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.

Nigeria’s evacuation of citizens affected by anti-migrant violence in South Africa gathered pace on Friday as another batch of returnees arrived safely in Lagos.   An Air Peace flight conveying the fourth batch of evacuees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport with 268 Nigerians onboard, alongside two officers and crew members. Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu confirmed that the special charter flight, funded by the Federal Government, departed O. R. Tambo International Airport at 5:36am. According to the minister, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that evacuation efforts continue beyond the June 30 deadline issued by anti-migrant groups in South Africa. She disclosed that nearly 600 Nigerians had already been evacuated in three earlier batches before the deadline, with ongoing efforts to ensure all registered citizens willing to return home are safely repatriated. The minister said the Federal Government remains committed to protecting Nigerians abroad, describing their safety and dignity as a central pillar of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The evacuation comes amid rising tensions in South Africa, where thousands joined protests this week demanding the removal of undocumented foreign nationals. Demonstrations in cities including Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town were marked by isolated violence, looting and clashes with security forces. Anti-immigrant groups, including March and March and Operation Dudula, have intensified pressure on undocumented migrants, blaming them for unemployment and strained public services. Police said at least four foreign nationals, including two Mozambicans, an Ethiopian and a Malawian, have been killed in the latest wave of violence. Nigeria is also pursuing compensation for citizens forced to abandon businesses and properties in South Africa. Acting Nigerian High Commissioner Alexander Ajayi said the government is documenting losses suffered by returnees to support future discussions with South African authorities. Ajayi said affected Nigerians have been asked to provide detailed records of abandoned businesses, vehicles and other assets to help the government pursue compensation claims.