News
How I Was Inspired By Ben Carson, Kumuyi – UTME Top Scorer

Kamsiyochukwu Umeh, the student who scored the highest in the 2023 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME), said she was inspired by the American neurosurgeon, Dr Ben Carson, and the founder of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi.
Umeh disclosed this while speaking in a interview on Arise Television on Friday.
Recall that the news of the UTME top scorer has generated controversies over the past week, after another UTME candidate, Mmesoma Ejikeme, claimed she scored the highest with 362 marks.
READ ALSO: JAMB Controversy: Innoson Withdraws Scholarship For Mmesoma
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which organises UTME, has established Ejikeme’s claim a fraud and authenticated Umeh’s 360 marks as the highest for the year.
But, during her interview on Arise TV, the student of Deeper Life High School in Mowe, Lagos, said early preparation for the exam was critical to her outstanding UTME performance.
Umeh said she started preparing for the examination immediately she commenced her SS3 class, and reviewed past questions to familiarise herself with the system.
The Anambra indigene also commended her school and dedicated teachers for organising classes and mock exams which helped with her performance.
On her reading culture, Umeh said she read for an average of six hours a day leading up to the day of the examination.
READ ALSO: JAMB Highest Score Controversy: Panel Submits Report, Demands Apology
She said, “Despite his background, Dr Ben Carson has achieved so much. I think I’ve read all his books. When I read those those books, I feel so inspired.
“Pastor Kumuyi is my greatest role model. He’s the proprietor of my school and we have Deeper Life services in my school.
“Any time he comes up on stage to preach, I’m always awed by how he carries himself and isn’t afraid to say what needs to be said.
“I’ve not met him personally, but I will really like to.”
Umeh plans to study chemical engineering at the University of Lagos, UNILAG, but also said she’s still open to other options.
The wonderkid also disclosed her plan to move abroad for further education after her first degree.
News
Edo Postpones School Resumption Date

Edo State Government has postponed the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District where Governor Monday Okpebholo hails from.
The postponement of the resumption date may not be unconnected to the rising insecurity in the area, as it would be recalled that violent protest a few days ago engulfed Ekpoma, Edo Central over incessant kidnappings in the locality.
The angry protesters vandalised the Palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, just as shops were looted, an act the state government had condemned in strong terms.
READ ALSO:Edo Targets 2.2 Million Children For Measles, Rubella Vaccination
In a statement, the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the school resumption postponement was till further notice and to enable them address some exigencies to improve the welfare of the pupils.
According to him, “The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course.
“Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.”
News
NAF Launches Attack On Terrorists In Borno

The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, operating as part of the joint task force of Operation Hadin Kai, has carried out a coordinated air interdiction at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle, Borno State.
According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information of NAF, the air strikes successfully paved the way for ground troops.
He explained that the operation was based on actionable intelligence from multiple sources, which confirmed the presence of terrorists, their structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area.
Ejodame stated that NAF air assets were deployed in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles to target identified threats.
READ ALSO:NAF Hits Bandit Logistics Hub, Neutralises Many In Zamfara
The operation aimed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary, and shape the battlefield for ground forces, all while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and protecting civilians.
He added, “The Identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, denying the terrorists freedom of action, while a follow-up engagement neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location.”
“Subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air strikes and validated the success of the joint air–land operation.”
Speaking on the mission, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said, “The success of the mission reflects the NAF’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.”
READ ALSO:NAF Hits Bandit Logistics Hub, Neutralises Many In Zamfara
Aneke further emphasized that the operation highlighted the service’s commitment to providing precise and decisive air power in support of ground forces.
In his words, “We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistics wherever they seek to hide. Air operations will remain relentless and intelligence-driven.”
“Our operations are carefully planned and intelligence-led, ensuring maximum effect on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.”
READ ALSO:NAF Announces Two-hour Road Closure In Abuja For 10km Walk
“The Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure until terrorist networks are completely dismantled.”
He further noted that the operation showcased NAF’s aggressive stance, precision employment of airpower, and dedication to sustained joint operations.
Aneke added that such missions play a crucial role in enabling ground troops to maintain momentum and deliver decisive outcomes against terrorist networks threatening lives, property, and Nigeria’s national security.
News
Lagos Parks To Close For Maintenance – State Govt

The Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, LASPARK, has announced that all public parks under its management across the state will be temporarily closed for routine maintenance and upgrades.
In a statement released on January 9 and shared via its official platforms early Saturday, LASPARK said, “All parks under our management will be closed to the public from January 12 to January 31, 2026.
“This follows increased visitor activity during the recent festive season.”
The agency listed several popular recreational spots that will be affected, including “Ndubisi Kanu Park, Alausa JJT Park, Dr. Finnih Abayomi Park in Oregun, and all other LASPARK-managed parks across Lagos State.”
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Explaining the reason for the closure, LASPARK added, “The temporary shutdown is necessary to carry out essential landscaping, facility repairs, and general upgrades to ensure that our parks remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for residents and visitors.”
The agency also stressed that the exercise aligns with its broader mandate, noting, “This maintenance programme is part of our commitment to providing well-maintained green spaces that promote relaxation, wellness, and environmental sustainability.”
LASPARK assured residents that “all parks will reopen at the end of the maintenance period.”
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