Home - GongNews

Rescuers search through rubble after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Maumere on Indonesia’s Flores Island.

August 16, 2026

47 dead after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia

The death toll from a powerful Indonesian earthquake off the eastern island of Flores has risen to at least...

Customs hands over 399 seized rifles to NSA amid election warning

The Nigeria Customs Service has handed over 399 seized rifles and assorted firearm components to the Office of the National Security Adviser, following the completion of an inventory and examination of the weapons intercepted at the Tincan Island Port Command. Customs Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi said the seizure included 399 fully assembled Jojef firearms, as well as 89 frames, 16 heat shields, 10 trigger pins, three pistons, 25 locking lugs, 80 charging handles, 39 pistol-grip screws, 34 springs, 57 trigger groups, 66 foregrip latches, 45 foregrips or handguards, four pistol grips and five barrels. The weapons were handed over to the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons under the Office of the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu. Adeniyi warned that criminal networks could attempt to exploit Nigeria’s borders, ports and airports to move prohibited items ahead of the country’s next general elections. > “We are about entering a major election cycle, and we know that by this period, men of the underworld will want to use our borders, our ports, our airports to bring in items like this,” Adeniyi said. He said Customs would intensify surveillance and enforcement operations to prevent the movement of illegal arms and other prohibited items. The Customs chief also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to intelligence-led enforcement and stronger collaboration with security agencies to identify and dismantle arms-trafficking networks. Two suspects arrested during the preliminary investigation have also been handed over to the Office of the NSA for further action.

INEC’s conduct of the 2026 Osun governorship election

Osun poll: Okonkwo says INEC performance ‘not to be applauded’

African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, saying the electoral umpire’s performance was “not to be applauded”. Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, Okonkwo questioned why the uploading of polling-unit results to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal was suspended around 8pm on election day. “I am not congratulating INEC whatsoever for what happened in Osun State,” Okonkwo said, arguing that the commission should explain why the results upload was halted. He said the development created apprehension among voters and opposition parties, adding that people had to go to collation centres to follow the process. Okonkwo nevertheless praised Osun voters for what he described as their resilience during the election and urged opposition parties to prepare for the 2027 general election. “The performance of INEC is not to be applauded. It is to be questioned,” he said. The ADC chieftain also described his party’s performance as commendable despite its candidate, Najeem Salaam, finishing third in the election. According to the figures reported by Channels Television, incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party won with 511,067 votes, ahead of APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji, who polled 444,815 votes. Salaam received 17,180 votes. The election marked another term for Adeleke, who was first elected governor of Osun State in 2022. Contemporary reporting also confirms that Adeleke contested the 2026 election as the Accord Party candidate, while Oyebamiji represented the APC. Okonkwo said the ADC had contested without the advantages available to the governing party or the federal government, but maintained that the election demonstrated the strength of opposition politics. He further congratulated Osun residents for what he called a decisive outcome and said the result could offer lessons for the 2027 elections. However, his comments about INEC focused on the transparency of the results transmission process, particularly the temporary halt in uploading results to IReV.

Governor Sule seals $2m Lithium deal with Chinese Firm

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has presided over the signing of a $2 million supplementary lithium agreement between the state government and Diamond New Energy, following his recent visit to China. The agreement was signed at the Nasarawa State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja on Friday, August 14, 2026. Sule said the deal would help keep the company’s lithium processing factory operational while protecting jobs created by the investment. > “We are going to keep your factory functional, and we also have an interest as license owners in whatever you are doing in your company. More importantly, the people you have employed will remain employed,” the governor said. According to Channels Television, the governor said the state moved quickly to secure the relevant mining licence to ensure continued access to raw materials and prevent another party from obtaining the licence. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Margaret Elayo, expressed appreciation to the investors and said the partnership could encourage further investment in Nasarawa. The signing was witnessed by officials from the state Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Nasarawa State Investment Development Agency (NASIDA), Diamond New Energy and Ganfeng Lithium Industry Limited. Sule also urged the company to maintain peaceful relations with host communities and contribute to their development. He disclosed that payments due to the state under the agreement would be made in foreign currency directly to Nasarawa Mining Company Limited, with the terms subject to periodic review. Agreement builds on 2024 mining deal NASIDA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ibrahim Abdullahi said the state government had signed an exclusive mining cooperation agreement with the company in 2024. He said the partnership had contributed to the completion of what he described as the largest lithium processing refinery in West Africa. The supplementary agreement allows the continued supply of lithium materials from the state government’s mining block to serve as feedstock for the refinery. Abdullahi said the arrangement was expected to create further employment opportunities for young people and women in Nasarawa. He added that the state would receive $2 million immediately upon signing, with additional revenues expected under the agreement. A representative of Diamond New Energy, David Siong, said the company remained committed to expanding its operations in Nasarawa, including local processing of resources, job creation and supporting economic development in host communities. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Isaac Danladi, also presented copies of a deed of assignment transferring the mining rights and interests of Nasarawa Mining Company within 3.5 mining cadastral units in Endo, Nasarawa Local Government Area, to Ganfeng Lithium Industry Limited.

China approves RMB200m grant for Nigeria’s economic development

China has approved a RMB200 million grant to support Nigeria’s economic development and the implementation of projects agreed upon by both governments. Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, disclosed this on Wednesday during a meeting with the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed. Yu said the grant forms part of China’s continued support for Nigeria’s national development and economic growth. He noted that China-Nigeria relations have remained at the forefront of China-Africa ties since the two countries established diplomatic relations 55 years ago. According to the ambassador, the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has entered a new phase of high-quality development under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Yu said both countries had maintained close communication and coordination while working to implement agreements reached by their leaders, as well as the outcomes of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit. He added that China and Nigeria would continue working to ensure that the benefits of their cooperation reach citizens in both countries. Responding, Ahmed thanked the Chinese government for its continued support for Nigeria’s economic and social development. He described the grant as evidence of China’s commitment to Nigeria and a reflection of the strong relationship between the two countries. The Permanent Secretary assured that Nigeria would make effective use of the grant and work with China to implement agreements reached by both governments. He added that Nigeria would continue strengthening its relationship with China to ensure the partnership delivers greater benefits to the people.

NDLEA destroys ₦301bn worth of cocaine, heroin and other drugs in Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed more than 329,865 kilogrammes of illicit drugs valued at ₦301 billion in Lagos. The drugs were incinerated on Monday, August 17, at Navy Town in the Ojo area of the state in a court-ordered exercise covering uncontested concluded cases and abandoned seizures. According to Channels Television, the destroyed substances included cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ephedrine, khat leaves and opioids such as tramadol and codeine syrup. Several varieties of cannabis, including Canadian Loud and skunk, were also destroyed. Seizures made across Lagos The NDLEA said the drugs were intercepted during operations carried out between April 2025 and May 2026. The agency’s Lagos Strategic Command accounted for 246,864.535kg, while specialised units operating across the state intercepted an additional 83,001.05kg. Those units included the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Tincan and Apapa Strategic Commands, the Marine Command and a Special Operations Unit. Speaking at the incineration site, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), said the destruction demonstrated the agency’s determination to disrupt drug trafficking networks. He warned drug barons and financiers that law enforcement agencies would continue to pursue them regardless of where they operated. Marwa also said drug interceptions help protect communities from addiction and impaired driving while reducing potential healthcare costs and disrupting criminal networks. Drugs linked to violent crime Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the destruction as a reminder of the scale of the threat posed by illicit drugs. The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, linked the illicit drug trade to the activities of violent non-state actors. He said the destruction deprived drug dealers of investments worth billions of naira and denied violent groups resources that could support their activities. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, also pledged continued military support for the NDLEA’s anti-drug operations.

CBN headquarters in Abuja as the central bank announces revised discount window, FX and government securities rules.

CBN removes discount window restrictions on banks, govt securities, FX

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has removed restrictions that prevented financial institutions using its Standing Lending Facility from participating in foreign exchange transactions and primary government securities auctions. The revised framework, announced in a circular dated August 12, 2026, takes immediate effect and is aimed at giving banks and other market participants greater flexibility in managing liquidity. Under the new rules, institutions that access the CBN’s discount window will no longer lose access to the facility because they participate in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) or primary auctions of government securities. The decision follows a review of developments in the foreign exchange, money and fixed-income markets. However, the CBN has retained a restriction on institutions participating in Open Market Operations (OMO) auctions on the same day they access the Discount Window. The revised framework also expands access to OMO transactions. Individuals, corporates and non-bank financial institutions are now eligible to participate in primary and secondary OMO markets through Deposit Money Banks. DMBs will continue to submit bids and settle transactions on behalf of their customers. The CBN said it would retain control over the volume, tenor and frequency of OMO issuances, depending on prevailing liquidity conditions and monetary policy objectives. The existing single-bid auction structure will also remain in place. CBN Restores Tenored Repo Operations The new framework also provides for the resumption of tenored repurchase, or repo, operations, which had previously been suspended. Under the arrangement, the CBN can conduct repo operations across approved tenors ranging from four to 90 days. Repos allow the central bank to inject or absorb liquidity against eligible securities for a specified period, providing an additional tool for managing liquidity within the banking system. The CBN said the changes were part of broader efforts to improve money market functioning, strengthen liquidity management and enhance monetary policy transmission. The revised rules also clarify which market activities should restrict access to central bank liquidity support. While participation in the FX market and government securities auctions will no longer constitute grounds for restricting access to the Discount Window, the same-day OMO restriction remains. The CBN directed banks, authorised dealers and other market participants to comply strictly with the revised framework.

NDLEA destroys ₦301bn worth of cocaine, heroin and other drugs in Lagos

Customs hands over 399 seized rifles to NSA amid election warning

a patient during a cholera response as the European Union provides emergency funding to Nigeria and three African countries.

Nigeria gets €1.5m as EU releases €2.3m to tackle cholera outbreaks in Africa

The European Commission has allocated €2.3 million in emergency humanitarian funding to Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic and Chad to support efforts to contain ongoing cholera outbreaks. The funding, announced on Monday, is aimed at strengthening outbreak response, improving access to safe water and sanitation, and supporting affected communities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 61,000 cholera cases were reported across the African Region in the first five months of 2026. Nigeria gets €1.5m Nigeria will receive the largest share of the funding, with €1.5 million earmarked for the country’s cholera response. The money will be used to increase the number of intervention teams, provide essential supplies including cholera kits, and strengthen water, sanitation and hygiene measures. The EU said the support will also cover the treatment of public water points and household water, while helping intensify epidemiological surveillance in hard-to-reach areas. It will further support case management, risk communication and community sensitisation. The development comes as several Nigerian states continue to respond to rising cholera cases. In Plateau State, authorities recently intensified containment measures after reporting 537 cases and 17 deaths. Other countries receive funding Cameroon will receive €100,000 to support outbreak containment and case management, including additional healthcare personnel, medicines, cholera treatment units and oral rehydration points in affected communities. The Central African Republic will receive €500,000 to scale up case management and vaccination, alongside water, sanitation and hygiene interventions. The funding will also strengthen surveillance, community engagement and safe burials. Chad will receive €200,000 to help break the chain of cholera transmission through improved access to water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as community support for surveillance and case management. The EU Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, said cholera remains a preventable and treatable disease but continues to threaten communities without access to safe water and healthcare. The funding, she said, would enable humanitarian partners to respond quickly, contain outbreaks and protect vulnerable communities. Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria and is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water. Severe infections can cause rapid dehydration and shock.

A combine harvester works across a dry, dusty field in Suffolk as UK farmers battle severe drought that has reduced crop yields and raised food security concerns.

UK drought cuts crop yields, sparks fresh food security fears

Food security concerns are growing in the United Kingdom as farmers grapple with one of the driest summers on record, leaving crop yields sharply reduced and raising fears over future food supplies. According to an AFP report published by Punch Newspapers, farmers across England have been hit hard by the country’s driest July since records began, with prolonged drought damaging staple crops including wheat, oats and peas. John Pawsey, an organic farmer in Suffolk, said his farm’s harvest was between 25 and 30 per cent lower than expected after weeks without meaningful rainfall. “All of our fears were realised when we got our combines into the field,” Pawsey said, describing the impact of the prolonged dry spell. The 62-year-old farmer warned that climate change is forcing growers to rethink traditional farming methods. His farm has introduced drought-tolerant crops such as chickpeas and fava beans while adopting techniques designed to improve soil resilience and moisture retention. Food security expert Timothy Benton said Britain’s farming system must evolve to cope with worsening climate conditions. He advocated more diverse and sustainable agricultural practices that reduce dependence on imported food, fertilisers and other inputs. “We’re not investing enough in the forms of technological innovation to address a larger crisis,” Benton said, adding that climate impacts on food production are expected to intensify. Professor Nicola Cannon of the Royal Agricultural College said this year’s pea harvest reached only about half of expected levels because of the lack of rainfall since March. She added that climate change could also reshape British diets, with crops such as soya becoming more common. Pawsey revealed that his farm lost an entire quinoa crop due to the severe drought. National Farmers’ Union president Tom Bradshaw warned that continued dry conditions could lead to shortages of some food products, urging greater attention to domestic food production. The UK government acknowledged the growing challenge, with Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s spokesperson describing food security as national security and highlighting plans for record investment in water infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs. Experts warned that without stronger government support and continued investment in climate adaptation, more farmers could struggle to remain profitable as extreme weather becomes increasingly common.

Vicky Seymour, the newly appointed UK Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, assumes office in Abuja to strengthen UK-Nigeria diplomatic relations.

UK appoints Vicky Seymour as deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria

The UK government has appointed Vicky Seymour as the new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, succeeding Gill Lever OBE, who completed her posting in June 2026. According to Channels Television, Seymour has assumed her duties in Abuja, where she will help strengthen the long-standing partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria. Her responsibilities will cover key areas including economic growth, security, migration, development, international cooperation and people-to-people ties. Seymour brings more than 20 years of experience in diplomacy, international development and public service. Before taking up her new role, she served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), a position she held from 2023. She also previously led the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and worked as Development Director in Mozambique. Her career includes senior leadership roles across Africa, including postings in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as Afghanistan. She has also worked on climate, security and economic development issues. Prior to joining the UK civil service, Seymour worked in the not-for-profit sector, focusing on migration. The appointment comes as the UK seeks to deepen cooperation with Nigeria across a range of strategic and development priorities.

César Gastélum, Mexico, TikTok influencer, Culiacán, livestream shooting, Sinaloa cartel, social media influencer, BBC

Mexican influencer César Gastélum shot dead during TikTok livestream in Culiacán

Mexican social media influencer César Gastélum has been shot dead while livestreaming with friends outside a fast food restaurant in the city of Culiacán, according to reports by the BBC and Punch Newspapers. The attack happened on Tuesday evening in the Tres Ríos area when two men on a motorcycle approached the group. One of the assailants allegedly opened fire at close range, killing Gastélum at the scene. Gastélum, who had more than 500,000 TikTok followers, was widely known for posting comedy videos. Local media reported that he and his friends were wearing bright orange jackets and delivery bags, leading police to initially believe the victim was a delivery rider before confirming his identity. Security personnel and forensic investigators cordoned off the area and collected spent cartridge casings while reviewing CCTV footage as part of the investigation. The gunmen escaped on the motorcycle, and no arrests had been announced at the time of reporting. Authorities have not said whether Gastélum had received threats before the fatal attack. On Instagram, Gastélum regularly shared images of his travels, luxury cars and social life. One of his posts showed him visiting the grave of fellow influencer Leobardo Aispuro, popularly known as “El Gordo Peruci,” who was shot dead in December 2024 in a killing police believed could be linked to a rivalry between factions of the Sinaloa cartel. Gastélum’s death is the latest in a series of attacks targeting Mexican social media personalities. In 2025, 23-year-old influencer Valeria Márquez was also shot and killed while livestreaming from a beauty salon on TikTok. The killing comes as violence continues to escalate in Sinaloa State, where rival Los Chapitos and La Mayiza factions of the Sinaloa cartel have been engaged in intense clashes since September 2024.

Rescue workers evacuate residents by inflatable boats through floodwaters in Assam, India, after deadly monsoon rains caused widespread flooding and landslides.

India Monsoon floods kill over 100 since July as heavy rains devastate communities

More than 100 people have died across India since July after monsoon-triggered floods and landslides swept through several states, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes. According to Channels Television, citing AFP, India’s northeastern state of Assam has been the hardest hit, with at least 87 deaths recorded. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said Sivasagar district accounted for 47 of the fatalities, with many communities still submerged by floodwaters. Authorities have appealed for public donations to support relief and rehabilitation efforts. Sarma described the destruction as unprecedented, saying while damaged property could be rebuilt, lives lost could never be replaced. Images from the affected areas showed emergency responders using rafts and inflatable boats to rescue stranded residents and transport them to safer locations. In Kerala, heavy rainfall over several days has killed at least 15 people, while seven others remain missing. More than 10,000 displaced residents are being sheltered in over 300 relief camps after landslides and overflowing rivers inundated communities. The Himalayan territory of Jammu and Kashmir has also recorded at least 31 deaths following several episodes of intense rainfall, according to the state broadcaster. Scientists have warned that although the annual monsoon is essential for agriculture across South Asia, climate change is making rainfall increasingly erratic, unpredictable and more destructive. Neighbouring Sri Lanka has also been affected by severe weather, with flash floods and mudslides killing at least eight people since Monday and displacing around 12,000 residents. At the same time, parts of the country’s east are experiencing severe drought, forcing authorities to deliver drinking water by tanker trucks. Sri Lanka’s government has linked the extreme weather to this year’s El Niño phenomenon and has established a ministerial task force to reduce its impact on communities and the economy.

Brazilian ambassador Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti during an official diplomatic event following the US decision to revoke her visa amid growing tensions between Washington and Brasilia.

US revokes Brazilian Ambassador’s visa amid diplomatic dispute

The United States has revoked the visa of Brazil’s ambassador to Washington, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, in a sharp escalation of diplomatic tensions between the two countries, according to a US State Department official. The official said the decision could be reversed if Brazil approves President Donald Trump’s nominee, Daniel Perez, as the next US ambassador to Brasilia. Perez was nominated in June but cannot assume the role until the Brazilian government grants its approval. According to the State Department, Washington expects Brazil to provide a “prompt and positive” response to the nomination request. However, officials clarified that Viotti has not been declared persona non grata and is not being asked to leave the United States. Brazil swiftly condemned the move. In a statement, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s office described the visa revocation as “a deliberate escalation of hostile measures” driven by ideological motives. The diplomatic dispute comes ahead of Brazil’s presidential election in October, where President Lula is seeking re-election against right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro. The latest row follows Brazil’s recent refusal to grant visas to two US officials who planned to meet election authorities and discuss issues including election integrity, religious freedom and freedom of expression. Brazilian officials reportedly cited concerns that the visit could be politically exploited. The US rejected suggestions that the visit was intended to interfere in Brazil’s democratic process, describing such claims as baseless. Political tensions have also intensified after Flavio Bolsonaro renewed allegations that Brazil’s electronic voting system is insecure, echoing claims previously made by his father, former president Jair Bolsonaro. The elder Bolsonaro was barred from seeking office in 2023 after making similar allegations and was later convicted over a coup plot following his 2022 election defeat. He is currently serving a 27-year sentence under house arrest.

South Africa amid renewed anti-immigrant protests.

Lumumba urges South Africa to compensate xenophobia victims

Renowned Pan-Africanist Prof. Patrick Lumumba has called on the South African government to publicly apologise to Africa and the international community over recent xenophobic attacks and compensate victims who lost their businesses and livelihoods. Speaking on the sidelines of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, Lumumba condemned the attacks, describing them as a betrayal of the ideals of African unity. He urged Africans not to respond to the violence with hatred, insisting that compassion and understanding would do more to change the mindset of those promoting xenophobia and strengthen solidarity across the continent. Beyond the issue of xenophobic violence, Lumumba challenged African governments and investors to place greater confidence in the continent’s vast natural resources, skilled workforce and entrepreneurial potential. He called for increased intra-African investment to boost industrialisation, create jobs and reduce reliance on foreign capital. The Pan-Africanist also renewed his call for the adoption of a common African currency, arguing that it would deepen economic integration, strengthen trade among African nations and support sustainable development. The comments were made during the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit and were reported by Channels Television.

A conceptual illustration of drone surveillance and AI monitoring over Nigeria’s border regions, showing digital mapping, sensors and security command centres.

Nigeria plans drone and AI border system to tackle 1,497 illegal routes

Nigeria is preparing to introduce a Smart Border Management System (SBMS) that will rely on drones, artificial intelligence and real-time intelligence sharing to strengthen surveillance and close thousands of illegal entry points. The proposal was presented by Rear Admiral S.S. Lassa (Rtd) at a high-level workshop organised by the National Boundary Commission in Abuja on “Border Security, Resilience and Cross-Border Cooperation”. Lassa warned that weak enforcement across border regions creates openings for smuggling, terrorism, arms trafficking and illegal migration. He referenced the Broken Windows Theory, arguing that neglected border areas can escalate into wider security threats. Nigeria’s territorial limits span more than 4,454 kilometres across land borders with Benin, Niger, Chad and Cameroon, alongside its maritime domain. Within this space, the country has 364 approved official border control points but nearly 1,497 illegal and unmanned routes reportedly exploited by criminal networks. The proposed SBMS would shift Nigeria’s border control approach from manpower-heavy patrols to an intelligence-led system powered by drones fitted with thermal cameras, radar, LiDAR and other sensors for continuous monitoring. The system would also integrate satellites, biometrics, geospatial intelligence and command centres to improve detection and rapid response to threats. A central recommendation is the creation of a National Border Data Fusion and Intelligence Centre to coordinate information across immigration, customs, military, police and intelligence agencies. Other proposals include a National Boundary Geospatial and Drone Unit, tighter drone regulations, indigenous drone production, public-private partnerships and the appointment of a national border coordinator to unify operations. Lassa said the shift is necessary for Nigeria to move from reactive enforcement to proactive border security capable of protecting territorial integrity and supporting legitimate cross-border trade.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaking at Downing Street during a press conference announcing plans to ban social media use for children under 16 in the United Kingdom.

UK to ban social media for under-16s in major online safety move

The United Kingdom has announced plans to introduce a nationwide ban on social media for children under the age of 16, marking one of its most sweeping online safety measures to date. According to a report by Channels Television, Prime Minister Keir Starmer made the announcement on Monday, stating that platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube would be covered under the proposed restrictions. Starmer said the move was aimed at addressing growing concerns that social media is contributing to declining mental wellbeing among young users, arguing that such platforms are “making children unhappy” and exposing them to addictive and potentially harmful content. The government confirmed that messaging services like WhatsApp would not be included in the proposed ban. Officials said the legislation could be passed by December 2026, with enforcement expected to begin in spring 2027. The plan also includes broader measures targeting gaming and live-streaming platforms, alongside possible restrictions such as overnight usage limits and breaks from infinite scrolling features for minors. The announcement follows a government-led consultation involving more than 100,000 responses. According to the findings, over 80% of parents supported tighter restrictions on children’s access to social media, with many backing a minimum age of 16. The proposal draws on international developments, including Australia’s earlier decision to restrict under-16 access to social platforms, as several countries tighten regulations around children’s online safety. A spokesperson for YouTube warned that a blanket ban could push younger users towards less regulated and potentially unsafe platforms. The UK government also signalled parallel action requiring tech firms such as Apple and Google to strengthen safeguards against the sharing and sending of explicit images involving minors. Officials described the policy shift as part of a “moral responsibility” for technology companies to better protect children from exploitation, abuse and online grooming risks.

Elon Musk speaking at a SpaceX launch event in Starbase, Texas, displayed on a screen during the company’s Nasdaq IPO debut as shares surge following record-breaking public offering.

Elon Musk becomes world’s first trillionaire as SpaceX IPO soars

Elon Musk has become the world’s first trillionaire after shares in SpaceX surged on their debut trading day following what is reported as the largest initial public offering (IPO) in history. The SpaceX IPO raised over $75 billion, with more than 555 million shares priced at $135 each, valuing the company at about $1.8 trillion before trading began. On its first day on the Nasdaq exchange in New York, shares climbed 11 per cent to $150, pushing its market value to around $2 trillion. The development places SpaceX among the top 10 most valuable companies in the United States, ahead of firms including Meta and Walmart. The offering was reportedly more than four times oversubscribed, with strong demand from both institutional and retail investors. SpaceX, founded by Musk in 2002, has expanded from a rocket manufacturer into a satellite internet operator through Starlink and has also integrated Musk’s artificial intelligence venture xAI, which includes the Grok chatbot and the X social media platform. Musk said the company’s long-term ambition is to expand human activity beyond Earth. “SpaceX wants to be able to take you to the moon, take you to Mars, and ultimately beyond,” he said at a launch event in Starbase, Texas, during the IPO celebrations. The filing also highlighted aggressive future projections, including ambitions tied to space-based data infrastructure and Mars exploration, alongside rapid expansion of satellite internet services. However, analysts have raised concerns about the company’s financial position. While SpaceX reported revenue of $18.7 billion in 2025, it also recorded a net loss of $4.9 billion, driven largely by heavy investment in artificial intelligence and infrastructure expansion. The IPO is expected to trigger further listings from major artificial intelligence firms, with companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic reportedly preparing for public market debuts. The listing marks a significant milestone for Musk, whose wealth is now described as exceeding any previous billionaire record, driven by investor confidence in SpaceX’s long-term technological ambitions.

Solar panels installed in a large-scale renewable energy project supporting Nigeria's electricity expansion plans.

Nigeria targets 209,000MW as $11bn solar projects gather pace

Nigeria is pursuing an ambitious energy transition plan that could see the country generate 209,000 megawatts of electricity from solar power by 2050, supported by 53 large-scale solar projects worth about $11 billion. The projects form part of a growing pipeline of renewable energy investments designed to strengthen Nigeria’s electricity supply, diversify its energy mix, and improve access to power, particularly in underserved communities. Over 1,300 Mini-Grids Planned Alongside utility-scale solar developments, the Federal Government is advancing rural electrification through a nationwide programme led by the Rural Electrification Agency. The initiative will deploy more than 1,300 solar mini-grids and off-grid systems, including 250 interconnected mini-grids that will feed electricity into the national grid. The programme is backed by $750 million in public funding and is expected to attract an additional $1.1 billion in private investment. REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu described the project as one of the world’s largest publicly funded renewable electricity programmes. He said the initiative would help position renewable energy as a major alternative source of electricity and support the government’s goal of expanding power access across the country. Renewables at the Centre of Energy Strategy According to Aliyu, the government aims to provide electricity to 17.5 million Nigerians within three years through structured renewable energy programmes. Nigeria has already deployed more than 1,000 mini-grids nationwide, with over half financed by the REA. Additional support is coming through the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme, backed by the World Bank. The programme seeks to expand access to clean energy through solar mini-grids, standalone systems and battery storage solutions, while replacing more than 250,000 diesel generators. Solar Capacity Growing The report notes that Nigeria added 803MW of solar capacity in 2025, bringing total installed solar capacity to approximately 1,019MW, according to the Global Solar Council. Nigeria’s renewable energy push also aligns with the Mission 300 programme, a World Bank-supported effort aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. Since its launch in January 2025, the initiative has reportedly delivered electricity access to 44 million people across the continent. Long-Term Targets While gas-fired plants remain Nigeria’s dominant source of electricity generation, renewable energy currently contributes about 23 per cent of the country’s energy mix, driven mainly by hydropower and solar projects. The Federal Government has set targets for renewables to account for 30 per cent of electricity generation by 2030 and 82 per cent by 2050, supporting Nigeria’s broader energy transition strategy and commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Most of the projected growth is expected to come from solar energy, with the country aiming to reach 209,000MW of installed solar capacity by 2050.

Emmanuel Macron visiting a factory during Choose France event ahead of global summit focused on AI and data centre investment in France.

France AI investment summit draws billions in global deals

France is set to attract billions of dollars in artificial intelligence and data centre investment as global executives gather for President Emmanuel Macron’s annual “Choose France” summit, according to Channels Television. The event, held at the Versailles Palace west of Paris, will host around 200 top executives from across the world, with a strong focus on AI infrastructure, semiconductor development and digital expansion. Reports indicate that investment commitments already running into tens of billions of euros are expected to be announced during the summit. Japanese tech investment firm SoftBank is reportedly planning a major 75 billion-euro investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, with founder Masayoshi Son scheduled to meet Macron at the Élysée Palace. Canadian asset manager Brookfield is also expected to unveil a $10 billion data centre project in northern France, while Ardian and Nordic data platform Verne are planning a $5 billion investment in a Paris-region facility. Taiwanese electronics group Foxconn is expected to invest about 120 million euros in an AI-focused motherboard production line in western France in partnership with supercomputing specialist Bull. According to the French presidency, the “Choose France” initiative has already generated more than 230 projects since 2018, worth about 87 billion euros and supporting thousands of jobs. France has remained a leading destination for foreign investment in Europe for seven consecutive years, though analysts cited by Channels Television note that broader industrial investment trends remain uneven across sectors. President Macron has pledged to position France as a global leader in AI, supported by public investment in quantum technologies and semiconductors.

Pope Leo XIV presents the Magnifica Humanitas AI manifesto at the Vatican during a conference on artificial intelligence ethics.

Pope Leo XIV warns AI race could create ‘new slavery’

Pope Leo XIV has called for the “disarming” of artificial intelligence, warning that the rapid global race for more powerful AI systems could fuel exploitation, inequality and conflict. In his first encyclical titled Magnifica Humanitas (Magnificent Humanity), the pontiff urged world leaders and technology companies to ensure AI development remains centred on human dignity and ethical responsibility. According to Channels Television, the pope unveiled the manifesto at the Vatican on Monday alongside leading AI researchers, including Christopher Olah of Anthropic. Leo warned against what he described as “a race for ever more powerful algorithms and larger datasets, driven by the desire to secure geopolitical or commercial dominance”. The pope said AI should never be allowed to dominate humanity or deepen global inequality. He also condemned the use of artificial intelligence in lethal autonomous weapons systems, insisting that machines must never be entrusted with life-and-death decisions. “The just war theory is outdated,” Leo wrote, adding that “no algorithm can make war morally acceptable”. The manifesto comes amid increasing international debate over the regulation of artificial intelligence, particularly around military use, surveillance and labour exploitation. The Vatican highlighted concerns that AI’s rapid growth could create “new forms of slavery”, from exploited content moderators exposed to disturbing material to children mining rare earth minerals used in advanced technologies. “Nothing in the world of AI is immaterial or magical,” the pope wrote, stressing that seemingly instant digital responses rely on hidden human labour and environmental costs. Leo also called for AI systems to be accessible, transparent and open to public debate, arguing that technology should remain “human-friendly”. The document referenced philosophers, religious thinkers and cultural figures including Plato, Ludwig van Beethoven and characters from The Lord of the Rings. The encyclical was signed on May 15 to mark the 135th anniversary of an 1891 social doctrine text issued by Pope Leo XIII during the Industrial Revolution. The manifesto also included an apology for the Catholic Church’s historical role in slavery. Leo said the Church must acknowledge past injustices and seek forgiveness for its involvement in systems that dehumanised people. Experts believe Magnifica Humanitas could have a global impact similar to Laudato Si’, the environmental manifesto released by Pope Francis in 2015. The United Nations estimates that artificial intelligence could be worth up to $4.8 trillion globally by 2033.

Customs hands over 399 seized rifles to NSA amid election warning

Osun poll: Okonkwo says INEC performance ‘not to be applauded’

Yekini Idiaye sworn in as Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly after Blessing Agbebaku’s resignation.

BREAKING: Idiaye emerges Edo Assembly new speaker as Agbebaku resigns

Yekini Idiaye has emerged as the new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly following the resignation of Blessing Agbebaku. The lawmaker representing Akoko Edo Constituency I was elected during Monday’s plenary after Agbebaku’s resignation was formally acknowledged by the House. According to Channels Television, Sunday Ojiezele, representing Esan South East Constituency, nominated Idiaye for the position. The nomination was seconded by Eric Okaka, representing Owan East Constituency. The Clerk of the House subsequently administered the oath of office on Idiaye, who immediately assumed leadership of the Assembly. The sitting was presided over by Deputy Speaker Osamwonye Atu. A brief disagreement reportedly arose over the position of the member representing Owan West Constituency but was quickly brought under control. The House also considered a letter from the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking changes to the leadership of the majority caucus. Ojiezele was nominated as Majority Leader, while Ojie Inegbebor, representing Igueben Constituency, was nominated as Deputy Majority Leader. The lawmakers further approved a letter from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), nominating Natasha Osawaru as the new Minority Leader. The nomination of Osawaru had reportedly been pending before the latest leadership changes. The developments have ushered in a new leadership structure in the Edo State House of Assembly, with Idiaye now presiding over the eighth Assembly.

Adeleke Tinubu 2027 support, Ademola Adeleke, Bola Tinubu, Osun election, 2027 presidential election, Osun politics

Adeleke denies deal with Tinubu, backs 2027 re-election

Re-elected Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has denied reaching any political agreement with President Bola Tinubu in exchange for his support for the President’s 2027 re-election bid. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Adeleke said his backing was based on Tinubu being a Yoruba man from the South-West and his desire to see the President continue development projects in the region. “No, I never reached agreement with Mr President,” Adeleke said. He explained that he wanted Tinubu to continue work on federal roads and other development projects connecting the South-West with other parts of the country. Adeleke said: “Since a Yoruba man has won the first term, maybe we should give him another chance to develop his reforms.” When asked whether he would support Tinubu “all out” in the 2027 presidential election, Adeleke replied: “Big time, I will.” The governor also said he was prepared to work with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including his defeated Osun governorship opponent Bola Oyebamiji and former governor Gboyega Oyetola, if required to support Tinubu. His comments followed Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo’s public acknowledgement of Adeleke’s endorsement. Keyamo had described the governor as “a man of integrity and honour” and added, “Agreement is agreement.” Despite their political differences and membership of rival parties, Tinubu and Adeleke have maintained a cordial relationship, with both leaders making high-profile engagements in recent times. Adeleke won the August 2026 Osun governorship election with 511,067 votes, defeating Oyebamiji of the APC, who polled 444,815 votes. ADC candidate Najeem Salaam finished third with 17,180 votes. The governor won 19 of Osun’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji secured 11.

Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State governor, files a ₦10bn lawsuit against ICPC over alleged denial of family access

El-Rufai sues ICPC for ₦10bn over family access

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has filed a fresh ₦10 billion lawsuit against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alleging that the agency unlawfully denied his wife and son access to him while he was in custody. According to Channels Television, the suit was filed by El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on August 13, 2026. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1852/2026, also lists the ICPC chairman and the Attorney-General of the Federation as defendants. El-Rufai is asking the court to declare that his fundamental rights under Part IV of the 1999 Constitution remain enforceable despite his detention. The former governor alleges that his wife, Aichatou Asabe, and his son, Abba El-Rufai, were repeatedly prevented from seeing him while he was in ICPC custody. He claims the denial of access prevented his family from providing him with food, medication and other necessities, which he said was done without lawful justification or a court order. El-Rufai further alleged that ICPC officers physically restrained and intimidated his wife and son on July 7, describing the incident as unlawful interference with his family relationships. He argued that the alleged actions violated his constitutional rights to dignity and private and family life, citing Sections 34 and 37 of the Constitution, as well as Articles 5 and 18 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The former governor is seeking nine reliefs from the court, including declarations that the alleged denial of family access was unconstitutional, illegal, null and void. He is also seeking ₦10 billion in compensation for the alleged violation of his fundamental rights.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke speaking after his re-election victory in the 2026 governorship election.

Osun election victory: Adeleke calls for peace, unity as APC studies results

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has appealed for peace and unity after securing re-election in Saturday’s governorship election, while the All Progressives Congress is considering whether to challenge the result at the tribunal. The Independent National Electoral Commission declared Adeleke the winner after he polled 511,067 votes, defeating the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, who scored 444,815 votes. African Democratic Congress candidate Najeem Salaam came third with 17,180 votes. Adeleke won 19 of Osun State’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji secured 11. The governor, speaking after his declaration, extended an olive branch to his opponents and called for an end to political violence following weeks of tension and attacks across the state. “In this race, there is no victor, no vanquished. I extend an olive branch to my co-contestants. I am the Governor of all Osun people,” Adeleke said. He pledged to build on his achievements, address shortcomings and accelerate development under his renewed five-point agenda. Adeleke also urged community leaders and traditional institutions to promote peace and prevent post-election violence. He called on residents to forgive one another and restore communal harmony. The governor further reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term in 2027, describing the President as a son of Osun State. Tinubu congratulates Adeleke President Bola Tinubu congratulated Adeleke on his victory, saying the result reflected the confidence Osun voters had in the governor. Tinubu said he personally called Adeleke to congratulate him and urged him to use his second term to unite residents regardless of their political affiliations. He also commended the other contestants and praised the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies for conducting what he described as a peaceful and transparent election. APC weighs legal challenge The Osun APC said it was studying the results from the state’s 332 wards before deciding its next step. The party said it would consult its legal team and consider the options available under the Electoral Act, including proceedings before the election tribunal and subsequent courts. The APC urged its members and supporters to remain calm and avoid provocative actions while the party assesses the situation. ADC seeks explanation from INEC The ADC congratulated Adeleke but called on INEC to explain what it described as an almost four-hour interruption in the uploading of polling-unit results to the IReV portal during election night. The party said result uploads stopped at about 8pm when its assessment showed Oyebamiji was trailing. However, the ADC did not provide evidence that INEC deliberately halted the uploads. The party said clarification from the electoral commission was necessary to address concerns about the integrity of the process. ADC candidate Salaam separately congratulated Adeleke, saying the electorate had spoken and that the outcome should be respected. He urged the governor to use his second term to improve governance, consolidate existing achievements and address areas where his administration had fallen short.

Supporters celebrate on the streets of Osun State after Ademola Adeleke was declared winner of the 2026 governorship election.

Osun election: Jubilation in the streets as Adeleke wins second term

Celebrations broke out across Osun State on Sunday after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Governor Ademola Adeleke the winner of the August 15 governorship election. The jubilation was particularly visible in Osogbo, the state capital, and Ede, Adeleke’s hometown, where supporters gathered on the streets singing, dancing and chanting in celebration. According to Channels Television, supporters also gathered at the INEC collation centre in Osogbo as results from the state’s 30 local government areas were announced. Crowds also assembled around Adeleke’s residence in Ede ahead of his expected return. INEC’s Returning Officer, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, declared Adeleke of the Accord Party the winner early on Sunday. Adeleke secured 511,067 votes, defeating his closest challenger, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji, who polled 444,815 votes. African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Najeem Salaam finished third with 17,180 votes. The governor won in 19 of Osun State’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji secured victory in 11. Professor Ogunwole said Adeleke had satisfied the requirements of the law and was therefore declared elected. The declaration sparked fresh celebrations around the INEC premises in Osogbo, while large crowds gathered in Ede to celebrate the governor’s return for another term. The celebrations had started in parts of the state as results emerged from polling units and local government areas, with strong support recorded for Adeleke in Ede. The election featured 15 political parties and followed months of campaigning and heightened security across Osun State. INEC recorded 1,005,800 votes cast, with 985,079 valid votes, while 1,010,684 voters were accredited for the election. Adeleke’s victory secures a second term in office. He won the 2022 governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before moving to the Accord Party in December 2025. The scenes in Osogbo and Ede recalled the celebrations that followed Adeleke’s emergence as governor after the 2022 election.

Ademola Adeleke celebrating after being declared winner of the 2026 Osun governorship election.

BREAKING: Adeleke wins Osun election, secures second term

Governor Ademola Adeleke has won the 2026 Osun State governorship election, securing a second four-year term after defeating his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke the winner at the collation centre in Osogbo early on Sunday, August 16. Adeleke, who contested on the platform of the Accord Party, polled 511,067 votes, while Oyebamiji recorded 444,815 votes. The result gives Adeleke a winning margin of 66,252 votes. Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) finished third with 17,180 votes. The Returning Officer, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, declared Adeleke elected after confirming that he had satisfied the requirements of the law. According to the figures announced by INEC, 1,010,684 voters were accredited, while 1,005,800 votes were cast. A total of 985,079 valid votes were recorded across the state’s 30 local government areas. Adeleke’s Second-Term Victory The victory marks Adeleke’s second consecutive governorship win in Osun. He first won the state’s governorship election in 2022 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), defeating then-incumbent Gboyega Oyetola of the APC. However, the governor entered the 2026 contest under a different political platform after leaving the PDP for the Accord Party in December. Explaining his decision at the time, Adeleke said Accord’s emphasis on welfarism aligned with his administration’s focus on the welfare of citizens and workers. His re-election also comes after a closely fought campaign against the APC, with both parties accusing each other of political violence and destruction of property ahead of the poll. Security Tightened Across Osun Authorities deployed 15,000 police personnel and 30 commissioners of police across the state as part of efforts to maintain security during the election. A police helicopter and drone unit were also deployed for aerial surveillance. President Bola Tinubu had directed security agencies to provide adequate protection at polling units and urged INEC to ensure the election was conducted transparently and fairly. Election Faced Last-Minute Challenges The poll was also preceded by a number of political and logistical developments. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had frozen an account belonging to the Osun State Government shortly before the election. President Tinubu subsequently directed the anti-graft agency to unfreeze the account, citing concerns about the timing of the action. A court order directing INEC to include the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the election also created additional logistical pressure for the electoral commission. INEC said it subsequently printed the required ballot papers and moved sensitive materials to the Central Bank ahead of the election. The declaration of Adeleke as winner brings to an end the 2026 Osun governorship contest, which featured 15 political parties.

Governor Sule seals $2m Lithium deal with Chinese Firm

Osun election victory: Adeleke calls for peace, unity as APC studies results

Arsenal players celebrate their 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City at the Principality Stadium.

Arsenal thrash Man City 3-0 to lift Community Shield

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield on Sunday, giving Mikel Arteta an early-season triumph while condemning new City boss Enzo Maresca to defeat in his first game in charge in the traditional curtain-raiser to the campaign. With their fourth victory over City in the fixture, Arsenal maintained their 100% win record over their opponents with an emphatic performance at the Principality Stadium, where Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard found the net. “We showed our level today, we showed that we’re ready,” Odegaard told TNT Sports. “I think we showed that we’re serious, we want to do it again. There’s more trophies to go for and that’s the aim.” Having failed to convince in pre-season performances that raised a few eyebrows, Arsenal exploded into action with devastating effect right from kick-off, needing just 23 seconds to silence any lingering doubts about their readiness. Myles Lewis-Skelly was deployed in midfield and he threaded an excellent pass to set up left-back Calafiori, who calmly finished past Gianluigi Donnarumma to give Arsenal the perfect start against the FA Cup champions. The early strike — the first goal scored in the opening minute of the fixture in 58 years — set the tone for a dominant display where Arsenal looked fitter, sharper, more confident and full of attacking verve. Arsenal celebrate first premier league title since 2004 with massive parade City did not have a clear opportunity until the 20th minute, when Phil Foden curled a shot from range but David Raya was up to the task, diving to his right to deny the midfielder, and later saved a shot from Erling Haaland. Arsenal doubled their lead when Odegaard floated in a cross to the far post, where new signing Christos Tzolis headed the ball back across goal for Havertz to head home, with Donnarumma accidentally spilling the ball over the line. Arsenal needed just three minutes after the restart to make it 3-0, with Tzolis grabbing his second assist when he set up Odegaard, whose delicate first touch took the ball past Josko Gvardiol before he beat a wrong-footed Donnarumma with ease. Maresca’s side showed only flashes of their attacking threat, but Raya stood firm to preserve a clean sheet while Haaland — last season’s Golden Boot winner with 27 goals — was kept quiet and withdrawn before the hour mark. Arsenal kick off the new Premier League campaign on Friday against Coventry City, and Odegaard said they were going to play on the front foot to defend their crown. “We’re going to attack it. We want to do it again. It was an unbelievable achievement and experience for all of us,” he said. “When you get the taste of how nice it is, you want to do it again. And there’s also a few other ones we want to take,” he added, referring to the Champions League title that slipped through their fingers in the final against Paris Saint-Germain. “At this club, you want to win all of them. But of course, that’s a big one.” The Gunners’ victory over the FA Cup holders gave them their second trophy in four months and their 18th Community Shield title overall. The match was played at the Principality Stadium while Wembley hosts Canadian singer The Weeknd’s ‘After Hours til Dawn’ tour.

Davido celebrates his uncle Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the Osun governorship election.

We did it Uncle’ Davido reacts emotionally as Adeleke wins Osun governorship

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido has celebrated the victory of his uncle, Ademola Adeleke, in the Osun State governorship election. Davido, a prominent member of the Adeleke family, reacted shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the incumbent governor the winner of Saturday’s election. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the singer wrote: “WE DID IT UNC !!! @aadeleke_01.” Davido also shared a video of himself celebrating the result. In the footage, he appeared visibly emotional as he reacted to his uncle’s victory. The singer had openly backed Adeleke throughout the election, using his social media platforms to express support as voting and the collation of results progressed. INEC declared Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party winner after he polled 511,067 votes, defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, who secured 444,815 votes. The result gives Adeleke another term as governor of Osun State following a closely contested election.

Osun election victory: Adeleke calls for peace, unity as APC studies results

Gunmen storm Plateau villages, kill 18 in overnight assault

Vigilante group kills three armed hoodlums in Anambra

Three gunmen have been shot dead by members of the Anambra Vigilante Group, (AVG). It was reported that the incident took place on Monday morning in Okija, Ihiala local government area of the state around 3.30 am. The gunmen numbering about 15 stormed the camp of the vigilante members, thinking they were sleeping. According to one of the AVG members, the gunmen came with AK-47 riffles and different charms. The charms, according to the source, were hung on their necks, waists, hands and legs. “When they came, they opened fire on us without knowing they stepped into the lion’s den. “Let them continue coming we are ready for them, nonsense people.” The report was confirmed by one of the Senior Police officers in the state, when the state police public relation’s officer, Tochukwu Ikenga could not be reached. The officer, said the command was working in tandem with the vigilance groups in the state and other sister agencies to make Anambra state the safest state in the country. Anambra: Two die in vigilante, gunmen shootout He said the vigilance group would hand over the corpses of the suspects to the command, including the arms recovered from them. Meanwhile, members of the community were in jubilant mood over the killing of the suspects. One of the residents, who gave her name as Patience, said the hoodlums had been terrorizing Okija for a long, the reason, according to her, the people constituted a committee. “That decision has started paying dividends. “Our people are determined to succeed on this project,” she said.

Anambra: Police raid brothel, rescue 9 underage sex workers

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command on Monday raided a hotel and rescued nine underaged girls used as sex workers. The girls who are said to be within the age bracket of 15 – 23 years were taken away from the hotel while the owner of the brothel was arrested. The state police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Monday, informed that the police carried out the operation on the Awka-based hotel, following a reliable information from the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. Ikenga assured that the rescued girls found in the brothel will be rehabilitated before they repatriated to their various states of origin. He disclosed that the girls were lured with some money to Awka from Ebonyi, Enugu, Akwa Ibom and Rivers states by the proprietor of the brothel, and with a promise to given them more money to send to their parents in the village. Ikenga stated, “Following the information received from Anambra State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare on Sunday at 6:00pm, police operatives stormed a hotel in Awka and rescued nine girls within the ages of 15-23years, used for sex slaves and arrested the proprietor of the hotel. “Meanwhile, further interrogations/confessions of the rescued girls, revealed that the respective persons that brought them to the brothel lured/enticed them on the assurances of giving them jobs to alleviate poverty/needs of their parents and dependents. Vigilante group kills three armed hoodlums in Anambra “They further confessed to being taken from Ebonyi, Enugu, Akwa-Ibom, and Rivers States. Also, the Police Command is in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare to make sure the girls are taken care of and safely returned to their parents/guardians. “The Command has condemned the act and frowned at such persons who take advantage of vulnerable individuals to make money and describe such places as a den where criminals take refuge. “We urge the good people of Anambra to continue to provide the police with information about such places as the joint operations to weed such harbour has commenced,” he narrated. He police spokesman encouraged members of the public to call the Command’s control room number on 07039194332 or PRO on 08039334002 while assuring them that all information passed through these channels will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. “The case has since been transferred to State Criminal Investigation Department Awka SCID, for comprehensive investigation and shall be charged to court afterwards,” he added.

Charly Boy to sue record company of breaching contract signed 35 yrs ago

Veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has threatened to sue Premier Records Limited over alleged violation of terms of an agreement in musical contracts signed about 35 years ago. He made this known in a letter written to the record label by his lawyer, Mr Rockson Igelige, which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja. In the letter dated June 19, 2023, the lawyer said Charly Boy had signed Artists Recording Contracts with the company in 1988, 1990 and also recently. He, however, alleged that the contracts had since expired, but Premier Records was still breaching his client’s copyrights to the musical works. “On our client’s instructions, we demand that your company hand over our client’s master tapes, artworks, promo collateral for the music and other relevant and confidential information with your company within 30 days of the date of this letter. Sophia Momodu, Davido’s baby mama, hints at changing daughter’s surname “We also demand your company’s payment of our client’s outstanding royalties,” the letter read in parts. According to Igelige, the albums affected included, the one recorded in 1990 containing songs such as Big Bottom, Aids, Sexy Lady, Mama, and Nwata Miss. He also listed an album titled “U-Turn” with songs including Akula, Sheri, Comfort, Civilian Barrack, Akula (Instrumental). Also in the list is an album titled “Reality” which contains songs such as Monkey, Family Support, No.6 Man, Give Mv Life, Lagos Life and Baby Come Back. He contended that the terms of the contracts entered with the company as Polydor Record in 1988, Polygram Records Limited in 1990, and currently Premier Records Limited had ended by expiration of time. “In this wise, we have our client’s instructions to formally inform your company to stop further breach of our client’s copyrights to the musical works under the musical albums and single(s) produced during the aforesaid expired contract period. “This is a result of the fact that the condition precedent as well as the consideration for the contracts were not met and furnished. “This serves as a legal notice that further breach after the receipt of this letter will attract legal action.“We hope and trust that your company will comply with our client’s modest demands,” he said.

Governor Sule seals $2m Lithium deal with Chinese Firm

Nigeria’s deep offshore push targets $50bn investment

Nigeria is stepping up efforts to attract major investment into its deep offshore oil and gas sector, with a new framework designed to unlock up to $50 billion in capital for deepwater developments. The reform, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, replaces project-by-project negotiations with a more transparent, rules-based investment framework aimed at giving investors greater certainty while protecting Nigeria’s long-term petroleum revenues. The framework is being implemented through the Deep Offshore Oil and Gas Projects Incentives (Tax Remission) Order, 2026. It will initially support the approximately $10 billion Bonga South West project, while creating a pathway for other capital-intensive offshore developments. Reforms Target Oil Revenue Protection The latest initiative follows a series of oil and gas reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration. In February, the President issued an Executive Order aimed at safeguarding and increasing oil and gas revenues accruing to the Federation. The measures sought to eliminate duplicative structures, reduce revenue leakages and ensure that funds meant for the three tiers of government are protected. The reforms also seek to reposition NNPC Limited as a strictly commercial entity while protecting the interests of the Federation, alongside a review of aspects of the Petroleum Industry Act to address fiscal and structural issues. Nigeria Records Improved Oil Production The investment drive comes as Nigeria records signs of improved crude oil production. According to the report by Channels Television, Nigeria recorded its third consecutive month of meeting or exceeding its OPEC crude production quota in July. The country produced an average of 1.505 million barrels per day of crude oil and 0.17 million barrels per day of condensate, bringing combined daily production to 1.67 million barrels. Production was achieved despite operational challenges affecting the Erha and Akpo fields. In June, Nigeria produced 1.56 million barrels per day of crude and 0.18 million barrels per day of condensate, with crude output reaching 104 per cent of its 1.5 million barrels per day OPEC quota. The government expects the combination of investment incentives, revenue reforms and improved production to help revive stalled projects, attract fresh capital and expand economic activity around Nigeria’s offshore petroleum resources.

EFCC recovers ₦115bn NDDC debt from 24 oil firms

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recovered more than ₦115 billion in statutory levies owed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by oil companies between 2021 and 2023. The figure comprises ₦76.883 billion and $81.076 million, according to EFCC representative Francis Oka-Phillips Usani, who disclosed the recovery before the Senate Committee on Public Accounts on Wednesday. Usani spoke during the committee’s investigation into the 2021–2023 Oil and Gas Sector Audit Report by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). He said the EFCC invited 43 oil companies as part of its investigation into outstanding three per cent statutory levies payable to the NDDC. Of those companies, 24 operating in the Niger Delta were found to have outstanding liabilities, while 19 were cleared. According to the EFCC representative, some companies subsequently paid their outstanding obligations directly to the NDDC following the investigation and pressure from the commission. The direct payments amounted to ₦6.709 billion and $16.994 million. Of the funds recovered by the EFCC on behalf of the NDDC, ₦73.373 billion and $67.070 million have been released to the commission, while ₦3.510 billion and $14.005 million remain in the EFCC’s recovery account. Usani added that the commission was also examining other possible outstanding statutory obligations and taxes owed to the Federal Government. Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Public Accounts rejected an attempt by TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited to respond to queries raised against the company in the audit report, citing inadequate representation. The committee directed the company’s Managing Director to appear in person at a date to be fixed next week.

Tinubu approves framework to unlock $50bn deep offshore investment

President Bola Tinubu has approved a new framework aimed at attracting up to $50bn in fresh investment into Nigeria’s deep offshore oil and gas sector. The development, announced on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, is designed to replace the previous system in which oil companies negotiated individual agreements with the Federal Government. According to The PUNCH, the new framework introduces common eligibility criteria, clear implementation procedures and standard rules for qualifying deep offshore projects. The government said the previous project-by-project approach had contributed to delays and uncertainty that stalled major investments for years. Bonga South West among projects targeted The framework is expected to help revive major offshore developments, beginning with Shell’s approximately $10bn Bonga South West project. The reform takes effect through the Deep Offshore Oil and Gas Projects Incentives (Tax Remission) Order, 2026. It also allows NNPC Limited, acting as the government’s nominated counterparty under Production Sharing Contracts, to make the necessary amendments to eligible contracts. Special Adviser to the President on Oil and Gas, Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, said qualifying projects would prioritise execution within Nigeria where commercially and technically feasible. She said the policy would support Nigerian engineering, fabrication, marine logistics, technical services and project management, while creating skilled jobs and strengthening domestic supply chains. Government seeks greater investment certainty Tinubu said the reform was intended to provide investors with greater certainty while ensuring that Nigeria derives long-term value from its offshore resources. “The countries that attract long-term investment are not necessarily those with the greatest natural resources. They are the ones that provide the greatest certainty,” the President said. He added that the framework was designed to create conditions for increased capital flows, business growth and greater national value from Nigeria’s natural resources. The President commended the Ministries of Justice, Finance and Petroleum Resources, the Nigeria Revenue Service, NNPC Limited, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, and other industry stakeholders involved in developing the framework.

Tinubu hails Nigerian Firm over AfCFTA customs billions of dollars project

President Bola Tinubu has commended a Nigerian-owned company after an AfCFTA project worth billions of dollars was awarded to its subsidiary to modernise customs operations across Africa. According to Channels Television, the 20-year AfCFTA Customs Modernisation Project will be implemented by AfriTrade CMP Limited, a subsidiary of Bergmans Security Consultant and Supplies Limited. The project will deploy digital and physical infrastructure to improve customs processes, cargo tracking, border management and trade-data exchange across participating African countries. Tinubu said the development demonstrated Nigeria’s ability to develop solutions that could be adopted across the continent. “What has been built and tested in Nigeria is now providing a model for the continent,” the President said in a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga. He said the initiative aligned with his administration’s Nigeria First policy, which seeks to create opportunities for Nigerian businesses to compete domestically, across Africa and globally. Tinubu also commended Bergmans, AfriTrade CMP Limited, Trade Modernisation Project Limited, the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the Nigerian professionals involved in the programme. AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene visited the Nigeria Customs Service headquarters in Abuja, where he inspected the country’s customs modernisation programme. Mene described B’Odogwu, Nigeria’s indigenous Unified Customs Management System, as a model for Africa. He said AfCFTA opted for an African solution despite similar offers from non-African companies. B’Odogwu was first piloted in October 2024 and has since become a key component of Nigeria’s customs modernisation efforts, alongside cargo tracking, data infrastructure, surveillance, risk management and non-intrusive inspection. The programme is also being integrated with the National Single Window, launched in March 2026 as a digital gateway for cross-border trade processes. Tinubu said faster and cheaper movement of goods across African borders would be critical to achieving the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Officials from Nigeria and Canada sign an expanded air transport agreement in Abuja to pave the way for direct scheduled flights between both countries.

Nigeria, Canada sign Expanded Air Pact to enable direct flights

Nigeria and Canada have signed an expanded air transport agreement that paves the way for direct scheduled flights between both countries for the first time, in a move expected to strengthen trade, tourism, investment and educational exchanges. The agreement was signed in Abuja by representatives of the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Government of Canada following a technical review of the existing Bilateral Air Services framework, according to Channels Television. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, was represented by the Director of Air Transport Management, Mohammed Tijjani, while Canada’s Chief Air Negotiator for Global Affairs, Shendra Melia, signed on behalf of the Canadian government. According to a statement by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, the expanded agreement introduces measures aimed at improving air connectivity and creating new opportunities for airlines and businesses in both countries. Under the revised framework, Nigeria and Canada can each designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled services. The agreement also allows up to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for designated carriers from each country. It also grants Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights for all-cargo operations, enabling cargo airlines to transport freight between two foreign countries, provided the service starts or ends in their home country. The Federal Ministry of Aviation said the agreement is expected to reduce travel time, improve passenger convenience, lower logistics costs and deepen commercial and cultural ties between Nigeria and Canada. The ministry noted that the deal comes amid growing people-to-people relations, revealing that as of March 31, 2026, more than 25,000 Nigerians held valid Canadian study permits, making Nigeria one of Canada’s leading sources of international students. Officials believe the expanded aviation framework will further support educational exchanges, tourism, business travel, investment and family reunification. The ministry added that the original Nigeria-Canada Air Transport Agreement was negotiated in 2014 as a code-share-only arrangement and formally signed in March 2025. The latest agreement marks the first major expansion of the bilateral aviation framework in more than a decade.

Cameroon players celebrate after beating Malawi 3-0 in the 2026 WAFCON final in Rabat.

Cameroon make history, beat Malawi 3-0 to win WAFCON

Cameroon have won the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Malawi 3-0 in the final in Rabat on Sunday, August 16. Marie Ngah scored twice, while Naomi Eto added another as the Indomitable Lionesses claimed their first WAFCON title after finishing runners-up three times previously. Cameroon entered the tournament in dramatic circumstances. They had failed to qualify after losing home and away to Algeria in the final qualifying round, but were given a second chance when the competition was expanded from 12 to 16 teams. Cameroon were among the four highest-ranked losing sides added to the tournament. Their historic triumph came against a Malawi side that had produced one of the competition’s biggest fairytales. The Scorchers, ranked 153rd in the world, became the lowest-ranked team at the tournament to reach the final. They defeated defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana and Algeria on their way to the title decider, with sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga scoring nine goals between them. Malawi started the final brightly, with the Chawinga sisters causing problems with their pace and power. Cameroon, however, gradually took control. Ngah opened the scoring in the 20th minute after a cross was headed onto the crossbar by Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo. Ngah reacted quickest to nod the rebound into the net. Eto doubled Cameroon’s advantage nine minutes later, turning sharply with her back to goal before firing into the corner. Ngah then struck again three minutes into first-half stoppage time, heading home an Eto cross to give Cameroon a commanding 3-0 lead at the break. Ngah had an opportunity to complete her hat-trick early in the second half after rounding Sikelo, but she fired wide. Malawi improved after the interval and managed to contain Cameroon for long periods. Temwa Chawinga also went close with a low effort following a goalmouth scramble, but the Scorchers could not find a way back into the match. The victory completed a remarkable turnaround for Cameroon, who had previously lost the 2004, 2014 and 2016 WAFCON finals to Nigeria. The result also secured Cameroon a place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil alongside Malawi, Algeria and Morocco, who all reached the semi-finals. South Africa and Ghana, who lost in the quarter-finals, have secured places in the intercontinental play-offs, meaning Africa could have as many as six teams at the World Cup.

Arsenal thrash Man City 3-0 to lift Community Shield

Algeria beat Morocco on penalties to win WAFCON bronze

Algeria claimed the bronze medal at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the third-place play-off in Rabat on Saturday. The result handed Algeria their place on the podium, while Morocco suffered another painful penalty shootout defeat in front of their home supporters. Morocco took the lead in the 37th minute through Kautar Azraf, but Lina Boussaha restored parity for Algeria in the 83rd minute. Neither side could find a winner before the end of regulation time, with no extra time played. The match therefore went straight to penalties. Morocco converted their opening two spot-kicks before missing their next three attempts. Algeria also missed two of their four penalties, but Ines Belloumou converted the decisive kick to secure the bronze medal. The defeat was particularly disappointing for Morocco, who have now fallen short in all three editions of the WAFCON hosted on home soil. They finished runners-up in both 2022 and 2024 before losing the third-place play-off this year. Despite missing out on a medal, Morocco’s run to the semi-finals secured their qualification for next year’s 32-team Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Algeria, meanwhile, join hosts Morocco, Cameroon and Malawi among the African teams guaranteed places at the global tournament. South Africa and Ghana could increase Africa’s representation to six teams if they qualify through the intercontinental play-offs. The WAFCON final between Cameroon and surprise finalists Malawi is scheduled for Sunday.

Super Falcons miss 2027 Women’s World Cup after South Africa defeat

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have failed to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after losing 2-1 to South Africa in a decisive play-off in Casablanca, Morocco. The defeat marks a historic setback for Nigerian women’s football, as the Super Falcons will miss the Women’s World Cup for the first time since the tournament began in 1991. South Africa took control after the break, scoring in the 56th minute before adding a second goal in the 77th minute. Nigeria struggled to create clear-cut opportunities despite having several experienced players on the pitch. The Falcons were handed a late lifeline when South Africa conceded a penalty in the 92nd minute and had a player sent off for handling the ball. Jennifer Ucheibe converted the penalty to make it 2-1, but Nigeria could not find an equaliser before the final whistle. The result ended the Falcons’ hopes of progressing to the intercontinental play-offs, with two places available from the play-offs involving the four teams that lost in the WAFCON quarter-finals. Ghana had already secured one of the available tickets after defeating Côte d’Ivoire. The outcome brings an end to Nigeria’s remarkable record of appearing at every edition of the Women’s World Cup since its inception.

PSG players celebrate after beating Aston Villa to retain the UEFA Super Cup. PSG's Marquinhos lifts the trophy with teammates after winning the UEFA Super Cup REUTERS/Angelika Warmuth

PSG retain UEFA Super Cup with 2-1 win over Aston Villa

Paris St-Germain, PSG made it back-to-back UEFA Super Cup titles after a narrow victory over spirited Aston Villa. Desire Doue’s 62nd-minute winner – after a video assistant referee (VAR) check for offside – sealed the success for the Champions League holders in Salzburg. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia thumped in a delightful 20th-minute opener for PSG, before Villa’s Brian Madjo announced himself in fine style with a 45th-minute leveller. The 17-year-old striker became the youngest scorer in the Super Cup when he struck on his debut at the Red Bull Arena. Madjo, an England Under-17 international, had already missed two fine chances – shooting wide and heading over – before volleying in John McGinn’s cross at the back post just before half-time. It marked a perfect ending to an eight-month battle to play, with Villa banned from registering him by FIFA, after he joined from Metz for £10m in January. Villa won an appeal at the start of August through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to allow him to play in competitive fixtures. Madjo was a constant physical threat to the PSG defence, but his goal was not enough to stop the French side retain the trophy they won for the first time last year by beating Tottenham on penalties. Villa, playing in the Super Cup after winning the Europa League in May, had their chances, forcing PSG keeper Matvey Safonov into solid saves. But defeat meant boss Unai Emery has now lost all four of his finals in the competition after also missing out with previous clubs Sevilla and Villarreal.

Late Katsina United footballer Chinedu Ozor, who died after collapsing during a pre-season match in Katsina.

Katsina United star Chinedu Ozor in coma after collapsing during football match

Katsina United footballer Chinedu Ozor is in coma after collapsing during a pre-season friendly against Niger Tornadoes FC at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina. According to Channels Television, Ozor suffered a medical emergency during the match and was rushed to K-Dara Specialist Hospital in Katsina, where he was confirmed dead in the early hours of Tuesday, August 11, 2026 but after further verification, he was discovered to only be in coma. The midfielder had recently joined Katsina United from Kano Pillars FC and was preparing to begin a new chapter of his football career. The news has plunged Katsina State and the Nigerian football community into mourning, with tributes expected to continue following the sudden death of the promising player. Governor Radda Mourns Ozor Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, expressed shock and sadness over Ozor’s death. In a statement issued on Tuesday night by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, Radda described the footballer’s death as particularly painful given his age and promising career. “The sudden death of Ozoh Chinedu is deeply shocking and heartbreaking,” the governor said, according to Channels Television. Radda extended his condolences to Ozor’s family, Katsina United, his teammates, coaches, club management, supporters, former club Kano Pillars FC and the wider Nigerian football community. The player’s sudden death has also renewed attention on player health and the importance of emergency medical preparedness during competitive football matches. The incident has left Katsina United and Nigerian football mourning a young player whose career was cut short unexpectedly.

ASUU members at Kaduna State University threaten indefinite strike over lecturers’ welfare and non-implementation of the 2025 agreement.

ASUU gives KASU two weeks to act as 200 lecturers quit

More than 200 professors and other academic staff have reportedly resigned from Kaduna State University over poor working conditions and the failure to implement the 2025 Federal Government-ASUU Agreement. The Academic Staff Union of Universities, KASU chapter, issued a two-week ultimatum to the university management and other relevant authorities to begin full implementation and domestication of the agreement. According to the ASUU-KASU chairman, Abubakar Abdullahi, the agreement took effect in January 2026 but had yet to be implemented at the institution. Abdullahi disclosed this on Monday at a press conference at the union’s secretariat in Kaduna, according to PUNCH Newspapers, the originating news source. He said the union had repeatedly written to the university management, Governing Council, Visitor and Kaduna State Government, urging them to implement the agreement in accordance with the law establishing the university. The union chairman said KASU had fallen behind federal and several state universities, many of which had either implemented the agreement or announced timelines for implementation, including the payment of outstanding arrears. He warned that continued delays could lead to the accumulation of salary arrears dating back to January 2026. ASUU-KASU attributed the departure of experienced academic staff, including professors and lecturers, to poor conditions of service, warning that replacing the lost personnel could take years. The union said its Congress, at a meeting on August 12, resolved to declare an industrial dispute and embark on a “total, comprehensive and indefinite strike”, in line with a resolution reached by ASUU’s National Executive Council after its meeting at the University of Abuja on August 8 and 9. The two-week ultimatum is intended to give the authorities time to address the issues before industrial action is commenced. Among the other unresolved issues raised by the union are university autonomy, excessive workload, promotion arrears, death benefits, group life insurance, the 25 and 35 per cent wage awards, and pension remittances. ASUU-KASU urged the university management and other relevant authorities to urgently resolve the outstanding issues to prevent industrial action and maintain stability at the institution. The union also appealed to parents, stakeholders and other Nigerians to intervene to help avert the threatened strike.

UNIZIK lecturer assault incident involving a lecturer and female student in viral video

UNIZIK orders probe into viral lecturer assault over sexual misconduct allegation

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has ordered an immediate investigation into a viral video showing the alleged assault of a lecturer following claims of attempted sexual misconduct involving a female student. The incident reportedly occurred within the university environment on Saturday, August 15, 2026, and footage of the confrontation was subsequently circulated widely on social media. UNIZIK condemned the assault, describing the incident as unfortunate and stressing that violence, self-help and what it called “jungle justice” would not be tolerated within the university. According to the university’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Aloysius Attah, Vice-Chancellor Ugochukwu Anyaehie has repeatedly reaffirmed the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards sexual misconduct, harassment and other inappropriate behaviour. However, the university said allegations must be handled through established institutional procedures and due process. “No individual or group is permitted to take the law into their own hands within the University environment,” the management said. Given the seriousness of the allegations, the university has ordered a comprehensive and impartial investigation to establish what happened and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. UNIZIK said appropriate administrative procedures have been activated and that the matter remains under review. The university reiterated its commitment to protecting the dignity, safety and wellbeing of staff and students, adding that decisive action would be taken against conduct that violates those principles.

NYSC warns against fake redeployment notice circulating online

The National Youth Service Corps has warned corps members and the public to disregard a fake redeployment notice circulating on social media, stressing that it did not issue the message. According to a Punch report, the fraudulent notice claimed that a special redeployment window had been opened for corps members on grounds of national security, health and the state of the nation. The fake message, addressed to parents and guardians, urged eligible corps members to apply immediately and included phone numbers for those seeking assistance. It also claimed that valid documents were required and that applications must follow NYSC guidelines. In response, the NYSC flagged the notice as fake on its verified X account, @officialnyscng, publishing it with a bold “FAKE NEWS” watermark under a disclaimer. The scheme said it had not authorised the notice and urged corps members to rely only on official communication channels. The NYSC noted that fraudsters have repeatedly exploited the redeployment process to deceive corps members and their families into making payments or sharing personal information. The agency reiterated that all deployment and redeployment matters are handled exclusively through its official portal and designated offices. It added that it does not authorise agents or phone-based processing for redeployment requests. Corps members and members of the public were advised to verify any NYSC-related announcements through the scheme’s official website and verified social media accounts before taking any action or making payments.

WAEC 2026 results: 38.5% fail to secure five credits including English, Maths

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that 61.54 per cent of candidates who sat the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates obtained at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics. The figure means that 38.46 per cent of candidates did not meet the minimum benchmark required for admission into many tertiary institutions. According to Punch, the Head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, Dr Amos Dangut, disclosed the results during a press briefing at the council’s headquarters in Yaba, Lagos, on Wednesday. Dangut said 1,959,668 candidates from 24,207 schools registered for the computer-based examination, while 1,950,726 eventually sat the examination conducted between April 24 and June 19, 2026. He explained that 1,834,695 candidates, representing 94.05 per cent, had their results fully processed and released. Another 116,031 candidates (5.95 per cent) are still awaiting processing because of unresolved issues, with the council expecting to release the outstanding results within a few days. WAEC also announced that it had withheld the results of candidates sponsored by state governments owing outstanding debts to the council. Dangut appealed to the affected states to settle their financial obligations so candidates could access their results. Candidates whose results have been released can check them on the WAEC results portal within 12 hours of the announcement and apply for their digital certificates, which will be available within 48 hours, he added. The council noted that 1,200,514 candidates achieved the benchmark of five credits, including English and Mathematics, representing a 1.42 percentage point decline from the 2025 examination. On examination malpractice, WAEC disclosed that the results of 167,486 candidates, representing 8.59 per cent of the total candidature, were withheld over allegations of involvement in various forms of malpractice. Dangut said the cases would be reviewed by the Nigeria Examinations Committee, while some supervisors, invigilators and impersonators caught aiding examination malpractice had already been apprehended and would face appropriate sanctions.

Bayero university bans charging of private electric vehicles on campus

Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has banned the charging of privately owned electric motorcycles and other electric vehicles on all its campuses with immediate effect. The university said the decision followed a sharp rise in electricity bills caused by the widespread use of its power supply to charge private electric vehicles. In a statement issued by the university’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, management said the practice had become financially unsustainable and was placing a significant burden on the institution’s resources. The directive applies to staff, students, commercial motorcycle operators and all other users of electric motorcycles and electric vehicles within the university premises. According to the statement, anyone found charging private electric vehicles using the university’s electricity supply will face disciplinary action in line with the institution’s rules and regulations. To enforce the ban, the university has directed Provosts, Deans, Directors, Heads of Department and Heads of Unit to monitor compliance in their respective areas and report any violations to the appropriate authorities. A university monitoring team will also conduct regular patrols across all campuses to ensure strict adherence to the directive. BUK urged all affected persons to cooperate with the policy, stressing that the measure is aimed at reducing energy costs and promoting the prudent use of university resources. The university announced the decision in a statement reported by Channels Television.

FG directs universities to expel students found guilty of kidnapping

The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors, rectors and provosts of tertiary institutions across Nigeria to dismiss any student found guilty, after due investigation, of involvement in kidnapping or related crimes. According to Channels Television, the directive was issued by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa during a meeting with the governing council and management of the Federal University of Lafia in Abuja. In a statement signed by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah, Alausa instructed heads of universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to strengthen internal intelligence systems and deepen collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to improve campus safety. The minister said students found culpable of planning or participating in the kidnapping of fellow students should be expelled after due investigation. “If you tolerate bad behaviour for too long, it becomes a culture. Any student found culpable, after due investigation, of planning or participating in the kidnapping of fellow students has no place in our tertiary institutions,” he said. Alausa noted that while Nigerian tertiary institutions remain largely safe, recent isolated incidents involving students outside campuses highlight the need for stronger intelligence gathering and closer cooperation with security agencies. He also disclosed that he recently met with the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, to develop strategies aimed at strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative and improving the protection of learners nationwide. The minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s directive that government institutions must not negotiate with or pay ransom to kidnappers, warning that ransom payments encourage criminal activities and weaken efforts to tackle insecurity. To improve security infrastructure, Alausa announced that the Federal Government would support perimeter fencing and other security projects in tertiary institutions through the TETFund 2027 intervention programme. He also reaffirmed plans to expand the Energising Education Programme with the Federal Ministry of Power to improve electricity supply through additional solar generation and battery storage. During the meeting, the pro-chancellor of the Federal University of Lafia, Lola Akande, raised concerns over student accommodation, power supply and insecurity. She revealed that some students were suspected of involvement in off-campus kidnapping activities and reiterated the institution’s opposition to paying ransom for abducted victims.

Hayden Panettiere at the 2022 premiere of Blonde in Hollywood.

US actress Hayden Panettiere dies at 36, ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville’ star

US actress Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, has died at the age of 36, according to media reports. Panettiere’s father confirmed her death in a statement to ABC News, describing the actress as an “incredible light” who brought love and joy to her family and millions of fans. He requested privacy for the family as they process the loss. The cause of death has not been disclosed. According to TMZ, an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is ongoing. Child star who became a Hollywood favourite Born in 1989, Panettiere began acting as a child and built a career spanning television and film. She gained widespread recognition as Claire Bennet in the hit television series Heroes. She later starred as Juliette Barnes in the musical drama Nashville. Her film credits included Remember the Titans, Ice Princess, Scream 4 and Scream VI. Panettiere also released a memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, in May, in which she discussed the pressures of growing up in the entertainment industry, as well as her experiences with addiction and recovery. She had previously spoken publicly about difficulties in her relationship with her mother, who managed her career during her childhood. The actress’ death comes at the age of 36, with further details about the circumstances yet to be released.

We did it Uncle’ Davido reacts emotionally as Adeleke wins Osun governorship

Tupac Shakur pictured in a file photo as his 1996 murder case finally goes to trial in Las Vegas.

Tupac Shakur murder trial opens 30 years after his death

A Las Vegas court has begun the long-awaited trial of former gang leader Duane “Keffe D” Davis over the 1996 killing of hip-hop legend Tupac Shakur. According to Channels Television, citing AFP, prosecutors allege that Davis, a former leader of the South Side Compton Crips, orchestrated the drive-by shooting and supplied the gun used in the attack. Shakur, widely known as 2Pac, was shot on September 7, 1996, after attending a Mike Tyson boxing match at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. He died six days later at the age of 25. Davis, now 63, has pleaded not guilty and faces life imprisonment without parole if convicted. Prosecutors’ Case Prosecutors say the killing was driven by a feud between rival gangs linked to the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry. Earlier on the night of the shooting, Shakur and Death Row Records co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight reportedly confronted and assaulted Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, Davis’s nephew and a member of the Crips, at the MGM Grand. Prosecutors allege the incident prompted Davis to seek revenge. Later that night, a white Cadillac carrying Davis, Anderson and other men pulled alongside the vehicle carrying Shakur and Knight. Gunmen inside the Cadillac opened fire, striking Shakur. The identity of the person who actually fired the fatal shots has never been established publicly. Memoir Helped Revive Cold Case The investigation remained unresolved for decades before Davis’s 2019 memoir brought renewed attention to the case. In the book, Davis acknowledged that he was sitting in the front passenger seat of the Cadillac and said he handed a firearm to people in the back. However, he did not identify the person who fired at Shakur. The other people believed to have been inside the vehicle have since died. Davis was arrested in September 2023 following renewed investigation into the case. He has since disputed his earlier accounts, claiming he was in Los Angeles when Shakur was killed and saying his memoir was largely written by his co-author. “I’m innocent. I ain’t killed nobody,” Davis said during a 2025 interview with ABC News. His lawyers unsuccessfully sought to prevent prosecutors from using his memoir and statements he made to police in 2008 as evidence. Trial Expected To Last A Month Jury selection is expected to take about a week, with the overall proceedings expected to last roughly a month. The trial may not definitively establish who pulled the trigger, but prosecutors are seeking to prove that Davis played a central role in organising the attack. The case has remained one of the most prominent unsolved murders in music history, generating decades of speculation among Shakur’s fans. In May 2026, Shakur’s stepbrother, Maurice Shakur, also filed a wrongful-death lawsuit, alleging that others involved in the rapper’s killing have never been held accountable. The civil case also references claims involving Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is currently serving a prison sentence. Davis allegedly told police that Combs had offered $1 million to have Shakur killed. That allegation remains disputed and has not been established as fact.

Four Nigerian entertainment personalities who died within days: Saint Janet, Temitope Osoba, Dimbo Atiya and Coach Lara.

Four Nigerian entertainment stars die within days

Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been plunged into mourning following the deaths of four notable personalities in music, film, television and personal development within days. The deaths of juju musician Iyun Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, Yoruba actress Temitope Osoba, filmmaker Dimbo Atiya and relationship coach Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, popularly known as Coach Lara, have triggered tributes from colleagues, fans and loved ones. According to PUNCH, the wave of grief began with the death of Saint Janet on August 1 following a brief illness. The juju musician was known for combining traditional juju and highlife rhythms with street slang and humour. She was also recognised for her energetic performances and distinctive lyrics. Saint Janet famously described herself as the leader, or “G O”, of the Saint Bottles Cathedral and Sinners’ Chapel. Her death prompted tributes from fans, musicians and socialites who remembered her as a colourful figure in Nigeria’s entertainment scene. The industry suffered another loss with the death of actress Temitope Osoba at the age of 40. Osoba’s colleagues announced her death on August 5. Before her death, the Yoruba actress had spoken publicly about her battle with cancer, describing the experience as life-changing and saying it motivated her to create greater awareness about the disease. A burial announcement shared on her Instagram page stated that Osoba would be buried on August 13, 2026, in Iperu Remo, Ogun State. The funeral service is scheduled for Saint James Anglican Church, Iperu Remo, followed by her interment at Iperu Remo Cemetery. The family asked mourners to wear white. The industry was further shaken by the death of filmmaker Dimbo Atiya, who was 53. Atiya was regarded as an influential Nigerian television producer and was associated with productions including Sons of the Caliphate, Halita and the award-winning The Rishantes. Actors, producers and other filmmakers paid tribute to Atiya, describing him as a storyteller and mentor whose influence extended beyond his television productions. The fourth death was that of Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, popularly known as Coach Lara, the wife of relationship expert and media personality Teddy Don-Momoh. Coach Lara died following a brief illness, weeks after welcoming her first child with her husband. She was known as a therapist, author, relationship coach and business strategist, with her work focusing on relationships, personal development and helping people navigate challenges in their personal lives. Her family has appealed for privacy and said details of her funeral arrangements would be announced later. The deaths of Saint Janet, Temitope Osoba, Dimbo Atiya and Coach Lara have left colleagues, fans and loved ones mourning across Nigeria’s entertainment and creative sectors. Although the four personalities worked in different fields, their careers and contributions earned them recognition among audiences and colleagues in Nigeria’s cultural and entertainment landscape.

Singer Cynthia Morgan shares a message of support for Peter Okoye during the ongoing P-Square family dispute.

Cynthia Morgan defends Peter Okoye amid P-square family feud

Singer Cynthia Morgan has voiced support for music star Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, amid his ongoing public dispute with his elder brother and former manager, Jude Okoye, saying many artistes silently endure emotional struggles before speaking out. In an Instagram post on Friday, Morgan responded to claims that Peter’s emotions were “destructive”, saying she was speaking from personal experience. She said many artistes are conditioned to prioritise their careers above everything else, often suppressing emotions caused by love, grief, abuse and professional pressure. “As an artiste, most of us are conditioned to always put our craft over anything. Love, grief, abuse, pressure etc. So when you see an artiste that you think has become destructive, just know they’ve maxed out and can no longer pretend, and until they vent or go to therapy, they will never be normal,” she wrote. Morgan added that entertainers make enormous personal sacrifices to build successful careers, noting that artistes from an earlier era, particularly those associated with the P-Square brand, faced greater pressure to maintain a mysterious public image. She said many fans believed they knew the personalities behind the music, when in reality much of their private struggles remained hidden. In the caption accompanying her post, Morgan offered words of encouragement to Peter, writing: “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted #peterpsquare. I wish you peace and salvation.” Her comments come as the long-running rift between Peter Okoye and Jude Okoye has resurfaced publicly, with both brothers exchanging allegations over the management of P-Square’s affairs and longstanding family issues.

Mexican influencer César Gastélum shot dead during TikTok livestream in Culiacán

Nigeria gets €1.5m as EU releases €2.3m to tackle cholera outbreaks in Africa

Ebola response volunteers in protective equipment prepare to recover a suspected Ebola victim in Bunia, DR Congo.

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo becomes deadliest in history

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become the deadliest in the country’s history, with 2,325 people confirmed dead as of August 16, 2026. Government figures show that 4,945 confirmed cases have now been recorded, surpassing the previous national record of 2,299 deaths during the 2018-2020 outbreak. The latest figures come as the United Nations warns that the outbreak is spreading at an unprecedented pace. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher described it as the “fastest-growing on record” and said the virus is now killing about one person every 30 minutes. Outbreak spreads across six provinces The outbreak was first declared on May 15 after emerging in Ituri Province in northeastern DRC. It has since spread to six provinces, raising concerns about further transmission across the region. The current outbreak is the DRC’s 17th Ebola outbreak and is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain. Unlike the Zaire strain responsible for several previous major outbreaks, there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments specifically available for the Bundibugyo strain. Experimental vaccines and treatments are being evaluated. Health authorities are facing major challenges, including delayed diagnosis, weak healthcare infrastructure, insecurity and difficulties tracking people who have come into contact with infected patients. The case fatality ratio has risen sharply, reaching about 46 per cent, according to the latest government figures. Health experts say the increase reflects delays in detecting and treating patients rather than evidence that the virus itself has become more lethal. Second-deadliest Ebola outbreak globally Although the DRC outbreak is now the deadliest in the country’s history, it remains below the scale of the 2014-2016 West African Ebola epidemic. That outbreak killed more than 11,300 people across Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone and remains the deadliest Ebola outbreak ever recorded. The current DRC epidemic, however, has reached the 2,000-death mark far more rapidly. It took nearly five months for the West African outbreak to reach 1,000 deaths, while the DRC outbreak crossed 2,000 deaths in less than three months. The World Health Organization has said it hopes to reverse the spread of Ebola in the DRC within three months, but the rapid expansion of the outbreak continues to put pressure on health workers and response teams.

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah touring specialist facilities at the Enugu International Hospital.

Enugu International Hospital opens path to medical tourism

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah says the newly developed Enugu International Hospital is designed to deliver world-class healthcare services to people across all socioeconomic classes. Mbah made the statement during a pre-launch tour of the facility ahead of its official commissioning. The governor said the hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment and advanced digital and electronic systems, positioning it to attract leading medical professionals from Nigeria and abroad. According to the governor, the investment is expected to strengthen Enugu’s position as a medical tourism destination while reducing the number of Nigerians travelling overseas for specialist treatment. Mbah also disclosed that several Enugu-trained medical practitioners living abroad had expressed interest in returning to work at the facility and contribute to the state’s healthcare development. Advanced specialist care The more than 300-bed hospital operates as a comprehensive quaternary healthcare facility, offering highly specialised medical services. During the inspection, Mbah toured the Precision Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Unit, specialised surgical theatres, intensive care units, advanced diagnostic and imaging facilities, and renal care and dialysis units. He also inspected the cancer, heart and vascular, nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, neuroscience, and renal centres. The governor said the facility would create employment opportunities for medical graduates, healthcare professionals and other workers, while supporting wider economic activity in the state. The development comes as Enugu seeks to expand access to advanced healthcare and establish itself as a major medical hub in Nigeria.

Ebola death toll in DRC outbreak rises above 2,000

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has killed more than 2,000 people, with health authorities reporting 2,011 deaths from 4,381 confirmed cases. According to Channels Television, the outbreak has spread through conflict-affected areas in eastern and northeastern DRC. Declared on May 15, 2026, the outbreak is the country’s 17th recorded Ebola surge and is already being described as one of its most severe. The current case fatality rate stands at 45.9 per cent, according to Congolese health authorities. The death toll is approaching the DRC’s deadliest Ebola outbreak, which occurred between 2018 and 2020 and killed nearly 2,300 people among about 3,500 recorded cases. Health officials have warned that the latest outbreak could become the largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded. Sania Nishtar, chief executive of the Gavi vaccine alliance, said the outbreak “could well become the largest outbreak ever”. A major concern is the Ebola strain involved. The current outbreak is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain, for which there is currently no specific approved vaccine. The World Health Organisation’s vaccine experts have recommended a full-scale human trial of Ervebo, the existing approved Ebola vaccine, to determine whether it can provide protection against the Bundibugyo strain. Ervebo has already been shown to be safe and effective against the more common Zaire strain. Early evidence, including animal studies, suggests it could also provide some protection against Bundibugyo. Two potential vaccines specifically targeting the Bundibugyo strain are currently in the early stages of human clinical trials, while another candidate is being developed. Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids and can cause severe haemorrhagic fever.

Primary healthcare centre in Nigeria highlighting concerns over thousands of non-functional PHCs despite years of government investment.

Katsina health workers threaten indefinite strike after 21-day ultimatum

Healthcare workers in Katsina State have issued the state government a 21-day ultimatum to address outstanding welfare and professional demands or face an indefinite statewide strike. The Assembly of Healthcare Professionals in Katsina State (AHAPN) announced the ultimatum on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, during a press conference at the State Secretariat of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) in Katsina. According to the group, the ultimatum follows what it described as the government’s prolonged failure to implement agreed welfare and professional entitlements despite several engagements and representations. AHAPN comprises the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN). Speaking to journalists, AHAPN State Chairman, Comrade Ibrahim Balange, said the unresolved issues had negatively affected the morale, motivation and productivity of healthcare professionals across the state. Key demands Among the workers’ demands is the immediate implementation of 100 per cent CONHESS, in line with what they said is obtainable in federal health institutions. They are also demanding the implementation of the skipping of CONHESS 10, in accordance with existing circulars, as well as an upward review of the 10 per cent hazard allowance to bring it in line with federal standards. The workers further want increases in several allowances, including call duty, shift duty, clinical and non-clinical allowances, rural allowances and specialist allowances. They are also demanding that the uniform allowance for nurses be increased to ₦80,000, citing the amount obtainable in federal health institutions. Balange described the demands as fair and necessary for improving the welfare of healthcare professionals and strengthening healthcare delivery in Katsina State. He warned that if the government fails to resolve the issues before the 21-day deadline expires, the assembly, which represents virtually all healthcare workers in the state except medical doctors, will have no alternative but to commence a statewide strike. The group said it remained hopeful that the Katsina State Government would act before the deadline to prevent disruption of healthcare services.

FCT resident doctors to join NARD indefinite strike Saturday

Medical and Dental doctors threatens strike, gives FG until August 31

The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has given the Federal Government until August 31, 2026, to resolve its outstanding demands, warning that failure to reach an agreement could lead to a three-day warning strike. The association issued the ultimatum in a communiqué released in Uyo on Friday, August 7, following its Emergency National Executive Council meeting. According to the communiqué, endorsed by NAMDA President Nosa Orhue and Acting Secretary-General Aniekan Peter, the association agreed to extend negotiations by three weeks to give the government additional time to address the outstanding issues. NAMDA said the extension would expire on August 31, after which a three-day warning strike could be declared if no meaningful resolution is reached. The association said, “Failure to achieve meaningful resolution at the expiration of the period ending on the 31st of August 2026 shall result in the declaration of a three-day warning strike.” NAMDA also directed its branches across the country to hold congresses and sensitisation programmes at least twice during the extension period. Branches are expected to submit reports on their mobilisation activities and preparedness to the National Executive Council through the association’s secretariat. The association expressed concern over what it described as the government’s reluctance to conclude negotiations, while acknowledging interventions by the Department of State Services and other stakeholders. NAMDA further raised concerns over the state of medical education and training in Nigeria, citing shortages of medical and dental doctors as well as the continued migration of healthcare professionals abroad, commonly referred to as the “Japa” trend. The association reaffirmed its demand for the full implementation of approved benefits for medical and dental lecturers and urged its members to comply with directives arising from the emergency meeting.