actions towards the deliberate act of unpatriotism done against the people of the Niger Delta region,” Okirika said.

He described Senator Nwoko as “one of the best leaders in Nigeria who hate oppression and is very vocal,” expressing optimism that the senator’s intervention will mark a turning point in the legal and legislative redress of what he termed a long-standing economic injustice to the host communities.

According to Chief Okirika, communities in Delta Central and Delta South senatorial zones are closely following Senator Nwoko’s activities at the National Assembly and are impressed by his dedication and unique commitment to issues of national and regional significance.

In his message, the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom, home to Government Ekpemupolo (a.k.a. Tompolo), a well-known figure in the struggle for resource justice, also sent their warm greetings to Senator Ned Nwoko.

“We believe the governors will hear from you shortly and the Niger Delta region will never forget you as you take the motion for an act to urgently commence the legal implementation of the 13 percent derivation fund to reflect the legislative compliance of Section 162(2), which mandates the Federal Government to pay the 13 percent directly to host communities,” Chief Okirika said.

DOPF Congratulates Delta Assembly On Passage Of Community Security Bill, Urges Governor’s Swift Assent

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has congratulated the leadership and entire members of the state House of Assembly on the successful passage of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill.

In a press statement signed  by the Chairman of the Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, Mnipr and issuee by his Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha, Mnipr, it stated that the bold and timely legislative action was a commendable step toward addressing the rising security concerns that have continued to affect lives, livelihoods, and local development across the state.

“We recall that DOPF had consistently called for a holistic and community-driven security framework to complement existing security structures in tackling rural banditry, kidnapping, herder-farmer conflicts, and other criminal activities plaguing Delta communities”.

“The passage of this bill is a clear indication that the House of Assembly has not only listened to the yearnings of the people but has also demonstrated legislative responsiveness to the needs of the state”, it stated.

“As a body of professional media practitioners with deep grassroots engagement, we view the establishment of the Community Security Corps as a pragmatic solution capable of restoring confidence among residents, particularly in rural areas. More importantly, the bill provides a legal framework for the recruitment, training, and deployment of community-based security operatives who are familiar with the terrains and local dynamics of their communities”.

He therefore call on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to swiftly give assent to this critical piece of legislation.

Noting that prompt signing of the bill into law will set the tone for its immediate implementation, ensuring that communities currently under threat from criminal elements begin to enjoy renewed hope, protection, and stability.

He urged the state Government to put in place a robust implementation structure backed by adequate funding, transparency, and professional oversight to ensure the success of the new security outfit.

“We also encourage synergy with conventional security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders to strengthen the effectiveness of the Corps across the 25 local government areas”.

DOPF reiterates that the return of security to our farmlands will significantly improve food production, boost agribusiness, and contribute to food security in Delta State.

“We commend the Delta State House of Assembly once again for this patriotic move and stand ready to support public sensitization efforts around the new law”.

Chairman of the Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, Mnipr and issuee by his Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha, Mnipr

Senator Ned Nwoko Hails Super Falcons’ Grit and Triumph Over South Africa

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Calls For Greater Investment In Women’s Football

Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports and Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria (SUN), Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, has congratulated Nigeria’s Super Falcons following their thrilling 2-1 semi-final victory over South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, which secured the team a place in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Describing the win as a display of resilience, skill, and unbreakable Nigerian spirit, Senator Ned Nwoko commended the players and technical crew for their composure under pressure and their ability to deliver when it mattered most.

“This victory goes beyond football. It is a reminder of the strength and potential of our women, especially when given the right support and motivation”.

As Chancellor of Nigeria’s premier sports university, Senator Ned Nwoko emphasized the importance of sustained support for female athletes, not just during tournaments but throughout their development journey. He reiterated his commitment to pushing for better funding and grassroots investment through legislative channels, noting that the future of Nigerian football lies in empowering the next generation through education and structured training.

“This is why the Sports University of Nigeria exists, to raise athletes who are not only physically ready but mentally equipped to compete on the global stage,” he added.

Senator Ned Nwoko also congratulated the Nigeria Football Federation and called on Nigerians to rally behind the Super Falcons as they head into the final, poised to claim another continental crown.

“Our girls have shown they are made of steel. Let us support them all the way.”

President Tinubu Sets Q1 2026 Target For The Take-Off Of National Single Window

By
Hill Nigeria
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Single Window (NSW) Steering Committee to ensure the platform becomes fully operational by the first quarter of 2026.

The directive was delivered during Tuesday’s fifth steering committee meeting at the State House, Abuja.

The President was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Gbajabiamila said the recent Tax Reform Acts, signed into law in June, underscored the urgency of accelerating reforms and pursuing Nigeria’s $1 trillion economy target.

He highlighted the importance of financial and trade reforms in achieving national economic transformation.

“It’s important that we continue to stay focused on this project. So that at the end of the day, we meet our timelines and achieve the results the President expects.

“As you all are aware, the project is one of the transformative initiatives of Mr. President which we collectively must ensure is effectively and commendably implemented,” Gbajabiamila said.

He emphasised the role of a unified electronic platform in simplifying Nigeria’s import and export operations.

According to him, the NSW will boost investment and trade revenues, improve transparency, and strengthen Nigeria’s global business credibility.

Gbajabiamila urged all agencies to refine their targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to meet the Phase 1 deadline.

“I do expect that since the last meeting of the steering committee which was held on the 8th April, 2025, all stakeholders have operated and actively progressed with all the required KPIs and set targets to ensure that we go live with phase 1 in Q1 2026 as was previously scheduled,” he said.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun described the progress as encouraging but stressed the need for swift execution.

He urged a shift from strategy to concrete implementation, calling the project complex but transformational.

Edun urged the committee to improve collaboration and resolve final hurdles to meet the rollout timeline.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole also charged the committee to work diligently and meet the Q1 2026 deadline without fail.

Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), thanked the President for consistently supporting the project.

“Thank you on behalf of the steering committee. We thank you for the relentless support that you have given to us.”

“And to all my colleagues here, we can see that the reward for hard work is more work. When we started last month, it is now law; the single window is now in the law.”

He asked committee members to stay focused on the mission ahead.

The Director of the National Single Window (NSW) Project, Tola Fakolade, gave a brief overview of the steering committee’s progress toward implementing the project.

“All second quarter 2025 key project milestones have been successfully achieved. And the customisation of the Single window platform has commenced,” he said.

He gave assurances that the committee would meet up with the timelines.

The National Single Window project is a Federal Government initiative to streamline trade processes by creating a centralised electronic platform for importers and exporters.

It is a digital trade facilitation platform expected to accelerate economic growth and facilitate cross-border transactions.

Launched in April 2024, the NSW seeks to consolidate all agencies involved in imports and exports onto a unified electronic portal.

It is expected to reduce trade costs, cut delays, and enhance transparency and efficiency at Nigerian ports.

Committee members include representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Investments, the Ministry of Finance, FIRS, and the Nigeria Customs Service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sanwo-Olu Unveils Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap

By
Hill Nigeria
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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu today unveiled the state Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap, a milestone that reflects our firm commitment to gender equity and inclusive growth.

The roadmap, he said is a practical plan built around the lived experiences of women across Lagos, from entrepreneurs and farmers to students and professionals and focuses on removing the barriers that continue to limit women’s economic participation.

“We engaged widely in building this policy, listening to voices from the public and private sectors, NGOs, women’s groups, and women living with disabilities. Their insights helped us shape a roadmap that is grounded, inclusive, and realistic”.

“From agriculture and entrepreneurship to education, STEM, and the labour market, we’re setting out clear actions to empower women with tools, training, finance, and opportunities to thrive. We will work across all sectors to bring this to life and ensure every woman in Lagos has the opportunity to reach her full potential”.

Community Newspapers Urged To Convey Developments In Roots To Government

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Jonathan Afesuku

Community newspapers have been asked to use their reach as authentic news sources to report developments in rural areas to the government and be a crucial part of feedback mechanism.

The Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, made the call when he received a delegation of select community newspaper publishers in Delta State who paid him a courtesy in Asaba.

“Community newspapers are purveyors of authentic news. As part of the natives that are associated with direct experience, the news from your titles is authentic and your spread across the communities in Delta State make you a channel through which Governor Oborevwori can keep tap on developments. If contractors in your communities are executing projects in a shoddy manner, your reports will alert the government and the trajectory in the quality of project execution will continue to change for the better”, Solomon said.

According to him, community newspapers are dear to the governor as they represent a critical part of the chain in ensuring good governance. “The government is accountable to the people and as important stakeholders and witnesses to developments in communities, you have to partner with the government by pointing out areas where lives are being touched positively as well as the areas where the government has to improve upon”, Solomon who started his career in public service as a journalist told the group.

On the MORE Agenda which is the driving policy and programme plans of Governor Oborevwori, he said it is the guiding principle of the government, urging community newspaper publishers to get acquainted with its tenets.

The Delta governor, Solomon stated, is consistent in adhering to the policies which have the completion of projects inherited from previous administrations in addition to executing new ones as an integral part of service delivery.

“Governor Oborevwori promised to restore the glory of Warri and complete projects inherited from past administrations. Two years down the line, he has been doing just that as can be attested to by his completion of the Ughelli-Asaba Dual Carriageway Road. He is very consistent with his policy.”

He promised to hold a workshop to acquaint publishers of community newspapers with the dynamics of the MORE Agenda and gave them copies of policy document.

Speaking earlier, leader of the team and Senior Public Assistant to the Governor on Community Newspapers, Prince Joseph Orhomonokpaye, appealed for support for publishers of community newspapers given the challenging environment for the media. Orhomonokpaye noted the publishers are ready to partner with the Oborevwori administration in realising his developmental agenda.

Barau, Opeyemi, 97 Senators Throw Support Behind Creation Of Anioma State

By
Hill Nigeria
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The quest for the creation of Anioma state as the sixth state of the Southeast region has gained unprecedented support from no fewer than ninety Senators in the upper legislative chamber.

Among those in support of the proposed state were the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, the Senate leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, and 97 other members of the upper legislative chamber.

This follows intense lobbying by Senator Ned Nwoko, representing the Delta North senatorial district on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Nwoko, a key champion of the Anioma State movement, had addressed a letter dated May 27, 2025, to the Senate President and all members of the Senate, seeking their individual and collective support for the creation of the state.

In the letter, the Senator anchored the proposal on the principles of national development, equity, justice, and federal balance.

The proposal is formally captured under Senate Bill 481, currently under legislative consideration as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process.

With 90 Senators already signed on, political analysts and legislative experts affirm that the motion has met and surpassed the Senate’s constitutional requirement of two-thirds majority support, which stands at 67 Senators.

As the list of supporters is expected to grow in the coming weeks, the push for Anioma State continues to resonate as a unifying cause with strong prospects for legislative success and national approval.

Among the top-ranking lawmakers, who have thrown their weight behind the Anioma State initiative are: Sen. Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President; Sen. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Leader; Sen. Abba Patrick Moro, Senate Minority Leader; Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State; Sen. Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State; Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State; and Sen. Victor Umeh, Southeast political stalwart.

Others are: Sen. Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State, Sen. Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sen. Simon Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State, and Sen. Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North, amongst others.

At the heart of this legislative groundswell is a remarkable show of solidarity in the Senate, where 90 Senators – well over the required two-thirds majority have already endorsed the proposal, thus confirming that the constitutional threshold for such state creation has been surpassed in the Red Chamber.

Oborevwori Unstoppable In 2027 – Oghenesivbe 

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Says Deltans are solidly behind their performing governor

Director General, Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has again expressed optimism that governor Sheriff Oborevwori, will be reelected in 2027, no matter the political thunderstorms.

He gave the assurance during a radio political program monitored in Asaba on Saturday, saying that the governor remains the most trusted politician and selfless leader judging from his unmatched popularity, public acceptance, positive aura and magnetic charisma.

He noted that Oborevwori’s genuine commitment towards advancing Delta had consistently earned him accolades and national Awards, pointing out that as the political atmosphere gathers momentum, the governor’s team, loyalists and statewide political structures would once again rise to the occasion and paint Delta yellow.

The Bureau Chief assured that by the special grace of God, governor Oborevwori would complete his eight years tenure on May 29, 2031, and that no mortal or political scheming can stop him from winning the governorship election overwhelming in 2027.

“I can tell you for free that governor Oborevwori shall be unstoppable in 2027. In fact, it’s already foreseeable that he would shock his political detractors.

“All kinds of talks and permutations are making the rounds on social media platforms, but all that will soon give way for political reality and mass mobilization.

“Deltans are solidly behind their governor, and in the near future we shall all be faced with reality, and that is to say governor Oborevwori would expand his political tentacles, and sustain his lead as the biggest political masquerade of our time,” Oghenesivbe said.

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