Category: International News

  • Benue Farmer Wins ₦5M BetKing Jackpot, Plans Big Dreams

    Benue Farmer Wins ₦5M BetKing Jackpot, Plans Big Dreams

    In the heart of Benue State, Gabriel Orpin, a humble farmer, spends his days tending to rice, cassava, and yam on his small farm. But this Christmas season, Gabriel’s life took an extraordinary turn when he hit the ₦5 million jackpot on BetKing Virtuals.

    “I’ve always loved farming,” Gabriel shared, his voice brimming with pride. “It’s my own farm, and things have been moving well. But honestly, I never imagined something like this would happen to me.”

    Gabriel’s journey with BetKing started earlier this year. “It was in June when I tried their Virtuals for the first time,” he recalled. “I liked it immediately because I kept winning small amounts, ₦5,000 here, ₦18,000 there. But this ₦5 million jackpot? That one blew my mind”

    When Gabriel got the call confirming his win, he could hardly believe it. “I thought, ‘Maybe this is a mistake.’ But they explained that I played the minimum amount every day of the promotion period, and everything became real. My family couldn’t believe it either”

    Traveling to Lagos to claim his prize was a leap of faith for Gabriel. “People told me Lagos is a risky place, but I said, ‘This is my chance. I have to go.’ And when I got there, I saw it was true. BetKing really came through for me.”

    This life-changing moment is part of BetKing’s Christmas Jingle Bets festivities campaign, which also include the BetKing Danfo Santa initiative. Danfo Santa spread joy across Lagos by surprising individuals and communities with essential food items and cheer, adding to the festive spirit. She concluded.

    Gabriel already has big plans for his winnings. “First, I’ll buy land to expand my farm. I’ll also build a small house for myself and my family. Farming is my passion, and this money will help me grow it even more. I also want to start a small business to keep the money flowing.”

    But Gabriel’s excitement isn’t just about himself. “I’ll be sharing this opportunity with my friends. I’ll show them how to bet on BetKing Virtuals because you never know, one of them might win big like I did.”

    As he wrapped up his story, Gabriel had one final message: “Thank you, BetKing. May God bless you for what you’ve done for me. I pray you keep bringing joy to others just like this.” Gabriel’s win is a shining example of how BetKing is transforming lives this holiday season, creating opportunities for customers to dream big and achieve even bigger.

    Nengi Akinola, Head of Marketing at BetKing, shared her excitement about Gabriel’s story. “Gabriel’s win represents everything BetKing stands for, transforming lives and creating memorable experiences for our customers” she said.

    “We are thrilled to see how this jackpot will help him achieve his dreams and inspire others in his community. At BetKing, our goal is to ensure that Every Bet is an Adventure, and Gabriel’s story is a proof of that.”

    To start your journey with BetKing, visit https://m.betking.com/virtual to play today.

  • Smile Communications Unveils Exciting ‘Buy & Win With Smile’ Promotion For The Festive Season

    Smile Communications Unveils Exciting ‘Buy & Win With Smile’ Promotion For The Festive Season


    A leading provider of high-speed 4G LTE broadband, Smile Communications has announced its exciting new promotion, Buy & Win with Smile, set to run from December 2024 into January 2025.

    This festive campaign promises unbeatable rewards for customers who make purchases across all Smile Customer Centers nationwide.

    As part of the promotion, customers who spend ₦50,000 and above on any Smile product will automatically qualify for the top-tier prizes. Additionally, those who make purchases in the range of ₦5,500 to ₦49,999 will also walk away with exciting gifts.

    The Head of Marketing Operations, Mr. ‘Goke Olaleye, while commenting on the promotion said “In this promotion, every customer wins — there are no “try again” outcomes, making it one of the most inclusive and rewarding promos of the year.”

    The gift lineup includes a variety of exciting items such as Bluetooth speakers, power banks, and many more surprises, ensuring that every participant gets something fun and valuable this holiday season.
    To take part, customers can visit any Smile Customer Center across the country. For the nearest center, customers can visit Smile’s website at www.smile.com.ng, call customer care on 07020444444, or follow Smile across all social media platforms for updates.

    This festive period promises to be full of rewards with Smile Communications. Do not miss out on the opportunity to enjoy amazing gifts while staying connected with Nigeria’s leading broadband provider.
    For more information, visit www.smile.com.ng.

  • Tony Elumelu Family Donates ₦30 Million, Food Items To Three Lagos Orphanages

    Tony Elumelu Family Donates ₦30 Million, Food Items To Three Lagos Orphanages


    The Tony Elumelu family has extended its philanthropic efforts to support vulnerable children by donating ₦30 million and essential food items to three orphanages in Lagos. The donations, flagged off by Dr. Awele Elumelu, Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited and wife of Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the UBA Group, began at the Hearts of Gold Children’s Hospice, Surulere.

    The outreach also included donations to the Open Arms of Mercy Orphanage Home in Okota and the Atunda Olu Home, with each orphanage receiving:
    – 33 cartons of Indomie Noodles
    – 20 bags of rice
    – 20 bags of beans
    – 10 bags of sugar
    – 10 cartons of milk
    – 10 cartons of Milo
    – ₦10 million

    The financial contributions are intended to address specific needs identified by the homes, such as rent payments, surgeries, medical care, and other pressing requirements.

    During the event, Dr. Awele Elumelu emphasized the family’s dedication to assisting vulnerable children across Nigeria.

    “We recognize the ongoing needs of children in these homes. This initiative is part of our effort to provide both immediate relief and long-term support. Everyone has a role to play—whether through cash, kind, or time—to make a difference in the lives of these children.”

    Mrs. Laja Adedoyin, Founder of the Hearts of Gold Children’s Hospice, expressed deep gratitude for the significant donations, describing the gesture as unprecedented in the hospice’s history.

    “The magnitude of the foodstuff and financial support we received today is extraordinary. Food is life, and in today’s Nigeria, having food means having everything. This is the largest donation we have ever received, and we are overwhelmed with joy. We sincerely thank Dr. Awele Elumelu and the family for their generosity.”

    Alero Ladipo, the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications for UBA Bank, while highlighting the thoughtful planning behind the initiative, said: “We conducted surveys to understand the specific needs of each home. Beyond the food items, the ₦10 million for each orphanage is intended to address medical needs, rent, and other requirements such as diapers for the children.”

    “We conducted surveys to understand the specific needs of each home. Beyond the food items, the ₦10 million for each orphanage is intended to address medical needs, rent, and other requirements such as diapers for the children.”

    The donations to Lagos orphanages are part of a larger pan-Nigerian initiative, with seven more homes set to benefit from similar support in the coming weeks. This follows the family’s recent donation of 1,800 bags of rice to their community in Onicha Uku, Delta State, during the festive season, with seven more homes set to benefit from similar support of N10 million, 20 bags of rice, 20 bags of beans, 10 bags of sugar, 33 cartons of Indomie, 10 cartons of milk and 10 cartons of Milo, each.

    The Elumelu family’s commitment to philanthropy continues to make a tangible impact, reflecting their dedication to fostering sustainability, community support, and care for society’s most vulnerable.

  • QRT: Again NNS BEECROFT Foils Attempt By 19 Stowaways Aboard Two European-Bound Vessels

    QRT: Again NNS BEECROFT Foils Attempt By 19 Stowaways Aboard Two European-Bound Vessels


    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has successfully intercepted 19 suspected stowaways aboard two European-bound vessels in its ongoing efforts to curb maritime criminality and support the Presidential initiative to enhance the Blue Economy.

    The first interception occurred on December 19, 2024, when the Base’s Quick Response Team (QRT) deployed at Atlas Cove apprehended 15 stowaways aboard MT KRITI RUBY. The second interception took place on December 21, 2024, involving four stowaways found aboard MT MCC YANBU.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects boarded the vessels at night, concealing themselves in the rudder compartments to attempt illegal migration to Europe. The alarm was raised by MT KRITI RUBY through the Nigerian Navy Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment, prompting a swift response from the NNS BEECROFT QRT. The team intercepted the 15 stowaways near Lagos Fairway Buoy. Similarly, credible intelligence from Navy personnel aboard MT MCC YANBU facilitated the apprehension of the additional four stowaways.

    NNS BEECROFT’s swift response not only prevented potential security threats to the vessels but also saved the stowaways from life-threatening conditions during the long voyage.

    Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Base Information Officer, highlighted the dangers posed by stowaways to maritime operations, including threats to vessel security, smuggling, piracy, and human and drug trafficking. He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a secure maritime environment under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff.

    The 15 stowaways from MT KRITI RUBY have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Port/Marine Command, Apapa, for further investigation and necessary actions. The remaining four from MT MCC YANBU will also be handed over shortly.

    This operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s waterways, promoting a thriving Blue Economy for national development.

  • Hybrid News Editor Ogbuefi Hyacinth Nwafor Wins Second Prize At 2024 Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards

    Hybrid News Editor Ogbuefi Hyacinth Nwafor Wins Second Prize At 2024 Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards


    Hyacinth Nwafor, the esteemed editor of Hybrid News, has been recognized for his outstanding contribution to journalism by clinching the second prize in the category of Best Story on Youth Empowerment at the prestigious 2024 Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards.

    The award, presented during a grand ceremony, celebrates journalists and media professionals who have demonstrated exceptional storytelling skills and highlighted critical issues that align with Nestlé’s core values of sustainability, nutrition, and community development.

    Nwafor’s award-winning story delved into the transformative impact of youth empowerment initiatives in Nigeria, shedding light on programs that equip young people with skills, resources, and opportunities to achieve their potential. The piece resonated deeply with readers and judges alike for its depth, balance, and commitment to promoting sustainable development.

    In his acceptance speech, Nwafor dedicated the award to young Nigerians striving to make a difference despite challenges. He expressed gratitude to Nestlé Nigeria for recognizing the importance of youth-focused journalism and for providing a platform to inspire change through storytelling.

    “This award is a testament to the power of journalism to spotlight critical issues and drive meaningful conversations. I am deeply honored and inspired to continue advocating for youth empowerment through impactful storytelling,” Nwafor said.

    Nestlé Nigeria commended all winners and participants for their dedication to excellence in journalism, emphasizing the critical role of the media in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth.

    Nwafor’s achievement adds to his growing reputation as a leading voice in the Nigerian media landscape, and it underscores Hybrid News’ commitment to producing stories that inform, inspire, and empower.

  • Ogalla Promotes 146 Senior Officers To Higher Ranks in Nigerian Navy

    Ogalla Promotes 146 Senior Officers To Higher Ranks in Nigerian Navy

    The Nigerian Navy has announced the promotion of 146 senior officers to various ranks following the approval of the Navy Board on Thursday, December 19, 2024. This development is part of the Navy’s commitment to recognizing excellence and enhancing its leadership structure.

    The breakdown of the promotions reveals that 24 Commodores have been elevated to the rank of Rear Admiral, 26 Captains promoted to Commodore, and 96 Commanders advanced to the rank of Captain.

    Among those promoted to Rear Admiral are Ibrahim Mohammed-Katsina, Suleman Dahun, Gideon Jinjirim Kachim, Abolade Olanrele Ogunleye, and Seminu Adisa Adepegba. Others include Bob-Manuel Kokoete Effiong, Yusuf Sani Idris, Danjuma Mohammed Ndanusa, and Ifeanyi Chidi Okpala.

    Newly promoted Commodores include Mohammed Ahmed Abdullahi, Kabir Umar Rabiu, Bashir Abubakar, Olayinka Ayodele Aliu, and Uche Aneke. Additional names in this category feature Temitope Adeshola Bamidele, Ekuma Raphael Ekuma, Nsikan Friday, and Ibrahim Ari Gwaska, among others.

    The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted officers and their families. In his statement, he urged them to rededicate themselves to their responsibilities, uphold the Navy’s values, and remain loyal to the nation and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The Nigerian Navy continues to prioritize merit and commitment as it strengthens its leadership cadre to address evolving security challenges effectively.

  • Commitment To Professionalism, Integrity, And The Eradication Of Smuggling Activities That Harm The Nigerian Economy — DC Shuaibu Mohammed

    Commitment To Professionalism, Integrity, And The Eradication Of Smuggling Activities That Harm The Nigerian Economy — DC Shuaibu Mohammed


    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has made significant strides in its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting goods valued at over N229 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV) shortly after the appointment of Acting Customs Area Controller, DC Mohammed Salisu. The announcement was made during a press conference on December 19, 2024, at the Command’s Headquarters in Idiroko. In his address, DC Salisu emphasized his commitment to professionalism, integrity, and the eradication of smuggling activities that harm the Nigerian economy. He credited the success to strategic intelligence, surveillance, and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians, highlighting the unwavering support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

    Recent operations by the Command resulted in the interception of several illicit goods. These included 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa weighing over 1,100kg, 21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothes, 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres, 4,360 cartons of imported shoes, 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 20 smuggling vehicles, and a foreign-used 2012 Toyota Highlander. These seizures occurred at key smuggling hotspots, such as Idiroko, Ilaro, Alamal-Rounda, Obada Oko-Abeokuta, and Ijoun axes.

    DC Salisu emphasized the detrimental effects of certain seized items. The illegal importation of rice disrupts Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and negatively impacts local rice production. The smuggling of cannabis sativa, on the other hand, endangers public health and safety, while the illegal importation of used clothes poses health risks and hinders the growth of the local textile industry.

    In his address, the Acting CAC issued a stern warning to smugglers and their collaborators, urging them to halt illegal activities or face the full force of the law. He assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders that the Command’s operations were focused solely on offenders, with the goal of supporting legal trade and fostering economic growth.

    In his concluding remarks, DC Salisu expressed his gratitude to the CGC and the management team for the opportunity to serve as an Area Controller. He commended the officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, urging them to stay vigilant and disciplined. The Acting CAC also called on the press to continue educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to safeguarding the economy, protecting communities, and upholding the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service.

  • Nigeria Customs Service Board Promotes 1,419 Junior Officers

    Nigeria Customs Service Board Promotes 1,419 Junior Officers

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has approved the promotion of 1,419 junior officers across various ranks, marking a significant step in the Service’s commitment to staff development and operational excellence. The decision was finalized during the 10th Management Meeting, chaired by Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on November 29, 2024.

    The promotion exercise recognized exceptional performance in 2024, encompassing both General Duty and Support Staff officers. Among the promoted officers, 346 General Duty and 384 Support Staff were elevated from Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC) to Inspector of Customs (IC). Additionally, four General Duty and 13 Support Staff moved from Customs Assistant I (CAI) to Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC), while 372 General Duty and 59 Support Staff advanced from Customs Assistant II (CAII) to Customs Assistant I (CAI). Furthermore, 188 General Duty and 54 Support Staff were promoted from Customs Assistant III (CAIII) to Customs Assistant II (CAII).

    The Comptroller General described the promotions as a testament to the transformative leadership of the current NCS administration, which prioritizes career growth to inspire excellence and empower officers to deliver superior service. “This strategic advancement underscores our commitment to workforce motivation and organizational growth,” CGC Adeniyi noted.

    In his congratulatory message, CGC Adeniyi urged the newly promoted officers to intensify their dedication to the Service’s core mandates, including revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and trade facilitation.

    Meanwhile, the promotion list for senior officers is currently under review and awaits approval by the Nigeria Customs Service Board.

    The announcement reflects NCS’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of meritocracy and professionalism within its ranks, ensuring sustained progress in achieving its operational goals.

  • Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

    Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu


    … As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

    Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command’s outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo.

    According CSC Abubakar Usman,
    Customs PRO Apapa Port Command “The CGC who said this in Apapa on Friday December 13, 2024 at the command’s end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage.

    Represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades

    “It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria’s economic growth.

    “Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.

    “As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves. To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard.

    “Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains competitive,vinnovative, and aligned with global best practices.
    By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria’s position in international trade” Adeniyi said

    In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to the command in it’s drive to meet government’s expectations .

    He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria; it’s also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command’s achievements in 2024.

    Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it’s target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty

    He added that in line with the policy thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it’s relationship with stakeholders to achieve it’s goal this year.

    According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance.

    Comptroller Olomu said “Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest.

    “Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command’s success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let’s do it again in 2025.

    “With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities.

    “There have been positive fallouts of our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025

    “We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive.

    “We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement

    “This should also be a challenge to those who didn’t make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition” he concluded

    Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited

    The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it’s overall successes in 2024

  • NAVY: Ogalla Commissions Several Welfare-Focused Facilities In Rivers State

    NAVY: Ogalla Commissions Several Welfare-Focused Facilities In Rivers State

    The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla on Wednesday, 11 December 2024, commissioned several welfare-focused facilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as part of the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing efforts to enhance the morale and welfare of its personnel. The commissioning took place at Ebubu-Eleme and Borokiri and is in line with the CNS’s strategic directives to ensure a motivated, ready, and cohesive naval force.

    The newly commissioned facilities include:

    – A Parade Ground and Pavilion
    – Junior Rates’ Mess
    – Senior Rates’ Mess
    – Headquarters Naval Training Command Officers’ Mess
    – Two accommodation blocks for Ratings, each containing 47 rooms
    – A block of 56 one-bedroom flats

    These projects are part of the Nigerian Navy’s year-end activities aimed at improving the living conditions of naval officers and ratings. During the ceremony, Vice Admiral Ogalla reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the longstanding issue of inadequate accommodation for Navy personnel, highlighting that significant resources are being invested in rehabilitating abandoned accommodations and constructing new ones in Port Harcourt and across other regions.

    “We are rehabilitating and bringing back abandoned accommodations to ensure they are usable because we face a serious challenge of inadequate accommodation. We have prioritized using our resources to ensure that every project is done properly, alongside new constructions in Port Harcourt and other areas,” Ogalla stated.

    The CNS emphasized that the welfare of Navy personnel, including access to decent and secure accommodation, remains his top priority. He reassured officers and ratings that their well-being would continue to drive the Navy’s development initiatives.

    The commissioning marks a significant step in enhancing the overall welfare of the Nigerian Navy personnel and reflects the Navy’s ongoing efforts to create a conducive environment for the men and women serving the nation.

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