The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to announce Éric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, replacing Finidi George.  Éric Sékou Chelle  (born 11 November 1977) is a professional  football  manager and a former player who played as a  centre-back . Born in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother, he made five appearances for the  Mali national team . Chelle, who previously managed the Mali national team, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership qualities, Chelle is expected to steer Nigeria's national team through upcoming competitions and qualifying campaigns. His appointment marks a new chapter for the Super Eagles, aiming to build on the team's rich footballing history and return to the top of African and global football.

In a recent statement that sparked controversy, Godswill Akpabio, Nigeria's Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, made remarks that were perceived as mocking Nigerians amidst ongoing national challenges. His comment, “Go ahead if you want to protest, we will be here eating,” resonated widely on social media and drew significant backlash from citizens who feel the pressure of various socio-economic issues. Akpabio's comment appears to dismiss the frustrations of many Nigerians who have taken to the streets in protests over issues such as poor governance, economic hardship, and insecurity. This kind of rhetoric can be seen as insensitive, particularly in a country where many individuals are struggling to make ends meet. Protests have been a vital avenue for citizens to express their dissent and call for accountability from their leaders. Critics argue that such comments from political leaders reflect a disconnect between those in power and the general populace. As many Nig...

The organisers of the #EndbadGovernance nationwide protest, Take It Back Movement, have written an open letter to the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The organisers, in their letter, listed out their demands to the state governor, including transportation and protest venues, among other requirements. The letter, signed by Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, the Coordinator of the movement, was shared by the 2023 Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, via his X account on Wednesday. The letter reads, “LETTER TO @jidesanwoolu OVER THE DESIGNATION OF PROTEST VENUES IN LAGOS “Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu “Lagos House, Lagos. “It has come to the attention of the Take It Back Movement in Lagos State that your Attorney General surreptitiously obtained a court order designating and restricting protesters for #EndbadGovernanceinNigeria to two locations in the Lagos Metropolis. “While we frown at this abuse of judicial privilege to stifle freedom o...

Today, July 31, 2024, the world extend warmest birthday wishes to Mr.Chidiebere Chijindu Arawusi, the esteemed CEO of Dontel Communications. As we mark this special day, we celebrate not just another year in his remarkable life, but also his enduring impact on the world of communications. Under Mr. Chidiebere Arawusi's visionary leadership, Dontel Communications has soared to new heights, consistently setting benchmarks in the industry. His dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence have not only propelled the company forward but have also inspired those around him. On this occasion, we reflect on the extraordinary achievements and milestones that Mr. Arawusi has reached. His ability to blend strategic insight with a deep understanding of the evolving communication landscape has shaped Dontel Communications into a trailblazer in its field. As we celebrate Mr. Arawusi's birthday, we also celebrate his leadershi...

Atletico Madrid are in talks with Chelsea over a potential move for Conor Gallagher, with the Blues having named their asking price. Gallagher appears to be moving closer to a move to Atletico Madrid as Diego Simeone's side are now in "direct talks" with Chelsea over a transfer, according to  Fabrizio Romano . The Blues are willing to offload the England international for €35-40m (£29m-33m) and negotiations are underway between the two clubs. Gallagher is into the final year of his contract at Chelsea and the  Blues are believed to be willing to cash in on the academy graduate  in a bid to try and help balance the books at Stamford Bridge.  Tottenham and Aston Villa have also been linked with moves  for Gallagher, but Atletico have made the midfielder a top priority and appear to be the leading the race. Chelsea have given Gallagher an extended break after Euro 2024, meaning he won't take part in their  pre-season to...

A former Commissioner for Higher Education in Delta State, Joan Onyemachi Mrapkpor, popularly known as “Ada Anioma” has reportedly been kidnapped on Tuesday. The former member of the House of Representatives, who recently resigned her appointment to enable her junior brother to contest the local government council chairmanship election, was abducted inside her church during church service. Reports disclosed that the ugly incident occurred inside her church, off Delta Broadcasting Service street in Asaba, Delta State. An eye witness said: “There was a commotion inside her church close to police headquarters, DBS Road. We all ran due to the shooting. It just happened about a few minutes ago. One aide was shot dead and a security personnel is presently unconscious.” The Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed the incident, when contacted, said one of the command’s officers was killed by the abductors. Edafe, however, said detectives ...

Legendary Nigerian Singer Onyeka Onwenu Passes Away After Lagos Performanc Lagos, Nigeria – The music world is in mourning as legendary Nigerian singer Onyeka Onwenu passed away unexpectedly after a performance in Lagos. She was 72. Onyeka Onwenu, often referred to as the "Elegant Stallion" for her graceful presence and impactful music, captivated audiences with her soulful voice and powerful lyrics for over four decades. Her career spanned numerous hit songs, including classics like "Ekwe" and "One Love," which have inspired generations of listeners. The tragic event occurred shortly after Onwenu's much-anticipated performance in Lagos, where she had just finished delivering an energetic and heartfelt set. Eyewitnesses reported that she appeared to feel unwell before collapsing. She was immediately rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Onwenu's contribution to Nigerian music and culture is immeasurable. Bor...

The increase in costs for importers to clear goods at Nigerian ports can be attributed to various factors, including inefficiencies in the port operations, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and corruption. These challenges often lead to delays in clearing goods, which in turn result in increased storage and demurrage charges for importers. Port congestion, slow customs processes, and inconsistent application of regulations also contribute to the higher costs faced by importers. Additionally, the lack of transparency and accountability in the clearance process creates opportunities for extortion and bribery, further adding to the financial burden on importers. Ultimately, the higher costs of clearing goods at Nigerian ports can have a significant impact on businesses, leading to increased prices for consumers and decreased competitiveness in the global market. Addressing these issues through reforms that improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability in port operations is cruc...

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed senior police officers to protect participants in the #EndBadGovernance protests scheduled for 1-10 August 2024. The police chief gave the directive in a letter dated 29 July 2024, signed by his Principal Staff Officer, CP Johnson Adenola, following a request by human rights lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN). PUNCH Online reported that Adegboruwa had, on 28 July 2024, written to the police chief seeking police protection for the hunger protesters. According to the letter, the police chief instructed senior officers to comply with the senior lawyer’s request. It added that the IG also requested a meeting with Adegboruwa at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday to deliberate further on his request. “I am to inform you that the Inspector General of Police has directed the Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (Operations and Intelligence), the Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) in char...

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, has condemned the vandalism of the MTN office in the FESTAC area of the state on Monday. A group of aggrieved MTN subscribers, frustrated by the recent blocking of phone numbers due to non-compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage requirement, took to the streets and damaged the office fence. In response to a viral video showing the vandalism, Hundeyin stated, “This should not be the way to go!” “Meanwhile, the DPO FESTAC and his men responded immediately they got the report. They succeeded in restoring normalcy and are still on ground to maintain peace.” The blockage affected numerous subscribers, leading to widespread discontent and protests at MTN offices across the nation. Protesters expressed their disappointment and frustration at being unable to access their phone services.

To ensure the stability of the pump price of refined fuel and the dollar-Naira exchange rate, the Federal Executive Council today adopted a proposal by President Tinubu to sell crude to Dangote Refinery and other upcoming refineries in Naira.  Dangote Refinery at the moment requires 15 cargoes of crude, at a cost of $13.5 billion yearly. NNPC has committed to supply four.  But the FEC has approved that the 450,000 barrels meant for domestic consumption be offered in Naira to Nigerian refineries, using the Dangote refinery as pilot. The exchange rate will be fixed for the duration of this transaction. Afreximbank and other settlement banks in Nigeria will facilitate the trade between Dangote and NNPC Limited. The game changing intervention will eliminate the need for international letters of credit. It will also save the country of billions of dollars used in importing refined fuel.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has ordered all telecommunication companies in the country to reactivate all lines they have barred over issues surrounding the linking and verification of National Identification Numbers (NIN) linked with their SIMs.   The sudden U-turn from the regulator, which had earlier given the telecom operators a July 31 deadline to bar all lines with unverified NINs, may not be unconnected with the planned protest and the claims that the government was trying to frustrate the protest through telecommunications.    Millions of lines were barred by MTN, Airtel, Globacom, 9mobile, and other telecom operators over the weekend throwing the affected subscribers into shock and disbelief as many of them claimed their lines had been linked with NIN long before now.   According to a statement issued on Monday afternoon by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the lines were blocked by the telecom service providers ...

  President Bola Tinubu has signed the new national minimum wage into law.  Tinubu performed the ceremony during a meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC)… Tinubu performed the ceremony during a meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) he presided over at the Council Chambers of the presidential Villa Abuja, on Monday. The bill was passed expeditiously into by both arms of the National Assembly last week. Senate President Godswill Akpabio led other members of the National Assembly leadership joined the FEC for the ceremony . This is the first time since the advent of the present democratic dispensation that the council presided over by the president is admitting the leadership of the legislature into the Council Chamber during FEC meeting. The National Assembly leadership arrived at the venue at 1.38pm. Their involvement in the council meeting comes amid tension over the planned protest by some Nigerians against the rising cost of living in the country...

In recent times, Nigeria has been a witness to an unprecedented wave of nationwide protests, a powerful testament to the collective yearning for change and good governance. This movement underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history, one where the voices of the people, unified and resolute, could steer the nation toward a more promising and equitable future. ### The Pulse of the Nation The protests, driven by a diverse cross-section of society, spotlight a deep-seated frustration with corruption, economic hardship, and systemic inefficiencies. They are not just a cry against the ruling class but a call for a comprehensive overhaul of the political and social fabric. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene alleys of rural villages, the message is clear: Nigerians demand accountability, transparency, and a government that truly serves its people. ### The Causes and Concerns Central to the protests are issues like unemployment, poor infrastructure, inadequate heal...

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, has said nobody can stop the citizens from protesting. Ngelale stated this during an interview on a TVC programme, Politics on Sunday with Femi Akande. The spokesperson was addressing concerns about the Tinubu government’s stance on peaceful protests planned for August 1-10. He insisted that the current administration does not want to “dominate” Nigerians. Ngelale said, “Let me be clear: we are not in office to dominate our people; we are here to serve them”. He insisted that no organ of the administration “has the authority” to prevent Nigerians from protesting.

The Police Command in Lagos State has arrested five persons, including a couple, over their alleged involvement in selling a two-month-old baby. According to PUNCH,The Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrests on Saturday in a statement in Lagos. Hundeyin said that detectives from the Oko-oba Police Division arrested the suspects following a report from the mother of the baby boy. According to him, the mother of the child reported that one of the suspects absconded with her son to an unknown destination on July 11. Detectives swung into action, which led to the arrest of one Gloria, who during interrogation confessed to selling the baby for ₦500,000 to one Pastor Peter. Pastor Peter, who was subsequently arrested in Ikene Town, Ogun, admitted reselling the child for N1.4 million to one Loretta. ”Loretta was then also arrested in Festac Town, Lagos. She confessed to selling the baby for N2.3 million,” he said. The image maker said that further inves...

Today, Nigeria  the loss of a remarkable individual, Ifeanyi Uba, whose life was a beacon of inspiration, resilience, and impactful change. Ifeanyi's journey on Earth has come to an end, but his legacy will continue to echo in the hearts and minds of those he touched. From humble beginnings to becoming a towering figure in business and politics, Ifeanyi Uba's story is one of perseverance and determination. As a self-made entrepreneur, he founded Capital Oil and Gas Industries Limited, a company that not only contributed significantly to the Nigerian economy but also provided jobs for thousands. His innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence transformed the energy sector, making substantial contributions to Nigeria’s development. Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Ifeanyi Uba was a philanthropist at heart. He believed in the power of giving back to the community and uplifting others. His foundation, The Ifeanyi Ubah Foundation, has been instrumental...

Some Nigerians are planning nationwide protests from 1 August to demand economic and political reforms, but the government is using all its resources to suppress them. The aggrieved Nigerians have been mobilising and organising on social media and many have temporarily adopted the #EndBadGovernance slogan. However, the government has been using several schemes, including  meetings  with traditional and religious leaders, as well as threats by security agencies to prevent the protests from happening or prevent them from turning violent if they hold. As part of police preparation for the protests, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has summoned commanders of the mobile police formations across Nigeria to a meeting on Saturday, PREMIUM TIMES learnt. One of the commanders told this newspaper that the sole agenda item of the Abuja meeting was to prepare for the protests. The mobile police are often deployed to quell riots, an indication that the police fear th...

Kevin De Bruyne's staying at Manchester City has put an end to transfer speculation surrounding him.  The decision by Pep Guardiola to retain De Bruyne in the team is a strong statement of intent.  Fans can look forward to seeing the midfielder continue to play a pivotal role in Manchester City's upcoming matches. This move is sure to bolster the team's prospects as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has signed for Saudi Pro League (SPL) club Al Qadsiah on a two-year deal. The 35-year-old has parted ways with Marseille after just one season with the Ligue 1 side. Aubameyang will team up with former Real Madrid defender  Nacho ,  who also joined Al Qadsiah earlier this summer on a two-year deal. The Gabon international confirmed in a statement on Instagram that he would be departing France ahead of the 2024-25 season. “It’s been an emotional year and I’d like to thank the whole club, the staff, my team-mates and our supporters,” Aubameyang said. “You’ve made me stronger and these memories with you will stay with me forever. “As you know, I’ve always followed my father’s advice, which has helped me to become the player I am, so we’ve made this decision for the rest of my career. It’s time for me to start a new chapter.” Carlos Anton, the sporting director of Al Qadsiah, has spent weeks travelling across Europe to ...

Maiduguri, Borno state - Ali Ndume, the senator representing Borno South, has faulted his removal as the chief whip of the senate. Ndume, however, said he has accepted his fate and will not challenge the decision of the Godswill Akpabio-led senate in the court of law. Speaking in Maiduguri on Friday, July 19, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain asked his loyalists to move on from the episode.  He said, according to Vanguard: “On whether I will take the matter (removal as chief whip) to court, I want say that, I will not go to court. I surrendered my case to Almighty Allah (God)”. Meanwhile, Ndume called on his supporters and teaming Nigerians to continue to pray for God to have mercy on the masses, restore peace in the land, and remain calm and law-abiding always as things unfold.  Ndume said he stands by his comments made in a recent interview granted to Arise Television. Ndume told Senator Akpabio and others that he said nothing wrong, noting that his r...

Leaders of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, have endorsed and accepted the N70,000 new national minimum wage offered by President Bola Tinubu to Organised Labour during Thursday’s meeting. At an emergency meeting National Executive Council, NEC, meeting yesterday, members also accepted the three-yearly tenure for its review. In a communique by the President of NLC, Joe Ajaero, at the end of NEC meeting, informed that the emergency meeting was convened in response to the outcomes of the meeting with the federal government which held yesterday, the 18th of July, 2024 (Thursday ) at the Presidential Villa with the new National Minimum Wage in focus. The communique recalled that President Tinubu, presided over the meeting. According to the communique, “The NEC-in-session after extensive deliberations, unanimously commended and applauded the doggedness of the leadership of the Congress on the courage and forthrightness with which they handled the National Minimum Wage fixing exerci...

Lagos, Nigeria – 2024 – Veritasi Homes PLC, a leading luxury real estate development company in Nigeria, and ARN Foods, a renowned agricultural enterprise, announced the strategic establishment of a rice mill in ITUNU CITY, a flagship development by Veritasi Homes. This landmark development will see ARN Foods build the first state-of-the-art, privately owned rice mill within ITUNU CITY, with a capacity to process 192 tonnes of paddy daily. The rice mill is set to play a crucial role in advancing ITUNU CITY’s status as a thriving economic centre, creating jobs, and boosting future returns on investment for potential investors. Mr. Quazeem Famuyiwa, Managing Director, ITUNU Series at Veritasi Homes PLC, commented, “This innovative project by ARN Foods and Veritasi Homes will propel the ongoing development of this prestigious estate. This is just the beginning, as we have more exciting projects coming soon for all ITUNU CITY investors to benefit from.” The acquisition undersco...

Picture making the rounds online has showed some mothers engaging in fierce  dancing  competition against themselves. The competition, which took place at their children’s school party, occurred when the principal called out all the mother out to dance at the event, stating that the winner of the dance competition will not have to pay school fees for her child in a term. The mothers were obviously intrigued upon hearing the prize for the winner. The video captured the moms showing off their different dances moves, sparking reactions online. They were seen trying all their might and powers in order to win the dance competition. They make gestures with their hands, legs, heads, backside in sync with the several songs’ rhythm and beats played in the background. A mother, dressed in a black shirt and trousers, captured the attention of many with her dance steps. She was seen doing some moon walk as she danced energetically, making people wanting the woman to win the co...

The Ogun State Executive Council has approved the construction of five additional roads across the State. Ade Akinsanya, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, dropped the hint on Thursday during a press conference while giving an update on ongoing road constructions in the State. The five additional roads are Alagbole-Ajuwon, Akute-Ajuwon, Toyin-Giwa Hercules road, Oke-Aro, all in Ifo Local Government Area in Ogun Central Senatorial District. Others are Oke-Erinja and Erinja in Yewa South as well as Awokoya road in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area. Akinsanya spoke on the readiness of the State Government to continue with the reconstruction of the remaining 17 kilometers Akute-Ijoko road, stating that it would be divided into two phases starting from Akute to Oke Aro where the issue of flooding would be addressed while the next phase starts from Oke Aro to Ijoko. Giving an update on the Lagos-Ota-Sango-Abeokuta road, the Commissioner stated that contract for the reconstr...

Nigeria’s consumer protection agency, FCCPC, has imposed a $220 million fine, which is about N330 billion on  Meta Platforms Inc. , owners of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, for allegedly abusing the data of their Nigerian users. According to a statement by the FCCPC chairperson, Adamu Abdullahi, the agency investigated Meta’s operations between May 2021 and December 2023 and found multiple cases of invasion into the private data of its Nigerian consumers. The commission’s findings showed discriminatory and invasive practices against Nigerian consumers such as denial of access to their right to self-determination, unauthorised distribution of their data and cross-border transfer of these data. The commission found this after Meta provided some “information/evidence that is in part responsive to document requests and summons…,” Mr Abdulahi wrote. This practice, Mr Abdullahi said, violates the country’s policies on data protection as established in the Federal Competiti...

Spain full-back  Jesus Navas  has announced he will retire from international football following Sunday’s European Championship final against  England  and he will end his playing career entirely at the end of the year. The 38-year-old was part of the  Spain  squad that won the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, and he has made three appearances at this summer’s tournament, becoming the oldest player to represent Spain at a major tournament. Navas confirmed his decision on Saturday, when praising national team captain  Alvaro Morata  and adding that he was speaking at the team’s pre-final press conference as: “Morata told me that it was a time for me to speak since it is my last game with Spain!” The  Sevilla  played continued that a decision on his club future “has already been decided”; he will “help the club in a difficult moment” by continuing to play until the end of December 2024 before ending his playing career....

Exciting news for football fans around the world as it has been confirmed that Kylian Mbappe will be joining Real Madrid, donning the iconic number 9 jersey.  This move draws comparisons to the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, who also wore the number 9 in his first season with the club. Known for his incredible speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability, Mbappe is set to make a significant impact on the pitch for Real Madrid.  Fans are eagerly anticipating the electrifying performances and unforgettable moments that Mbappe is sure to deliver in the iconic white jersey. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting transfer and the upcoming season as Mbappe writes his own chapter in the illustrious history of Real Madrid.

A former hotel turned residential apartment building in  Abuja , located beside the well-known Cupid Hotel on Cupid Road (Sultan Dasuki Way) in Kubwa, partially collapsed early Saturday morning, leaving several residents trapped under the debris. The building, which previously served as the Al-Hilal Hotel and later a hospital, has been a residential space since the hospital vacated. According to Vanguard, the incident occurred around 6:30 am, and despite the prompt arrival of emergency responders and security personnel, the rescue operations were delayed due to the absence of necessary equipment. As of 8:45 am, the cranes required to move the heavy rubble had not arrived, slowing down efforts to reach those still trapped. Two individuals were rescued and promptly transported to a nearby medical facility, while some managed to escape on their own. An escapee, who preferred to remain anonymous, reported that she sensed danger when she heard cracking sounds around 7 am and...

bathroom in the female hostel at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Ekiti State collapsed on Friday morning. One of the corps members told newsmen that the bathroom wall caved in when they were taking their bath. Yes, the wall of one of the female hostels collapsed this morning (Friday). It was the bathroom wall which caved in when they were planning to take their bath. But thank God, people rushed down there to retrieve them from the rubble. They have been stabilised at the clinic and they will get further medical treatments,” the source said. An official of the NYSC who confirmed the incident said only two corps members were affected and recuperating in the camp’s clinic. He said there have been persistent calls by the leadership of the NYSC in the State for the renovation of the dilapidated hostels. The corps members are in the camp for the three-week compulsory orientation camp for those posted to the State.

Spain’s Lamine Yamal became the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history at the age of 16 years and 362 days in Tuesday’s semi-final against France in Munich.   The Barcelona winger curled in a sensational shot from 25 metres to break the previous record for youngest scorer set by Switzerland’s Johan Vonlanthen, who was 18 years and 141 days old when he scored at Euro 2004.