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AFCON 2025: CAF Launches Probe Into Quarter-Final Misconduct Involving Nigeria, Algeria, Cameroon, Morocco

January 12, 2026 by admin

The Confederation of African Football has launched an investigation into alleged misconduct by players and officials during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final clashes between Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria. The probe follows reports of confrontations with referees and disruptions in post-match areas. According to a statement posted on CAF’s official website on Monday, the continental football governing body has collected match reports and video evidence suggesting potentially unacceptable behaviour and has referred the matters to the Disciplinary Board for further review. “CAF has referred the matters to the Disciplinary Board for investigation and has called for appropriate action to be taken if the identified persons are found guilty of any wrongdoing. “CAF is also reviewing footage of an incident involving members of the media who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone area,” the statement read. In the quarter-final fixtures over the weekend, Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech, with goals from star striker Victor Osimhen and forward Akor Adams propelling the Super Eagles into the semifinals. However, the match ended in chaos as Algerian players confronted match officials on the pitch, leading to scuffles and an attempted pitch invasion by fans that was thwarted by stadium security. The Algerian Football Federation has since lodged a formal complaint with CAF. They cited controversial refereeing decisions by Senegalese official Issa Sy, including a denied penalty for an alleged handball in the Nigerian box during the first half. Separately, Morocco advanced with a 2-0 win over Cameroon, but the match was also marred by refereeing disputes. Cameroon’s team felt aggrieved over two potential penalties not awarded, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina. Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, dismissed suggestions of home-team bias in a post-match press conference. CAF stressed its commitment to maintaining professional conduct at all events. “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers. “Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events,” it added.

Pictures:Anthony Joshua Injured in Nigeria Car crash, With Two Others Dead

December 29, 2025 by admin

World-renowned boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a road accident today in Makun, Ogun State. Eyewitnesses report that the incident occurred along a busy highway of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway around past 11am on Monday. The vehicle carrying Joshua, a Lexus Jeep with the number plate, KRD 850 HN, reportedly collided with a stationary truck under circumstances that are still being investigated. Adeniyi Orojo, who witnessed the accident told PUNCH Online that Joshua sustained minor injuries, saying that two people died on the spot. Orojo who stated that the accident happened just before Danco Filling Station in Makun, before Sagamu Interchange inward Ibadan axis of the road. He stated that two people died on the spot. “It was a two-vehicle convoy: a Lexus SUV and a Pajero SUV. Joshua was seated behind the driver, with another person beside him. There was also a passenger sitting beside the driver, making four occupants in the Lexus that crashed. His security detail was in the vehicle behind them before the crash. “Other eyewitnesses and I began the rescue and flagged down oncoming vehicles to assist. A few minutes after the crash, officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived. The passenger beside the driver and the person beside Joshua died on the spot,” he said. Fans have flooded social media with messages of concern, while local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Efforts to reach the TRACE Commandant, Akinbiyi Babatunde on further updates about the crash were futile as calls placed to his line did not go through. Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said in a phone call that he would get back to our correspondent shortly. “I’ve seen the videos too, but I will get back to you on it,” he said. More updates on Joshua’s condition are expected shortly. In a brief statement he later shared with our correspondent about 30 minutes later, he confirmed the crash, noting that “two died, while Joshua and one other have been hospitalised and are receiving treatment at a hospital that would not be disclosed.”

UN Urges Nigeria to Take ‘all Lawful Measures’ to Stop Kidnappings

November 25, 2025 by admin

The United Nations on Tuesday condemned a surge in mass kidnappings in north-central Nigeria, calling on the authorities to take urgent steps to halt the attacks and bring perpetrators to justice. “We are shocked at the recent surge in mass abductions in north-central Nigeria,” UN rights office spokesman Thameen Al-Kheetan told reporters in Geneva. “We urge the Nigerian authorities — at all levels — to take all lawful measures to ensure such vile attacks are halted and to hold those responsible to account.” His comments came as the recent abduction of hundreds of Nigerians, including almost 350 schoolchildren, in just a matter of days, has reignited a pressing debate about the persistent security crisis gripping the country. “At least 402 people, most of them schoolchildren, have been abducted in the states of Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, and Borno since 17 November,” Kheetan said, adding that “only 88 of them have reportedly been freed or have escaped from their captors”. He called on “Nigerian authorities to ensure the safe return of all those still in captivity to their families, and to prevent further abductions”. “They must also hold prompt, impartial, and effective investigations into abductions and bring those responsible to justice.” Mounting security fears in Africa’s most populous nation have sparked a wave of school closures across some parts of the country. Since Islamist militants kidnapped nearly 300 schoolgirls from Chibok town in northeast Borno State more than a decade ago, Nigeria has struggled with a spate of mass kidnappings, mostly carried out by criminal gangs looking for ransom payments. Borno State is also the centre of a long-running Islamist insurgency that has killed more than 40,000 people since 2009. AFP

Genocide Claim: Nigeria’s Diplomatic Response Firm, says Presidential Aide

November 11, 2025 by admin

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has dismissed allegations of genocide against Christians, describing the country’s diplomatic response as firm, measured, and rooted in truth. Speaking in an interview with ARISE News on Monday night, Bwala said the Tinubu administration had launched a global media engagement to clarify Nigeria’s position and counter what he described as false and misleading narratives. He clarified comments attributed to United States President Donald Trump, who threatened military action over claims of Christian persecution in the country. The presidential aide said the claims of Christian genocide in the country by Trump and some US lawmakers were unfounded and misrepresented the country’s security challenges. “There is no genocide against Christians in Nigeria. What we have is insecurity that affects people of all religious and non-religious beliefs — Muslims, Christians, and others alike,” he said. He noted that Tinubu’s administration was fully committed to defeating terrorism and addressing insecurity through enhanced collaboration with international partners, including the United States. “Our engagements focus on intelligence sharing, mutual respect, and cooperation, while safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty,” he said. Bwala emphasised that insecurity should not be misconstrued as a religious conflict, warning that such mischaracterisation only deepens division and hinders collective national efforts to restore peace. “If we were to rank the nation’s priorities, this issue would come fourth. Our key focus areas remain security, food security, agriculture, and healthcare,” he said. Bwala explained that the government’s diplomatic approach was deliberately balanced and assertive enough to defend Nigeria’s image but cautious to preserve international goodwill. “This is about protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and correcting misinformation. The government will continue to engage responsibly and transparently,” Bwala said. The presidential aide reaffirmed that every Nigerian, regardless of faith or background, deserves protection under the law. “Every Nigerian life matters equally,” he said. “This administration stands for peace, unity, and fairness across all faiths.”

Killings: Give Military Support, Not Invade Nigeria, SDP tells Trump

November 3, 2025 by admin

The Social Democratic Party on Monday warned US President Donald Trump and the American government against any attempt to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs under the guise of religious freedom or humanitarian intervention. Instead, the party urged Washington to offer military and intelligence assistance if it is truly concerned about the killings in the country. The warning came through the SDP National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, following Trump’s recent statement designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution. The designation has triggered fresh diplomatic tensions between Abuja and Washington. In its reaction, the SDP declared that while Nigeria’s security failures were undeniable, its sovereignty remained “non-negotiable.” “The SDP, as a national political party that promotes the true interest of Nigeria, is greatly worried by the prevailing discomfiting development and discourses that bother on seeming threats to the sovereignty of the country,” Aiyenigba said in the statement. The party lamented that the “underwhelming performance” of Nigeria’s security architecture had made the country a subject of international concern. Aiyenigba, however, emphasised that foreign powers must respect the limits of the United Nations Charter and refrain from actions that could amount to aggression. “If the United States is that concerned about the insecurity and killings in Nigeria, it should offer concrete military support and intelligence collaboration to Nigeria like it is doing to its other allies, including Israel, Egypt, Pakistan, and others,” the statement added. The SDP further cautioned that President Trump or any other foreign leader “cannot love Nigeria more than Nigerians love themselves,” warning that any U.S. military incursion could end in “sorrow, tears, and blood,” similar to the aftermath of interventions in Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan. The party also called on President Bola Tinubu to focus on his constitutional duty to secure lives and property rather than political calculations ahead of the 2027 general election. “The task of securing the lives of Nigerians irrespective of their religions and tribes is more important than considerations for the 2027 general election “The President therefore needs to prioritise national security and the betterment of the lives of Nigerians in the remainder of his mandate,” it said.

Senate Hails Tinubu Over Nigeria’s Exit From FATF Grey List

October 28, 2025 by admin

The Senate on Tuesday lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and other key institutions for their roles in securing Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force Grey List, described as a major victory for the nation’s financial integrity and global reputation. The motion was sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Udende under matters of urgent public importance pursuant to Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended). Moving the motion, Udende said Nigeria’s delisting by FATF reflects the country’s remarkable progress in addressing strategic deficiencies in its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework and demonstrates its strong commitment to global financial integrity standards. He recalled that Nigeria’s previous inclusion on the FATF Grey List had subjected the country to “heightened international monitoring, scrutiny, and reputational risks, which adversely affected investor confidence and limited access to global financial markets.” The senator credited the development to “the successful implementation of extensive reforms and policy measures by the Executive Arm of Government, the National Assembly, and several regulatory and enforcement agencies.” In its resolution, the Senate recognised “the invaluable leadership and contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Senate, the NFIU, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and other relevant stakeholders whose coordinated actions culminated in this significant national achievement.” Lawmakers expressed delight that the delisting has boosted investor confidence and reassured the international community of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and global financial standards. “The delisting has boosted investor confidence and reassured the international community of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and global financial standards. “Nigeria’s financial and regulatory systems have regained international credibility and compliance with FATF recommendations, enhancing the country’s reputation as a safe and attractive destination for foreign investment,” the motion noted. The Senate further observed that Nigerian financial institutions previously burdened by “additional scrutiny, high compliance costs, and delayed transactions” now enjoy smoother, faster, and more cost-efficient cross-border operations, improving trade facilitation and remittance inflows. The motion also highlighted the long-term benefits of Nigeria’s delisting, including “transformative impacts on the economy through sustained foreign direct investment across key sectors such as energy, technology, agriculture, and manufacturing,” as well as a stronger naira, greater regulatory stability, and job creation. Adopting the motion, the Senate resolved to commend the President and urged relevant financial and enforcement agencies to consolidate the gains by maintaining continuous compliance with international standards to prevent relapse. The lawmakers also mandated the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes to sustain legislative oversight and policy reviews to further strengthen Nigeria’s financial governance. Nigeria was first placed on the FATF Grey List in 2021 following concerns about weaknesses in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime. The country’s removal from the FATF Grey List was officially announced at the FATF October 2025 Plenary in Paris, France. The decision followed the country’s successful implementation of a 19-point action plan aimed at strengthening its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework. The global watchdog for financial crimes had in February 2023 placed Nigeria on its grey list after identifying strategic deficiencies in its AML/CFT systems. Over the past two years, Nigeria has worked closely with the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa and the FATF to address the gaps through sweeping legislative and institutional reforms.

Safeguard Nigeria’s Electoral Integrity, Tinubu Urges New INEC Chair

October 23, 2025 by admin

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan, to defend the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, describing credible polls as the bedrock of any democracy. Speaking at the State House in Abuja shortly after administering the oath of office to the new INEC boss, Tinubu said Amupitan’s appointment, confirmed by the Senate a week ago, was a mark of confidence in his competence and character by both the executive and legislative arms of government. “I, therefore, urge you, Professor Amupitan, as you take on this assignment, to protect the integrity of our elections and the electoral process and the institutional capacity of INEC, and I wish you success on your first assignment in November 2025, which is the governorship election of Anambra state. “As the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, your nomination and confirmation are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you. “This marks the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibilities with the highest level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism,” Tinubu said. The President emphasised that Nigeria’s democracy, which has lasted since 1999, had evolved through reforms, innovation, and lessons learned from past challenges. “Our democracy has come a long way. We have consolidated and strengthened our democratic institutions, particularly our electoral system. To ensure that our democracy continues to flourish, the integrity of our electoral system must be beyond reproach,” Tinubu noted. Tinubu noted that while no electoral system is flawless, credibility and transparency at every stage, be it registration, campaigning, voting, and results collation, remain critical to sustaining public trust. “Elections safeguard the people’s exclusive right to choose their leaders and shape their future. “We must consistently improve our electoral process, addressing the challenges of yesterday and innovating for today and tomorrow,” he added. Tinubu urged Amupitan to prioritise transparency, inclusivity, and non-violence in future polls.

“Makinde’s Leadership Is What Nigeria Needs,His Humane Governance Restored My Faith in Politics” – Dr. Amuda Hafeez

October 22, 2025 by admin

For Dr. Hafeez Amuda, representation goes far beyond holding public office, it is about active engagement, community-driven advocacy, and selfless service. In this interview with Citybuzznews, the entrepreneur and philanthropist shares insights into his journey from private sector to politics, his foundation’s impact, and why he believes Governor Seyi Makinde’s style of governance is the template Nigeria needs. Excerpts: Can we meet you? Tell us about your educational and professional background? I am Hafeez Amuda — a visionary professional, entrepreneur, and advocate for community development, with a strong academic and leadership track record. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), a Master’s degree from Jaipur National University, India, and a Doctorate degree from Prowess University, Delaware, USA. Currently, I am concluding another degree at Lead City University, Ibadan. Beyond academics, I am a Peace Ambassador with the Federation of International Peace and Love Ambassadors (FEPIA) and also an Ambassador of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). These recognitions reflect my commitment to peace building, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service. Over the years, I have applied my knowledge and experience across key sectors, particularly healthcare, entrepreneurship, and social impact — with a consistent vision to inspire progress, promote well-being, and foster sustainable development. You’ve been known for philanthropy through your foundation. Why are you joining politics now? For me, politics is not a sudden shift, it’s a natural extension of service. My entry into politics was inspired by the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, Governor of Oyo State. He has shown that leadership can be humane, transparent, and impact-driven. His governance restored my confidence in the political process, and I now see politics as a powerful tool for real transformation. Under his watch, Oyo State has witnessed unprecedented growth in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. He leads without fanfare, yet the results are visible and impactful. What sets him apart is his calm strength, listening ear, and sincere commitment to public service. To many of us, Governor Makinde is more than a state leader, he is a national asset. His leadership style is what Nigeria desperately needs: one rooted in competence, compassion, and integrity. Through my foundation, I’ve witnessed the everyday struggles of our people, from healthcare and education to youth development, I’ve also seen how sincere leadership, like Governor Makinde’s, can turn these challenges into opportunities. That’s what motivates me to take my service to the next level and contribute more through public office. Tell us about your foundation and its activities? The Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation was established out of a deep passion to uplift lives, particularly young people and underserved communities. Over the years, we’ve carried out impactful programs in healthcare awareness, drug abuse prevention, youth empowerment, and community development across various parts of Oyo State. Our mission is to complement government efforts by promoting a healthier, more informed, and self-reliant society. Governor Makinde’s people-oriented policies have shown that when government leads with sincerity, NGOs like ours can easily partner to drive grassroots development. What’s your political ambition come 2027, and on which platform do you plan to contest? By the grace of God and the will of the people, I am offering myself to serve as member, Oyo State House of Assembly, representing Akinyele Constituency I in the 2027 general elections under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This decision is rooted in a desire for purposeful and compassionate representation, inspired by Governor Makinde’s transformational governance. As a loyal PDP member and a believer in his vision, I’m determined to carry his model of inclusive governance to the grassroots level, ensuring that the voices of Akinyele people are heard and their needs prioritized. Some PDP governors recently defected to the ruling party. What’s your stance on these developments? Defections are not new in Nigerian politics, but what truly matters is loyalty, conviction, and purpose. My loyalty to the PDP remains absolute. Under Governor Makinde’s leadership, the PDP has gained credibility and trust. While some may leave for personal gain, many of us remain committed to the party’s philosophy of development, inclusiveness, and genuine service. Our focus going into 2027 is not on those leaving, but on consolidating unity among those who share the PDP vision of a greater Oyo State and Nigeria. What are the chances of you emerging as the PDP candidate for Akinyele Constituency I in 2027? I am optimistic. More than just being a candidate, I am presenting a 10-Point Development Agenda that mirrors Governor Makinde’s legacy of good governance. This agenda focuses on, youth empowerment, accessible healthcare, quality education, women inclusion, security, agriculture development, small business support, Infrastructure,transparency and community engagement. With unity and sincerity of purpose, I believe our message will resonate strongly and we will earn the trust of the party and the people. Finally, do you believe Governor Makinde should contest for the presidency in 2027? Absolutely. Governor Makinde’s leadership represents what Nigeria urgently needs — vision, competence, unity, and integrity. His humility, patriotism, and proven track record make him a credible candidate for national leadership. We strongly believe that if given the opportunity, he will replicate the success of Oyo State at the national level. Nigeria deserves a leader like Governor Seyi Makinde — one who can heal divisions, restore trust, and move the country forward.

Teenager Becomes Nigeria’s ‘Vice President for a Day’

October 21, 2025 by admin

A teenager, Joy Ogah, symbolically took over the seat of Vice President Kashim Shettima for a day, using the platform to advocate passionately for the rights and education of girls across Nigeria. In a statement issued by the Office of the Vice President on Tuesday, the symbolic handover took place during a meeting on Monday between Vice President Shettima and a delegation from PLAN International, led by Helen Mfonobong Idiong, Director of Programme, Quality, and Innovation. From the Vice President’s chair, Ogah highlighted the challenges facing girls in the country, noting that over 10.5 million children remain out of school, more than 60 per cent of whom are girls. “We must invest in education that is safe and inclusive for every child in Nigeria,” she said, urging policymakers and stakeholders to prioritise interventions that protect and empower young girls. Ogah also urged the government to provide free sanitary products in schools and ensure access to clean water, sanitation, and proper nutrition for all children. She stressed that every girl deserves a classroom, a choice, dignity, and not silence. “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible. I may be the Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day. They must continue in our policies, our classrooms, our conversations, and our budgets,” she said. Shettima also used the occasion to reaffirm President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to advancing girl-child education and inclusive learning nationwide. “We will continue the engagement with PLAN International and see where the force and strength of government can be brought to bear on your solid advice on girl-child education. “In President Bola Tinubu, you have an ally you can believe in and invest your trust in,” Shettima said. Recent reports from PUNCH Online indicate growing national momentum toward gender inclusivity in education. On October 20, 2025, advocacy groups urged all tiers of government to invest more in girl-child education, mentorship, and sensitisation programmes, calling for stronger efforts to eliminate gender bias in schools. In September, the Federal Government launched the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions (RH-SII774) targeting over 10 million women across all 774 local government areas through livelihood grants, digital inclusion, and clean energy initiatives. Similarly, the Ministry of Education and the National Assembly have reinforced support for gender parity and access to learning. The government’s recent workshop on inclusive education, coupled with the Student Loans Act and increased education funding, reflects ongoing institutional commitment to equity — a goal echoed in Joy Ogah’s symbolic “Vice President for a Day” advocacy.

LIVE UPDATES: Nigeria 3 vs Benin 0 — Another Osimhen’s Header Denied by the Cheetah’s Goalkeeper

October 14, 2025 by admin

The Super Eagles are locking horns in a decisive 2026 World Cup qualification against the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. In a post on Super Eagles X’s handle on Tuesday, the Eagles announced four changes from their previous win over Lesotho, with Wilfred Ndidi named captain for the game. The Nigeria Football Federation also confirmed that Moses Simon will make his 85th international appearance, while Victor Osimhen partners Akor Adams in attack. “Four changes from our win over Lesotho. Ndidi leads the team tonight. Simon makes his 85th appearance. Osimhen partners Akor Adams up front,” the post read. Nigeria’s Line-up vs Benin Republic: 23. Stanley Nwabali (GK); 2. Benjamin Fredrick, 3. Zaidu Sanusi, 4. Wilfred Ndidi (C), 6. Semi Ajayi, 9. Victor Osimhen, 11. Samuel Chukwueze, 15. Moses Simon, 17. Alex Iwobi, 20. Akor Adams, 21. Calvin Bassey. Substitutes are: Adebayo, Ekong, Arokodare, Onyeka, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, Olusegun. As the match kicked off, Victor Osimhen scored in the third minute courtesy of an assist from Samuel Chukwueze. The Cheetahs of the Benin Republic are also pushing for an equaliser in the 12th minute of the match, but the attack was stopped by Calvin Bassey. As of 14 minutes into the game, ball possession is Nigeria 58% and Benin 42%. While both teams are on one short on target each. In the 22 minutes, Osimhen almost converted the cross made to him in the box, but unfortunately was defended by a calm Beninoise defender. In the 38th minute, Osimhen doubles the lead courtesy of another Samuel Chukwueze’s cross into the box. It is now 2-0 in favour of the Super Eagles. The Egyptian referee who serves as the first official for the game has added five minutes of extra time. Benin Republic began the kick off into the second half to put pressure on the Super Eagles. Osimhen, again, again and again. The Super Eagles forward hit a hat-trick in the 51st minute. The Super Eagles come knocking on the Cheetahs’ door again in the hunt for a fourth goal, but the effort was wasted by Wilfred Ndidi in the 68th minute.