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Former Super Falcons coach Samson Unuanel has urged Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs must focus on youth development. Unuanel stated that the Francophone nations prioritize the development of young talents by clubs. The veteran tactician currently works as the head coach of Benin Republic top-tier side, Ayema FC. “In my current team at Ayema, I have eight players who’ve never played in any professional league, three from Nigeria and three from elsewhere in Africa,” Unuanel told flashscore. “One of them has already won Man of the Match multiple times, despite never featuring in the NLO, NNL, or Premier League before. That’s the kind of development we should be focusing on. “I can do it here because there’s no interference. When you’re building a team, you must think about the next generation; gradually easing them in with 10-15 minutes of play, starting occasionally or even learning from the bench. Players don’t grow just through practice; they learn by being involved....

Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has reached the final decision concerning his future. The 40-year-old Portugal international is set to sign a new deal that will keep him at the club beyond the summer of 2025. Ronaldo’s current deal with the club expires in the summer, and there were speculations about the player leaving the club in order to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, a report from journalist Santi Aouna said that Al-Nassr and the Portugal international have already agreed to terms. Providing an update about Ronaldo’s next move, the journalist wrote on his X account: “Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Al-Nassr. “Full agreement in place between the parties. Saudi sources told us he HAS already signed his new contract with Al-Nassr.” Ronaldo would not want to play games with his chances of playing in the 2026 World Cup as he remains Portugal’s first choice striker. Ronaldo joined the Saudi Pro League side in January 2023 after falling out with former Man Unit...

The leader of Arewa Summit International, Dr Bashir Lamido, has suggested that South West should produce all presidential candidates for the 2027 elections, while South East is given the same opportunity in 2031. Lamido made this call during a high-level political dialogue on zoning and national cohesion held in Abuja on Friday. He stressed that the rotational approach would promote unity, fairness, and long-term political stability across Nigeria. “For the sake of equity, national integration, and the stability of our democracy, we believe the South West should present all presidential candidates in 2027. Then, come 2031, the South East, which has long awaited its turn, should be given the full platform to produce the next president,” Lamido stated. According to him, the proposal is not about excluding any group but rather about setting a national precedent for justice and inclusion. “This is not just about politics. It’s about healing, trust-building, and showing every Nigerian...

The death toll from the flood that ravaged Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger on Thursday has risen to 115. When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, Ibrahim Hussaini, made this disclosure on behalf of the Director General, Ibrahim Baba Arah. He explained that so far the agency’s search and rescue team has recovered a total of 115 bodies. According to him, “contrary to what is on social media, we have recovered 115 bodies. The search and rescue operation is still ongoing.” Niger flood disaster: 115 bodies recovered – NSEMA

Former Nigeria youth international goalkeeper Bassey Akpan said he is saddened by Akwa United’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL. Akpan currently works as a goalkeeper trainer with Akwa United. Akwa United were relegated to the Nigeria National League, NNL, after finishing in 18th position on the NPFL table. Bassey said that the Promise Keepers worked hard to avoid the drop, but their efforts weren’t enough. “It’s like a bone stuck in the throat, difficult to take,” Bassey told Complete Sports. “This is my second year in coaching, and I think seeing Akwa United relegated is the saddest moment in my entire career. “It’s difficult to accept. I haven’t slept in my house since then because sleep has eluded me. I’m just returning home on Wednesday. It’s painful. We gave it our best. But it wasn’t to be. So painful.” NPFL: Akwa United coach Akpan rues team’s relegation

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has sympathised with the people of Mokwa Local Government Area over the recent devastating flood in the area that led to the loss of many lives and property. The governor, in a message through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, described the incident as saddening, heartbreaking and pathetic, especially with the resultant loss of many lives and property. ” I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and property in the unfortunate incident, and pray that Allah will grant the deceased Aljanna Firdausi as well as grant a quick recovery to the injured,” he stated. Bago directed the Niger State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant stakeholders to take immediate necessary actions, as well as assess the situation to ascertain the level of destruction, with a view to bringing succour to those affected. He called on the people of Mokwa to remain calm, as the state government would work tirelessly ...

An Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court on Wednesday sentenced a 25-year-old teacher, Chukwunonso Okafor, to life imprisonment for defiling a three-year-old baby. Justice Abiola Soladoye convicted and sentenced Okafor to life imprisonment after she held that the prosecution had successfully proved the three-count charge of sexual assault by penetration, defilement, and indecent treatment of a child against him. Soladoye held that the survivor testified before the court and identified the convict as the man that sucked her breast and penetrated her vagina. She said the testimony of the survivor was corroborated as she gave compelling evidence of how the convict sexually assaulted her. According to her, all attempts by the convict to distance himself from the offences did not hold water, and the convict was a pathological liar. “You descended so low by having oral sex with a three-year-old baby. You are everything a teacher should not be, and you are barbaric. Upon all...

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said the club is yet to make a decision on Jadon Sancho’s future at Stamford Bridge. Maresca, speaking to the media ahead of the UEFA Conference League final, however, disclosed that a decision will be made in a few days. He said, “In the next 24 or 48 hours, we will talk about the future. But no decision has been made on Jadon or any other player.” Chelsea will have to pay around £5 million to Manchester United if they decide against signing Sancho permanently in the summer. Sancho joined the Blues on a season-long loan last summer. As part of the agreement between the two Premier Leagues, Chelsea have an obligation to buy Sancho permanently for £25 million. EPL: Maresca gives update on Chelsea sending Sancho back to Man Utd

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, Abubakar Malami, has criticised the All Progressives Congress, APC, for prioritising President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid over addressing pressing national issues such as insecurity and economic hardship. Malami expressed his concerns during a political consultative meeting organised by the National Political Consultative Group (North) on Sunday in Abuja. The event was attended by several opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Rivers Governor Chibuike Amaechi. Malami said the policies of the Tinubu administration are crippling the economy, particularly in northern Nigeria. He described the recent APC national summit as a missed opportunity to tackle Nigeria’s worsening socio-economic conditions. “Just a few days ago, the ruling party held its national summit and instead of addressing the serious issues of insecurity, economic hardshi...

A renowned cleric, Reverend Father Mimang Lekyil, was shot dead by suspected kidnappers during a late-night attack on his residence in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday. According to reports, suspected kidnappers, forced their way into Reverend Lekyil’s home at around 9:00 p.m. while everyone was asleep. A resident of the area, Bishop Ayuba Matawal, who confirmed the attack on the 70-year-old’s home, stated that two women were initially kidnapped. He revealed that local vigilantes fought gallantly to rescue the women. He said: “They shot the reverend. The two women in the house were kidnapped but later rescued by residents of the area.” Bishop Matawal added that the cleric had been taken to Muna Mortuary in Bokkos. After the killing, many Fulani homes were burnt, as angry residents blamed them for the attack. Houses in the Fulani settlement in Dingak village were razed down, as confirmed by a Fulani youth leader, Sa’id Adamu. The police are yet to comment...

The exits of three Manchester United players have been confirmed, following their 2-0 win over Aston Villa on the last day of the Premier League season. They are Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans. The trio will leave Old Trafford at the expiration of their contracts as free agents. This was confirmed by football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, via his X account on Sunday. Romano wrote: “Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans say goodbye to Man United fans as they’re leaving as free agents.” Lindelof started the game for United, while Eriksen and Evans came off the bench to play their last match for the club. Eriksen made it 2-0 from the spot after Amad Diallo had opened the scoring with a looping header. EPL final day: Three players leave Man Utd after 2-0 win over Aston Villa

Arsenal, on Saturday, pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over Barcelona to lift the Women’s Champions League in Lisbon. Stina Blackstenius’ late goal proved to be the winner in a game where the Gunners were largely dominated. But in the end, the English team managed to clinch their second European crown against the odds. Blackstenius picked up the ball in the box and drilled it past the goalkeeper in the 74th minute. The Swedish striker’s goal ensured that Arsenal beat a Barcelona side that had won the trophy three times in the previous four seasons. It was Arsenal’s first final since 2007, and although they outplayed Barça in the first half, they had to hold them off in the second. On their way to the final, Renée Slegers’ side showed their mettle with a superb win over record eight-time winners Lyon in the semi-final. They have now stopped Pere Romeu’s Barça from claiming the trophy for a third consecutive season. Arsenal stun Barca to win women’s Champions League

Nigerian petroleum marketers have implemented a fresh premium motor spirit (PMS) price reduction following Dangote Refinery’s announcement of a downward price review. A DAILY POST correspondent who went around Abuja observed that MRS Filling, Bova, and AP Ardova PLC have all adjusted their petrol prices. At MRS filling stations along Kubwa and Lugbe Expressway, DAILY POST observed that petrol has reduced to ₦895 per litre from ₦910. Bova filling station at Berger, Wuse Zone 6, and AP Ardova PLC filling station at Lifecamp Junction have also reduced their petrol price to ₦895 per litre. The spokesperson of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) confirmed to DAILY POST on Thursday that the majority of their members would review their petrol pump prices downward following Dangote Refinery’s new price template. “Our members will have to review their prices downward to remain competitive, following Dangote Refinery’s latest petrol price cut,” he told DAILY ...

A former Commissioner for Finance in Abia State, Obinna Oriaku, has said that the Okezie Ikpeazu administration he served paid only N3.2 billion to the contractor handling the Port Harcourt road in Aba, not N9.8 billion as stated by Governor Alex Otti. Otti, while speaking on Wednesday at a thanksgiving and two-year anniversary carnival organized by the Abia business community in Aba, declared that the immediate past administration paid out 29 million dollars, equivalent to N9.8 billion, on the Port Harcourt road even though the road was allegedly not completed. Otti said: “In 2017, they awarded this Port Harcourt Road. The amount at that time was N9.8 billion. And they paid out the entire money. But the road was not done.” He continued: “So, when in 2025, the road cost N36.5 billion, they started making noise. So, I said, since you people understand mathematics, the average exchange rate in 2017 was N333 to a dollar. Now, if you apply that, the N9.8 billion was actually USD 29 mil...

The Director of the Department of State Services, DSS, in Niger State, Alhaji Usman Bello Hussain, has expressed concern over the increasing involvement of underage girls and women in social vices in the state. During a courtesy visit by the Niger State chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Hussain emphasized the need for partnership to tackle the trend. Hussain assured FIDA members of the DSS’s commitment to protecting the rights of girls and women against any form of molestation. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing gender-based violence and ensuring a safe environment for women and children. “The partnership aims to support the domestication of the Violence Against Persons (VAP) law in Niger State, which would replace the outdated penal code,” the Director stated. The State Chairperson of FIDA, Mrs. Bolanle Jibogun, had earlier emphasized the need for the new law to effectively address and punish offenders of gender-based viol...

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has reacted to the death of former Military Administrator of Katsina State and ex-Senator, Chief Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger. DAILY POST reports that Akaagerger died on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 69. In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 20, Governor Alia described the late Akaagerger, a retired Lieutenant Colonel, as a patriotic and committed Nigerian who gave his best in service to both the nation and Benue State. He praised Akaagerger’s distinguished career in public service, “especially his time as Senator representing Benue North-East Senatorial District (Zone A), where he was noted for his contributions to politics, business, community development and philanthropy.” Governor Alia expressed sadness over the loss, noting that the state would miss Akaagerger’s wise counsel, especially his role as an elder statesman and a key member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders Forum in Benue. He prayed for God’s comfort for the ...

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the delays in the rehabilitation of the 210,000 barrels-per-day Port Harcourt Refinery and the Warri and Kaduna Refineries. PETROAN made this call known in a statement on Monday by its spokesperson, Joseph Obele, quoting the National President, Billy Gillis-Harry. The petroleum retailers lamented the continued delays in the completion of the refineries. According to PETROAN, the delays have impacted the price stability of petrol and Nigeria’s economy. PETROAN demanded that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited should provide a specific completion timeline for the ongoing rehabilitation at the refineries. Gillis-Harry said the 100 percent completion of these refineries would “reduce the cost of logistics/transportation of petroleum products from Lagos to the System 2E areas.” “PETROAN therefore demands that the NNPC provide a specific and realist...

A northern coalition of advocacy groups has explained why the call for the probe and suspension of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, is unnecessary and politically motivated. This clarification was made in a statement on Monday by activist and national coordinator of the coalition, Prince Miaphen. The coalition’s defense of Akume comes amid calls for the SGF to step down over allegations that he obstructed an N80 billion fraud investigation involving one of his aides, Torhile Uchi. However, Miaphen described the allegation as unfounded and aimed at distracting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. A northern advocacy group aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda condemned the calls for Akume’s suspension, describing the allegations as baseless and politically driven. “These are orchestrated moves by political saboteurs who fear the success of President Tinubu’s administration. “We pass a strong vote of confidence in Senator Akume ...

UK-based Ugandan model, Eva Apio, has finally addressed her rumoured romantic relationship with Nigerian singer, Asake. There have been speculations that the duo are dating after they were seen making public appearances and attending multiple events together. The model clarified via her X handle on Sunday that she is not in a romantic relationship with Asake, while reacting to an earlier post presuming she is the Afrobeats star’s girlfriend. Sharing one of Asake and Apio’s viral photos, the X user captioned it, “Asake and his Girlfriend (Eva Apio).” Responding, Apio wrote, “I was never his girlfriend.” UK model Eva Apio denies dating Asake

At least three people were killed and several others injured on Saturday following a roadside bomb explosion along the Maiduguri–Damboa highway in Borno State. The explosive device, believed to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents, detonated as passenger vehicles were traveling along the busy route. A security official who confirmed the incident under anonymity stated, “A deadly explosion occurred today on the Maiduguri–Damboa road. Three people were confirmed dead while several others sustained serious injuries. Our prayers are with the deceased and we hope for the quick recovery of the injured.” This is not the first time such attacks have occurred on this road. Just last week, two staff members of the Damboa Local Government Education Authority were killed in a similar roadside explosion along the same route. Boko Haram insurgents have increasingly reverted to using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) buried along highways to target travelers and vehicles—tactics that hav...

The Sunshine Stars U-19 team has resumed preparations for the Super Eight of the N-Youth League. The youth league playoff tournament is scheduled to take place next month. The Director of the Youth Team, Mr. Oladimeji Abimbola, said the team is in high spirits and fully prepared to take on the best young sides in the country. “The boys are ready for the Super Eight of the N-Youth League,” Abimbola told The Hope. “All necessary preparations have kicked off, and I am confident that the team will represent the state well in Lagos.” The playoff tournament will feature Enyimba U-19, Kano Pillars U-19, Plateau United, Kwara United U-19, among others. Sunshine Stars intensify preparation for N-Youth League playoff

No fewer than 10 people have been killed and several cows rustled in renewed violence in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The recent surge of violence in Riyom reportedly stemmed from farm destruction, cattle rustling, and attacks on livestock carried out by individuals from both Fulani and Berom communities. A statement from Operation Safe Haven disclosed that the recent insecurity in the council area began on Monday, May 12, 2025, when suspected youths slaughtered and rustled cattle that had encroached on their farms in Dayan village, Riyom Local Government Area. Retaliating, suspected Fulani herders attacked Danchindo village on the evening of May 13, killing at least 4 people before fleeing ahead of security operatives’ arrival. On Wednesday, May 14, at least 26 cows were killed and several others injured in Darwat community, allegedly in reprisal for the earlier killings of locals. Later that day, suspected Fulani militias retaliated by attacking an isolated set...

A former North Central Coordinator of the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign, Anngu Orngu, has officially parted ways with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Orngu has declared his support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising the president’s reform agenda as “bold and transformational.” Speaking with our reporter on Thursday, the former coordinator stated that Tinubu’s economic and institutional reforms are setting Nigeria on a path to long-term prosperity that will benefit generations to come. “President Tinubu is not paying lip service to the reformation of Nigeria. “He is doing the hard and painful work of fixing a broken system,” he said. He highlighted the removal of fuel subsidy as one of the boldest steps taken by the Tinubu administration, describing it as a necessary move to dismantle a system that kept the country in poverty while enriching a privileged few. “Subsidy removal was not a popular decision, but it was the right one. It takes courage to confront decades-old st...

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has reeled out a major modality that would help tackle “one chance” criminals and sanitize the transportation system within the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. Wike said one chance criminals would be checkmated and transportation system within the FCT sanitized when the ongoing construction of bus terminals are completed. He disclosed this after inspecting two of the three bus terminal projects and access road to Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal under construction in Dakibiyu area of Abuja. In 2024, the FCT Administration under Wike’s leadership had awarded contracts for the construction of bus terminals in Mabushi, Central Area and Kugbo. However, while inspecting the projects, the Minister described the projects as critical infrastructure aimed at improving transportation system within the capital city. According to Wike: “That, of course, will limit the incidence of “one chance, criminals who posed as drive...

Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate has called for the resignation of the Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB Prof Ishaq Oloyede. DAILY POST reports that after a nationwide outrage over the mass failure recorded in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, the board on Wednesday bowed and admitted there were errors. Oloyede, while apologising to candidates, who were affected by the technical errors, broke down in tears. However, Sowore is of the opinion that shedding tears for the “organization’s egregious errors”, is not enough, asking the Registrar to tender his resignation. According to the popular activist, upon his resignation, a thorough investigation should be conducted on the board. He wrote, “The Registrar of the Jamb official Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Prof. Oloyede bears responsibility for the organization’s egregious errors, which have devastatingly claimed a young life, shedding crocodile tears is no...

Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, urged President Bola Tinubu to offset the N45 billion debt owed to the late Chief MKO Abiola by the Nigerian government. Lamido made the call during the public presentation of his book, “Being True To Myself,” held in Abuja on Tuesday. The ex-Jigawa state governor stressed the importance of resolving the financial debt owed to Abiola, who won the June 12, 1993, Presidential Election but was denied the presidency. “I would like to appeal to President Tinubu to close the chapter of June 12. In his book, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida revealed that Abiola won the election. “When I went to him (IBB), he said Abiola is being owed N45 billion. Abiola is double punished. One, he was not given the presidency, and two, he is being owed,” he said. While addressing the Minister of Information who represented the President at the event, Lamido urged him to deliver the message to Tinubu, saying, “Please tell him to pay Abiola’s family the N45 bil...

The Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu on Monday approved 17 underwriting firms to provide group life insurance for the President, his Vice, Kashim Shettima, the Ministers, as well as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, revealed this while briefing State House Correspondents on the outcome of the FEC. She said the scheme underscores the importance the President places on the welfare of workers, especially federal civil servants. Her words: “I have the privilege to present the approval of the Federal Executive Council as regards the Group Life Assurance Scheme. This scheme underscores the importance that President Bola Tinubu’s Administration has placed on the welfare of staff, specifically the welfare of the federal public servant. “The Group Life Insurance Scheme is a scheme whereby the federal government has taken out a life policy on each public servant. And this means th...

Turkish football pundit Ali Ece has urged Galatasaray to sign Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva. According to Ece, the Portuguese midfielder would be the best signing for Galatasaray since Victor Osimhen. He further stated that Silva would also overshadow Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi at the club should he join the Turkish giants. This development comes amid Osimhen’s imminent departure from Galatasaray once his contract expires at the end of the season. Speaking on the Vole YouTube channel, Ece said: “Gabriel Sara is being played in both Granit Xhaka and Bernardo Silva’s area by Okan Buruk. “If Bernardo Silva comes to Galatasaray, he will be the new Dries Mertens. “He will be the best transfer Galatasaray has made since Victor Osimhen in the last five years. He will even overshadow Icardi.” Silva has been a key figure at Manchester City under manager Pep Guardiola. The 30-year-old is renowned for his work rate, footballing intelligence, and versatility. Best transfer after...

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has apprehended a serving officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for a failed armed robbery attempt that left a Bolt driver injured in Abuja. According to police sources available to Zagazola Makama, the incident took place around 12:10 a.m. on Friday at City View Estate, Galadimawa, following a distress call about an ongoing robbery attempt. The suspect, identified as Felix Emmanuel, an Inspector with the NDLEA’s FCT Command, allegedly tried to hijack a Toyota Corolla (registration number KWL 736 SZ) from Bolt driver Mr. Israel Emeka while the vehicle was still in motion. During the confrontation, Emmanuel reportedly shot the driver using a locally-made pistol. The victim was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, and is currently undergoing treatment. Police officers from the Galadimawa Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), responded swiftly to the scene and arrested th...

The Accountant General of the Federation, Mr Shamseldeen Ogunijimi, has expressed his readiness to ensure the successful passage of the Public Financial Management Bill. In a statement by the Director of Information, Press and Public Relations, OAGF, Bawa Mokwa, Mr Ogunijimi made this commitment during a meeting with the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, Dr Dasuki Arabi, who led a team from the agency on a courtesy visit to the Accountant General of the Federation. The PFM Bill was initiated by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, OAGF, to give legal backing to the public finance management reform initiatives of the federal government and the operations of the treasury of the federation. He hinted that a stakeholders’ engagement was planned for the proposed bill and solicited the involvement of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms in the engagement. The AGF also explained that he would give priority to positive reforms that would re...

In his first public address as Pontiff, newly elected Pope Leo XIV called for unity, peace, and a renewed sense of faith, declaring that “the world needs His light” in reference to Jesus Christ. Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, invoked the memory of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday. Pope Leo XIV further emphasised bridge-building, dialogue, and inclusivity as central pillars of his papacy. He said, “Let us hold in our hearts the faint yet powerful voice of Pope Francis, who once blessed the city of Rome. The Pope who, on that Easter morning, extended his blessing not only to Rome but to the entire world. “Allow me now to continue that blessing: God loves us. God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God. Therefore, without fear, and united, hand in hand with God and with one another, let us move forward together. “We are the disciples of...

The Catholic Church has a new leader. Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American-born cleric and seasoned Vatican official, has been elected Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. The announcement was made from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday following the traditional white smoke signaling the successful conclusion of the papal conclave. Prevost, 69, becomes the first American-born Pope in the Church’s two-thousand-year history, marking a significant moment for Catholics in the United States and around the world. He succeeds Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is a member of the Order of St. Augustine and is widely respected for his quiet but firm leadership style, deep theological grounding and global pastoral experience. In 2023, Prevost was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing the selection and supervision of bishops around the world. BREAKING: Cardinal Robert Prevost e...

The Nigerian Senate, on Wednesday, passed two of President Bola Tinubu’s four tax reform bills. The two bills approved are the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill. This development follows the Senate’s consideration of the report submitted by an ad hoc committee chaired by Senator Sani Musa, representing Niger East. Each clause of the bills was thoroughly debated and reviewed at the Committee of the Whole. Following majority support expressed through a voice vote, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, formally announced the passage of the bills. “These bills will add immense value to governance and transform how taxes are collected and distributed in Nigeria,” Akpabio stated. He further remarked that the remaining two bills would be concluded on Thursday, even if this necessitated extended sitting hours. “We are committed to concluding the outstanding bills tomorrow, even if we have to remain here until 10 pm,” Akpabio...

The Nigerian Army has raised serious concerns over the influx of a large number of cattle into Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing it as a growing threat to security and food stability in the region. Major General Folusho Oyinlola, Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Rukuba, made the remarks on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Barkin Ladi. Speaking at the event, Oyinlola said the scale and timing of the livestock movement into farming communities was unusual and alarming, adding that the development had already led to isolated attacks, farm destruction, and tensions between herders and farmers. “There is a growing unease about the influx of large numbers of cattle into farming communities. While livestock movement is not new in Plateau, the scale and timing of this new influx raise legitimate security concerns,” he said. The commander added that the consequences of such movemen...

The Ebonyi State government will, on Thursday this week, commence the final phase of demarcating the disputed land between the Effium and Ezza-Effium communities in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state. The people of Effium and Ezza-Effium have been in conflict since 2021, resulting in the loss of many lives and the destruction of properties worth billions of naira. The immediate past administration of David Umahi made several attempts to resolve the crisis but failed in the process. In pursuit of lasting peace, Governor Francis Nwifuru set up a committee to investigate the crisis. The committee subsequently made a number of recommendations. Speaking during a church service on Sunday at the Government House Chapel, Centenary City, Abakaliki, the governor announced that the implementation of the government’s white paper on the crisis would begin on Thursday this week. He disclosed that he will sign a bill for the creation of autonomous communities in Effium on that day and w...

Barcelona have suffered an injury blow ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan. As reported by Spanish outlet AS via Barça Universal, left-back Alejandro Balde has been officially ruled out of the game to be held at San Siro on Tuesday. Balde has been out of action with a hamstring injury since last month, having missed Barcelona’s last eight matches. His recovery has not gone according to plan, and he now looks set to miss the Inter Milan clash. The 21-year-old was expected to return to Hansi Flick’s side for their away La Liga tie against Real Valladolid this weekend. However, the Spain international failed to make the matchday squad as Barcelona defeated Valladolid 2–1. Any hopes of Balde’s involvement against Inter Milan have now ended. Meanwhile, Gerard Martin is expected to deputise for Balde against the Serie A champions. Balde has been a key player for Barça since making his senior debut in 2021 for the Catalan club. This season,...

Former Liverpool star Didi Hamann has urged the Reds to hijack Arsenal’s move to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Club. According to Hamann, Arsenal are not big spenders, and Williams would be ideal for Liverpool as they look to strengthen their squad during the summer transfer window. Speaking to CoinCasino, Hamann said (via Metro): “When it comes to Nico Williams, Arsenal might well be priced out, as we know they are not keen to be big spenders. “Arsenal have bought Declan Rice, but that has not been followed; otherwise, they may have brought a winger in already. “For Liverpool, I think centre forward should be a priority, but there is no question that Nico Williams is a brilliant player.” He added, “He makes things happen, he creates chances out of nothing and there will be a lot of takers. The fact that Liverpool have won the league enhances their chance of signing him because it is one of the biggest prizes in football.” Williams has a £48 million release clause in his cont...

Stan Collymore, a former Liverpool striker, has offered advice to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta on the tactical approach to adopt when his side take on Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg in Paris on Wednesday. Arteta’s side were narrowly beaten 1-0 in the first leg a few days ago at the Emirates Stadium. However, in his Caught Offside column, Collymore suggested that Arteta should revert to the game-plan built on their “early-season defensive nous and combine it with counter-attack” when they face PSG. Collymore said: “Arsenal have every chance of overturning the aggregate score against PSG, but it will be very tough. “The Parc des Princes is a tricky stadium to go to, and their fans will make it a tough atmosphere to play in. “The important thing is that Mikel Arteta gets the game plan right, and for me, they need to recover that early-season defensive nous combined with being able to hit on the counter-attack.” The winner between Arsenal a...

Victor Osimhen bagged a brace as Galatasaray thrashed Sivasspor 4-1 to maintain their charge for a third consecutive Turkish Süper Lig title. Osimhen netted Galatasaray’s second and fourth goals of the evening. The forward was replaced by Dries Mertens with 20 minutes remaining. The 26-year-old now has 40 goal contributions for the Yellow and Reds this season (33 goals and seven assists). Osimhen has also surpassed his previous best goal tally in a single season (31), which he achieved during Napoli’s title-winning campaign two years ago. Okan Buruk’s side sit top of the table with 83 points from 32 matches. Turkey: Red-hot Osimhen fires brace in Galatasaray’s win over Sivasspor

The Niger State Police Command has arrested two suspects in the Brighter area of Minna, the state capital, for allegedly stealing a 35″ plasma TV, a remote control, and two aluminium pots. The command’s public relations officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, made this known in a statement in Minna. According to him, the suspects allegedly broke into a house through a window and stole a 35″ plasma TV, a remote control, and two aluminium pots, which they concealed in sack bags. The two suspects, identified as Musa Audu, 43, and Abdullahi Garba, 45, are residents of the Kwangila area in Minna. He disclosed that they were apprehended with the help of community members and are currently under investigation. They are being investigated at the Chanchaga Division and will be arraigned in court for prosecution as soon as possible. In a related operation, Abiodun revealed that the police also recovered 50 stolen sheep in Kontagora, and one Danrani Usman, 32, of Gengi village via Ibeto in Magama Loca...

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has emphasised the strength of his partnership with his deputy, Yakubu Garba, saying, “We are a team, and they can’t break us.” This statement comes on the heels of rumours recently circulating in the state, alleging that the deputy governor is planning to resign his position over a misunderstanding. The governor’s affirmation came shortly after the Workers’ Day celebration in Minna, the state capital. He described their relationship as one of collaborative leadership, aimed at achieving shared goals. He noted the importance of teamwork in driving progress, saying, “We are a team, and they can’t break us. Our focus is on the goal, and we will achieve it.” He further urged citizens of the state to continue supporting his administration, adding, ” We are confident that a transformative future for Niger State is within reach.” Earlier, the governor reiterated his commitment to the welfare of workers in the state, to make life more comfortabl...