Lagos, Nigeria – Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva is mourning the passing of her brother, whose death was confirmed on Thursday by family sources.   Although details surrounding his death remain private, tributes have begun pouring in from colleagues, fans, and members of the entertainment industry, offering condolences to the award-winning actress and her family.   Joke Silva, one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, has had a career spanning over three decades and is known for her remarkable contributions to stage, film, and television. The loss of her brother marks a difficult moment for the actress, who has continued to inspire many with her resilience and artistry.   Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.

Nairobi, Kenya – The Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS), a government-backed initiative in Kenya’s forest sector, is drawing mixed reactions as it continues to balance biodiversity concerns with community livelihoods and forest restoration goals.   Under PELIS, farmers are allowed to cultivate food crops on degraded forest land while planting trees, a strategy officials say has helped restore thousands of hectares of forests while also supporting rural incomes.   Environmentalists, however, caution that the practice risks eroding biodiversity, as monoculture plantations often replace indigenous tree species. They warn that the long-term ecological costs could outweigh short-term livelihood benefits if not properly managed.   On the other hand, supporters argue that PELIS has significantly increased tree cover, improved food security, and empowered forest-adjacent communities with economic opportunities.   The Kenyan government has pledged to expand PELIS as part of its target to achieve 30% national tree cover by 2032, while promising stricter monitoring to ensure ecological sustainability.

Johannesburg, South Africa – Health campaigners in South Africa have intensified their fight against childhood obesity, urging policymakers and food companies to prioritize healthier food options for children.   Recent studies indicate that obesity rates among South African children are rising, with experts warning of long-term health risks including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Campaigners say the trend is being fueled by the widespread availability of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, which are aggressively marketed to children.   Organizations such as the Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) are calling for stronger government intervention, including stricter food labeling, taxes on sugary beverages, and tighter restrictions on junk food advertising targeted at young audiences.   Speaking on the issue, a representative of HEALA said:    “We cannot afford to ignore the health of our children. Without immediate action, South Africa risks raising a generation facing preventable lifestyle diseases.”   The government has already taken steps, including the introduction of a sugar tax in 2018, but campaigners argue that more needs to be done to ensure affordable access to nutritious meals in schools and communities.   Parents and educators have also been urged to play a more active role in promoting healthy eating habits and physical activity among children.

A Kanam Development Association (KADA) has issued a statement of grief and anger over the killing of the Head of Shuwaka Community, Malam Hudu Hassan Barau, popularly known as the King of Shuwaka from Kyaram area, Garga community in Kanam Local Government Area of ​​Plateau State. This was contained in a statement issued by the group on Monday Reports have confirmed that he was abducted about six days ago, where he was later killed and his body was found in Wanka Forest on the morning of Monday, September 15, 2025. In the statement, the group said the brutal act was a reminder of the long-standing security problem plaguing the area. The group accused the government at various levels of failing to take appropriate measures to contain the bandit attacks that have thrown the people of Garga and its environs into fear and panic. The group also called on the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to declare a state of emergency in Garga and deploy security forces capable of dealing with the situation. “We also urge the Senator representing Plateau Central, Senator Diket Plang, to use his seat to bring the federal government to bear and provide immediate assistance to the hundreds of affected people,” the group said. The statement also slammed the member of the House of Representatives representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam, Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, for what it called his silence and inaction over the killings in Kanam. “We call on the member of the state assembly representing Kantana constituency, Hon. Samila Bala Nomada to join hands with the government in ensuring that funds and assistance are provided for the security of his constituency,” the statement said. The group said it would no longer tolerate the silence and indifference of the leaders, demanding justice and security for the entire Garga and Kanam community.

Kazaure, Jigawa State, – Imran Lawan, a young innovator from Kazaure Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has made history as the first Northerner to win the prestigious Supernova Award, securing his spot to represent Nigeria at the global stage in Dubai.   Imran received the honor during the GITEX technology summit held in Lagos, Nigeria, in early September 2025. The award not only highlights his exceptional talent but also places his name among the world’s leading innovators in technology.   This remarkable achievement underscores the growing impact of Nigerian youth, especially from the North, in the global technology ecosystem. It also reaffirms that the country is home to brilliant minds capable of competing internationally in the field of innovation.

Lagos, Nigeria — The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has dismissed reports suggesting that its refined petrol is being sold at a lower price in Togo than in Nigeria.   In a statement on Monday, the refinery’s management described the claims as “false and misleading,” stressing that no such transaction or pricing arrangement had been made outside the country.   The company clarified that petrol sales have not officially commenced, as regulatory processes with the Federal Government and other relevant agencies are still ongoing.   Dangote Group further urged the public to disregard the misinformation, warning against attempts to undermine its efforts at stabilizing Nigeria’s petroleum supply and reducing dependence on imports.   Industry analysts believe the refinery’s clarification is crucial in addressing speculation that could fuel public discontent, especially amid ongoing concerns over fuel prices in Nigeria.

Budapest, Hungary — Nigerian athlete Ezekiel Nathaniel has advanced to the semifinals of the men’s 400m hurdles at the ongoing World Athletics Championships after a strong showing in the heats.   Nathaniel, who is regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest track prospects, clocked an impressive time to secure automatic qualification, keeping alive the country’s hopes for a medal in the event.   The 20-year-old hurdler, who currently holds Nigeria’s national record in the event, displayed composure and determination as he battled some of the world’s elite hurdlers on the track. His progression to the semifinal is seen as a major boost for Team Nigeria at the championships.   Athletics analysts say Nathaniel’s form is encouraging and could see him challenge for a spot in the final, provided he maintains his rhythm and builds on his recent performances.   The semifinals are scheduled to take place later this week, with Nathaniel aiming to make history by becoming the first Nigerian male athlete to reach the finals of the 400m hurdles at the World Championships.

Nairobi, Kenya — Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has reflected on Kenya’s political and social journey since independence, highlighting key historical milestones that shaped the nation’s democracy and governance.   Speaking during a public forum, Kibwana emphasized the progress Kenya has made in constitutional reforms, devolution, and civic participation, while also raising concerns about the country’s political future beyond the 2027 general elections.   He noted that despite achievements in democratic growth, issues such as corruption, inequality, and weak institutions still threaten Kenya’s long-term stability. Kibwana urged leaders and citizens to embrace accountability and collective responsibility to safeguard the nation’s progress.

Kano, Nigeria — Tragedy struck at a hospital in Kano State after three patients reportedly died when the facility’s power supply was disconnected by the electricity distribution company (Disco).   According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred after the hospital’s backup generator failed to function properly following the disconnection. The deceased patients, who were on life support, could not survive the prolonged outage.   Hospital staff expressed frustration, blaming the Disco for cutting off electricity without considering the critical nature of the health facility. They also highlighted the lack of adequate backup systems as a major challenge facing hospitals in the state.   Community members and civil society groups have condemned the incident, urging both the hospital management and the electricity distribution company to prioritize lives over revenue disputes.   Authorities in Kano have since called for an urgent investigation into the matter, while families of the deceased are demanding justice and accountability.