Scaloni's assessment of the 2026 World Cup final

• Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni addressed his side's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final without pointing fingers at the officials
• Scaloni's response came after Spain's Gavi separately addressed a clash with Paredes and the absence of a red card in the final
• FIFA president Gianni Infantino also weighed in on Argentina's run at the 2026 World Cup following the defeat

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has accepted responsibility for his side's loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

Scaloni explained that the better team won on the night rather than directing any criticism at the match officials.

Scaloni's post-match remarks came as a notable contrast to the finger-pointing that often follows high-stakes tournament defeats.

The Argentine manager was direct in his assessment, saying simply that Spain was the better side.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni rates the officiating highly, as he admitted that Spain were the better team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Photo by: Carl Recine and Evrim Aydin/Anadolu. Source: Getty Images

The coach declined to use refereeing decisions as a reason for the result, a stance that drew attention given the tensions that surfaced during and after the match. He said via Bolavip:

”No, we lost because Spain were better than us.

”We’ve got to admit it, they played better. [Admitting that] will make us better in the long run.”The final had already generated controversy on Spain's side. Gavi separately spoke to the press to address a physical confrontation involving Argentina's Leandro Paredes and the failure of the referee to issue a red card during the contest.

Despite that flashpoint, Scaloni chose not to lean on those moments as mitigation for Argentina's defeat.

FIFA president Gianni lnfantino also commented on Argentina's performance across the tournament, congratulating Lionel Messi and the squad on their overall run at the 2026 World Cup, even as their bid for back-to-back titles ended in the final.

Argentina had arrived at the tournament as defending world champions following their 2022 triumph in Qatar, making the final appearance a significant achievement despite the outcome, per beIN SPORTS.

Spain's victory ended that run and handed them the 2026 World Cup title.

Earlier, written in the Lionel Messi's heartfelt letter to his Argentina teammates and the nation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain.

In his poignant message, Messi reflected on the significance of their journey together, conveying a deep sense of gratitude and unity that resonates far beyond the potential glory of winning another title.

US government outlines health and fitness requirements for aspiring recruits

 

• The US government has updated its official guidance on physical and medical requirements for military enlistment on July 15, 2026
• Every recruit must pass a medical exam to confirm they are fit enough to serve before they can join any branch of the military
• Physical fitness test requirements differ across branches, and the US government is directing applicants to speak with a recruiter for specifics

The United States government has published updated guidance on the physical and medical standards that anyone seeking to enlist in its military must meet, with the information last revised on July 15, 2026.

According to the official guidance, a medical examination forms, a compulsory part of the enlistment process across all branches of the US military.

The US government shares the health and physical requirements for aspiring recruits. Stock images for illustration purposes only. Photo Credit: Inti St Clair, Catherine Ledner Source: Getty Images

The exam is designed to determine whether a prospective recruit is in good enough health to carry out the duties of military service.

Beyond the health assessment, every recruit must also complete a physical fitness test before their enlistment can be finalised. The fitness test is a standard requirement regardless of which branch an applicant is seeking to join.

However, the specific physical standards vary from one branch to another. The US government advises anyone interested in enlisting to contact a recruiter directly to get accurate, branch-specific information on what their fitness test will involve.

The prospective recruits according to the directive can find the full details on the official US government military requirements page, which outlines all enlistment conditions, including the physical and medical components.

The guidance applies to all branches of the US military, which include the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. Each branch administers its own fitness assessment. 

The US government's update comes as interest in military service remains a significant consideration for many young Americans, and the official guidance aims to ensure that applicants are fully informed of what the enlistment process demands before they begin.

World Cup 2026: All semi-final fixtures confirmed as Flamingos through to U-17 Women’s World Cup

All the semi-final fixtures at the ongoing FIFA 

World Cup tournament have been confirmed.

This follows the conclusion of the quarter-final fixtures earlier today.

England defeated Norway 2-1 on Saturday night, thanks to Jude Bellingham’s brace.

The win ensured the Three Lions progressed to the World Cup semi-final stage.

Similarly, Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after 120 minutes in the other quarter-final fixture to qualify for the last-4.

Lionel Scaloni’s side will now face England in the semi-final tie on Wednesday.

The other semi-final fixture will see France take on Spain on Tuesday.

Both countries had defeated Morocco and Belgium in the last - 8.

Meanwhile. Nigeria’s Flamingos secured a berth at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup following a 5-3 victory over Benin Republic at the Stade de Kégué, Lomé on Saturday.  

Benin rallied with two goals from Hermionne Lokossou, and Gandonou to make the scoreline 4-3.

Joseph however scored her third of the game 14 minutes from time to ensure the Flamingos return home with an away win.

Morocco will host the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in October.

ICPC confirms arrest, detainment of Tinubu’s ex-minister in alleged certificate forgery mess.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed the arrest of Uche Nnaji, former minister of science, technology and innovation.

Nnaji was arrested on Wednesday by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The ex-minister was subsequently handed over to the ICPC.

Providing an update on the arrest, Okor Odey, ICPC’s spokesperson, said in a statement that the commission sent invitation letters to the former minister through multiple channels, including his residential addresses in Abuja and Enugu.

Odey said despite being served through multiple channels, Nnaji failed to honour the invitations.

The ICPC spokesperson added that the federal high court in Abuja had issued a bench warrant against Nnaji to enable the commission to investigate allegations of certificate forgery.

“The invitation notices were duly served to his known addresses in Abuja and Enugu, as well as via his electronic mail address,” the statement reads.

“Despite service through multiple channels, Mr. Nnaji failed to appear for investigative interviews on the scheduled dates, necessitating further legal action.

“The legal action followed a court order granted by the Federal High Court in the Abuja Judicial Division (Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1160/2026).

“The order, issued on 11 June 2026, directed the ICPC to arrest the former minister to enable investigation into allegations bordering on:

“Forgery of academic credentials, specifically concerning a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN);

“False National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Discharge Certificate, which was submitted during his ministerial screening process in 2023.

“Following the arrest, Mr. Nnaji has been taken into custody at the ICPC headquarters in Abuja, where investigations are expected to continue. The Commission assures the public that the matter will be pursued diligently in accordance with the law.”

In October 2025, Nnaji resigned as minister following allegations of certificate forgery.

Before his resignation, Nnaji came under scrutiny over claims that he forged the credentials he submitted to President Bola Tinubu and the senate during his ministerial confirmation process.

An investigation by Premium Times revealed that Nnaji did not complete his university education and that both the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he presented to the president, as well as to the offices of the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), the DSS, and the senate, were forged.

FG finally mentions fabric to replace iconic NYSC khaki

 

• The Federal Government has approved replacing the NYSC khaki uniform and announced the fabric type that will be used
• The government also introduced a new posting approach expected to align corps members with their academic backgrounds
• The NYSC reform will retain military involvement while changing operational leadership and expanding skills-focused national service

The Federal  Government has confirmed that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will replace its famous khaki uniform with Adire fabric as part of a  major reform of the scheme.    

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the change during an appearance on Channels Television's "The Morning Brief"  on Thursday, July 2. 2026.

He said the decision is meant to support local industries by ensuring the government spends money on Nigerian-made products.

 NYSC khaki. Photo: KOLA SULAIMON Source: Getty Images

When asked whether the new uniform would be produced locally, the minister replied:

It's Adire. So, Adire is being produced in Nigeria. We have them in Ogun, we have them in Kwara, we have textile industry. Let's put our money back into the country."

The Adire uniform is one of several reforms recently approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to reshape the 53-year-old scheme.

The Minister noted that government also plans to match corps members' postings with what they studied in school.

Instead of assigning graduates to workplaces without considering their qualifications, education graduates, for example, are expected to serve in schools after completing orientation camp.

The minister said the posting process would follow the path corps members take during camp.

"After you are leaving the camp, you are not just posted to a school just because NYSC wants you to be in school, but because of the process you followed when in camp," he said.

According to him, the new approach will provide a clearer framework for assigning corps members to places where their knowledge and skills can be put to use 

He confirmed that Federal Government is also reviewing how corps members are deployed to areas affected by insecurity.

A major NYSC reform will see corps members wear Adire instead of khaki. Photo: officialABAT Source: Twitter

Rather than posting graduates to unfamiliar regions with security challenges, the minister said authorities are considering assigning people to areas where they studied and already understand the environment.

He said this could reduce concerns among parents and prospective corps members while cutting down on requests for redeployment.

The minister explained that anyone interested in serving in another region would still be free to indicate their preference.

"If you have interest that you want to go to the North-East why not, but if you don't have interest... let us look at those in that area that can reside in those geographical areas," he said.

Olawande also responded to reports claiming the military would no longer play a role in the NYSC.

He said those reports were incorrect, explaining that the reform only changes who leads the scheme operationally.

"We are not taking the military out of NYSC... Military is not taken away. It is just saying that we are moving away from military mobilisation to civilian mobilisation," he said.

Under the new arrangement, a civilian will head the operational leadership of the NYSC, while the military will continue providing security support for corps members across the country. 

The reforms were approved by the Federal Executive Council on Monday, June 29, marking the first major overhaul of the NYSC since it was established 53 years ago.

To put the changes into effect, the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development have been directed to amend the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations.

According to the Federal Government, the reforms are intended to transform the NYSC into a skills-focused and productivity-driven programme that empowers young Nigerians and supports the country's goal of building a $1 trillion economy.

Earlier, the federal government approved  11 specialised training streams under a major reform of the National Youth Service Corps.

The new structure divides orientation into civic education, career preparation, and specialised skills training based on each corps member’s chosen career path.

Officials said the reforms aim to better align national service with graduates’ academic backgrounds, workplace demands, and long-term career development.

Source: Legit.ng

Grief as 11-year-old driving pickup truck kills several people

• An 11-year-old boy crashed a truck into monks, killing eight during a pilgrimage in the Asian nation of Thailand
• In the aftermath of the unfortunate accident, five monks died at the scene, while three others gave up the ghost at the hospital
• Road accidents are common in Thailand, which consistently ranks among the most dangerous countries in the world for traffic fatalities
•   Bangkok, Thailand - An 11-year-old boy crashed a pickup truck into a group of monks on a pilgrimage walk in northeastern Thailand on Thursday, July 2, killing eight.   As reported by The Associated Press, a total of 35 monks from Mukdahan province, about 600 kilometres northeast of the capital Bangkok, were on the pilgrimage.

• 

  An 11-year-old boy in Thailand driving a pickup truck kills eight monks during a pilgrimage on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Photo credit: @ThaiEnquirer Source: Twitter

  Five monks were killed at the site, while three others died at a hospital, according to Mukdahan Governor Worrayan Boonnarat.

  Police said the cause of the accident is still under investigation. However, the monks told investigators they saw the vehicle swerving before it veered off the road and crashed into the group.

  Thailand’s roads are among the deadliest in the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

  The Southeast Asian country ranked as the world's second-deadliest for road traffic fatalities in the WHO's 2015 assessment. 

•    Local police said the minor is now in custody and will be questioned when state child protection officers arrive.

  Thailand's roads claim dozens of lives every day.

•  Police said the cause of the accident is still under investigation. However, the monks told investigators they saw the vehicle swerving before it veered off the road and crashed into the group.

  Thailand’s roads are among the deadliest in the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

  The Southeast Asian country ranked as the world's second-deadliest for road traffic fatalities in the WHO's 2015 assessment. 

  • According to a 2026 report on VnExpress International, road accident claimed 191 lives across the first five days of the Songkran holiday, the world’s largest water festival, with Bangkok recording the highest number of fatalities.

  From April 10 to 14, were 951 accidents in total, leaving 911 people injured.

  On April 14 alone, there were 192 road accidents, 202 people injured and 30 deaths.

  Speeding was the most common cause of the accidents, accounting for 38.54%, followed by drink-driving.

  
  

Lawyer shares 4 dangers of owing loan apps with consequences

A Nigerian lawyer has urged people to pay up their debts, warning that there are consequences of being a chronic debtor

In a TikTok video that has gone viral, the legal practitioner explained four consequences of being a chronic debtor to loan apps

She explained how owing loan apps could affect one's credit status, employment opportunities and bank verification number (BVN)

A barrister named Amarachi, known on TikTok as @datblacklawyer, has sent an important message to Nigerians fond of borrowing money from different loan apps and refusing to pay their debts.

getting certain jobs because there are some there are some jobs, you know, there are some companies that take it very seriously, especially financial institutions. When the job description has to do with finance, they are going to probe into your debt status or your credit status and see if you are a chronic debtor and that is enough to deny you that job.

"Some of you you want to travel, it will come up unless you don't want to leave the four walls of Nigeria, it will come up, and lastly is that they still reserve the right to sue you." she explained in the video.

A lawyer has revealed that there are consequences of owing loan apps with no intention of paying up. Photo Credit: (@datblacklawyer_) Source: TikTok

Loan apps: Lawyer's admonition sparks reaction

Emmanuel K Edoboh said:

"So what does the law says about defamation of character? Does the law give them the right to insult and embarrass their clients?"

PeterUK said:

"Madam, the only problem with the loan app is that their interest rates are too high and that is what makes it difficult for people to pay."

Mohammed said:

"They don't have right to or capacity to report you to credit bureau is only the ones who meet CBN procedures and licensed and they are very few, not to justify debt but their interest does not follow CBN rul

Inuwa  said:

"Pls ma, how about someone that wants to repay the loan only to find out that you can't find the account number to make repayments and also the amount to pay back because that's the challenge I'm facing."

Godwin said:

"No loan company can blacklist your BVN, and owing loan app has nothing to do with you traveling out, the only consequences is you can't borrow more loan."

Meanwhile, a lawyer had shared how people could fight back against loan apps

According to the lawyer, a loan app messaging your people because of N25k is not a loan reminder, but a crime.

She later highlighted five reasons that make the Nigerian law prohibits loan apps for the borrowers. 

Court Grants Sowore N200m Bail *Lists fresh conditions

 

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, granted bail to online publisher and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.

Aside a N200 million bail with two sureties, one of them must be a traditional ruler in Sowore’s community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area in Ondo State.

The second surety, the court ruled, must have landed property within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Also, Sowore is to surrender his international passport to the court’s deputy registrar for safekeeping. The court held that both sureties must be verified by counsel to the prosecution, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN.

Following Sowore’s absence in court, the judge, on June 16, 2026, revoked the bail he granted Sowore on “self-recognition” last December. Thereafter, he issued a bench warrant for the politician’s arrest after he failed to appear in court for his trial on allegations bordering on cybercrime and criminal defamation.

Last Tuesday, Justice Umar ordered that Sowore be kept in the Kuje Correctional Centre until his motion for a stay of the execution of the order for the revocation of his bail and bench warrant is determined.

Justice Umar dismissed Sowore’s other application that the judge be withdrawn from further presiding over his trial on the ground of alleged bias.

The Department of State Services (DSS) is prosecuting Sowore over alleged criminal defamation arising from claims that he referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal” in posts made on his official X and Facebook accounts.

The defendant’s lawyer, R. O. Adakole, however, appealed to the judge that Sowore be released to him to enable him get his passport from the US embassy in Lagos.

Justice Umar Mohammed adjourned to July 6, 2026, for continuing of hearing

The End Of A 180-Year Tradition: King Charles Will No Longer Stay in Buckingham Palace

King Charles III has decided not to move into Buckingham Palace once its decade-long £369 million refurbishment is completed in 2027, ending a tradition dating back nearly 190 years.

King Charles III has decided he will not make Buckingham Palace his permanent residence once its extensive refurbishment is completed next year, bringing to an end a royal tradition that has defined the British monarchy for nearly two centuries. 

Instead, King Charles and Queen Camilla will continue living at Clarence House, the London residence they have occupied for years, even after the £369 million restoration project concludes in March 2027.

The decision marks a significant shift in how Britain’s royal household will operate. While Buckingham Palace will remain the monarchy’s official headquarters and the centrepiece of state ceremonies,

 it will no longer serve as the sovereign’s principal home. Palace officials say the change reflects both practical considerations and a broader effort to make the landmark more accessible to the public.

One or the royal aides stressed that the move does not diminish Buckingham Palace’s constitutional importance. Instead, they described it as an evolution in how the monarchy uses one of Britain’s most recognisable buildings while preserving its historic role.. 

 it will no longer serve as the sovereign’s principal home. Palace officials claims that the change will now reflects both practical considerations and a broader effort to make the landmark more accessible to the public.

Although King Charles will continue residing at Clarence House, Buckingham Palace will remain the principal venue for official royal business. State banquets, diplomatic receptions, investiture ceremonies, audiences with the Prime Minister and annual garden parties will continue to be held at the palace.

James Chalmers, the King’s Treasurer and Keeper of the Privy Purse, said Buckingham Palace would continue serving as the operational heart of the monarchy.

“It is and will remain monarchy HQ, the crown jewel of our national buildings, with the sovereign’s standard flying proudly from the roof whenever His Majesty is in London,” Chalmers told reporters.

Officials also confirmed that the King will retain private accommodation inside the palace for occasional overnight stays when official duties require him to remain there.

The decision is expected to expand visitor access to Buckingham Palace once refurbishment is complete. 

About 700,000 people currently visit the State Rooms each year during seasonal openings, and royal officials believe wider access will strengthen the palace’s role as one of Britain’s most significant public heritage sites.

Notably, neither King Charles nor the late Queen Elizabeth II has spent a night at Buckingham Palace since 2019 because of the ongoing refurbishment wInstead, 

King Charles and Queen Camilla will continue living at Clarence House, the London residence they have occupied for years, even after the £369 million restoration project concludes in March 2027.

The decision marks a significant shift in how Britain’s royal household will operate. While Buckingham Palace will remain the monarchy’s official headquarters and the centrepiece of state ceremonies,

 it will no longer serve as the sovereign’s principal home. Palace officials say the change reflects both practical considerations and a broader effort to make the landmark more accessible to the public.

Royal aides stressed that the move does not diminish Buckingham Palace’s constitutional importance. Instead, they described it as an evolution in how the monarchy uses one of Britain’s most recognisable buildings while preserving its historic role.

Although King Charles will continue residing at Clarence House, Buckingham Palace will remain the principal venue for official royal business. State banquets, diplomatic receptions, investiture ceremonies, audiences with the Prime Minister and annual garden parties will continue to be held at the palace.

The decade-long renovation, which began in 2017, has focused on replacing ageing electrical wiring, plumbing, heating systems and other essential infrastructure that had remained largely unchanged for around six decades.

 Officials have repeatedly warned that without the works, the palace may faced increasing risks from electrical faults, fire hazards and ageing utilities.

The latest royal financial accounts released alongside the announcement also revealed that King Charles has become the first British monarch to publicly disclose the amount of tax he pays.

According to the accounts, the King voluntarily paid £12.9 million in tax during 2024–25, following £11.7 million the previous financial year. Palace officials said he has now paid more than £30 million in taxes since ascending the throne in 2022.

Although British monarchs are exempt from paying income, capital gains and inheritance taxes under law, Charles has continued the voluntary arrangement introduced by Queen Elizabeth II in 1993.

The accounts further show that the Sovereign Grant, which funds official royal duties, will fall from £137.9 million to £99.9 million in 2027–28 following the completion of Buckingham Palace’s refurbishment. 

Funding will continue to support essential maintenance across occupied royal residences, cybersecurity improvements and energy-efficiency upgrades, including replacing ageing boiler systems at Windsor Castle.

NGO Seeks Support For Youth Development Through Vocational Training

Titilolami Bello, the Founder of Path to Possibilities, a UK-registered Charity Organisation, has called for more investment in education and vocational training to equip young Nigerians with practical skills.

Bello made the call during the 10 years anniversary and graduation ceremony of beneficiaries of the organisation’s tailoring programme at its resource centre at Ikota in Ajah on Sunday.

She emphasize that such investment would reduce the growing number of out-of-school children in the country, noting that the country topped the chart of Nations with the highest out-of-school children.

“We need to diversify education through vocational training and practical skills to engage more out of school children.

“Government at all levels in the country must commit more funds to enhance education and vocational skills development,” she said

She said the organisation was founded in 2009, while its community resource centre was established in 2016 to provide access to books, computer training, and vocational education for underserved children and youths.

According to her, the centre operates a library and computer laboratory with free internet access and full-time instructors who teach children basic digital skills and computer literacy.

“Many schools within the community lack computer laboratories, they depend on the centre to expose their pupils to practical computer education through scheduled visits.

“The resource centre also serves as a safe space where vulnerable girls could obtain sanitary products and other essential support without discrimination.

“We also organise workshops on CV writing and interview skills so that young people can compete confidently for employment opportunities,” she said.

According to her, Path to Possibilities introduced tailoring training in 2025 to equip out-of-school youths and secondary school graduates with employable skills and improve their economic opportunities.

” We are happy to graduate the first set of students, five in number from the tuition free 12 months training on tailoring,” she said.

Bello identified poor electricity supply as the organisation’s major challenge, adding that plans were already on to install a solar power system to ensure uninterrupted learning activities and reduce operating costs.

According to Bello, thousands of children have benefited from computer literacy, digital drawing, vocational training and access to sanitary pads provided through partnerships with supporters and charitable organisations.

Bello commended the organisation partners for supporting the centre through donations, training programmes and other interventions that had strengthened its impact on the community.

She also appealed to established fashion designers to provide apprenticeship opportunities for graduates of the tailoring programme to enable them acquire advanced skills and build sustainable careers.

Bello noted that tackling youth unemployment and educational challenges required government and private collaboration to develop the country’s human capital.

Speaking also, Ms Funmilola Akanmu, a Trustee and Director at the organisation, said that the organisation was established to impact communities by providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children.

Akanmu said the organisation began by sponsoring six years of secondary school education for children selected through an assessment programme conducted by the charity..

According to her, the organisation has sponsored no fewer than 20 students through secondary school and hopes to sponsor additional children during the current year.

“Path to Possibilities covers the school fees, uniforms, books and every educational requirement of these students for six years without any financial contribution from their parents.

“Some of the children are orphans and children from single-parent families unable to afford secondary school education and those from underprivileged background,” she saidThe director disclosed that the organisation’s resource centre accommodated 500 children daily, who visit to read books, participate in reading programmes and learn computer skills.

According to her, the centre also operates scheduled visits from schools around Ikota who bring their pupils to the library at designated periods for reading and learning sessions.

Akanmu, however, expressed hope that improved funding and stronger support for state schools would improve access to secondary education for more children in the state and country at large.

One of the beneficiaries, Jimoh Orilowo said he was delighted at the opportunity given to him by the charity to learn tailoring.

Orilowo, an handicap, noted that the experience at first was challenging for him due to his disability but was able to overcome it due to encouragement and support from his tutor and people at the charity.

Adding.“I am grateful to Path to Possibilities for seeing ability in my disability through the opportunity they gave me, I can cut and sew even with the one hand,” he said.

The beneficiaries were presented with free sewing machines and certificates. (NAN)

State of The Nation not Peculiar to this time -Anglican Bishop

The challenges confronted by the people of God nowadays is not new or peculiar to this generation but, have happened in the past according to the scriptures of the Holy Bible. This assertion was made by the Lord Bishop of Kabba,Kogi

State,Rt. Venerable Steve Akobe on Thursday during the opening Service of the Third Session of the 9th Synod of the Diocese of Ibadan North currently going on at Saint Paul's Anglican Church,Yemetu, Ibadan with the theme"In Times L ike These" Esther 4:13-14 Bishop Akobe observed that the difference was that the People of God's reactions and reasoning to the development at that time was at variants to that of the present time. While sighting many examples from the scriptures of the Holy Bible from Ester; David;Joseph;Daniel and many others,he said Christians were no more look at as a role model and examples of core values of God's teaching and identity. The Cleric noted that the Theme of the Synod was calling on Christians to stand-up to the task and never compromise for financial and material gains. According to him.People of God in the Bible survived the turbulent period despite all the draconian laws of the ruling class because of their strong belief despite knowing that the penalty was dealt. Bishop Akobe maintained that it was the grace of God that they enjoyed because God had a purpose for them. He urged Christians to stand for Christ identity so, as not to fall out because the immorality within the society, churches,families and students are unacceptable to the Christian life and could spell doom for the generations yet unborn if not checked in times like this.

Pope Francis buried in Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Jorge Mario Bergoglio, better known as Pope Francis, who died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in Vatican City, has been laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Italy. Pope was buried inside his favourite Rome church after a funeral mass in St Peter’s Square, the Vatican said on Saturday, April 26. The Argentinian pontiff, was laid to rest during a 30-minute burial ceremony which started at 1:00 pm (1100 GMT) at the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in the Italian capital. As reported by PEOPLE, the pontiff's funeral began on the morning of Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The service was led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals and concluded with the Ultima commendatio and the Valedictio. Following the Mass, Francis' coffin was transferred via a much-watched procession to the basilica of St. Mary Major for a private burial, making him the first pope in more than a century not to be interred at St. Peter's Basilica. "The Pope's final resting place is the Basilica of St. Mary Major in central Rome. Meanwhile. Senate President Godswill Akpabio led a five-member Nigerian delegation to the funeral of Pope Francis at Vatican City. The delegation was constituted by President Bola Tinubu and includes prominent clergy and diplomats such as Archbishop Matthew Kukah and Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu.

OYSG SET UP TEAM TO GET ZERO TOLERANCE TO ROAD CARNAGE.

The Oyo State Government has again directed the formation of experts on motor traffic management to fashion out the possibility of having a Zero Tolerance situation for carnage and loss of property. The Press statement issue out in lbadan on Friday 25th of April 2025, signed by Bisi Bakake a Veteran Journalist/ Motor Trafic Management Exppert. The team according to the statement confirm that it's comprises eminent members of Fellows of Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (FICILT) Portland Palace, UK; Legal icon; and members of the Press in conjunction with contributions from Raod Safety experts within the State. According to a statement from the Team which held its maiden meeting on Wednesday 23rd 2025 in Ibadan, the move was necessitated by recent statistical analysis of road accidents in Nigeria,which showed that road traffic accidents occurred daily in the country killing an average of 14 persons. The statement added that 80 percent of victims were male who fell within productive labor force of between 20 and 50 years of age. It added that human error was found to be responsible for over 80 percent of road accidents (https;// keffi. Nsuk. edu . ng .d.... The Chairman of the Team is Major R O A Salawu rtd , the initiator of the first Road Safety experiment in Nigeria which began in Oyo State . Others are Prof. Adesoji Adesanya of NISER Ibadan; Engr. Tunde Ayangbesan ; Dr. Fasanmade Phillips; Barrister Kamisi Olukunle; Veteran Bisi Bakare of Oyo State League of Veteran Journalists; Engr. Aboderin Adewale; Engr. Victor Akintunde Engr.Akomolafe Emmanuel and Mr. Mukaila Olayiwola. At the meeting members suggested ways of improving on the existing and present road safety activities through education, technology; traffic games and the social media with a view to enhance the knowledge and understanding of the general public with regards to safety on the road. It was agreed that the public should understand that accidents do not just occur but are caused. According to the Chairman, the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde will in no distance time inaugurate the committee.

International Airport Project: Gov. Makinde connects Oyo with Global market - YCE

 Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has been  praised for his prompt commitment towards infrastructural  development  in  Oyo State, the  political  Headquarters of the Yoruba race.

Prof. Nurai Bolanle Tanimowo  chairman Youruba Council of Elders (YCE) Oyo State chapter made this known in a chat with the Transview magazine online. 

Speaking further on the flagging - off the  first phase upgradement of Ladoke Akinola Airport Alakia area of lbadan to the international standard will go a long way in boosting the social economy of the Yoruba region. 

The YCE, chairman however describe , Govern,,or Makinde as one among the true sons of the Yoruba race with integrity and love for his people.

The grand breaking event will not only boost the social economy of the state after the completion of the project in twelve months but will connect the south west of Nigeria with the global market and make lbadan the global market hub, the Don laments. 

The project is expected to cost 41 billion Naira. 

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YCE. Lauds Gov. Makinde, Congratulate Oba Rasheed Ladoja

 Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE. ) urged the Yoruba worldwide to see themselves as a body and brothers keepers to one another. 

Professor Nurai Bolanle Tanimowo, the new chairman of the Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE.) Oyo State chapter made the points in lbadan at the emmagency meeting of the chapter.

Speaking further Prof. Tanimowo tasked YCE. members to have collective responsibility in the project YCE that will make it more easier for the recovery of it's lost glory, so that all efforts of it's founding fathers will not be in vain. 

While pledging open administration in the  state and synergy with the national body of the YCE

. The chairman lauds Gov. Seyi Makinde wonderful parformances on governance in Oyo State and also congratulates, His lmperial Royal  Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin the 43rd Olubadan of lbadanland and the Otun Olubadan, His Royal Highness Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja.

Top  on the list of the meeting agenda was the election of the chapter's Exco. Chief S. A. Omilabu Gandhi (snr.) Vice Chairman. Dr. Bayo Adekola State Sec. Chief Mrs. Wura Adepoju. Treasurer, Comrade Sam Agbetuyi. Financial Sec. Alh. Chief Waheed Apalowo. Wefare Sec 1, and, Alh. Comrade Akano. Welfare 2 ,

Others are Baale Yemi Ogunyemi. Publicity Sec, lmam Alh. Rabiu. Chaplain (lslam) Alh. Chief Adegboyega. Ex - Officio 1, Engr. Ogunlade (JP) Ex - Officio 2, Chief Mrs. Daramola. Ex - Officio 3 and Alhaja Gbadamosi. Ex - Officio 4.

Olubadan Removes Oladoja As Mogaji, Asks Family To Present Replacement

 

Barely six months after he was suspended for land grabbing by the Olubadan Advisory Council, the Mogaji Akinsola of Opopo Labiran family compound, Ibadan, Wale Oladoja, has finally lost his title as the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, has directed the family compound to present another person to fill the vacant position with immediate effect.

The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the Olubadan Advisory Council presided over by Oba Balogun at his Alarere residence, on Saturday.

The meeting had in attendance representatives of the Association of Mogajis of Ibadan land led by the President, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, and the Assistant Secretary-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Suleiman Raufu, who represented Barr. Niyi Ajewole, the President-General of the Council.

A statement made available to newsmen by the Personal Assistant on Media to Olubadan, Oladele Ogunsola, said the big axe fell on Oladoja on account of his recent media outbursts, which was considered disrespectful to the Olubadan stool and by extension the traditional institution of Ibadan land.

The Olubadan Advisory Council described the media reports credited to the deposed Mogaji as divisive, disparaging, insulting and unbecoming of a supposed leader, who is expected to be urbane and cautious in deeds and actions.

Recall that Olubadan Advisory Council had suspended Oladoja over inhuman execution of supposed court judgement on a land matter and for which he threw out some residents of Akinsola village in Akinyele Local Government Area of the state, a conduct the Council described as untoward and a breach of peace.

At Saturday’s meeting, the council recalled that the suspension placed on him then did not last long because of his perceived genuine remorse and principally, because of Olubadan’s peaceful disposition.

“The recent outbursts by the same person have shown him as somebody without no iota of respect for constituted authority and any failure to bring upon him the full weight of the Council’s power would amount to condoning of indiscipline.

“To drive home the point, the Akinsola Family which produced him in the first instance was subsequently asked to present another person to replace him as the Mogaji of the family if they are still interested in having a substantive Mogaji.

“The deposed Mogaji was invited to the meeting but failed to show up on an excuse that his mother died about 24 hours to the meeting, an alibi that failed to convince the Council. 

Members, who spoke on his excuse described it as a gimmick to evade interrogation on the allegations against him and said they could not be swayed by such antics,” the statement said.

It quoted the members as saying, “a person of his character and his love for social media could nrrMouthpieceNGRot have hidden such a very important incident from the public through social media announcement. 

What’s more, he had made two different posts on the social media today without any faint reference to the said news of his mother’s death. His refusal to honour the invitation is like adding salt to an injury.” source MouthpieceNGR