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The entertainment world mourns the loss of Andre Braugher, a two-time Emmy-winning actor celebrated for his roles in popular TV series like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" and "Homicide: Life on the Street." Braugher passed away at the age of 61 on Monday after a brief illness, as confirmed by his publicist.

A standout in the realm of comedy, Braugher was widely recognized for portraying the upright and no-nonsense Captain Raymond Holt on "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" from 2013 to 2021. His character's unique blend of stoicism and deep humanity resonated with audiences, earning him widespread acclaim, particularly when paired with Andy Samberg's hotshot Detective Jake Peralta.

Beyond his comedic success, Braugher showcased his dramatic prowess as Detective Frank Pembleton on NBC's "Homicide: Life on the Street," a role that earned him an Emmy in 1998. His intense and compelling performance in this critically beloved police drama solidified him as one of its breakout stars. Notably, Braugher secured another Emmy for his role as a master criminal in FX's 2006 series "Thief."

Andre Braugher's contributions to the television landscape have left an indelible mark, and his passing is a poignant moment for fans and the industry alike.

The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, confirmed on Wednesday that he has received Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu's letter regarding the transfer of power to Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, making him the Acting Governor. He highlighted the necessity of following a constitutional process, mentioning that he would instruct the Clerk of the House to communicate his approval to the Secretary to the State Government.

Informing the House members of his meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Oladiji conveyed their approval of the governor's letter. The Speaker clarified that there would be no immediate session on the matter, as he intends to issue a press statement after completing the process of transferring power to the deputy governor.

In his statement, Oladiji specified that Aiyedatiwa would assume the responsibilities of the governor in an acting capacity until a written declaration suggests otherwise.

In a related development, Governor Akeredolu, following medical advice for a necessary follow-up, forwarded a letter on medical leave to the State House of Assembly. The Speaker, Oladiji, received the letter on behalf of the lawmakers, noting that the Governor's action aligns with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The letter designates Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to assume the responsibilities of the Governor in an acting capacity during the medical leave, scheduled to commence on December 13, 2023. Oladiji expressed gratitude for the Governor's speedy recovery and expressed optimism about his soon resumption of duty.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently opposed the proposed privatization of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), expressing concerns over the potential negative impact on the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians. The rejection comes in response to the Federal Government's recent announcement regarding the sale of the state-owned company.

President of NLC, Joe Ajaero, emphasized the perilous consequences the planned privatization could have on the power sector, instilling significant fear and apprehension among major stakeholders. Ajaero highlighted the dangers involved and cautioned that this move could adversely affect the state's ability to control, regulate, and ensure the safety of the nation's grid system at all times.

In light of these concerns, NLC issued a call to action, urging all Nigerians to unite against the privatization proposal, emphasizing that it is crucial for safeguarding the interests of future generations. The labor union stands firm in its stance that the sale of TCN poses a threat to the nation's grid system and could have far-reaching implications on the overall stability of the power sector.

President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for public universities currently under the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to exit the payment platform. The Minister of Education, Prof. Mamman Tahir, revealed this development shortly after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by President Tinubu.

Providing further clarification on this presidential directive, Minister of Information and National Orientation Muhammed Idris explained, "Today, the universities and other tertiary institutions have gotten a very big relief from the integrated payroll and personnel information system." He emphasized that the clamor for exemption from IPPIS by university authorities and other tertiary institutions has been addressed.

The Federal Executive Council has officially approved the removal of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education from the IPPIS. Going forward, these institutions, as highlighted by the Minister of Education, will manage the payment of their personnel independently, marking a significant shift from reliance on the IPPIS system. This decision is expected to offer more autonomy to universities and other tertiary institutions in handling their financial processes.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly stated his willingness to testify on behalf of Nigeria in the $2.3 billion disputed Mambilla power contract involving former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye. The disagreement has led to a legal battle at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris, France, where Sunrise Power and Nigeria are entangled in a contractual dispute.

Sunrise Power claims to have been awarded a $6 billion contract in May 2003 by the government during Obasanjo's presidency. This contract was for the construction, operation, and transfer of the Mambilla power project. The company alleges that the Federal Government of Nigeria breached the contract and is seeking compensation of $2.3 billion. Sunrise Power contends that it had incurred significant expenses on financial and legal consultants before the contract was canceled.

Contrarily, the Nigerian government, in its defense, has raised allegations of fraud and corruption involving public officials in the awarding of the Mambilla power contract. In response to these developments, Obasanjo, through a letter to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, expressed his readiness to testify on behalf of the Nigerian government "in any form." This revelation adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Mambilla power project.

Olu Falae, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Minister of Finance, has called on the federal government to address the issue of Nigerian refineries by repairing them and subsequently selling the facilities to capable operators. Falae emphasized the importance of crude oil, the nation's natural resource, suggesting that it should be sold at the cost of production plus a reasonable margin. He firmly believes that resolving Nigeria's fuel-related problems, including pricing issues, largely hinges on the repair and recommissioning of the refineries, followed by their transfer to competent operators.

Falae expressed skepticism about the federal government's ability to effectively run the refineries. He proposed a solution where the government repairs and sells the refineries to entities with the expertise to manage them efficiently. According to Falae, this approach could lead to a significant improvement in the fuel situation in Nigeria.

Additionally, Falae addressed concerns about the manufacturing industry in the country, describing it as almost dead. He identified inadequate power supply as a critical factor affecting the manufacturing sector, stating that addressing power challenges is crucial for the revival of manufacturing in Nigeria. Furthermore, Falae suggested that the president does not necessarily have to hold the position of the minister of petroleum, indicating that separating these roles could be beneficial.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) revealed on Thursday that two more of the kidnapped female prospective corps members have been released, making a total of four out of the eight individuals taken hostage, including their bus driver, back in August.

The two women were abducted by gunmen in Zamfara while en route from Akwa Ibom to the orientation camp in Sokoto. Recent efforts by the Nigerian Army resulted in the release of a male and a female abductee, according to a statement on Thursday.

Brig.-Gen. Yush’au Ahmed, the NYSC Director-General, mentioned that negotiations are ongoing for the safe return of the remaining captives. The Director of Press, Eddy Megwa, stated that the scheme, in collaboration with security agencies, will explore every available strategy to ensure their release unhurt and reunite them with their families.

The NYSC expressed gratitude for the support from the Nigerian Army in their efforts to free the prospective corps members. Megwa reiterated the scheme's determination to remain resolute in its statutory responsibility of fostering national unity and integration.

Protesters surged onto the premises of the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday, responding to the Sunday bombing of a village in Kaduna State. Occupying the entrance gate for over two hours, the demonstrators called for justice for the victims and issued a challenge to the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, urging him to fulfill his responsibilities or step down.

An air strike intended to target terrorists inadvertently struck civilians during a religious celebration in Tudun Biri on Sunday night. Amnesty International officials, upon visiting the affected villages, confirmed an increase in the death toll, which now stands at 120.

Addressing the media, Nasir Ishaku, the leader of the protesters representing the National Youth Council of Nigeria, North West Zone, and Arewa Youth Movement, demanded justice for the victims. He expressed concern over the escalating security situation in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region, and criticized the perceived incompetence of Minister Badaru, calling for his resignation. Ishaku highlighted the ongoing challenges, including the loss of armed forces members, the captivity of university students, and the overall deterioration of security in the country.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has sounded an alarm regarding the widespread resignation of lecturers from Nigerian universities, causing a significant shortage of staff in various departments and units. The union attributes this exodus to factors such as poor and delayed salaries, unpaid allowances, inadequate infrastructure, lack of respect for the academic community, and a perceived decline in hope for improvement. Professor Ayo Akinwole, the chairman of ASUU at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the dire state of Nigeria's public universities, with visibly stressed and frustrated lecturers.

Akinwole pointed out that unless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervenes by addressing the conditions of service, including salaries, allowances, and infrastructure, the trend of lecturers resigning and seeking opportunities abroad may persist. He criticized the government's approach, noting that while funding for education is lacking, there are proposals in the National Assembly to establish 32 more universities. Akinwole argued that creating more universities is not a solution and suggested enhancing the capacity of existing institutions to admit more students.

The ASUU leader highlighted reports of monthly resignations among colleagues due to poor treatment and inadequate remuneration in Nigeria. He expressed concern about global competition for quality educators and emphasized the need for intentional improvements in conditions of service to retain the best talent. Akinwole criticized the government's policy, stating that the prolonged process of obtaining approval from Abuja for hiring delays urgent replacements and allows other countries to attract highly qualified candidates. Additionally, he pointed out the interference from higher-ups, including the Ministry of Education and legislators, in dictating university hiring decisions.

In response to the recent miscalculated airstrike in Ligarma village of Kaduna State, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) expressed regret for the unintended harm caused to innocent civilians. Major General Edward Buba, the director of defence information, acknowledged the unfortunate incident and clarified that terrorists often adopt the strategy of blending in with rural communities to evade military attacks, disguising themselves as civilians in the process.

Major General Buba explained that the military observed a gathering of terrorists in Ligarma, a known terrorist-infested area of Kaduna State, through aerial surveillance. The terrorists' movement posed a threat to key infrastructure, prompting the military to neutralize the threat. Unfortunately, collateral damages occurred during the operation.

The director emphasized that terrorists deliberately embed themselves within civilian populations, making it challenging for the military to distinguish between civilians and combatants. Despite such challenges, the Nigerian military is committed to minimizing civilian casualties and follows international law in its operations.

To further address the situation, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, visited and commiserated with the victims in the Tudun Biri community. The COAS tendered an unreserved apology for the accidental strike and donated N10 million to support the over 50 injured survivors. During the visit, the COAS explained that the strike was carried out by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) targeting suspected bandits in the Riyawa and Ruma vicinity. He expressed the army's commitment to conducting a thorough inquiry to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring the well-being of affected communities.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, northern governors, and other prominent Nigerians are urging a thorough investigation into the drone attack on a Kaduna village on Sunday. Tinubu, expressing condolences and grief over the tragic incident, has ordered an immediate inquiry, emphasizing the need for calm while authorities investigate the mishap. The National Emergency Agency has confirmed at least 85 casualties from the drone attack, and the president has directed comprehensive medical attention for survivors while praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

In addition to Tinubu's call for an investigation, the Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the accidental bombing, emphasizing the importance of executing the fight against banditry and terrorism with the highest level of professionalism to prevent such heart-wrenching accidents. He called for a thorough investigation into the incident and assured support for the affected families and the community.

Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) have also condemned the "horrific armed drone attack" on a religious gathering, calling for a full investigation, compensation for victims, and transparency. ACF expressed concern about the operation in a densely populated area, emphasizing the need for a transparent investigation and full compensation for the victims.

JNI, in utter disbelief about the military's actions, called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Both ACF and JNI implored Allah’s mercy upon the departed souls and prayed for the peaceful repose of the victims.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed grief over the incident, highlighting the increasing concern about miscalculated airstrikes during internal security operations. He called for counter-insurgency strategies to protect civilians from such tragic incidents and urged a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.

Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, pledged to ensure that victims of the mishap are not abandoned to fate and expressed condolences to the people of Kaduna State and the affected community.

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz oversaw the signing of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) agreement between their nations in Dubai during the United Nations Climate Conference (COP28). The agreement aims to add 12,000 megawatts of electricity to Nigeria's national grid. The Managing Director of the Federal Government of Nigeria Power Company, Kenny Anue, and the Managing Director (Africa) Siemens AG, Nadja Haakansson, signed the agreement. Anue highlighted President Tinubu's commitment to power infrastructure development, emphasizing that electricity and financing are central to the economic reform agenda. The PPI seeks to address both elements with support from partners Siemens Energy and German-backed financiers.

Anue stated that achievements under the Federal Government include establishing the FGN Power Company as the special purpose vehicle for project implementation. The German government has nominated mandated lead arrangers and financiers, and Siemens Energy has delivered 10 units of power transformers and 10 units of mobile substations. Chairman of Siemens Energy Supervisory Board, Joe Kaeser, expressed delight at the progress, tracing the agreement's history to the Muhammadu Buhari administration in 2018. Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu shared the PPI's target of adding 12,000 megawatts to the national grid. With the signing, the process will proceed, ensuring a consistent power supply for Nigerians.

Adelabu highlighted the significant achievements of the PPI despite delays since 2018, including the impact of COVID-19 in 2020. The agreement focuses on end-to-end improvements in grid stabilization for Nigeria's power sector, aiming to enhance regularity, functionality, and affordability in the future. Adelabu revealed the project would be financed through a Government export credit facility provided by several German banks. The original agreement was for $2.3 billion, with current costs totaling around $60 million for the importation and installation of transformers and mobile substations delivered by Siemens. Key Nigerian officials attended the ceremony, including Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Transportation Said Alkali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Dorris Anite, and Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari.

Afrobeats sensation, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has received the prestigious 'Outstanding Georgia Citizen' badge in the United States. The OBO crooner shared the news via his X account on Friday, expressing gratitude for the recognition during a U.S state of Georgia General assembly meeting with the Georgia House of Representatives and Georgia state senate. He tweeted, “This morning I attended the U.S state of Georgia General assembly meeting with the Georgia House of Representatives and Georgia state senate to be recognized as an ‘Outstanding Georgia Citizen’ … God is good. 🇺🇸🌎🇳🇬.”

In a recent celebration, Atlanta, Georgia designated a special “Day” in honor of the Afrobeat singer. Notably, Davido’s Day is officially observed on November 18, 2023, in Atlanta, with Davido Appreciation Day following on November 21, 2023, in Fluton County, Georgia.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and other prominent figures are slated to participate in this year’s National Day of Solemn Prayer. The event, set for Friday at the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja, aims to foster unity and common understanding among Nigerians, as announced by Bishop Stephen Adegbite, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos Chapter. The National Solemn Assembly serves as a platform for Nigerians to express support for President Tinubu’s administration and promote unity in line with the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will serve as the mother of the day, while the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, will chair the occasion. Pastor Williams Kumuyi, the General Superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, is set to be the keynote speaker, with the presence of Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Ooni of Ife HRH Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Emir of Kano HRH Aminu Ado Bayero, Tor Tiv HRH Prof. James Ayatse, and Governors including Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Seyi Makinde, Babagana Zulum, Bassey Otu, and Dapo Abiodun, among other eminent personalities from various sector

Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, the President of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a three-hour non-stop session of praise, worship, and thanksgiving. CAN’s National Director of Legal and Public Affairs, Mrs. Comfort Chigbue, highlighted the event's focus on promoting unity and harmony, expressing prayers and blessings for the nation, its people, and leaders. The assembly seeks to celebrate the benefits of good leadership and anticipate a future marked by peace and prosperity. 

The Supreme Court has ruled that both the old and redesigned Naira banknotes will continue to be valid legal tender in Nigeria beyond December 31. The court, led by Justice Inyang Okoro, issued this order, stating that the banknotes should stay in circulation until the Federal Government, after due consultation with relevant stakeholders, decides on the matter. The ruling follows an application moved by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, on behalf of the federal government. Earlier, on March 3, the court nullified the ban on old N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes as valid legal tenders, allowing their use alongside redesigned currencies until the end of the year.

In its lead judgement, the Supreme Court criticized the Federal Government for introducing the demonetization policy through the Central Bank of Nigeria without proper consultation with relevant stakeholders. The court emphasized that the government failed to provide valid notice to federating units before withdrawing old banknotes. The court held that the notice given, conveyed through press remarks by the CBN governor, did not meet the requirements of "reasonable notice" as per the CBN Act. Additionally, the court invalidated President Buhari's directive, accusing him of disobeying its interim order to keep old banknotes in use until the case's determination.

The Supreme Court stressed that the President's actions, in banning the old banknotes, were contrary to democratic governance and indicated disobedience to its previous order. As the administration led by President Bola Tinubu sought an indefinite extension beyond the December 31 deadline, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the continued validity of both old and new Naira notes.

The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) has advised Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) staff to stay informed about anti-graft laws to avoid legal violations. Mrs. Ekere Usiere, ICPC Zonal Commissioner for Rivers and Bayelsa states, emphasized the importance of understanding relevant statutes during a Sensitization Exercise organized by NDDC in Port Harcourt. The exercise, sponsored by NDDC's Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, focused on "Understanding the Offences and Penalties Under the ICPC Act 2000." Usiere commended NDDC for its role in addressing socio-economic challenges in the Niger Delta and stressed the need for periodic sensitization to combat corruption.

NDDC's Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, highlighted the commitment to addressing corrupt practices and promoting transparency in public service. The sensitization exercise is part of NDDC's efforts to enhance service delivery. Ogbuku, represented by Mr. Patrick Obayelu, Director II, Administration and Human Resources, urged staff to uphold honesty and transparency. In a keynote presentation, Dr. Agada Akogwu, Head of Legal Department at ICPC in Rivers State, recommended strengthening NDDC's Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit. He emphasized the unit's role as the conscience of the commission, proposing continuous study of corruption-prone processes and the development of a code of ethics for staff.

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Sam Ogbuku, revealed that the Federal Government owes the commission a substantial sum exceeding N2 trillion. Ogbuku disclosed this during his appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on NDDC, led by Ibori-Suenu Erhiatake. He clarified that this amount represents the cumulative 15% of the allocation owed to the commission from the nine states constituting the Niger Delta region since the year 2000. Despite the approval of the agency's annual budgets in 2021, 2022, and 2023, the funds have yet to be remitted to the commission.

Addressing the committee, Ogbuku emphasized the discrepancy between the allocated 15% and the actual funds received by the NDDC. He highlighted the challenges faced by the commission, even after the removal of fuel subsidies and the increase in state allocations. Ogbuku estimated that, from 2000 to the present day, the commission is owed over N2 trillion based on what should be rightfully due to the NDDC. Furthermore, he expressed concern about the delay in handing over the approved budgets for 2021, 2022, and 2023, urging the committee to expedite the process.

Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the commission's board, conveyed the commitment to collaborate in repositioning the commission for the benefit of oil-producing states and Nigeria as a whole. Committee Chairman Erhiatake assured that the issues raised by the NDDC would be promptly addressed, emphasizing the importance of synergy in implementing policies for the overall well-being of Nigerians, particularly those in the Niger Delta region. He pledged the committee's cooperation with the board and promised to investigate the delay in transmitting the budget to the commission.

In a successful joint operation, troops from the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with local vigilantes, managed to rescue six hostages who had been abducted by bandits in the dense forest of Shanga Local Government Area in Kebbi. The operation, conducted by the troops of 1 Battalion stationed at Dukku Barracks in Birnin Kebbi, alongside vigilant community members, targeted Kogon Damisa Hill near Saminaka in Shanga LGA, situated on the border between Kebbi and Niger. The rescue mission proved effective, dislodging a significant number of bandits and ensuring the safe recovery of all six kidnap victims. Despite having been reported missing earlier, the victims were found to have been abducted some time ago. The hostages, comprising all males, were rescued in good condition and have since been reunited with their families. The success of the operation highlights the commitment of the Nigerian government to collaborate with and support security agencies in the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the region. The government's Special Adviser to Governor Nasir Idris on Media and Publicity, Malam Yahaya Sarki, expressed gratitude to the gallant troops and emphasized the unwavering dedication to enhancing security across the state.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs in Cross River, Mrs. Edema Irom, revealed that the state recorded 586 cases of gender-based violence between January and October. Speaking at a news conference to launch 16 days of activism against GBV, she clarified that the reported figure represents officially documented cases. Irom mentioned the ministry's efforts to establish structures in collaboration with NGOs across the state's 18 local government areas to address GBV in real time.

She highlighted the existence of a Technical Working Group (TWG), consisting of ministry and NGO members, which meets quarterly to review initiatives aimed at tackling the issue. The 16-day activism seeks to raise awareness about gender-based violence and honor those who fought against it globally. Starting on November 25 and concluding on December 10, the event commemorates the murder of 16 women in the Dominican Republic, killed for their activism against GBV, as well as other important days like World Day for HIV prevention and International Human Rights Day.

Mr. Remi Ajuga from the National Human Rights Commission emphasized the Commission's dedication to addressing gender-based violence, stating that the activism signifies the beginning of a journey to end this menace.