According to actor Emeka Nwagbaraocha, many people who take part in the well-known Hallelujah Challenge do so for the wrong reasons.

Instead of a sincere desire to seek God, the actor condemned what he called a “miracle-chasing” mindset in a post on X.

He wrote:

“Some of you are just miracle chasers and genuinely not seeking the face of God. God that loved you when you were wallowing in sin and sent His Son to die for you, will punish you because you left Hallelujah Challenge early because of work or missed just one day? Lmaoo you people should please naa.”

Since then, his speech has sparked a range of responses on the internet, with some people supporting his viewpoint and others claiming that his tone was contemptuous of others’ religious experiences.

ALSO READ: Hallelujah Challenge: Nathaniel Bassey Unveils Praise Building

Famous Nigerian gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has revealed a large new facility for his annual Hallelujah Challenge praise concert.

The gigantic two-story edifice, built in just eight months, has a large welcome space, elegantly adorned rooms, chandeliers, flowers, and well-organised lighting.

A mesmerising video published on Instagram depicted the transformation of a barren plot of ground into a bustling centre of worship.

Bassey expressed his profound appreciation to God, saying

Nigerian worship leader Nathaniel Bassey ministers at Trump’s Inaugural Prayer Breakfast – Christian Daily International

The video triggered an outpouring of joy online, with followers thanking God for His faithfulness and praising Bassey for being an inspiration.

The Hallelujah Challenge, a global praise and prayer movement with millions of participants, is projected to have a greater impact with the new venue.

The structure will serve as a centre for worship, prayer, and community events, creating a sacred space for believers to interact with God and one another.

Nigeria’s political landscape was tense on Monday as supporters of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, took to the streets to demand his release.

The nationwide protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, gained momentum despite strong warnings from the police and other security agencies.

Activist Omoyele Sowore, one of the key organisers, insisted that the demonstration would proceed as planned,

including a march to the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Sowore described the protest as a constitutional right and urged participants to remain peaceful.

In response, the Nigeria Police Force declared the Federal Capital Territory a “red alert” zone,

while the Nigeria Correctional Service announced all correctional facilities as “No-Protest Zones.”

Authorities cautioned protesters to stay away from such areas, citing security concerns.

Meanwhile recall that Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since 2021 after his arrest and extradition from Kenya.

He faces multiple charges including terrorism and treasonable felony.

His lawyers and supporters however argue that the government’s continued detention violates court orders and his constitutional rights.

Free Nnamdi Kanu Protest Escalates Amid Stand off With Security Operatives in Abuja

Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team recently accused the federal government of “disobeying its own laws,” following reports that his bail conditions were being ignored.

Meanwhile, the police have denied obtaining any court order to halt the protest, countering media reports suggesting otherwise.

For many of Kanu’s supporters, the protest symbolizes more than a call for his freedom

it reflects a broader frustration over what they describe as political marginalisation, human rights violations, and a lack of trust in the justice system.

Analysts also say the government’s heavy-handed response could further heighten tensions, especially in the South-East region where IPOB maintains a strong base.

Security agencies have further urged restraint, emphasizing that while peaceful protest is legal, public order must be maintained.

The coming days will reveal whether the protests remain peaceful or spiral into confrontation as both sides stand firm on their positions.

Watch the video below

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has allegedly moved out of Ned Nwoko’s mansion due to allegations of domestic violence.

In a video making rounds on the internet, it is alleged that the billionaire senator has sent his thugs after the actress after she ran out of their mansion for her safety.

“In Ned Nwoko’s House I am nothing, but in my own House I am a Queen, Not Again I can’t stand the Vi0l£nce its too much”

She said Ned never allowed her family into the house, and she has been suffering this for years.

In the video, Regina alleges that as she was parking out of the house, her husband, Ned Nwoko, who is a popular politician, allegedly sent his thugs after her. It was her brother Sammy who defended her from the thugs touching his sister Regina.

In February, Regina Daniels deactivated her Instagram account.

This came after rumours that her husband, billionaire businessman and politician Ned Nwoko, has allegedly welcomed a child with actress Chika Ike.

Social media was abuzz with claims that Nwoko, who is married to six wives, Regina being the youngest, has secretly welcomed another child.

Moment Regina Daniels Share Video Of Her Husband Taking a Pee (Video)

The rumors gained traction after Chika Ike announced her pregnancy. The big reveal sparked both congratulatory messages and controversy.

Adding to the speculation, Regina was noticeably silent on his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

She also did not post any Valentine’s Day tribute to him.

The actress took to her TikTok account to clap back at her critics with a bold message. In a video, she confidently walked towards her luxurious red Ferrari while captioning it with a message aimed at her detractors.

“All shades seen: Don’t comment if you never cry for Ferrari.”

The video quickly gained traction, sparking mixed reactions from social media users. Some supported her stance, while others criticised her for prioritising wealth over personal peace.

According to the new National Guidelines for Entry Requirements for Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, candidates seeking admission to arts faculties in Nigerian universities are no longer required to pass mathematics in their Senior School Certificate Examination.

Folasade Boriowo, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Education, stated that the updated guideline, which was announced on Tuesday, is intended to remove barriers, democratise access to tertiary education, and empower Nigerian youth.

According to the announcement, the new framework would apply to all universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and Innovation Enterprise Academies (IEAs) in the country.

It also said that the National Industrial Diploma (NID) previously issued by Innovation Enterprise Academies would be phased out and replaced with the National Diploma (ND).

This, it said, is to ensure uniformity, credibility, and progression opportunities for graduates.

“The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) is currently re-accrediting all IEAs nationwide to align with the new ND standards. Institutions that fail to transition to full accreditation will be de-accredited,” the statement added.

The statement quoted the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, saying that the reform has become necessary after years of restricted access that left many qualified candidates unable to secure admission.

“Every year, over two million candidates sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), yet only about 700,000 gain admission,” Mr Alausa said.

This imbalance, he notes, is not due to a lack of ability but rather to outdated and overly stringent entry requirements that must give way to fairness and opportunity.

ASUU Strike; FG Implements “No Work No Pay” As Strike Enters Crucial Stage

Previously, all candidates were required to secure a minimum of five credits, including English and Mathematics as a prerequisite for admission into the tertiary institutions. However, a credit in the English language remains a requirement, the statement said.

“The reform is a deliberate effort to expand access to tertiary education, creating opportunities for an additional 250,000 to 300,000 students to be admitted to our tertiary institutions each year,” it said.

“It reflects a firm commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian youth has a fair chance to learn, grow, and succeed, putting the Renewed Hope Agenda into action.”

Below is the new guideline:

Universities: Obtain a minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language, within two sittings. Mathematics is mandatory for Science, Technology, and Social Science courses.

Polytechnics (ND Level): Minimum of four (4) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language for non-science courses and Mathematics for science-related programmes.

Polytechnics (HND Level): Minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

Colleges of Education (NCE Level): Minimum of four (4) credit passes in relevant subjects, with English Language mandatory for Arts and Social

Science courses and mathematics are required for science, vocational, and technical programs.

Colleges of Education (B.Ed Level): Minimum of five (5) credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics, as applicable to the course of study.

Innovation Enterprise Academies (IEAs): To adopt the same minimum requirements as Polytechnics for the National Diploma (ND) programme. The National Innovation Diploma (NID) is hereby abolished.

The ongoing nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in Nigeria has escalated

after the federal government directed university authorities to activate a “no work, no pay” policy against lecturers refusing to resume duty.

The move was formalised in a circular signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and addressed to vice-chancellors of all federal universities.

Under the directive, vice-chancellors are expected to carry out roll calls and physical headcounts

to distinguish between lecturers present at work and those participating in the strike.

Those identified as absent and not performing their official obligations during the strike will have their salaries withheld for the period.  

The policy explicitly exempts lecturers under the Congress of University Academics (CONUA)

and the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA), who are not part of the industrial action.

ASUU Strike; FG Implements “No Work No Pay” As Strike Enters Crucial Stage

ASUU had initiated a nationwide, comprehensive two-week warning strike beginning October 13, citing unresolved demands,

including full implementation of the 2009 agreement, release of withheld salaries

and arrears, revitalisation of public universities, and protection against victimisation.

 Meanwhile, in response, government officials have asserted that many of these demands have been addressed.

Minister Alausa also said the administration had settled parts of earned academic allowances and mainstreamed them as salary components,

while also pledging funding for pending promotion arrears.  

Critics however argue that the “no work, no pay” enforcement adds pressure on lecturers who are already grappling with financial strain,

especially in public institutions where remuneration is often delayed.

Furthermore, the directive is sure to deepen tensions between the union and government, intensifying public scrutiny

over how far the administration will go to compel compliance without jeopardising academic integrity.

As the week progresses, attention now turns to how vice-chancellors will respond

and whether ASUU will engage with renewed negotiation or escalate its stance.

The enforcement of salary suspension on striking lecturers may redefine the dynamics of industrial action across the tertiary education sector in Nigeria.

The Christian community in Nigeria and beyond is mourning the loss of one of its most revered figures, Evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

His family, in an official statement titled “Glorious Transition,” described his passing as a triumphant homegoing and a peaceful completion of his earthly mission.

Early Life and Calling

Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Uma Ukpai’s journey was marked by humble beginnings and early adversity.

Losing his father at a tender age, he faced significant hardship but remained determined to continue his education through perseverance and hard work.

He gave his life to Christ in 1958, a decision that set him on a lifelong path of service to God and humanity.

From a young age, Uma Ukpai experienced profound spiritual encounters that deepened his faith and shaped his calling.

One of the most defining moments of his childhood was the miraculous healing of a mentally challenged man,

which he later described as the event that launched him into ministry.

A Ministry of Power and Impact

Over the course of more than six decades, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai rose to become one of Africa’s foremost evangelists.

He founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational ministry based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,

which became known for its large crusades, healing campaigns, and outreach programmes that drew thousands across Nigeria and beyond.

He was also a founding leader of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), where he played a pivotal role in uniting Pentecostal and Charismatic churches under a common vision.

Popular Clergy, Rev. Uma Ukpai Passes On At 80

His ministry combined fiery preaching with practical acts of compassion, mentoring young ministers, supporting widows,

and further championing education and healthcare initiatives through various outreach projects.

A man of both faith and intellect, Rev. Ukpai earned multiple academic and theological qualifications,

including a Diploma in Journalism, a Certificate in Electrical Engineering, and advanced theology degrees abroad.

Furthermore, His teachings emphasized faith, holiness, and the transformative power of God’s word, making him a respected voice across denominations.

Meanwhile, In January 2025, the evangelist celebrated his 80th birthday, an event attended by notable Christian leaders and dignitaries from across the country, a testament to his enduring influence in Nigeria’s religious landscape.

Personal Life and Trials

Rev. Uma Ukpai was married to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, and together they raised several children.

His life was not without personal trials; he once recounted losing two of his children in a car accident, a tragedy that tested but ultimately strengthened his faith.

Through that pain, he became a source of comfort to others navigating grief,

consistently preaching the message of perseverance and divine purpose.

Legacy of Faith

Evangelist Uma Ukpai’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains deeply imprinted on the heart of the Christian faith in Nigeria.

His voice, known for its authority and compassion, will continue to echo through his sermons, writings, and the lives of those he mentored.

He exemplified a life wholly dedicated to service, blending evangelism with humanitarianism, and spiritual passion with intellectual depth.

His ministry model remains a guide for future generations of preachers and believers alike.

Indeed, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai has fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith.

His legacy will continue to inspire, reminding all that a life yielded to God can touch nations and transform lives.

Arise TV News presenter and producer Somtochukwu Maduagwu was killed in her residence at Katampe area of Abuja on Monday, September 29th.

Her demise was announced in a press statement by Arise TV issued by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of Arise TV management.

According to Usman-Ajayi, the Arise Television management expressed their condolences to Maduagwu, also known as Sommie, and her family.

Somtochukwu, born on December 26, 1995, was a lawyer by profession.

“Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police,” the statement reads.

“ She was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.

“Beyond the airwaves, Sommie was a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.

“Sommie’s voice is now silent, but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits.”

Before her demise, Somtochukwu had written a post praying that”Nigeria does not happen to anyone”.

While initial reports suggested that the 29-year-old broadcaster was directly attacked by the armed robbers, an update by family friend Kaanayo Nwachukwu, who knew Maduagwu’s mother, paints a different picture.

According to Nwachukwu, armed robbers stormed the six-flat apartment complex where Somtochukwu, popularly called Sommie, lived, moving from one apartment to another, dispossessing residents of their belongings. Although the police were reportedly alerted, they failed to show up on time.

Terrified by the commotion from adjoining flats, Maduagwu attempted to escape before the robbers reached her apartment. She jumped out of her window, sustaining severe injuries from the fall.

The standoff between the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) took a sharp turn on Saturday, September 27,

after the union instructed its members to halt the supply of crude oil and gas to the $20 billion refinery.

The directive, which was enforced immediately, represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict

between the workers’ union and the refinery’s management.

In a letter dated September 26, signed by General Secretary Lumumba Okugbawa, PENGASSAN accused the refinery of engaging in anti-labour practices.

The union also alleged that some of its members were unlawfully dismissed as punishment for exercising their constitutional right to join the association.

PENGASSAN explicitly ordered its branch chairmen at major upstream and midstream oil companies

including TotalEnergies, Chevron, Seplat, Shell Nigeria Gas, Oando, Renaissance, and the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC)—to:

1.Immediately cut off all gas supply to the refinery via NGIC.

2.Shut all crude oil supply valves to the facility.

3.Halt all vessel loading operations headed for the refinery.

The union ended the directive with a firm statement of solidarity: “Injury to one! Injury to all!”

The refinery’s management has vehemently rejected the claims of a mass lay-off.

Meanwhile in a statement on Friday, the refinery clarified that only a small number of workers were affected

by what it called a “reorganisation” aimed at preventing acts of sabotage within the facility.

In the meantime Pengassen begins strike today September 30th 2025

This will definitely the availability of petrol, as Dangote is now know as a major supplier of the product

Meanwhile Federal government is said to be wading into the issue, in a bid to reach a settlement between  Dangote and Pengassen.

BBNaija alum Phyna has denied VeryDarkMan’s (VDM) claims that she sidelined him in handling her sister’s case.

In a live video on Thursday via Instagram, Phyna expressed shock at the allegation, insisting that she had been in constant touch with VDM.

“I don’t understand the betrayal talk because I’ve been calling and messaging him every day, giving him updates. He didn’t answer, he didn’t pick my calls. Yet I’m seeing this video. The problem at hand is not distraction; it is how I’m going to get justice for my sister,” she said.

Phyna explained that she informed VDM about her movements and was willing to share their chat history to prove she tagged him along.

“The lady begged me to plead with that man, and I told VDM. He said okay, that I should be careful. When I got there, I told him. When I left, I also told him. I even have the messages. If needed, I’ll upload all these chats,” she added.

The BBNaija star maintained that she respected VDM, but wished he had reached out to her directly instead of going public.

“I personally like VeryDarkMan, but should I kill myself? Please, I beg bro. You fore call me as you see say as you come face at the other’s guard you but if you check I still message you bro. Sir, I still they message you. You know they reply. You didn’t reply. Let’s not do it.

“Please. Thank you. If I offend you I’m really sorry from the bottom of my heart. I need you in this case. You know this I need you but if this is how you think you want to think maybe to shake me or I don’t know, but in as much as it pain me I stand,” Phyna said.

She further stressed that her priority remains justice for her sister, describing VDM’s approach as “not clear.”

“I stand because my blood be this and it’s not sharp. The way you take care of the matter is not clear. Thank you.” She said.

VDM had earlier alleged that Phyna failed to carry him along in pursuing her sister’s case, a claim she has now denied.

Ex BBNaija Season 4 housemate Natacha Anita Akide, aka Tacha, has bragged that she would have won the show if she hadn’t been disqualified.

Speaking on the Hot Takes podcast, Tacha attributed her confidence to surviving multiple eviction nominations.

She revealed that she faced eviction 11 times and returned each time, which she said proved she had a strong support base outside the house.

“I knew I was going to win. The fact that the other housemates were always putting me up for eviction… In the history of Big Brother Naija, no housemate has stood for eviction as much as I have stood up for. I was up for eleven possible evictions.

“But the fact that I kept bouncing back, I knew I had massive supporters outside,” she said.

Tacha’s disqualification from the show was due to violent conduct, specifically a physical altercation with fellow housemate Mercy Eke.

Her main rival, Mercy Eke, went on to win the show.

In June, Tacha, revealed that relocating to the UK to find greener pastures is a big scam

The controversial celebrity who relocated to the UK recently has thrown more light on the living condition in the country

According to her, it’s all scam, and many living in Nigeria have better lives than those in the UK

In a video she posted online, Tacha opined that people who reside in the United Kingdom are broke and are one of the poorest people she has come across.

She said in the two months she has lived in the UK, she has met so many broke people who just know how to package themselves.

You see those of you always having inferiority complex in Nigeria, thinking everyone here is rich, most people here are broke.

The most broke people I have met are actually the people I met in the UK. Everyone is holding themselves. It is expensive as f$ck.”

She further added that the living condition in the UK is far from perfect for residents especially immigrants.

‘’Most people in Nigeria are living better off than most people in here”

Tacha also said those who decide to relocate to the UK should make sure their decision is not be hinged on the belief that life would be easier in the UK.