‘I Have Nothing More to Give’ – Messi Announces Retirement from International Football

‘I Have Nothing More to Give’ – Messi Announces Retirement from International Football

  Lionel Messi has announced his decision to retire from the Argentina national team, bringing his two-decade international career to an end, saying he has “nothing more to give.” The Argentina captain made the announcement in an emotional letter posted on his Instagram reel on Monday, revealing that he had reached the decision shortly after the final and had become even more convinced following the death of his father. Messi said, “After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team.” He admitted the decision was painful but said he believed it was the right time to end his international career. “It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment,” Messi said. The 39-year-old stressed that he had always given his best for Argentina,including during the difficult years before the country’s recent successes. “I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too,” he said. “I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football. “There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot,” he said. “I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.” The veteran forward also pointed to the emergence of younger players who, he said, deserved an opportunity to represent the national team. “Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here,” Messi added. Reflecting on his two decades with Argentina, Messi thanked supporters for their unwavering affection and said he would continue backing the team even after stepping away. “Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones,” he said. Messi also expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates and directors who accompanied him throughout his international career. He said he was leaving with “peace and pride”, having shared unforgettable moments with his teammates and supporters. “I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!” he said. The Argentina star ended his statement by thanking God for making him Argentine before signing off with, “Vamos Argentina!” Messi also said he originally wrote the statement on July 21, two days after the final. “Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before,” he added.

Breaking: Seyi Makinde Announces 2027 Presidential Bid on APM Platform against Bola Tinubu

  Seyi Makinde on Thursday announced plans to run in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), potentially setting the stage for a showdown with President Bola Tinubu. Makinde made the declaration during a large political gathering at Mapo Hill in Ibadan, Oyo State, where supporters of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APM gathered. Addressing supporters at the event, the governor said Nigeria needs “a new direction driven by competence, inclusion, and grassroots development,” while calling for broader political cooperation beyond traditional party divisions. The announcement immediately generated reactions across political circles, as many asked if the governor has what it takes to face president Tinubu in the ring. Supporters at the rally waved party banners and raised cassava stems into the air as symbolic representations of grassroots mobilisation and economic resilience, while chants of support filled the venue after the declaration. The development is expected to intensify political realignments ahead of 2027, especially in the South-West, where both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition blocs are already positioning for future contests. Security personnel maintained a strong presence around the rally venue as celebrations continue.

EPL: John Stones Announces Man City Departure After 10 Years

  England defender ,John Stones has confirmed he will depart Manchester City at the end of the season, drawing the curtain on his 10-year stint with the club. The 31-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, joined City from Everton in 2016 for £47.5 million and went on to become a key figure during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Stones helped City secure multiple major honours, including six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, and five League Cups. As reported by BBC Sport on Tuesday, reflecting on his journey, Stones said he had achieved everything he set out to accomplish at the club. “It has been my home for the past 10 years, and it will be my home for the rest of my life. “I lived all my dreams out and lifted all the things that I came here to achieve,” he said. Stones was one of the early signings under manager Pep Guardiola and credited him for playing a major role in his development. He evolved into a versatile defender under Guardiola, even stepping into midfield roles during key matches, including City’s 2023 Champions League triumph. Despite his success, Stones’ later years at City were affected by injuries, limiting his appearances in recent seasons. He featured sparingly in the current campaign but remained an experienced presence within the squad. Stones’ departure marks another significant change in the City squad as the club continues to evolve. He leaves as one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s history, having played a crucial role in their domestic and European dominance. With his exit confirmed, attention will now turn to his next destination as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.

UK Announces Road Closures, no-fly Zones for Tinubu’s State Visit

  Britain will impose airspace restrictions and deploy armed police officers in Windsor next week as President Bola Tinubu arrives for a state visit hosted by King Charles III. Tinubu is expected to begin the visit in the company of his wife Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday, March 18, with a reception at Windsor Castle. Thames Valley Police in a statement on its website on Wednesday, said it is working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners. The force said airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle, which are in place permanently throughout the year, would be extended on Wednesday, March 18, to cover the period from 7am to 11.59pm. Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit said the air restrictions formed part of a broader security operation for the visit. “The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not.. “As a force, we have a vast amount of experience in policing Royal events in Windsor and significant planning, and preparation has gone into this event,” Hall said. He said the force would take a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions, warning that any breach would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest. “We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.” The police chief said officers with specialist capabilities, including search teams, the Mounted Section, road policing, and armed units, would be deployed across Windsor, alongside neighbourhood policing and Project Servator resources. “We will also be deploying numerous police officers to Windsor with specialist capabilities, including our search teams, Mounted Section, Roads Policing and armed units, while our neighbourhood and Project Servator resources will also be on the ground engaging with the public,” he said. The authorities will also deploy an extensive closed-circuit television network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other undisclosed security measures for the event. Hall said, “We will also be using the extensive CCTV network in Windsor, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation barriers, and many other security measures that you may not be able to see to make sure the event runs safely.” He urged members of the public to support the security operation by remaining vigilant. “The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report any suspicious activity or anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999,” Hall added. Road closures and parking restrictions will take effect from Tuesday, March 17, with possible temporary disruption to roads in and around Windsor during the visit. Thames Valley Police said it was being supported by the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the flight restrictions. Persons with legitimate reasons for drone flying were directed to email TVPAirspaceRequests@thamesvalley.police.uk

NAF Announces Two-Hour Road Closure in Abuja for 10km Walk

NAF Announces Two-Hour Road Closure in Abuja for 10km Walk

The Nigerian Air Force will on Saturday, conduct its annual 10-kilometre Walk/Jog Exercise in Abuja as part of efforts to enhance the health, fitness and operational readiness of its personnel. The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja. Ejodame said that the exercise underscored the importance of physical fitness to military efficiency and overall mission readiness. He said the exercise, which would commence by 6:00 am and end by 8:00 am, will take place along the service lane between Karu Bridge and Mogadishu Cantonment Bridge in the Abuja-Nyanya-Keffi expressway. This, according to him, will lead to temporary closure of the road to vehicular movement during the period. Ejodame said adequate arrangements had been made to ensure the safety of participants and residents, adding that normal traffic flow would resume immediately after the exercise. He appreciated the cooperation and understanding of the public as the NAF continues to promote the well-being and effectiveness of its personnel in the discharge of constitutional duties.   NAN

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has announced the scheduled movement of Ibadan-based popular Oloolu Masquerade across selected areas in Ibadan, from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31, 2025. In a statement issued and made available to the Media by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, explained that the popular Oloolu, one of the most significant Egungun (Masquerades) in Ibadan, is deeply rooted in the City’s Cultural History. He explained that popular Oloolu is traditionally forbidden to be seen by women, except for women born as triplets,who are believed to receive special blessings from the Masquerade. The Commissioner maintained that unlike other masquerades, Oloolu does not follow a fixed route, as its movement is guided spiritually, adding that some of the notable areas expected to be visited during the procession include Aafin Olubadan, Beere, Oje, Idi Arere, Gate, Agbeni, Orita Merin, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Oranyan, Oke Aremo, Agugu, and Ore Meji, among others. The Government appealed to residents of Ibadan, especially women, to remain mindful of the cultural significance of this festival and to cooperate with local authorities and community leaders during the movement of the masquerade. He appreciated the continued support and understanding of the general public as we celebrate this important aspect of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

Makinde Mourns As President Tinubu Announces Buhari’s Passing

Makinde Mourns As President Tinubu Announces Buhari’s Passing

  Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed his condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the death of his predecessor in office, former President Muhammadu Buhari. He equally commiserated with the wife of the former president, Hajia Aisha Buhari and his entire family, praying to God to grant repose to his soul. President Tinubu had announced the passing of his predecessor, President Buhari, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. President Buhari died today, Sunday, July 13, in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness. President Tinubu had reportedly spoken with the former President’s widow, Mrs Aishat Buhari, and offered his deep condolences. President Tinubu also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria. On his part, Governor Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, and made available to newsmen, described Buhari’s death as unexpected, noting, however, that the former president made his mark in serving the country. He prayed that God gives his family the fortitude to bear the loss, while also granting the former Military Head of State Aljanah Firdaus. Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2019. He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985. Meanwhile, President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.

Oyo Govt. Announces Date For BECE, Entrance Exams

  The Oyo State Government has announced scheduled dates for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and Common Entrance examination across the state. The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olayiwola Olusegun in a statement on Saturday, informed the general public, especially parents, guardians and students in Junior Secondary Schools throughout the State, that the Ministry will conduct BECE between Monday 7″ July and Wednesday 16″ July, 2025. He added that the examination will commence by 9.30 am daily at the respective schools of the candidates. Meanwhile, the 2025 Screening/Placement Exercise, also known as Common Entrance Examination into Junior Secondary Schools, will come up on Thursday, 17 July 2025. According to him, the exercise will commence by 7.00 am at the designated screening centers for Screening/Placement Exercise. He enjoined students to go to designated examination centres with their writing materials. The Commissioner therefore directed principals to make proper and adequate arrangements for the monitoring of the examination throughout the period. His words: “Ministry officials and members of the Oyo State Examination Ethics committee will be moving round to monitor the exercise and ensure that the integrity of the examination is not compromised.” “The students and pupils are enjoined in their own interest to avoid all forms of examination malpractices and members of the public are strictly warned against loitering at these schools and designated screening centres”. He stressed that the entrance examination is for the eligible candidates only.

Makinde Announces Key Appointments To Civil Service Commission, Advisory Council

  Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced a fresh round of appointments into the state’s Civil Service Commission and Advisory Council. Leading the appointments is the reappointment of Alhaji Aderibigbe Kamoru Abiodun as Chairman of the Oyo State Civil Service Commission. He will be joined by Alhaji Kolajo Isiaq Adewale and Mr. Olutoyin Adedeji Akanmu, who return as full-time members, while Chief Ogunjimi Solomon Oluwole retains his position as a part-time member. Additionally, Pastor Taiwo Oluwagbemiro A. and Mr. Oladimeji Oladapo have been named new part-time members of the Commission. In a related development, Governor Makinde also appointed Alhaji Rasaki Gbadegesin, a former Deputy Chief of Staff under the administration of Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Pastor Akinade Alamu, the immediate past Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, as members of the Oyo State Advisory Council. The appointments, according to a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, take immediate effect. Governor Makinde urged all appointees to serve the state with unwavering loyalty, dedication, and commitment.  

See Alternative Route As Lagos Government Announces Closure Of Popular Bridge

  Lagos State Government has announced a temporary traffic diversion on the Ojuelegba Flyover Bridge scheduled for Saturday, October 5, and Sunday, October 6, 2024. The closure will facilitate the installation of a truck barrier on the flyover by the Fire Station, according to a statement released by the state government on Thursday. The diversion will be in effect from 10:00 PM on Saturday to 5:00 AM on Sunday. During this time, motorists traveling from Eko Bridge, Costain, and Iponri towards Ojuelegba are advised to utilize the Service Lane from the National Stadium gate to the Barracks to reach their desired destinations. “Consequently, Motorists are advised to use the diversion route below during the nighttime installation of the barriers; Motorists from Eko Bridge, Costain, and Iponri inbound Ojuelegba are advised to use the Service Lane from the National Stadium gate to link Barracks to access their desired destinations,” the statement reads in part. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the transportation commissioner, emphasized that the brief closure is a strategic measure to improve traffic management and prevent future accidents. He urged motorists to exercise patience and cooperate during this temporary inconvenience.