The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the successful airlift of 198 Nigerian troops to The Gambia as part of Nigeria’s contribution to the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia.   According to a report by Punch Newspapers, the deployment was carried out in May 2026 using a NAF C-130H aircraft in two sorties between May 26 and May 30. The operation involved personnel of Nigerian Company 11 (NIGCOY 11), who were deployed to assume operational duties under the regional peacekeeping mission. The exercise also facilitated the rotation of Nigerian Company 10, alongside the movement of operational equipment and troops’ personal belongings. In a statement released on Friday, the Air Force said the mission underscored its growing strategic airlift capability and readiness to support peacekeeping and regional security operations across West Africa. The service noted that the successful deployment reflected its ability to project responsive air power beyond Nigeria’s borders, enabling rapid force deployment in support of peace, security and stability within the ECOWAS sub-region. Speaking on the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said air power remains vital in tackling evolving security challenges across the region. He said every successful airlift mission strengthens Nigeria’s ability to protect national interests, support regional stability and maintain a mission-ready force capable of decisive response when needed. The Air Force added that the deployment aligns with its broader vision of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force that can deliver effective air power in synergy with ground forces. Nigeria has remained one of the largest contributors to the ECOWAS mission in The Gambia since the force was deployed in 2017 following the political crisis triggered after former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh refused to concede defeat in the 2016 election. The ECOWAS mission was established to support democratic transition, maintain security and assist with security sector reforms in The Gambia.

The Delta State Government has approved the institutionalisation of a 13th-month salary for civil servants and announced plans to recruit more teachers for public secondary schools, in a move aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening education delivery.   The decision was reached during the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Sheriff Oborevwori and disclosed on Friday. According to PUNCH, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said the council approved a memo presented by the governor to make the 13th-month salary a permanent statutory benefit for workers in the state. Aniagwu explained that the approval clears the way for an executive bill to be sent to the Delta State House of Assembly for legislative backing. Once passed into law, the payment will become a legal entitlement for civil servants and will no longer depend on the discretion of future administrations. He said the move ensures workers continue to enjoy the benefit beyond the tenure of the current administration. The council also raised concerns over the shortage of teachers in public secondary schools, particularly in science-related subjects, and directed the Ministry of Secondary Education to prepare a memo detailing the number of teachers required. Aniagwu said the council had given approval in principle for the recruitment of additional teachers to address the manpower gap and improve the quality of education in public schools. Beyond education and workers’ welfare, the Executive Council approved the procurement and installation of equipment for the Technical College in Oghareki, located in Ethiope West Local Government Area. Plans are also in place to equip the Technical College in Irri after its completion. The government said the approvals reflect its commitment to revitalising technical education and equipping young people with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship. The council also approved several matters relating to the health and transport sectors, including new transport routes across the state. In addition, the appointment of HRM Goodnews Goodman Agbi, Athuaro I, as the Ovie of Oyede Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area was approved. The Delta government said the decisions underscore its broader commitment to workers’ welfare, quality education, healthcare delivery and improved public service across the state.

United States President Donald Trump is set to kick off America’s 250th Independence Day celebrations with a high-profile visit to Mount Rushmore on Friday, ahead of July 4 festivities marking the nation’s historic milestone.   According to AFP, as published by Punch Newspapers, Trump will deliver a speech beneath the iconic granite monument featuring former US presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. The visit marks the beginning of a weekend packed with patriotic displays, including a campaign-style rally on the National Mall in Washington, military jet flyovers and a large fireworks show. Trump’s appearance comes amid deep political divisions in the United States. His approval ratings have reportedly remained low, driven by concerns over the Iran conflict, rising living costs and criticism from Democrats over immigration and executive power. Speaking on a podcast hosted by second lady Usha Vance, Trump acknowledged the country’s political tensions but expressed confidence about America’s direction. He said the country was at a critical point but insisted it would move in the right direction. Efforts to make the US 250th anniversary a major national celebration have also faced setbacks. A Trump-linked organisation, Freedom 250, has reportedly taken control of several events from the bipartisan America250 group, leading to criticism and reduced attendance at some festivities. A “Great American State Fair” in Washington has also drawn sparse crowds, worsened by an intense heat wave that has discouraged visitors. Despite forecasts of temperatures reaching 41C on July 4, Trump said he remains unfazed and intends to deliver what he described as a lengthy speech. The anniversary comes as many Americans reflect on the country’s history and future. A recent Quinnipiac University poll found that 61 per cent of Americans believe the US is not fully living up to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting sharp political divisions. Still, many citizens continue to view Independence Day as a moment of national celebration despite growing political tensions.

Africa’s hopes of a strong showing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup rest on three nations today, with Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana all fighting for places in the Round of 16.   So far, Morocco remains the continent’s only team to secure a place in the next round after edging past Netherlands in a dramatic knockout clash. The Atlas Lions held the Dutch to a 1-1 draw after extra time before sealing victory in a tense penalty shootout, keeping African hopes alive in the tournament. Africa entered the expanded 2026 World Cup with a record 10 representatives and delivered one of its strongest group-stage performances, with nine teams progressing to the Round of 32. Tunisia was the only side eliminated during the opening phase. However, the knockout rounds have proved more difficult, with several African teams falling short, leaving Morocco as the sole team already through to the last 16. Egypt will be first in action against Australia in Dallas. The Pharaohs need victory to book their place in the Round of 16 and continue what is shaping up as one of their most impressive World Cup campaigns. Later, surprise package Cape Verde faces a daunting test against Argentina in Miami. The island nation has emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest stories and now faces a major challenge against Lionel Messi and his teammates. The final African side in action is Ghana, who will take on Colombia in Kansas City. The Black Stars face a difficult test against an in-form Colombian side as they aim to extend Africa’s presence in the competition. Friday’s matches will determine whether Africa sends more teams into the Round of 16 or whether Morocco will continue alone as the continent’s flag bearer in the tournament.