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Sadiq Khan Seeks to Boost Collaboration in Business, Tech With Nigeria

Sadiq Khan Seeks to Boost Collaboration in Business, Tech With Nigeria

Emma Okonji

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, yesterday in Lagos, promised the Nigerian business and technology sector close collaboration that would boost business growth, expansion, and job creation.

Khan led a trade mission to Nigeria, comprising 26 high-growth enterprises, sustainability and fintech companies, through its Grow London Global programme, put together by London & Partners, London’s growth agency.

He said the trade mission was designed to strengthen London’s economic, cultural, and innovative ties with Lagos.

According to him, the trade mission presents a unique opportunity for London and Lagos fintech, enterprise, and sustainability companies to explore joint initiatives in areas, such as technology, financial services, and skills that will help build lasting partnerships that benefit communities across Nigerian cities. 

Speaking at a panel session moderated by Founder of Beyond Limits, Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, the London mayor said, “We came with a delegation of 26 of the finest businesses in London, some in sustainability and some in fintech. We’ve come as patrons; we’ve come as partners. The tech capital of Europe is London.

“The tech capital of Africa is Nigeria. When I see the number of unicorns now in Africa, the vast majority of which are based in Nigeria, we think about London that has more than 120 unicorns, and we have come to partner with Nigerian unicorns and businesses to expand their growth opportunities.

“We’re looking forward to creating wealth, great prosperity, creating jobs, and meet more businesses that will inspire the next generation of Nigerians and Londoners to do great things.”

When asked how London intended to position itself as a preferred partner for Africa’s rapidly growing cities, the mayor said London would create the facilities and the enabling environment that would make businesses in Nigeria and Africa to come to London, instead of going to other places, like Paris, New York, Singapore or Hong Kong.

He stressed that over 120 African companies were listed on the London Stock Exchange. 

Equally speaking at the panel session, Founding Partner, Future Africa, IyinoluwaAboyeji, said, “The biggest opportunity or partnership that the Londoners really share is the melting pots for incredible talent.” According to him, some of the most incredible talents from across the African continent get their first start in Lagos. He said Nigeria had a fantastic partnership with the Global Talent Programme.

In his opening remarks, Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, said London remained one of the world’s top financial and innovative hubs, boasting deep capital, and rich legal framework, and a global mind-set.

Alake said, “The partnership between Lagos and London will shape the next chapter of global technology. It’s about inclusive digital finance, not just new bank glamour shorts. It’s about collaboration, it’s about building the rails of the global south and north tech highway, with London and Lagos as anchor points.”

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Buhari Buried in Blaze of Glory With Full Military Honours

Buhari Buried in Blaze of Glory With Full Military Honours

•Tinubu goes above and beyond to honour his predecessor,  creating new presidential precedent

DejiElumoye, ChuksOkochain Abuja, Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa, Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

Two days after he passed away at a London clinic, ex-President MuhammaduBuhari was yesterday buried in a blaze of glory with full military honours at his favourite spot, where he normally held court at his Daura residence in Katsina State.

President Bola Tinubu personally received the remains of his predecessor, as part of the final rites of honour, at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina. He led other dignitaries to the sleepy town to pay their last respects to the late former Nigerian leader.

The President spared no expense and personally participated in the activities to honour the late president,  creating a new presidential precedent.

Just as the family of late former President  ShehuShagari have complained that Buhari got the honour he did not accord ShehuShagari who died in 2018  when  he Buhari was President.

Buhari merely sent his then Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha to lead a Federal Government’s delegation to  Shagari’s burial while he stayed back in Abuja.

In the United States of America, where Nigeria copied its presidential system from, the passing of a former president is usually a big and solemn ceremony – where all living former presidents across party lines gather in unity to honour the departed.

With the precedent now set, other former presidents can now hope to be accorded similar honour when they pass on. It’s all about the institution of the presidency.

The Shagari family commended President Tinubu for setting a new precedent on how to honour a former President who passes on.

However, according to a release by presidential spokesperson, BayoOnanuga, Tinubu arrived at the airport from Abuja at 1:42pm and inspected a guard of honour, before the Nigerian Air Force One plane conveying the remains of his predecessor landed at 1:51pm.

Vice President KashimShettima, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Buhari’s wife, Aisha, and other family members accompanied Buhari’s remains to Nigeria.

Tinubu, along Shettima, President UmaruSissocoEmbaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger, Ali LamineZeine, former President of Niger, IssoufouMahamadou, and former Vice President YemiOsinbajo, received the casket of the late president at the foot of the aircraft.

A joint team of military pallbearers comprising nine senior officers laid the casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, on a trolley.

The team included Major-General Mohammed Usman, Major-General Oluwafemi Williams, Major-General ShuaibuNuhu, Rear Admiral Suleiman Dahun, Rear Admiral Jonathan Ajodo, Rear Admiral Samuel Ngatuwa, Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Herbert Amesinlola, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sanni, and Air Vice Marshal ObinnaObiabaka. Major-General Mike Alechenu coordinated the team.

Katsina State Governor, DikkoRadda, was on the ground to receive the guests of the state. First Lady, Senator OluremiTinubu, also attended the burial ceremony, having joined them at the airport.

Minister of information, Muhammad Idris, and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, AbubakarBagudu, were also in Katsina for the funeral.

Dignitaries who came to Daura for the event included Vice President AtikuAbubakar; former Ogun State governor, Senator IbikunleAmosun (who was said to have decided the burial spot); and former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, AbubakarMalami.

Several state governors were in Daura to honour the former president. They included Zamfara State Governor, DaudaLawal, Ogun State Governor, Prince DapoAbiodun, Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, Lagos State Governor, and BabajideSanwo-Olu.

Equally there to pay their last respects to Buhari were former transport minister, ChibuikeAmaechi; former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu Sheriff; former Zamfara State Governor, Abdul-Aziz Yari; and former Sokoto State Governor, AminuTambuwal, among several others.

The pallbearers wheeled the former leader’s casket in a slow march, in sync with the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” passing through a full military guard of honour comprising six officers and 96 soldiers drawn from the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Tinubu and others walked behind the casket trolley in a solemn procession. The pallbearers escorted the casket into a waiting military hearse for the one-hour journey to Daura, for the final burial.

On arrival in Daura, Buhari’s corpse was taken to his residence, amid tight security, where top government officials and his close relatives paid growing tributes. Thereafter, his remains were conveyed to a mini helipad located a few meters away from his residence for funeral rites in accordance with Islamic injunction about 4:34pm.

The state funeral featured full military honours, including a 21-gun salute.

Immediately after the funeral prayers, led by Imam Hassan Yusuf, the corpse of the former Nigerian president, flanked by an unprecedented crowd, was taken to his compound for final interment at 5:15pm.

Thousands of mourners within and outside Nigeria attended the funeral of the former president.

The mourners, dressed in multi-coloured traditional robes, sat quietly under the shade of trees outside the late president’s residence under the watch of armed police officers and soldiers.

THISDAY observed that many businesses and shops were shut and side roads were clogged with vehicles along the Daura-Mai’Adua road.

Meanwhile, tributes continued to pour in from across the country and beyond for Buhari, who passed away in London at 82 after a protracted illness.

Atiku:  Buhari ‘One of Nigeria’s Towering Sons’

Former Vice President AtikuAbubakar paid a moving tribute to the late President MuhammaduBuhari, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s towering sons” and a leader who bore the weight of national service with unwavering determination.

In a personally signed statement released on the day of Buhari’s burial in Daura, Atiku said the former president’s passing “has cast a long shadow across the land, stirring reflections on legacy, sacrifice, and the fleeting nature of power”.

Atiku added, “It is an honour to be present in Daura, to stand shoulder to shoulder with his family, his kinsmen, and the Nigerian people as we commit him to Mother Earth.”

Reflecting on their political rivalry, Atiku stated that while he and Buhari often stood on “opposite shores of the political river,” death reminded all that what ultimately endured was shared humanity.

“In his own way, he bore the burden of leadership with unwavering will and served the country he so dearly loved with a sense of purpose shaped by his convictions,” Atiku said.

The former vice president extended his condolences to the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, and the nation at large, praying that God, in His infinite mercy, will grant the late president eternal rest.

“May the Almighty forgive his shortcomings, accept his return, and grant him AljannahFirdaus,” Atiku stated.

The former vice president concluded with a broader message to all Nigerians, urging reflection on the deeper meaning of leadership and legacy.

“Let this moment also remind us all, leaders and citizens alike, that the true measure of life is not in the length of our days, but in the depth of our service and the footprints we leave on the sands of time,” Atiku stated.

Gbajabiamila: He Was an Incomparable Statesman

Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbakabiamila, said since he received the news of Buhari’s death, “I have been left with a profound sense of bereavement, a consciousness of a loss that is too deep for words.

“I considered President MuhammaduBuhari a friend and a father figure. He was a man of dignity and integrity, steadfast in his resolve and tenacious in his determination to follow through on the commitments he made, whether to himself or his associates, family and our nation.

“He was an incomparable statesman, who occupied a unique space in the psyche and history of a country he loved and served for over sixty years. Life teaches us the inevitability of death and the certainty of loss. We learn this lesson through grief at the passing of friends and family, colleagues, and acquaintances.

“Eventually, if you live long enough, you become steeled by the anguish of compounding loss. Yet, ever so often, death surprises you even when it shouldn’t.”

Gbajabiamila added, “Here we are, a nation in mourning, shocked by a loss we could foresee, but could never be prepared for because MuhammaduBuhari, the soldier, the administrator and the politician, has been so long a part of our national consciousness that it seems impossible to imagine any other reality.

“It will forever be one of the great honours of my life that I got to know, work with and enjoy the friendship of MuhammaduBuhari. As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I enjoyed the unflinching support of President Buhari throughout the tenacious machinations of many who sought to use him and his office to undermine the parliament for the sake of political interests.

“When these machinations became a distraction and I went to him, he assured me that only the national interests mattered to him and that as long as I continued to serve that interest, I would have his support. 

“As was his nature, he remained true to his word and thoroughly resisted those attempts to sabotage the House and, in doing so, enabled a period of stability that allowed the 9th National Assembly to be a legislature of policy innovation dedicated to the service of the Nigerian people.

“This, too, is his legacy, and it is a worthy legacy indeed. I am glad that I had the opportunity many times to thank him for his support and to appreciate him for his service to our country.

“Like all of us, MuhammaduBuhari was not infallible. Over the course of his decades in the public eye, he made his mistakes and his imperfections were inevitably magnified by being in full view. That is the price of public life.

“Yet, despite his mistakes one thing was always certain, he was an honourable and dignified man, a fine soldier and statesman who loved his country passionately. Whatever else, we must remember that and honour the life he lived and the contributions he made to nation building. 

“My family and I extend our condolences to the former first lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the children, and the extended Buhari family for the loss of their patriarch. I urge them to be consoled by the profound accomplishments of President Buhari’s life, and the lessons of tenacity, dignity and grace that he embodied throughout his journey here on earth.

“To all his friends and supporters across the country, let us continue the work of serving our nation so that by our joint efforts we may achieve the cause of a nation at peace, prosperous beyond our wildest dreams. This is the highest tribute we can pay to this great statesman of our country.”

Pantami: His Name Was Synonymous with Integrity

In his tribute, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, shared personal insights into the character of Buhari, whom he said he lived with for 25 years.

Pantami made the remarks during a condolence visit to the late president’s residence in Daura.

He described Buhari as a man of unwavering integrity, patriotism, and discipline, adding that their close interaction over the years strengthened his belief in these qualities.

Pantami stated, “MuhammaduBuhari’s name is synonymous with integrity. One may argue, if you don’t know him, but for those of us who interacted with him for several years, there is no doubt that his name is synonymous with integrity.

“I lived with him for 25 years and Almighty is my witness, I have never doubted that integrity through my interactions with him.” Pantami added that Buhari’s legacy would endure through his example of critical thinking and devotion to the national interest.

Bayelsa APC: Buhari Changed Course of Nigerian Politics

All Progressives Congress (APC), Bayelsa State Chapter, joined the rest of humanity to mourn Buhari’s passing, saying, in a statement by the state publicity secretary, Mr. DoifieBuokoribo, that the former president changed the direction of politics in the country.

The statement said, “In a world where politics is often defined by elitism and standoffishness, the late President MuhammaduBuhari stood out as a unique example of a statesman and influencer who was popular with the masses and respected by the elite. He was a leader who embodied the values of courage, discipline, integrity, and compassion.”

Bayelsa APC added, “Buhari’s commitment to duty and the nation was unwavering, both as a soldier and a politician. He led with a strong sense of responsibility, which prioritised the well-being of the people and security of the nation.

“He brought to politics a strategic mind-set that combined the discipline and nerve of a soldier and the diplomacy of a politician. He determinedly went for the presidency of his country, braving all odds, until victory came his way in 2015.

“It was sweet victory, one that changed the course of politics in the country, being the first time that an incumbent president would lose to the opposition.

“Buhari contested for the presidency for a consecutive four times, in 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2015. He stayed the course until some day came in 2015, when he finally met his goal.”

According to the APC state publicity secretary in Bayelsa, “Buhari’s character also shined through in the military. He held several important command and staff positions, as well as political appointments during his distinguished military career.”

The statement alsi said, “Buhari’s quiet strength and unshakable resolve endeared him to many across social classes. He was a friend of the poor, and a rallying point for the elite.

“His lifestyle of humility, transparency, and simplicity are virtues that will continue to inspire generations for a long time.”

MAN: His Tenure Brought Attention to the Importance of Manufacturing

Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) also mourned the death of Buhari.

According to the president of MAN, Mr. Francis Meshioye, Buhari implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing Nigeria’s industrial development.

Meshioye said, “His tenure brought attention to the importance of manufacturing as a driver of economic development and job creation.

“Though the economy experienced difficulties during his tenure, President Buhari granted the association audience to proffer solutions to mitigate the binding constraints that limited the performance of the manufacturing sector. He also provided solutions to some of the challenges confronting manufacturers.”

Meshioye added, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, associates, and all Nigerians during this solemn time.

“As the nation reflects over the life and career of President MuhammaduBuhari, MAN calls upon all Nigerians to honour his memory.

“We should also reflect on his achievements and continue to work toward the advancements of manufacturing.

“Government should reflect over his policies and recommit to the creation of a conducive atmosphere for sustainable economic development and the upliftment of the overall wellbeing of the citizenry.”

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Tinubu Receives Remains Of Ex-President Buhari In Katsina Ahead Of Funeral Rites In Daura

Tinubu Receives Remains Of Ex-President Buhari In Katsina Ahead Of Funeral Rites In Daura

* Nine two-star military pall bearers lay the late president’s casket draped in Nigerian colours

* Deceased gets full military honours including 21-gun salute

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday received the remains of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina.

Former President Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London hospital.

The president, according to a release issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, arrived at the airport from Abuja at 1:42 p.m. and inspected a guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) plane conveying the remains of his predecessor landed at exactly 1:51 p.m.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, President Buhari’s wife Aisha, and other family members accompanied President Buhari’s remains to Nigeria.

President Tinubu, along with Vice-President Shettima, President Umaru Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau; Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine; former President of Niger, Issoufou Mahamadou; and former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, received the casket of the late president at the foot of the aircraft.

A joint team of military pallbearers comprising nine senior officers laid the casket, draped with the Nigerian flag, on a trolley. 

The team included Major-General Mohammed Usman, Major-General Oluwafemi Williams, Major-General Shuaibu Nuhu, Rear Admiral Suleiman Dahun, Rear Admiral Jonathan Ajodo, Rear Admiral Samuel Ngatuwa, Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Herbert Amesinlola, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sanni, and Air Vice Marshal Obinna Obiabaka. Major General Mike Alechenu coordinated the team.

The pallbearers wheeled the former leader’s casket in a slow march, in sync with the hymn ‘God Be With You Till We Meet Again,’ passing through a full military guard of honour comprising six officers and 96 soldiers drawn from the Nigerian Armed Forces.

President Tinubu and others walked behind the casket trolley in a solemn procession.

The pallbearers escorted the casket into a waiting military hearse for the one-hour journey to Daura, where funeral prayers and the burial ceremony would take place.

The state funeral featured full military honours, including a 21-gun salute.

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Tinubu Arrives Katsina to Receive Buhari’s Body

Tinubu Arrives Katsina to Receive Buhari’s Body

President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday arrived in Katsina to receive the remains of the former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 82.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Vice-President Kashim Shettima departed London in the early hours of Tuesday with the remains of former Buhari back to Nigeria.
On arrival at the Umaru Musa Yar’adua Airport Katsina, Tinubu was received by Gov. Dikko Radda, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, governors, Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
Others are Ministers, former governors, former and serving Senators, Alhaji Dahiru Managl, former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NEC) amongst others. (NAN)

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National Assembly Postpones Plenary in Honour of Buhari

National Assembly Postpones Plenary in Honour of Buhari

*Southern senators describe former president as symbol of integrity, discipline

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The National Assembly has announced the suspension of all legislative activities following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, , who passed away in London on Sunday.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives directed that plenary sessions be rescheduled to Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

The suspension, according to the statement, “is in honour of the former President’s service to the nation and to allow lawmakers participate fully in the burial ceremonies.”

“All members of the National Assembly are urged to adjust their schedules to enable their presence at the funeral rites of the late President,” the statement read.

President Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s civilian President from 2015 to 2023, and earlier as military Head of State from 1984 to 1985, was remembered by the legislature for his unwavering commitment to national unity and integrity.

“May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile the Southern Senators Forum in a statement by the Chairman, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, has described the late Buhari as not only a towering figure in Nigerian politics but also a symbol of integrity, discipline, and unwavering patriotism.

The statement read, “Throughout his life, he embodied the values of simplicity, selflessness, and resolute commitment to the Nigerian project.

“From his early days as a military officer to his service as Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, he dedicated his entire life to the service of our great nation.

“His personality was defined by an uncommon humility and an unyielding sense of duty.

“Despite the immense power and influence he wielded, he remained approachable and steadfast in his quest to build a more transparent and accountable government.

“The late President Buhari’s aversion to ostentation and his frugal lifestyle inspired many to embrace the virtues of honesty and modesty in public life,” the statement read.

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Breaking: Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, is Dead

Breaking: Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, is Dead

The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, is dead.

He died on Sunday at the age of 91.

The revered traditional ruler of ijebuland ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and reigned for over 64 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigerian history.

Announcing his death Sunday evening, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, said: “It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland. Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025 at the age of 91 leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general.

“It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that the former President, Muhammadu Buhari died in a London, the United Kingdom.

Details shortly

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Tinubu Mouns Buhari, Orders Flags flown at Half Mast

Tinubu Mouns Buhari, Orders Flags flown at Half Mast

.Tinubu Speaks with widow, Aisha, expresses deep condolences

.Directs Shettima to proceed to UK to accompany body back home

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari died on Sunday in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness.

According to a release issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu has spoken with the former President’s widow, Aishat Buhari and offered his deep condolences.

The President has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.

President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-mast as a mark of respect for the departed leader.

Former President Buhari, whoo was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2023 also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985.

The Buhari family had earlier announced the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari’s age long spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, who disclosed this in a release stated, inter alia:

“INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN.

“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.

“May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”

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S’ Court Affirms Okpebholo’s Election as Edo Governor 

S’ Court Affirms Okpebholo’s Election as Edo Governor 

Alex Enumah in Abuja 

A five-member panel of the Supreme Court on Thursday affirmed the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo as Governor of Edo State.

The five-member panel, in a unanimous judgment, held that the appellant failed to prove allegations of non-compliance, as well as claim that Okpebholo did not win lawful votes cast during the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.

Justice Mohammed Garba Lawal, who read the lead judgment, stated that the Court of Appeal and the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal were in order in dismissing the case of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP’s) candidate, Mr Asue Ighodalo, for lacking in merit.

Details later…