By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended its condolences on the passing of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, a prominent religious leader in Plateau State, who died at the age of 90.

In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh praised the late Imam as a “shining example” of interfaith harmony, whose legacy of courage and compassion would endure.

Imam Abdullahi gained international acclaim in 2018 for his heroic actions during violent attacks on communities in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State. At great personal risk, he sheltered and saved the lives of 262 Christians in his home and mosque.

Archbishop Okoh highlighted the Imam’s “rare moral bravery,” noting that his decision to protect innocent lives powerfully transcended religious divides and affirmed the sacredness of human life above all else.

“His actions served as a vital bridge in a nation often strained by religious suspicion,” Okoh stated. “He demonstrated that peace is achievable through conscience and love, embodying the core values of faith, compassion, and selflessness.”

The CAN President described Imam Abdullahi’s story as an enduring “blueprint for future generations,” surpassing physical honors in its lasting impact. He urged the government and the public to uphold the Imam’s sacrifice as a rallying point for building a more peaceful Nigeria.

Okoh also encouraged continued engagement with the Imam’s family and sustained public recognition of his heroism to inspire unity and mutual respect across the nation.

“As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life truly well lived. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his community, and all who were moved by his extraordinary example,” Okoh added.

It is noteworthy that the Federal Government had previously honored Imam Abubakar Abdullahi with the Order of the Niger (OON) in recognition of his dedicated efforts toward promoting peaceful coexistence.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have clinched the bronze medal at AFCON 2025, defeating Egypt 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a tense and goalless regulation match.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves in the shootout to deny Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Ademola Lookman sealed the victory with a calm final penalty, providing consolation after Nigeria’s semi-final defeat by the same method.

In a match between two sides reshuffled after semi-final losses, Nigeria started without key attackers Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi. The first half’s major incident saw a Paul Onuachu goal disallowed by VAR for a foul in the buildup, for which he also received a yellow card.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams showing effort but lacking a decisive final touch. Nigeria’s best chance came from a tame Raphael Onyedika effort from distance.

The victory marks Nigeria’s first penalty shootout win in three attempts at the tournament and extends their record to a ninth AFCON bronze medal.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria following his participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW2026), where he secured a significant bilateral agreement and announced major investment and climate finance targets.

According to a Statehouse press release issued by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, the centerpiece of the visit was the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates. The pact is designed to deepen economic ties, significantly boost bilateral trade and investment, and enhance technology transfer. Key sectors targeted for expanded collaboration include energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and renewable energy.

In a notable announcement at the summit, President Tinubu revealed plans for a joint Nigeria-UAE “INVESTOPIA” forum to be held in Lagos this February. The initiative is explicitly aimed at attracting global investors to the Nigerian market.

Furthermore, the President outlined an ambitious climate finance goal. He informed summit delegates that Nigeria aims to mobilize up to $30 billion annually in climate and green industrial finance. This effort is tied to the nation’s accelerated energy transition reforms and its drive to expand electricity access nationwide.

The President’s delegation included several key ministers who participated in the sustainability summit, highlighting the administration’s focus on leveraging international partnerships for economic development and climate action.

The newly signed CEPA marks a potential thaw and significant deepening of economic relations between Nigeria and the UAE, following previous diplomatic tensions.