Author: Ayobami Ogungbemi

Mental health experts are raising alarm over the growing trend of children and teenagers turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots and social media platforms for emotional comfort instead of their parents or trusted adults. While AI tools provide quick responses, psychiatrists stress that they cannot replace the guidance, empathy, and security of family relationships. Overdependence on technology, they warn, may expose teenagers to misinformation, social isolation, depression, and suicidal thoughts. This concern follows a lawsuit in the U.S., where parents alleged that ChatGPT encouraged their 16-year-old son to take his life. According to Dr. Tinuola Gunwa-Ajayi, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist…

British actor Idris Elba has showered praises on Lagos, describing Nigeria’s commercial capital as “the most amazing city in the world.” Elba made the remarks during an interview with ETalk TV on the red carpet at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Tribute Awards held on September 7. In a viral clip making rounds on social media, the award-winning actor reflected on his experiences while filming Dust to Dreams in Lagos, highlighting the city’s unmatched energy and creativity. “Lagos, if you have never been there, is the most amazing city in the world. I had a great time. The talent…

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to rise above tribal, religious, and political divides to build a stronger and united nation. Obi made this appeal on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at his Bodija private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State. “We have no other country except Nigeria. We must all unite and love each other to build a better nation,” Obi urged. Respect to Royalty and Congratulatory Visit Obi explained that his visit was first to pay respect to the Olubadan-designate and to congratulate him on his upcoming…

Nigeria’s teenage sprint sensation, Samuel Ogazi, has accused national team officials of forcing him to compete in the men’s 400m despite battling a hamstring injury, leading to his early exit from the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Ogazi Struggles in Championship Debut Competing in his first-ever World Championships, the 19-year-old University of Alabama quarter-miler finished fifth in heat three with a time of 45.97 seconds — well outside his personal best of 44.41s. The race was won by American Jacory Patterson in a world-class 43.90s, followed by Jamaica’s Rusheen McDonald (44.38s) and Italy’s Edoardo Scotti (44.45s), who secured automatic…

Popular Nigerian health influencer and medical doctor, Aproko Doctor (Egemba Fidelis), has raised alarm over the dangers of certain skincare products during pregnancy. In a video shared on Instagram, he urged expectant mothers to carefully examine product labels and avoid harmful ingredients that could affect fetal development. Retinol Tops the List of Skincare Ingredients to Avoid According to Aproko Doctor, retinoids, derivatives of Vitamin A pose significant risks during pregnancy. He explained that these compounds can interfere with the development of a baby’s organs in the womb. Retinoids often appear under different names on skincare labels, including: He warned: “If…

Award-winning rapper Odumodublvck and angry fans have blasted the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with South Africa left Nigeria on the brink of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Odumodublvck Calls Out NFF Odumodublvck, real name Tochukwu Ojogwu, vented on X. He called the NFF “a terrible organisation” after Nigeria’s qualification hopes faded. “NFF is a terrible organisation. Back-to-back World Cups. It’s a total disgrace. Wicked people fill this country. The one thing that gives your people joy, you make them suffer,” he wrote. Nigeria’s Slim Chances The Super Eagles are third in Group C…

The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has partnered with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to strengthen primary healthcare and improve child survival through expanded immunisation coverage. Speaking at a three-day workshop on the development of the Lagos State Five-Year Routine Immunisation Roadmap (2026–2030), the Permanent Secretary of LSPHCB, Dr. Ibrahim Mustafa, said the plan is designed to close immunisation gaps and ensure equitable vaccine access across the state. Immunisation as a Social Contract Dr. Mustafa described immunisation as more than just a public health strategy, calling it a “social contract” and a shared responsibility to protect every…

The Anambra State Government has announced plans to construct another airport in Ndikelionwu, Orumba North Local Government Area, less than four years after the inauguration of the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport in Umeri. The move, according to government officials, is part of a broader strategy to transform Anambra into a smart megacity and attract large-scale investment into the state. Background: Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport The first airport project was launched on April 11, 2017, with construction completed in 2020. It was officially inaugurated by former Governor Willie Obiano on October 30, 2021. Today, the airport stands as a…

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of sponsoring division within its Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch. In a statement signed by its President, Williams Akporeha, and Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, the union alleged that Dangote was resisting workers’ rights to unionisation and using “falsehoods” to undermine organised labour. Dispute Over Drivers’ Unionisation NUPENG said the refinery barred drivers of its 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks from joining the union, sparking a two-day depot shutdown earlier in the week. Though an agreement was reached with the Ministry of Labour, the union claimed…

The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested a woman for allegedly abandoning her newborn in a bush at Akwanga Local Government Area. The baby, wrapped in a cloth, was found alive near a primary school on AA Koto Street, Akwanga, on Wednesday. Shocked residents quickly alerted the police. Police Confirm Arrest Police PRO, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed the arrest in Lafia on Thursday. He said the Commissioner of Police ordered the case moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for investigation and prosecution. “The mother of the baby has been identified and arrested. The Commissioner of Police has ordered…