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By— Pen Blog Media | Editorial Board . Date: Sunday, 31st May, 2026 | 14th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. IN recent times, concerns over insecurity in parts of Ibadan and surrounding areas in Oyo State have continued to draw attention from residents, community leaders, and observers of public safety. Reports and discussions around kidnapping incidents and suspected bandit-related activities have contributed to a growing sense of caution among citizens, particularly those who move frequently across rural roads, border communities, and major highways connecting the state to other parts of the South-West. • Related Story: Breaking: Oyo Police Report Rescue of Abductee, Neutralisation of 2 Suspects While security agencies and the state government have consistently stated that efforts are ongoing to address criminal activities, the persistence of fear among residents reflects a deeper challenge—public confidence. | GOVERNMENT RESPONSE AND ONGOING EFFORTS | Authorities in Oyo State have repeatedly...

By— Abdul-Qoyyum Adeshola, Badmus | Pen Blog Media. Date: Thursday, 28th May, 2026 | 11th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. THE European Union has imposed a €200 million fine on the popular online shopping platform, Temu after regulators found that illegal and unsafe products were being sold through the company’s marketplace. EU authorities announced today (Thursday) that the Chinese-owned e-commerce platform failed to properly assess and control the risks linked to dangerous goods available to consumers across Europe. According to the European Commission, investigations revealed that buyers within the European Union were highly exposed to products that did not meet required safety standards. Some of the items reportedly identified during checks included unsafe baby toys, faulty electronic chargers and other non-compliant goods considered risky for consumers. The penalty was issued under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), a law introduced to ensure major online platforms take strong...

By— Abdul-Qoyyum Adeshola Badmus | Pen Blog Media. Published: Thursday, 28th May, 2026 | 11th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. THE Director of Darul Hadeeth Arabic School, Gbagi, Ibadan, Sheikh Sulaiman Muhammad Awwal Amubieya, has cautioned Muslims against excessive desire for worldly leadership positions, warning that such ambitions may lead to regret if not handled with sincerity and responsibility. Sheikh Amubieya gave the admonition on Wednesday shortly after leading the Eid-ul-Adha congregational prayer held at the Iyana Bodija prayer ground in Ibadan, Oyo State. Addressing worshippers after the prayer session, the Islamic scholar delivered a sermon centred on the dangers associated with the pursuit of authority and public office without proper accountability before Allah. Drawing references from the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari, Sheikh Amubieya explained that the Prophet warned against eagerness for leadership positions because of the hea...

By— Pen Blog Media . Date: Tuesday, 26th May, 2026 | 9th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. AS preparations for the upcoming 'Eid-ul-Kabir celebration gather pace across Nigeria, commuters and motorists in several cities are experiencing increased traffic congestion as many people begin moving to different destinations ahead of the festivities. Major roads and transport routes have witnessed a rise in vehicular movement, with passengers traveling to reunite with families and participate in Sallah activities. Commercial transport hubs are also seeing increased activity as travelers make early arrangements to avoid last-minute delays. The development comes as the Federal Government declared Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays for this year's Eid-ul-Adha celebration, creating an extended break expected to increase travel nationwide.  Authorities have also introduced measures to ease the anticipated movement pressure on major highways. Reports indicate that section...

By— Pen Blog Media . Date: Tuesday, 26th May, 2026 | 9th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH [ the day of 1447’s ‘Arafah ]. SECURITY authorities in Oyo State have reported a fresh breakthrough in efforts to tackle criminal activities, following an operation that reportedly led to the rescue of a kidnapped individual and the death of three persons identified by police as suspected kidnappers. According to information released by the Oyo State Police Command, the operation took place within the Otu area of Oke-Ogun after security personnel acted on information relating to suspicious armed activity in the community. The police stated that officers worked alongside local hunters and other supporting security personnel during the mission. Authorities said the operation later resulted in an exchange of gunfire between security teams and the suspected criminals. The command further disclosed that three of the suspects were neutralised during the encounter, while a man identified as Mosudi Gbolagade was res...

By— Pen Blog Media . Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH . SECURITY stories often appear for a few days, dominate conversations, and gradually disappear from public attention. Yet for many families and communities, the effects do not disappear with the headlines. Kidnapping is not only a security issue. It affects daily life in ways that are sometimes difficult to measure. When residents become afraid of travelling, parents become anxious about children leaving for school, and businesses begin to operate with uncertainty, the consequences extend beyond a single incident. Across different parts of Nigeria, conversations around insecurity have become increasingly common. Communities want reassurance. Citizens want to feel protected. Families want confidence that normal activities can continue without fear becoming part of everyday life. Addressing these concerns requires more than responding after incidents occur. Preventive systems matter. Intelligence gathering ...

By— Pen Blog Media. Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. THE Oyo State Government has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that teachers and students abducted during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area had regained their freedom. The clarification followed widespread online messages suggesting that the victims had been released, a claim that generated reactions among residents and families affected by the incident. State authorities, however, stated that the information being circulated was inaccurate and should not be treated as official confirmation. According to government sources, rescue efforts are still ongoing, while security agencies continue operations aimed at ensuring the safe return of the abducted victims. Police authorities also reportedly stated that they had not received verified information confirming any release at the time of the clarification. The abduction incident had triggered concern across communities in O...

By— Pen Blog Media. Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. SECURITY operatives in Oyo State have arrested two suspects in connection with the abduction of staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), as authorities intensify efforts to curb rising security concerns in parts of the state. The arrests reportedly followed coordinated operations by security personnel after armed men allegedly attacked and kidnapped workers linked to the institute around the Idi-Ayunre area of Ibadan. Police authorities said tactical teams and anti-kidnapping operatives were mobilised immediately after receiving information about the incident. Preliminary investigations led security personnel to locations believed to have been connected with the movement of the suspects, resulting in the apprehension of two individuals. Authorities have not indicated that investigations have been concluded, noting that security agencies are still pursuing additional leads that may as...

By— Pen Blog Media. Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. IBADAN — Concerns over safety and security have continued to grow among residents in parts of Ibadan following recent reports and discussions surrounding kidnapping incidents and attempted abductions within Oyo State. In recent weeks, different security-related incidents reported across parts of the state have renewed conversations about public safety, especially among commuters, students, business owners, and residents who travel daily across major routes and communities. Security agencies have also continued operations aimed at tackling criminal activities in affected areas.  Several residents who spoke with Pen Blog Media expressed worries over the need for stronger preventive measures and improved community awareness. Some also noted that fear and uncertainty can spread quickly whenever security concerns emerge. A commercial operator in Ibadan, who preferred not to be identified, stated that people n...

By— Abdul-Qoyyum Adeshola, Badmus | Pen Blog Media . Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. THE Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the appointment of Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), bringing a new chapter to the leadership of Nigeria’s tertiary admission body. The appointment, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes as the tenure of the current Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, approaches its scheduled conclusion later this year. Professor Aina, a specialist in Computer Engineering and digital systems, is expected to officially assume office after the completion of Oloyede’s term. Reports surrounding the announcement indicate that the incoming Registrar has built a career around technology, academic research, and examination system development. His emergence is drawing attention in educational circles, particularly because of his comparatively young age and technology-oriented bac...

By— Pen Blog Media | Education Team. Date: Thursday, 21st May, 2026 | 4th Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH.       GRADUATES preparing for the National Youth Service year often have many questions about registration, required documents, mobilization, and the next steps after graduation. Completing the registration process correctly is important because mistakes during registration can lead to delays or complications later. This guide explains everything prospective corps members need to know about the 2026 registration process for the National Youth Service Corps, including eligibility requirements, required documents, step-by-step registration instructions, and common mistakes to avoid. The official registration and service portal is available through  www.nysc.gov.ng WHAT IS NYSC? The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a one-year national service programme established for Nigerian graduates. The scheme is designed to promote national unity and provide graduates with opport...

By— Pen Blog Media | Sports Desk . Date: Tuesday, 19th May, 2026 | 2nd Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. FOOTBALL preparations across several countries are intensifying as national teams continue to release squad selections and finalize training plans ahead of upcoming international competitions. Recent updates from football federations show increased focus on building balanced squads that combine experienced players with emerging talent. Coaching teams are reportedly assessing player performance in both domestic leagues and international clubs as part of their selection strategy. Sports analysts say these preparations are crucial for improving competitiveness and achieving stronger performances in global tournaments. Fans across different countries continue to engage actively with squad announcements, reflecting growing excitement ahead of the competition season.

By— Pen Blog Media | Business Desk . Date: Tuesday, 19th May, 2026 | 2nd Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. NIGERIA’S capital market is set for a significant operational change following the announcement by regulatory authorities of a transition to a shorter trade settlement cycle. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has confirmed plans to adopt a T+1 settlement system, meaning that stock transactions will be finalized within one business day instead of the current longer cycle. Market analysts describe the reform as a step aimed at improving efficiency, reducing transaction risks, and aligning Nigeria’s financial system with global market standards. The adjustment is also expected to enhance investor confidence and speed up liquidity flow within the stock market. Financial experts note that while the transition may require technical and operational adjustments from market operators, the long-term impact is likely to support improved market competitiveness. The new system is expected to ...

By— Pen Blog Media | Security Desk . Date: Tuesday, 19th May, 2026 | 2nd Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. CONCERNS over the safety of school environments in Nigeria have intensified following recent reports of attacks targeting educational institutions in parts of the country, including the North-West and North-Central regions. According to verified security updates and official briefings, armed groups carried out coordinated assaults that resulted in the abduction of students and teaching staff. The incidents have triggered renewed national attention on the vulnerability of schools, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Government authorities have confirmed that security agencies are actively involved in rescue operations, while intelligence units continue to track those responsible for the attacks. Officials also stated that efforts are ongoing to strengthen security deployment around schools identified as high-risk zones. Education stakeholders and civil society organizations have expr...

By: Pen Blog Media. Published: Tuesday, 19th May, 2026 | 2nd Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. RECENT claims circulating across social media and various online discussions have alleged that Iran’s current leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was killed in a new United States military strike. The reports have rapidly gained attention and generated widespread discussion among online audiences. However, findings reviewed by Pen Blog Media indicate that, as of the time of publication, there is no verified evidence confirming these claims. A review of available reporting from major international news organizations and ongoing geopolitical coverage has not produced broad confirmation supporting the alleged development. Major global events involving national leaders generally receive immediate and consistent coverage across multiple independent news agencies, accompanied by official statements from relevant authorities. At the time of this report, no widely recognized pattern of confirmation has emerged regarding ...

By— Pen Blog Media. Date: Monday, 18th May, 2026 | 1st Dhul-Hijjah, 1447 AH. THE Sultanate Council of Sokoto has officially confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, signalling the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah 1447AH, with Monday, May 18, 2026, declared as the first day of the Islamic month in Nigeria. The announcement followed reports of moon sightings received from different parts of the country and subsequently approved by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who also serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). The development was communicated through the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, chaired by the Wazirin Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu. Before the declaration, Muslims across Nigeria had earlier been urged by the Sultanate Council to search for the Dhul-Hijjah crescent on Sunday evening, corresponding to the 29th day of Dhul-Qa’adah 1447AH, in accordance with Isl...

By— Pen Blog Media . Date: Sunday, 17th May, 2026 | 29th Dhul Qa’dah, 1447 AH . THE Sultanate Council in Sokoto has appealed to Muslims throughout Nigeria to participate in the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah 1447AH, ahead of the forthcoming Eid al-Adha celebration. This directive was contained in an official statement released on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto and endorsed by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto. According to the announcement, Sunday, May 17, 2026 — corresponding to the 29th day of Zulki’ida 1447AH — has been fixed as the day designated for the moon sighting exercise. The Council encouraged Muslims who successfully sight the new crescent to promptly communicate the information through their nearest District Heads or Village Heads for onward transmission to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who also...

By— Pen Blog Media. Date: Thursday, 14th May, 2026 | 26th Dhul Qa’dah, 1447 AH. THE Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, has indicated that the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions may be the final one to be chaired by the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede. The minister made the remark on Monday during the national admissions policy meeting held in Abuja, where key stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector gathered to deliberate on admission guidelines for tertiary institutions. According to Ahmad, Oloyede’s decade-long leadership at JAMB has significantly transformed the examination body and strengthened public confidence in its operations. “This is the last policy meeting you will be holding,” the minister said while addressing the registrar at the event. She further commended his contributions to the education sector, noting that his years in office brought major reforms a...

By — Pen Blog Media . Date: Monday, 11th May, 2026 | 23rd Dhul Qa’dah, 1447 AH. THE Federal Government has announced the removal of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) requirement for candidates seeking admission into Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes in colleges of education across the country. The announcement was made on Monday (today) during the 2026 policy meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) held in Abuja. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, candidates applying for NCE programmes will now be considered for admission based on their O’Level results without the need to sit for UTME examinations. Under the new arrangement, applicants are expected to possess a minimum of four credit passes in relevant subjects to qualify for admission into colleges of education. The Federal Government said the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to improve access to teacher education and encourage more students to en...

By— Pen Blog Media . Date: Wednesday, 6th May, 2026 | 18th Dhul Qa’dah, 1447 AH . WASHINGTON, D.C. — UNITED States President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that military strikes could intensify “at a much higher level” if Tehran refuses a proposed agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The warning comes amid fragile diplomatic efforts to halt hostilities between the United States and Iran following months of escalating military exchanges across the Middle East. According to multiple international reports, the U.S. proposal includes key conditions such as reopening the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes—and placing limits on Iran’s nuclear programme. Acceptance of the terms, Trump indicated, could bring an immediate end to current military operations and ease the blockade affecting global energy supply chains. However, the U.S. president made it clear that rejection of the deal would trigger a significant escalation...