NEWS
Adjudication Kicks Off For The Nigeria Prize For Science
Momentum is building as adjudication is set to commence for the 2025 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Science, with 112 entries handed over on Tuesday to the Prize’s Advisory Board for onward transmission to the judges.
Biztellers reports that the Nigeria Prize for Science, arguably Africa’s richest and most prestigious science award, is worth $100,000.
The 2025 edition features the theme “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies for Development,” seeking solutions to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy. Sponsored by NLNG, the Prize attracts entries from scientists worldwide (Nigerians and Non-Nigerians) and aims to identify and reward groundbreaking innovations that advance industry and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.
At a press conference in Lagos, NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, formally handed over the 112 entries to the Advisory Board, chaired by renowned scientist Professor Barth Nnaji.
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The handover marks the start of a rigorous evaluation process, during which a panel of distinguished judges will assess entries based on merit, originality, and potential impact on national development. The competition is expected to be intense, reflecting rising global interest and innovation in AI and digital technology.
In her remarks, Horsfall highlighted that this year’s theme reflects the global shift toward technological transformation. She stated: “This year’s Prize seeks to spotlight pioneering research and bold solutions that harness technologies to empower industries, uplift societies, and transform Nigeria’s development trajectory.”
She added: “These technologies hold immense transformative potential for Nigeria. As Africa’s largest economy and a nation blessed with a vibrant pool of young talent, we have a unique opportunity to harness digital innovation to develop scalable, globally relevant solutions that will drive sustainable socio-economic development.”
Professor Barth Nnaji, while receiving the entries, expressed his appreciation for the number of submissions. “The Board is greatly encouraged by the volume of entries. The 2025 competition is shaping up to be intensely competitive, and we are confident it will showcase outstanding innovation,” he said.
He emphasised the transformative power of AI and digital technologies across sectors: “AI is rapidly reshaping nearly every aspect of modern life, driving innovation, improving efficiency, and unlocking new possibilities across industries.”
He added; “In healthcare, AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and speed through advanced imaging and predictive tools. In education, it personalises learning experiences, helping teachers address challenges early using intelligent tutors and automated assessments. In agriculture, AI enables precision farming by analysing sensor and satellite data to improve crop management and forecast yields. These sector-wide transformations underscore AI’s growing role as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable progress.”
Other members of the Board are Chief Dr. Nike Akande, a two-time former Minister of Industry, and Professor Baba Yusuf Abubakar, a professor of quantitative genetics and animal breeding.
The Prize continues to champion innovation, creativity, and scientific excellence as key drivers of Nigeria’s development, while fostering a culture of research that positions the country at the forefront of global innovation.
The winning entry for the 2025 Prize will be unveiled at a world press conference scheduled for September.
NEWS
Adeleke to Osun People: Assess Our Impact as You Mark Eid-el-Kabir
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has congratulated Muslims in the state and across Nigeria on the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.
According to a government house statement in Ososgbo on Wednesday, Gov Adeleke urged the citizens to use the ocassion to reflect on the values of sacrifice, obedience, love, and compassion which define the sacred festival.
He described Eid-el-Kabir as a season that reminds humanity of the importance of total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, as well as the need to uphold peace, unity, and kindness in society.
Gov Adeleke noted that the spiritual lessons of Eid-el-Kabir resonate strongly with the vision of his administration, which is built on service, fairness, and commitment to the welfare of the people.
The Governor called on residents of Osun State to use the festive period to assess the impact of his administration across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health, education, workers’ welfare, and social development, affirming that his government remains focused on delivering people-oriented governance and sustainable progress for all communities in the state.
“As you drive through our towns and villages, check through our deliveries and services to our people. We are committed to serving you now and all the time”, the governor was quoted as saying.
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He reassured Muslim faithful and all residents of the state of his administration’s unwavering commitment to religious harmony, inclusiveness, and equal opportunities for every citizen regardless of religious or political affiliation.
Gov Adeleke further urged Muslims to continue to embody the virtues of patience, tolerance, sacrifice, and generosity as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim, noting that such values are essential for building a peaceful and prosperous society.
While appreciating the continued support and cooperation of the people, the Governor reiterated his resolve to sustain the ongoing transformation across Osun State, stressing that governance must always reflect the aspirations and wellbeing of the masses.
He, however, cautioned against individuals who seek to manipulate religious or political sentiments to create division among the people, noting that Osun State has continued to witness stability and development because the people have rejected politics of bitterness and embraced unity and collective progress.
The Governor also encouraged well-meaning citizens to extend love and support to the needy, vulnerable, and less privileged during the celebration, emphasizing that compassion and humanity remain at the heart of the Eid-el-Kabir message.
“As we celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, I urge the people of Osun State to continue to pray for peace, unity, and progress in our dear state and nation. Let us also reflect on the journey so far and the visible impacts of good governance across our communities. Together, we will continue to build a better Osun for all,” the Governor stated.
NEWS
“You Are Stupid” — VDM Launches Fresh Attack on Presidential Spokesperson Onanuga
A fresh political and social media clash has erupted after Nigerian activist Vincent Martins Ortse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, released a fiery video response targeting presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga over allegations linked to a controversial audio recording involving President Bola Tinubu.
The controversy began earlier today after Onanuga called for legal action against the activist, accusing him of circulating and amplifying what the Presidency described as a fake audio of the President and demanding prosecution for misinformation.
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In his post on X on Wednesday, Onanuga wrote “This VDM needs to face the weight of the law for being the conveyor and disseminator of a fake audio of President Tinubu.”
The alleged audio, which has spread widely online, reportedly contains sensitive political remarks attributed to President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
The authenticity of the clip remains unverified, with speculation that it may have been generated using AI voice-cloning technology.
In a lengthy Facebook video response, VeryDarkMan dismissed the allegations and launched a direct verbal attack on Onanuga, while insisting he would not be intimidated by threats of prosecution.
Hee said “You are a very, very stupid old man. I’m not trying to insult you. Look at the dictionary meaning of stupid. That is the definition of who you are.”
“You are so daft, and this is the reason why I said President Tinubu should not come back in 2027. All the people that operate under him don’t use their brain.”
“I swear to God, I’m not getting my mind… this is part of an agenda. That is why you see this audio — I will not defend it. When I come back to Nigeria, I must feel the weight of the law… let me see it. You people think you can just silence people. This is Democracy, we have a right to criticize government when they are doing wrong.”
He also shifted focus to insecurity issues, referencing the Oyo school abduction incident, stating “Bandits went into a school in Oyo State… they carried three teachers, one man and two women. They carried students… we don’t even know if they are alive. As I speak to you today, those children are still in an unknown location. You have never made comments about that, but today you found your voice because of me.”
VeryDarkMan further accused online commentators of bias, claiming social media users were quick to support government narratives while ignoring national crises.
NEWS
VDM in Trouble as Presidency Seeks Legal Action Over Alleged Fake Tinubu Audio
Popular social media influencer Vincent Martins Ortse, known as VeryDarkMan is facing possible legal action after the Presidency called for his prosecution over the circulation of an alleged fake audio recording purportedly involving President Bola Tinubu.
The call for legal action was made on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who accused the influencer of spreading misleading content capable of deceiving the public and damaging the image of the President.
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In a statement shared on social media platform X, Onanuga described the audio as fake and criticized VeryDarkMan for amplifying what he termed false information.
“This VDM needs to face the weight of the law for being the conveyor and disseminator of a fake audio of President Tinubu. This is a clear case of an egregious abuse of the social media platform,” Onanuga stated.
The controversial audio clip, which went viral online, allegedly featured voice recordings attributed to President Tinubu making politically sensitive remarks ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The content included claims about insecurity in parts of the country, political negotiations during the 2023 elections, and comments on Nigeria’s economic situation.
There are suspicions that the audio may have been generated using artificial intelligence voice-cloning technology, though this has not been officially confirmed.
VeryDarkMan, in a video response shared online, urged his followers to critically assess the content before drawing conclusions. He also used the clip to criticize the President and expressed opposition to his possible re-election bid in 2027.






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