NSCDC Deploys 10,000 Personnel for Osun Governorship Election Poet of Afrique Reporter The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,000 personnel to Osun State as part of comprehensive security arrangements for the forthcoming governorship election. The deployment is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, secure and credible electoral process , with personnel expected to provide security at polling units, collation centres and other critical locations across the state. The extensive deployment forms part of broader efforts by security agencies to prevent electoral violence, voter intimidation, disruption of voting and other forms of electoral malpractice before, during and after the election. NSCDC personnel are expected to work closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to maintain law and order, protect election materials and safeguard voters, electoral officials, accredited observers and other participants in the democratic process. Th...

  Why Olopoenia Remains Our Leader Against All Odds – SAO Founder By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Founder and Proponent of the SAO Group, a socio-political and humanitarian organisation, Hon. Sunday Adeleke, has described Alhaji Abass Olopoenia as an exceptional leader whose commitment to peace, unity, and grassroots development has continued to earn him admiration across Oyo State and beyond. Adeleke made the remarks while speaking on the leadership philosophy of the respected political figure, whom he described as a father figure and a symbol of reconciliation in Nigerian politics. According to him, Olopoenia's enduring influence stems from his consistent commitment to inclusive leadership, peaceful coexistence, and selfless service to humanity. "Alhaji Abass Olopoenia is a blessing to Oyo State because of his immense personal contributions to the growth and development of the state and the country. Above all, his reconciliatory approach to politics deserves commendatio...

  Fintiri Declares End to Absenteeism in Local Government Administration Governor Charges Newly Inaugurated Council Chairmen on Accountability, Grassroots Service YOLA, ADAMAWA STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has declared an end to absenteeism in local government administration, warning newly inaugurated chairmen of the state's 21 local government councils to remain at their duty posts and maintain close contact with the people they were elected to serve. The governor issued the directive on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected council chairmen held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Yola. Fintiri emphasized that grassroots leadership is a full-time responsibility that requires commitment, accountability, and consistent engagement with residents. He stressed that local government offices must remain operational, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people, noting that ef...

  FIFA Set to Introduce 30-Minute Halftime Show at 2026 World Cup Final Historic Super Bowl-Style Entertainment Expected to Extend Traditional Halftime Break NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter FIFA is set to stage a historic Super Bowl-style halftime show during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with the interval expected to be extended to approximately 30 minutes. The move marks the first time in the tournament's history that the World Cup final will feature a dedicated halftime entertainment spectacle, departing from the traditional 15-minute break between halves. The expanded halftime is expected to accommodate a star-studded musical performance curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin in partnership with Global Citizen. The lineup includes Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay. The final is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 19, at the New York New Jersey Stadium, with FIF...

  TCN Receives Two 100MVA Transformers for Ongoing Katsina Transmission Substation Project New Equipment Expected to Boost Power Supply Capacity and Strengthen Grid Reliability in North-West Nigeria KATSINA, NIGERIA — July 14, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Kano Region, has received two new 100MVA power transformers for installation at the ongoing 330/132/33kV Transmission Substation in Katsina State. According to the company, the transformers were delivered on July 9, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen Nigeria’s national transmission network. The development aligns with TCN’s strategic grid expansion programme aimed at enhancing bulk power transmission, improving electricity supply, and supporting economic growth across Katsina State and the wider North-West region. The transformers are key components required for the completion of the transmission substation project. Upon installation, testing, and commiss...

  Kwara Central Senator Applauds Tinubu Over Approval of N21bn Oko-Olowo Flyover Project Sen. Mustapha Describes Project as Major Boost for Road Safety and Economic Development in Kwara ILORIN, KWARA STATE — July 12, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Saliu Mustapha, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the construction of the Oko-Olowo Junction Flyover in Kwara State. The N21 billion project is part of the 27 road infrastructure projects recently approved across 15 states under the Federal Government’s drive to improve transportation infrastructure and enhance mobility across the country. In a statement issued through his Media Assistant, Nasif Sholagberu, Senator Mustapha described the approval as a welcome development that reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and improving the welfare of citizens. He noted that the flyover would help reduce traffi...

  NAFDAC: Nigerians Warn Against Banned Alcoholic Energy Drinks Agency Alerts Importers, Distributors and Consumers Following Product Seizure in Ghana ABUJA, NIGERIA — July 10, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against importing, distributing, selling, or consuming two banned alcoholic energy drinks recently confiscated by authorities in Ghana. The warning was contained in Public Alert No. 032/2026, issued by NAFDAC and published on its official communication platforms on Friday. According to the agency, it received a notification from Ghana's food and drug regulatory authorities regarding the seizure of approximately 140 boxes of the affected products during an enforcement operation in the Upper East Region of Ghana. The products identified are Bel Ice Vodka Energy Drink and Cody's Vody Energy Mix . NAFDAC stated that the products had previously been prohibited from sale and ...

Argentina Rally from Behind to Defeat Egypt in Thrilling Encounter   By Poet of Afrique Reporter Argentina produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Egypt 3–2 in a thrilling encounter, overturning a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic victory. Egypt took control of the match early on when Yasser Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 15th minute. The North Africans doubled their advantage in the 67th minute through Mostafa Ziko , putting Argentina under immense pressure. Despite missing a first-half penalty, Argentina refused to surrender. The South American giants launched a spirited fightback, with Cristian Romero reducing the deficit in the 79th minute to spark hopes of a comeback. Just four minutes later, captain Lionel Messi restored parity with a clinical finish in the 83rd minute, inspiring Argentina to push for a winner. The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Enzo Fernández struck in the 90+3rd minute to complete a stunning turnaround and seal a memo...

  West Africa Reels From Deadly Floods as Death Toll Rises By Poet of Afrique News Several West African countries are battling devastating floods following days of torrential rainfall that have claimed dozens of lives, displaced residents and caused widespread destruction of homes, roads and businesses. The affected countries include Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Benin, Togo and Nigeria, where authorities continue emergency response efforts amid fears of further rainfall. In Ghana, at least 13 people have been confirmed dead after heavy downpours submerged large sections of the capital, Accra. Rescue teams and residents worked tirelessly to save stranded victims as floodwaters swept through major roads and residential communities. According to meteorological reports, Ghana recorded more than 140 millimetres of rainfall within 24 hours, one of the highest daily rainfall volumes experienced by the country since 1995. Reacting to the disaster, President John Mahama ordered the demolitio...

  Brentford Reward Michael Kayode with Long-Term Contract Extension Poet of Afrique Reporter Premier League side Brentford FC have secured the future of highly rated defender Michael Kayode after agreeing a new long-term contract that will keep him at the club until 2032. The club confirmed the development on Friday, announcing that the Italy Under-21 international has signed a deal running until the summer of 2032, with an option for a further one-year extension. Kayode joined Brentford from Italian club Fiorentina on an initial loan deal in January 2025 before completing a permanent transfer following a series of impressive performances. Since arriving in England, the 21-year-old full-back has established himself as a key member of the squad, making 56 appearances across all competitions and contributing significantly to Brentford’s successful 2025/26 campaign, which ended with a ninth-place finish in the Premier League. His outstanding performances also earned him a nom...

  Olubadan Inaugurates Committee to Promote Integration of Traditional, Orthodox Medicine The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has inaugurated a committee to facilitate the integration of traditional and orthodox medicine as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria. The inauguration ceremony was held on Wednesday at the committee room of the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. Represented by the Director-General of the Olubadan Palace, Basiru Olanrewaju, the monarch said the initiative was designed to encourage collaboration between traditional and conventional medical practitioners for the overall benefit of the people. According to the Olubadan, the integration of both healthcare systems would help harness their respective strengths and promote more effective healthcare delivery not only in Ibadanland but across the country. "The objective is to ensure that traditional and orthodox medicine complement ea...

IGP Appoints CSP Anietie Iniedu as New Force Public Relations Officer The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has approved the appointment of CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) of the Nigeria Police Force. The appointment comes barely three months after DCP Anthony Okon Placid assumed the position. In a statement issued on Friday, the outgoing Force Public Relations Officer, Placid, described CSP Iniedu as a seasoned police officer with extensive experience in public communication, operational policing, intelligence management, institutional accountability, and administration. According to the statement, CSP Iniedu is a native of Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Pure Chemistry from University of Uyo. The statement further highlighted his impressive professional background, noting that he has undergone several specialized trainings in investigative interviewing, crime scene...

 Power Struggle Rocks IPOB as Directorate Suspends Nnamdi Kanu The Directorate of State (DOS) of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the indefinite suspension of the Office of the Leader of IPOB and the position of Director of Radio Biafra, both occupied by Nnamdi Kanu. The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Head of the Directorate of State, Chikadibia Edoziem, who said the suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice. According to the statement, the action was taken to safeguard the activities, members, and objectives of the organisation while strengthening and reorganising the Biafra self-determination movement. The DOS stated that the decision was reached during a meeting held on June 17, 2026, after what it described as careful consideration of the best interests of Biafrans worldwide. The leadership maintained that IPOB was founded and sustained collectively by Biafrans in the diaspora and not by ...

INEC Seeks Stay of Execution of Judgment on Deregistration of ADC, Accord, Three Others By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approached the Court of Appeal in Abuja, seeking a stay of execution of a judgment that ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties. The electoral commission also expressed support for a notice of appeal filed by the affected political parties against the judgment. Speaking before a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal on Tuesday, counsel to INEC, Mr. Haliru Mohammed, said the commission was surprised by the decision of Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to deliver the judgment despite an earlier order restraining the lower court from doing so. According to Mohammed, the appellate court had on May 22 ordered that the judgment, which was initially scheduled for delivery on June 5, should not be delivered pending further proceedings....

 June 12: Democracy Day – A Call for Sober Reflection and Good Governance By Sanni Yusuf Olatunji June 12 remains one of the most significant dates in Nigeria's democratic journey. It is a day that symbolizes the sacrifices, struggles, and aspirations of millions of Nigerians who yearned for freedom, justice, and the right to choose their leaders through a credible democratic process. As the nation commemorates Democracy Day, it is important not only to celebrate the gains of democracy but also to engage in sober reflection on the state of governance, accountability, and national development. Democracy is not merely about periodic elections; it is about ensuring that government remains responsive to the needs of the people and committed to the principles of transparency, equity, and justice. The significance of June 12 lies in the courage displayed by Nigerians who stood firmly in defense of democratic values despite intimidation and repression. Their sacrifices laid the foundation...

 BREAKING: Emir of Ilorin Appoints Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki as Chief Imam Fulani By Oba Luqman The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has approved the appointment of Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki Imam Fulani as the new Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin Emirate. The appointment followed a rigorous selection process involving several respected Islamic scholars, with Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki emerging successful and subsequently receiving the Emir's approval. The newly appointed Chief Imam Fulani comes from a renowned lineage of Islamic scholars in Ilorin. He is the grandson of Sheikh Ibrahim Dasuki Imam Fulani Agaka, the 8th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin, and the son of Sheikh Maliki bn Dasuki Agaka, the 10th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin. Before his elevation, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki served as the founder and proprietor of Darul Bisharah Arabic and Islamic Studies, Airport-Egbejila, Ilorin. He also led daily and Jumu'ah prayers at the Afsat Oloriegbe Memorial ...

 The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has formally reported the Nigerian government to the International Labour Organization (ILO) during the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, alleging violations of international labour standards and workers' rights. According to the NLC, Nigeria is failing to comply with its obligations under Convention No. 98, particularly Articles 1, 2, and 4, which protect workers from anti-union discrimination, guarantee the independence of workers' organisations, and encourage collective bargaining between employers and employees. The labour movement argued that recent actions and policies affecting trade unions in the country undermine the freedom and autonomy of workers' organisations, contrary to the provisions of the convention ratified by Nigeria. The complaint seeks the intervention of the ILO to ensure that internationally recognized labour rights are respected and protected. The NLC further maintained that the ...

PSG Crowned Kings of Europe as Arsenal Suffer Another Heartbreaking Champions League Final Defeat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have emerged as the new kings of Europe after defeating Arsenal in a dramatic UEFA Champions League final, ending the Gunners' dream of lifting their first-ever European crown. The final was a fiercely contested encounter, with Arsenal showing determination and quality throughout the match. However, PSG's resilience and composure proved decisive as the French champions battled back before eventually prevailing to claim the prestigious trophy. For Arsenal, the defeat adds another painful chapter to the club's Champions League history. Exactly two decades after their first appearance in a UEFA Champions League final during the 2005/2006 season, the North London club has once again fallen at the final hurdle. In 2006, Arsenal suffered a 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in Paris despite taking the lead through Sol Campbell. The Gunners' hopes were dashed by lat...

2026 Hajj Update: Kwara Pilgrims Depart for Saudi Arabia  The first batch of intending pilgrims from Kwara State has successfully departed for the holy city of Mecca, marking the official commencement of the 2026 Hajj exercise for the state. The Kwara State Government on Wednesday flagged off the 2026 Hajj exercise with the successful airlift of the first batch of 374 pilgrims, alongside two NAHCON officials and one state official, to Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims were airlifted from the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport after completing all necessary screening, documentation, and orientation processes coordinated by the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. The departure signals a smooth start to this year’s pilgrimage, with subsequent batches expected to follow in line with the scheduled airlift plan. Families, officials, and well-wishers were present at the airport to bid farewell, offering prayers for a safe journey and accepted Hajj. The 2026 Hajj exercise is anti...

Ilorin and the Rise of Local Gins: A Concern to Us All By: Ibraheem Olasunkanmi Qoseem Back in the days, one of the things that made Ilorin a coveted and unrivalled city, unique for its holiness, was its strictness and intolerance for filth and its associates. In recent time, we have allowed our quest for civilization to cart away our long-cherished legacy, leaving us with unhealthy circumstances for our wellbeing and sanctity. For many of us, when we travel out of the town or the state and see how cheaply local gin has become on the streets and how it is openly abused by both minors and adults, a sense of nostalgia often creeps in, and we silently pray for our ancestors who once maintained such sanity and discipline. Today, there is a twist in the narrative. What gradually started at the outskirts in different locations across the city, especially around garages, is now becoming unbecomingly visible in the popular areas of the Emirate. Sadly, many among us are becoming ambassadors of ...