CC™ VideoSpective
Wednesday
Tuesday
I regret ever supporting him – El-Rufai’s ex-aide, Ben Kure, says…..
By Staff
Ben Kure, a former political adviser to the erstwhile governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has described his ex-boss as a devilish manipulator, who can not be trusted.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television, Kure stated that El-Rufai is a bad person whose time in power was marked by exclusion and manipulation.
Kure, now the managing director of Kaduna State Media Corporation, said he initially championed El-Rufai’s rise to power, only to later regret his role.
According to him, “I was Director-General of his campaigns in 2015 and 2019. In my life, I have never regretted an action as much as supporting Malam Nasir El-Rufai.
“He was presented to us as a nationalist. But what we saw was politics of exclusion, politics of discrimination, and divide-and-rule. He thrives in crisis by knocking people’s heads together.”
Kure recounted how he, alongside other APC pioneers, helped build the party structure in Kaduna and delivered the ticket to El-Rufai, who had little political base at the time. According to him, the image of El-Rufai as a unifying figure quickly unravelled once he assumed office.
“He used religion and ethnicity to achieve his goals. He pitted communities against each other so he could have his way. That is not leadership, that is manipulation,” Kure declared.
Pressed on why he continued to serve under El-Rufai despite these misgivings, Kure explained that his disillusionment grew gradually. He had served in multiple roles, including local government chairman, executive secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, and political adviser, but he said he eventually saw through what he called the governor’s divisive style.
“I did not know he was a bad person at first. The truth became clear during his leadership. The Bible says you can do nothing against the truth but for the truth. We endured him because of the party, but we always believed the future would bring someone to redeem the ills he inflicted on the people of Kaduna,” Kure said.
Monday
Liverpool reach deal to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for British record £130 million fee
By Staff
Alexander Isak is headed to Liverpool. The club reached a £130 million deal ($176 million) to sign the Newcastle star on Sunday night, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein. That deal would break the Premier League transfer record set earlier this summer when Liverpool signed Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for $153 million. Sunday's deal took place just in time before Monday's transfer deadline.
Isak made it clear that he wanted out of Newcastle. He has not played in any of the club's first three Premier League games this season. Isak posted earlier this month that his relationship with Newcastle "can't continue," though Newcastle appeared to reject his requests to leave at every step. Isak missed the team's trip to Asia and didn't play in a preseason friendly, either. The striker has been training with Real Sociedad, his former club, since July and has been away from Newcastle.
Liverpool intially sent Newcastle a £110 million offer for Isak, which Newcastle rejected. Now, having raised the price, Liverpool secured their latest record-breaking addition.
Isak has spent the past three seasons with Newcastle, which marked his first stint in the Premier League in his career. He had a career-high 23 goals and six assists in 34 matches last season. He's previously spent time with Real Sociedad in La Liga and Dortmund in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool, fresh off its Premier League title last season, opened the year with three straight wins, including a one-nil victory over Arsenal on Sunday. The Reds have spent more than £250 million this transfer window, bringing in other big names like Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni.
Sunday
Nigerian physicist, Cynthia Osuala, pioneers graphene-based quantum technologies for sensing and computing
By Staff
A Nigerian researcher based in the United States, Cynthia Osuala, is spearheading groundbreaking research in graphene-based quantum technologies that could transform national security, advanced communications, and next-generation computing.
Osuala, a physicist and research scientist, is investigating how the unique quantum properties of graphene — one-atom-thick material celebrated as the “wonder material” of the 21st century can be harnessed to build quantum sensors and computing components with unprecedented precision and efficiency.
Her work revolves around solving one of the most pressing challenges in modern physics and engineering: how to model devices capable of detecting extremely weak signals and processing massive amounts of data at speeds far beyond the limits of traditional electronics.
In one of her notable projects, Osuala developed advanced models to simulate quantum transport in graphene devices, revealing how electron pathways can be tuned to minimize noise and improve sensitivity. This modeling work provides a blueprint for constructing highly quantum sensors capable of detecting even the faintest changes in magnetic or electric fields — an ability critical for applications in defense, environmental monitoring, and secure communication systems.
“Graphene’s extraordinary mobility and low resistivity make it ideal for pushing the boundaries of sensing and computing technologies,” Osuala explained. “By leveraging these properties, we can design devices that are smaller, faster, and more sensitive than anything currently available.”
Her research builds on a series of significant milestones, including the first demonstration of the Aharonov-Bohm effect in chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown graphene rings at cryogenic temperatures. This breakthrough revealed how quantum interference effects in graphene can be harnessed for real-world applications, laying the foundation for highly sensitive quantum technologies. The work earned her the Best Paper Award at the IEEE Conference on Nanoelectronics and Nanotechnology. She has also been featured in a Stevens Institute of Technology Research & Innovation article titled “Traveling Light,” where she discussed the broader implications of her research in making quantum technologies more practical and scalable.
Beyond the lab, Osuala is a strong advocate for STEM education and diversity in science. She has served as a mentor and judge in science competitions, inspiring young scientists and helping address the underrepresentation of women and minorities in physics.
“This research is more than an academic pursuit,” Osuala emphasized. “It’s about building the technologies that will define the future technologies that ensure resilience, security, and innovation.”
Her contributions exemplify international leadership that advances materials science and quantum technology while strengthening U.S. innovation in emerging quantum systems.
Saturday
Friday
10 Most expensive passports in the world
By Staff
Passports are essential documents that grant access to international travel, but their costs vary widely across countries, with some being among the most expensive in the world.
Some countries charge modest fees, while others leave citizens paying steep sums for the privilege of holding one.
Here’s a look at the countries where passports are the most expensive in 2025.
Australia
The Australian passport is the costliest in the world, priced at $412 for a 10-year validity, which averages $41.20 per year. Despite its high cost, its strength has slipped slightly, ranking only equal-seventh globally with visa-free access to 185 destinations. Australians are effectively paying $2.23 per country, the highest rate worldwide.
Mexico
In Mexico, citizens pay $335.95 for a 10-year passport, or about $33.59 per year. Although it secures access to over 160 destinations, the cost is among the steepest globally, making it one of the least efficient passports in terms of cost-to-power ratio.
United States
The United States passport comes in at $251.21, breaking down to $25.12 per year. While expensive, it remains highly powerful, giving Americans visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185 countries. On a cost-per-destination basis, it is considerably better value compared to Australia or Mexico.
New Zealand
New Zealand charges $225.62 for its passport, with a yearly equivalent of $22.56. The Kiwi passport is not only cheaper than Australia’s but also more powerful, offering entry to 186 countries — one more than Australia, despite costing significantly less.
Italy
In Italy, a passport costs $206.10 for 10 years, or $20.61 annually. Italians enjoy one of the strongest passports globally, with access to nearly 190 destinations, making it one of the best value-for-money passports among the expensive options.
Austria
Austria follows closely with a passport priced at $198.99, or $19.90 per year. It gives citizens excellent global mobility, aligning with the strong standing of most EU passports.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom charges $193.78 for a passport valid for 10 years, translating to $19.38 per year. Despite being cheaper than Australia’s by almost half, it grants entry to more than 190 destinations, making it far more cost-effective.
Canada
For Canada, the price is $177.61 for 10 years, averaging $17.76 annually. Like the U.S., it ranks among the world’s strongest passports, providing entry to over 185 countries without a visa.
France
France, citizens pay $152.67 for a passport, or $15.27 per year. The French passport is among the cheapest in the top 10 yet among the most powerful, with nearly 190 destinations open visa-free to its holders.
Fiji
Rounding out the list is Fiji, where a passport costs $142.94 for 10 years. While not as powerful as European or North American passports, its relatively high price compared to its global strength places it in the world’s top 10 most expensive.
Thursday
BBG: BEN BORN GREAT!
By Yahaya Balogun
Celebrating the remarkable young mathematical Heritage Ben, the heritage of becoming, awakens my sense of hope for our kids in Nigeria! I am filled with immense joy and admiration as I witness a young prodigy like Mathematical Heritage Ben taking the reins of social media and steering it toward a more positive and responsible direction.
Meanwhile, in a world that often seems cluttered with distractions and unwholesome content, it is genuinely refreshing to see someone so young and talented using her platform to inspire and educate young children like herself. My hat is off to her parents for fostering such a brilliant mind and instilling values, prioritizing integrity, decency, and knowledge!
As I delve deeper into Heritage Ben’s mathematical contributions, I cannot help but feel a swell of encouragement and pride. The way she articulates complex concepts in mathematics is nothing short of impressive, and it opens up a world of possibilities for her peers—and beyond. I eagerly look forward to witnessing the unfolding of a bright future for this exceptional young lady. Heritage Ben's talent and passion are commendable and serve as a beacon of hope for what social media can truly represent and provide.
Furthermore, it’s a delight to always share, like, and comment on the enlightening content that our dear Heritage Ben produces. It fills me with unrestricted joy and appreciation for her intelligence and creativity in mathematics, inspirational essays, and quotes. Heritage Ben's dedication to mathematics is a powerful counterpoint in a digital landscape often dominated by superficial content. I wholeheartedly encourage her to continue educating and empowering her responsibly-minded peers on these platforms. The Nigerian government must discover more Heritage Bens with full local and international scholarships to pursue their educational careers.
Heritage Ben is not just sharing numbers and equations; she is creating a movement that elevates the discourse and fosters a community of critical thinkers among her peers. Keep shining bright, Mathematical Heritage Ben. Your journey has just begun, and the responsible world eagerly awaits all you will achieve.
Yahaya Balogun writes from Arizona, United States of America.
Wednesday
Tuesday
I’m in hurry to see Nigeria rise, getting close to my departure lounge — Says the droll who essentially killed Nigeria’s ascent in 1979
By Staff
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that he was in a hurry to see Nigeria attain its potential for greatness, stressing that he is now “getting close” to his departure lounge.
Obasanjo made the remark while reflecting on his years in public service and his new book, ‘Nigeria: Past and Future,’ where he assessed Nigeria’s leadership trajectory and criticized both past and present administrations.
According to him, his writings and interventions over the years have not been borne out of animosity but out of a desire to see that Nigeria progress.
“All my writings have been aimed at making Nigeria better because I strongly believe that Nigeria can be made better and I also believe in documentation,” he said.
The former president explained that he had written works such as ‘My Command’, ‘Nzeogwu’, ‘Not My Will’, and his three-volume autobiography, ‘My Watch’, to shed light on his experiences in leadership, policy decisions, imprisonment, and the challenges Nigeria has faced.
“I have written Letters to my superiors and my successors in moments of our nation’s troubles and challenges. I have done these not out of malice but to help leaders to learn lessons and to draw the attention of Nigerians to the nature of the various crises,” he noted.
Obasanjo, who ruled Nigeria as both military Head of State (1976–1979) and civilian President (1999–2007), said he was aware of criticisms that he often sounded sanctimonious, but insisted his conscience remained clear. “Some have accused me of being equally guilty of the things I have written about or accused others of. I rely on my conscience and my records and have no need to defend myself,” he stated.
On his years as a military leader, Obasanjo said he and his contemporaries may have been inexperienced but were patriotic. “We were young, maybe somewhat naïve at times but we were patriotic and committed and sincerely so. We sought to feed our people, we sought to provide infrastructure, we sought to prioritize education, we sought to bring Nigeria to modernity and raise our profile in the international arena,” he explained.
In his latest book, Obasanjo described the administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023) as “the worst civil administration regime so far in Nigeria’s history.”
He recalled how Buhari, in justifying the 1983 coup against the then President Shehu Shagari, condemned corruption, mismanagement, and electoral malpractice, but failed to address those same issues when he later became a democratically elected president. “Good points and good words which Buhari failed to follow when he became the President years later. Words are cheap and what needed to be done was left undone during Buhari’s civil administration,” Obasanjo wrote.
However, Mallam Garba Shehu, spokesman to the late Buhari, said Obasanjo’s criticisms were rooted in personal animosity. “There are many around Buhari who hold that the spectacular falling out between him and his superior in the military…was on account of the demand, reportedly put to him by Obasanjo, that the contract for the Mambilla Power Project be given to a contractor he preferred. On this, Buhari politely told the former president to allow him to handle it his own way,” Shehu alleged in his book According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesman’s Experience.
Obasanjo also reserved harsh words for the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of inefficiency. “Only Bola Tinubu’s administration seems to be competing with Buhari’s (in the area of inefficiency) for now,” he declared.
Efforts to obtain a response from the presidency were unsuccessful as calls and messages to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, and the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, were not responded to as of press time.
Obasanjo reiterated that his legacy would speak for him, noting that he had served Nigeria in different capacities, endured imprisonment, and witnessed both the best and worst of the nation. “Yes, I am both angry and sad because I have seen the best and the worst of our country. With hindsight, we know we made some mistakes, but again we did some great things in our country, for our country and for Africa,” he said.
“I have had the great honour of serving this country as a military Head of State and a President. So, it might be said that I have sat on both sides of the fence. I have gone through the crucible of rural life, meagre resources, military peacekeeping in Africa, war in my own country, humiliation and imprisonment. I have learned a lot from what I have gone through, pleasant and not-so-pleasant,” Obasanjo added.
Monday
Taribo West and the class of entitled footballers who think Nigeria owes them from cradle to grave
By Staff
Following the recent criticism former Super Eagles defender Taribo West leveled at the Federal Government over the neglect of retired footballers, his 1999 salary has resurfaced online, sparking buzz.
Taribo West, who played for AC Milan and Inter Milan, condemned authorities for abandoning ex-players during times of struggle, citing the recent deaths of Peter Rufai, Rasheed Yekini and Christian Chukwu as examples of the system’s failures.
Peter Rufai, a former national team goalkeeper, passed away in Lagos last month after battling a long-term illness, while Chukwu, another ex-Super Eagles captain and coach, had died shortly before.
The outspoken defender called out the lack of government support for football icons such as Stephen Keshi, Chukwu, and Rufai following their retirements.
Fellow former players, Augustine Eguavoen and Samson Siasia, also backed Taribo West’s claims, criticizing authorities for failing to assist with funeral arrangements and expenses.
Amid the debate, attention turned to Taribo West’s past earnings. Reports from All Africa and PM News revealed that he earned £1.24 million (?193 million) during his 1999 season at AC Milan, making him one of the world’s highest-paid players at the time.
Adjusted to today’s exchange rate, this amounts to about ?2.7 billion, sparking mixed reactions from the public.
Controversies surrounding Rufai’s funeral, held on August 22, 2025, further fueled the debate.
The outspoken defender called out the lack of government support for football icons such as Stephen Keshi, Chukwu, and Rufai following their retirements.
Fellow former players, Augustine Eguavoen and Samson Siasia, also backed Taribo West’s claims, criticizing authorities for failing to assist with funeral arrangements and expenses.
Amid the debate, attention turned to Taribo West’s past earnings. Reports from All Africa and PM News revealed that he earned £1.24 million (?193 million) during his 1999 season at AC Milan, making him one of the world’s highest-paid players at the time.
Adjusted to today’s exchange rate, this amounts to about ?2.7 billion, sparking mixed reactions among Nigerians.
These athletes, football players especially, gained fame and wealth as a result of their exploits with the national team, which allowed them to secure lucrative contracts with European and other foreign clubs.
While the nation is grateful for their exploits in the nation’s colors and has often rewarded them for such, the sense of entitlement has seemingly gone too far for most Nigerians, who feel that better money management, as well as smarter lifestyle choices, would have ensured a more stable and secure future for these athletes.
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