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Frank Leboeuf, a former Chelsea player, has urged his old club to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan for their manager Enzo Maresca this summer.
According to Lebouef, the France international is so exceptional and would be very useful for Maresca’s side.
“Magic Mike is his nickname because he is so exceptional,” Leboeuf told ESPN FC when asked about Chelsea’s move for the 29-year-old shot-stopper.
“I think he’d fit perfectly to Chelsea… Chelsea and I know him.
“I appreciate him and I think he will be very useful to Chelsea,” he added.
AC Milan have already told Chelsea their price tag for Maignan.
Maignan joined the Rossoneri from French Ligue 1 side, Lille in 2021.
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle is optimistic his side can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The three-time African champions face a daunting task in their bid to qualify for the global soccer fiesta following their poor run in the qualifiers.
The West Africans occupy fourth position in their group, six points adrift of leaders South Africa.
Chelle’s side now have four matches to turn around their fortunes.
Nigeria won the Unity Cup invitational tournament in London last week, which will boost the confidence of the players going into the next set of qualifiers in September and October.
The Malian, however, demanded that his players must put in more work to achieve their objective.
“We scored goals, created chances and showed good signs in our overall play,” he said while reviewing the performance of the Super Eagles at the Unity Cup.
“What matters most is playing together – in both attack and defence.
“We have to keep improving both physically and mentally. We must become true warriors on the pitch.”
The Super Eagles will hosts the Amavubi of Rwanda in Uyo, and travel to South Africa when the qualifiers resume in September.
New Super Eagles right-back, Felix Agu has called on his Werder Bremen teammate and fellow German-born star, Justin Njinmah to pledge his international allegiance to Nigeria.
The 25-year-old Felix Agu made the call after playing his very first game for the Super Eagles during the Unity Cup in London.
Agu played for Nigeria in their penalty shootout win over Jamaica, having switched his allegiance from Germany.
He was born in Germany to both parents from Nigeria and represented the European country’s U21 in two friendlies in 2019.
Reacting after playing his first game for Nigeria, Agu posted “Proud” on Instagram.
Njinmah was one of the people who reacted to his post, saying, “My brothaaa” with a white heart emoji.
Agu responded with a clear message: “u next!!”
The response was interpreted as a call for Njinmah to snub Germany and declare for Nigeria.
The 24-year-old Njinmah has yet to be capped by either Germany or Nigeria at any level.
A 22-year-old graduate, Feranmi Akin-Akinye, who tragically fell from the 26th floor of the iconic Cocoa House building in Ibadan, Oyo State has been laid to rest.
It was gathered that Akin-Akinye, a graduate of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), was undergoing cybersecurity training at a company based on the eighth floor of the building.
It was also gathered from a reliable source who pledged anonymity that Akin-Akinye lived with his mother in the Meridian area of Apata, Ibadan, while his father was based in the United States.
The source alleged that Akin-Akinye was instructed to mount a large wall banner at the top of Cocoa House, a task typically reserved for professionals with proper equipment.
“I blame the company for his death. He came from a good home, was humble, and respectful. They asked him to perform a task meant for professionals, and due to his humility, he complied,” the source said.
The source alleged that the company attempted to downplay the tragedy, stating that Akin-Akinye was taken to the emergency ward despite having already passed away, on which his mother was not contacted by the company.
The source alleged that the company prevented a radio station within the Cocoa House from taking photos and quickly covered Akin-Akinye’s body.
He was buried on Tuesday by his church, Winners Chapel.
His father’s siblings are reportedly considering legal action against the company for alleged negligence.
A pregnant woman, Hauwa Isah has lost her life in a tragic domestic violence in Limawa area of Minna, the capital of Niger State.
Her husband, Mohammed Sani, who allegedly beat her to death, has been arrested and is cooling his heels in police custody in Minna..
It was gathered that the incident occurred on Tuesday.
Shocked by the incident, eyewitnesses from the community are currently calling for justice, as well as stronger measures to protect women from abuse.
Some eyewitnesses from the area claimed that they heard distressing screams from the couple’s residence late in the day.
Halima Musa, a resident, alleged that by the time neighbors intervened, the woman had already succumbed to her injuries.
It was also learnt that the victim’s husband has a history of domestic abuse which was confirmed by the deceased’s father.
The father of late Hauwa who was visibly in pains stated, “This is not the first time he has laid hands on my daughter. We warned him several times, but he didn’t stop. Now he has killed her.”
Conforming, the development, the state Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun said the suspect had been arrested for culpable homicide.
He explained that “on 3rd June, 2025 at about 10:30pm, a distress call was received that one Hauwa Isah 24yrs of Bani Hashimu Estate, Limawa ‘A’ Minna was found lifeless on the floor with blood stains in the room.”
According to him, police operatives of A Division Minna rushed to the scene and the lifeless body of the lady was found on the floor.
He disclosed, “she was rushed to General hospital Minna where she was confirmed dead and it was also confirmed that she is about nine months pregnant.
“However, the husband, one Mohammed Sani 31yrs of the same address is suspected to have committed the act due to the allegation of wife battery as alleged by neighbours”.
He was arrested and the case will soon be transferred to SCID Minna.
A new Samsung Galaxy Ultra product is coming, and it's set to be an even more high-end version of its most expensive handset. Samsung has released an official teaser confirming its launching a foldable Ultra product for the first time. Samsung uses the Ultra name to denote the top-end products in its phones, wearables, and tablets.
Samsung hasn’t confirmed the exact name of the phone, but a new teaser from the company shows a book-style foldable device and the refers to it as an "Ultra experience." Samsung also says it, "Goes beyond a simple list of upgraded features in a smaller and more portable form factor.”
“And when it unfolds, it transforms– into a more immersive entertainment hub, a spacious workspace, or a multitasking powerhouse, now enhanced by powerful Galaxy AI features designed specifically for the foldable form.”
This doesn't confirm much about the phone as this is often how Samsung has spoken about its foldable phones. It may be that Samsung is dropping the Galaxy Z Fold 7 name and calling that the Ultra, but it's more likely that this is a third foldable phone offering better specs than the Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Z Flip 7.
If this is a new phone line, Samsung may not include the seven moniker and opt to call it the Galaxy Z Fold Ultra. Samsung has done that with its Galaxy Watch Ultra series, but it also did the opposite with the Galaxy S25 Edge that launched earlier this year. It chose to include the S25 name despite launching a few months after that series debuted.
The next Samsung foldable phones are expected to land sooner rather than later. Leaks suggest the phones will be launching in early July. The fact Samsung has begun teasing its Ultra handset suggests those rumors may be accurate.
One leaker has said the Galaxy Z Fold 7 price will remain static in the US, despite ongoing tariff confusion for many tech brands. If true, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will cost $1,899.99, and an Ultra handset may then hit above the $2,000 mark.
One leaker has said the Galaxy Z Fold 7 price will remain static in the US, despite ongoing tariff confusion for many tech brands. If true, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will cost $1,899.99, and an Ultra handset may then hit above the $2,000 mark. Samsung's Ultra phones often cost at least a few hundred dollars more than its standard flagship gadgets.
[PCMAG]
Chelsea have officially completed the signing of 22-year-old striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town in a deal worth around £30 million ($40.6m), both clubs confirmed on Wednesday. The England Under-21 international has committed to a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge until the end of the 2030-31 season.
Delap attracted significant interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Everton. However, the promise of UEFA Champions League football and the opportunity to reunite with former Manchester City teammate Cole Palmer played a pivotal role in the striker choosing Chelsea over other suitors.
Liam Delap joins Chelsea
Delap made headlines during the 2024/25 Premier League season, scoring 12 goals for newly-promoted Ipswich Town. His standout performances earned him a spot on the shortlist for the Young Player of the Year award and firmly placed him on the radar of top clubs across the country.
Having started his football journey at Derby County’s academy, Delap moved to Manchester City in 2019. Under the guidance of current Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca in City's Elite Development Squad, Delap flourished netting 24 goals in 20 Premier League 2 matches. He also scored on his senior debut for City in the EFL Cup and made his Premier League debut against Leicester City.
From Championship to Champions League
Following loan spells with Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City, Delap joined Ipswich Town for the 2023/24 season. He bagged eight goals during the campaign and played a key role in Ipswich's remarkable rise to the top flight.
With consistent performances and a growing reputation, Delap also became a regular at youth international level, most recently representing England Under-21s in March.
Chelsea fans can look forward to seeing Delap in blue for the 2025/26 campaign, as the club continues to invest in young, homegrown talent for the future.
There is a looming electricity blackout in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, as electricity workers under the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies have declared their intention to embark on strike.
The two unions who work for the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) said the strike is related to the company not implementing its demand following the suspension of another strike in November 2024.
Daily Trust reports that AEDC supply electricity to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Nasarawa and Kogi states.
The suspended strike in November saw the picketing of AEDC’s headquarters by its workers, but an agreement was reached on the day the strike began.
In separate letters by the union sent to the Managing Director of AEDC and signed by Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon and Rosemary Odeh, NUEE’s Assistant General Secretary, Liaison, and SSAEAC’s Deputy General Secretary (Corporate Communications) respectively, they said its notice of strike was to inform the management that the strike would start any day.
The letter read: “Recall that we reached an agreement with you on the 27th of November 2024, to suspend an industrial action following a trade dispute declared over lingering labour issues in the company (see copy as attached).
“It is also pertinent to remind you of some of these issues: Non-remittance of pension deduction for 16 months. Non-implementation of the National Minimum Wage. Non-promotion and the continuous stagnation of members of staff for over 10 years. Non-confirmation of staff on acting appointment. Non-regularisation and proper placement of appointments. Refusal to convert Ad-hoc staff to permanent status.
“The complete collapse of health services owing to the non-payment of hospital bills. Non-remittance of 10 months’ PAYE. Refusal to complete the work on review of conditions of service. Non-implementation of the already completed work on career path. Undue board’s interference with the day to day running of the company.
Non-payment of union check off dues and other third-party deductions, and non-payment of the 2024 productivity bonus. It added that the demands were not implemented despite the workers generating N94bn for the company within the last 90 Days.
They said the milestone was achieved through dedicated services without the provision of necessary working materials and business districts, no longer funded.
“It is also worthy of note that we have significantly lost a huge number of members to death owing to pressure and precarious work conditions.
“Consequent upon the above, you are hereby put on notice of our readiness to resume the suspended action on the 27th November, 2024, and this shall commence anytime from the date of the receipt of this letter without an additional notice.
“Councils are by this letter directed and put on notice to commence full mobilization across the AEDC franchise areas of Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and FCT for an effective action.
“The struggle shall be sustained until victory is achieved, as a people united can never be defeated.”
[DailyTrust]
Expert blames sugary drinks for rising deaths, chronic diseases as Nigeria consumes 54 billion litres
Admin
A public health expert has raised serious concerns over the increasing health risks posed by the consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) in Nigeria.
The expert warned that the country is facing a growing crisis of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases.
DAILY POST in an exclusive interview with Abayomi Sarumi, Associate Director at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), said the widespread intake of sugary drinks commonly called soft drinks is silently fueling a health emergency, especially among young people.
“SSBs are drinks that contain added sugars such as sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, or other sweeteners like honey and molasses,” Sarumi explained.
“Examples include sodas, fruit drinks, energy drinks, and sports drinks. These drinks are full of sugar and give the body far more energy than it needs.”
According to him, an average bottle of SSB contains nearly 14 cubes of sugar, more than the daily sugar intake recommended by health experts.
“This excess sugar is dangerous to the body. It causes a sudden rise and crash in blood sugar levels, leading to fatigue, mood swings, and over time, serious health problems like heart disease, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes.
“All these outcomes are risk factors for noncommunicable disease (NCDs) which are now responsible for more than 30% of total deaths in Nigeria,” he said.
Sarumi pointed out that SSBs are easily available, aggressively marketed, and often seen as a normal part of daily life.
“They’re ultra-processed and wrongly sold as essential. This marketing has made people believe they are harmless, but that is far from the truth,” he added.
Over 54 Billion Litres of SSBs Consumed in Nigeria
Citing data, Sarumi said Nigeria is now one of the largest consumers of sugary drinks in Africa.
“For more than 4 years, it was reported that Nigeria was the fourth largest consumer of SSBs, with 38 million litres consumed in Nigeria. In April 2025, ahead of convergence of food and beverages companies who now target Nigeria for its young and large population, the organisers informed members of the press that Nigerians consumed over 54 billion litres of SSBs in 2024.
This rise, he noted, is happening alongside an increase in fast food and processed snack consumption, contributing to what he calls “a diet-related disease explosion.”
“We’ve seen more than 150% increase in cardiovascular diseases in the last decade, with over 27.5 million Nigerians living with hypertension as of 2022. And with poor diets, tobacco, and alcohol use, the World Health Organization (WHO) says 22% of Nigerians now face the risk of dying early from non-communicable diseases,” Sarumi warned.
Are Nigerians aware of these dangers?
While some people know sugar can be harmful, Sarumi said most Nigerians don’t fully understand the link between sugary drinks and long-term illnesses.
“From our interactions, many people don’t realise just how dangerous SSBs can be,” he said.
He also described how some myths and misleading advice make things worse.
“There are even cases where patients are told by health workers to take sugary drinks before using medication. In a religious and cultural society like ours, many see diabetes or heart disease as spiritual attacks, not linked to their diet.”
Why SSBs are popular especially among young people?
Sarumi believes the food industry plays a major role in promoting SSBs, especially among the youth. “These products are cheap, everywhere, and heavily advertised. They are shown as symbols of fun, status, or success, without any warning about their dangers,” he said.
“The companies behind SSBs also position themselves as ‘friends of society’ through Corporate Social Responsibility programmes, which makes it harder to question their products,” he added.
The way forward
To reduce consumption, Sarumi supports the implementation of a strong SSB tax. But he says this must go beyond raising revenue.
“A good SSB tax should not only reduce intake but also fund healthcare, especially for people living with diabetes and other diet-related conditions,” he explained. “Government must use the tax money for public health campaigns to educate citizens.”
He also called for other supporting measures like: Clear warning labels on sugary products, limits on how much salt or sugar companies can use, banning celebrities from endorsing SSBs, restricting marketing aimed at children.
“These combined policies will protect Nigerians especially children and help improve the overall health of the country,” Sarumi concluded.
[DailyPost]
Lagos State, in collaboration with various partners, is intensifying efforts to combat Nigeria’s alarming annual post-harvest losses, a crisis currently estimated at a colossal N3.5 trillion. This significant drain on the nation’s agricultural sector not only exacerbates food insecurity but also severely impacts the livelihoods of countless farmers and the broader economy.
This was the spearpoint of the Ecotutu Chain in Agriculture Roundtable held yesterday in Lagos. The roundtable was themed “Accelerating Cold Chain Adoption for a Sustainable Agricultural Future in Nigeria.”
Experts highlight that up to 40 per cent of harvested crops in Nigeria perish before reaching consumers, a figure that far exceeds the African average. The immense wastage is primarily attributed to inadequate storage facilities, inefficient transportation networks, limited access to modern preservation technologies, and a critical lack of cold chain infrastructure.
Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, reiterated the determination of the government to support young innovators and startups to develop storage solutions and post-harvest technologies for farmers.
She emphasised the importance of collective action from all levels of government, private enterprises, and consumers to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.
According to her, the government is developing a unified database for farmers and the broader food industry. The purpose, she indicated, was to create a more efficient, transparent, and responsive food system within the state.
The database will be a central repository of vital information, not only on farmers and their produce but also on food purchase and consumption patterns across Lagos.
She indicated that data will be gathered from the Central Food Systems and Logistics hub in the Epe on completion and existing and proposed food hubs. The real-time information, she maintained, will provide invaluable insights into the flow of food from farm to table.
She highlighted the critical need for reliable data in addressing food security challenges and optimising agricultural productivity.
She commended Ecotutu for its solar powered cold chain facility that has helped to reduce food losses, adding that the government appreciated other such efforts towards creating a more robust and responsive food system for Lagos, promising enhanced food security for the rapidly growing population.
The Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands in Lagos. Peter Keulers said as part of efforts to provide market-led solutions to postharvest losses, the Netherlands government in partnership with Lagos State, developed and launched the Polar Store, an innovative solar-powered cold storage infrastructure in the state. He said the Polar Store serves as both a demonstration site and a training hub, showcasing the potential of renewable energy in cold storage applications.
He said that post-harvest losses have remained a major challenge confronting the Nigerian agricultural sector for so long.
In a spotlight session, the Managing Director, Bank of Agriculture, Jide Sotinrin, said there were ongoing reforms to improve access to finance for farmers.
He said the bank was putting in place a system which will enable faster processing of agricultural loans.
According to him, digitalisation of agricultural lending will ensure instant doorstep delivery of credit to farmers while improving the advancing the bank ‘s mission of fostering rural prosperity.
He said the bank will raise the N250,000 maximum limit micro loans for smallholder farmers, in the light of the realities in the industry.
According to him, the bank will continue to prioritize responsive agricultural finance , aimed at fostering a robust rural economy, alleviating poverty, and promoting self-reliance through agribusiness.
The Managing Director, Ecotutu, Babajide Oluwase said the Cold Chain in Agriculture Roundtable 2025 roundtable aims to address post-harvest losses and fortify Nigeria’s food supply chain.
The roundtable, he indicated ,brought together important players from the agricultural value chain, to discuss scalable solutions to Nigeria’s growing food preservation problems.
[TheNation]
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Headlining the quartet is Fulham’s talisman and ever-reliable engine, Alex Iwobi, whose standout performances in the Premier League earned him a top-40 global ranking and the highest index score among Nigerian players.
The ranking, released by Swiss-based CIES Football Observatory, evaluates players in the world’s top 60 leagues based on their statistical impact in six critical areas: aerial play, ground defence, distribution, take-ons, chance creation, and finishing, combined with minutes played and team performance.
With an index score of 87.4, Iwobi sits 37th globally and 12th among wingers, underscoring his influence for Fulham this season.
The 29-year-old quietly scripted a remarkable season at Craven Cottage. In what is now a historic feat, the midfielder became the first Nigerian player to feature in all 38 Premier League games in two different seasons, having first achieved the milestone in the 2022/23 campaign. His adaptability across Fulham’s midfield and wide areas has made him indispensable.
Statistically, Iwobi posted 9 goals and 6 assists, contributing directly to 15 of Fulham’s goals. Beyond scoring, his creative instincts saw him create 12 big chances, average 1.6 key passes per game, and maintain an 80 per cent pass accuracy.
In a team often pressed back by top-six opponents, Iwobi’s composure and transitional play stood out, with 52.2 touches per game and a robust chance creation score of 76 by CIES.
The former Arsenal man also showed technical balance, with four goals via his left foot and five from his right, while his relentless off-ball work supported Fulham’s notable victories over Tottenham and Manchester United.
Coming behind Iwobi is the reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, whose 86.7 index score sees him ranked 48th globally and 10th among attacking midfielders.
The Atalanta star, who recently returned to Nigeria with his CAF African Footballer of the Year, delivered his most complete season yet for Atalanta, tallying 15 Serie A goals and 5 assists, and after a previous season he had cemented his reputation with a headline-grabbing Europa League final hat-trick that clinched the club’s first ever European trophy.
His flair and explosiveness on the flanks were evident in his 85 score for both chance creation and finishing, making him Nigeria’s most potent offensive player by data.
Beyond numbers, Lookman’s performances have reportedly attracted interest from Premier League heavyweights including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, with Atalanta slapping a €50m price tag on their Nigerian jewel.
His statistics suggest a player entering his peak, with 2.0 key passes, 2.6 shots per game, and a notable expected assist value of 7.89, which are all indicative of a complete modern attacker.
Third on the list for Nigerians is Victor Osimhen, who, despite facing an uncertain club future, also finds himself among the top 300 with an index score of 81, ranked 159th overall and 20th among centre-forwards globally.
Although the CIES data covers only domestic league performance, Osimhen’s wider contribution to Galatasaray’s season has been phenomenal.
The 26-year-old, on loan from Napoli, smashed records in Turkey with a career-best 37 goals in all competitions, becoming the highest-scoring foreigner in a single season in Turkish football history.
While his CIES data shows a standout finishing score of 86, the ninth highest in the world, his distribution (24) and ground defence (36) remain areas of lesser contribution which is reflective of his role as a high-octane goal poacher and why Galatasaray is offering him a club record €15m-a-year contract to withhold his service.
Completing Nigeria’s elite quartet is Calvin Bassey, the Fulham centre-back whose remarkable bounce-back season sees him ranked 257th globally and 49th among centre-backs, with a score of 78.2.
At 25, Bassey has matured into a defensive mainstay at Craven Cottage, coming forth from the shadows of an inconsistent spell at Ajax. This season, he featured in 35 league matches, completing over 3,000 minutes, and ranked as the fourth-best centre-back in England according to performance data platform Data MB.
Bassey’s index score of 78.2 echoes notable strength in distribution (74) and aerial duels (58), with additional contributions in tackles and ground duels.
He featured in 35 Premier League games, starting 34, and averaged nearly 89 minutes per match. His 90 per cent pass accuracy, including 86 per cent in the opposition half, and strong duel-winning rates of 62 per cent underscore a composed and confident defensive profile, in addition to 4.8 recoveries per match that contributed to Fulham’s notable defensive scalps that saw them record victories over Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham.
His progress has not gone unnoticed, with reports linking him to Barcelona, as they seek defensive reinforcements.
Notably, the CIES ranking was topped by Mohamed Salah, with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Pedri González completing the top three. Two other Liverpool footballers top the list for defensive positions: Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz heads the rankings for attacking midfielders, while Kylian Mbappé is ahead of Viktor Gyökeres for centre forwards.
[Punch]
Former Adamawa governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the 2023 general election, Umar Ardo has revealed how the opposition could defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
He urged the opposition to establishe a new political party.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Wednesday, Ardo a political strategist and convener of the League of Northern Democrats, expressed strong optimism about the prospects of a united opposition, though he acknowledged that the coalition led by former Vice President
Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai is currently grappling with internal ideological differences.
He dismissed the idea of merging with an existing party, arguing instead that creating a new political platform would offer a stronger and more credible alternative.
“If the entire opposition coalition unites and agrees to form a new party, the chances of defeating President Tinubu in 2027 are high.
“Two committees were established within the coalition — one to explore merging with an existing party, and another to consider registering a new one. Both have submitted their reports and from what I have seen, the case for merging with an existing party is weak,” he said.
Ardo stressed that the coalition’s success hinges on adopting the correct strategy. “With the right approach and decision, I believe victory is very achievable,” he added.
When questioned about recent tensions at the coalition’s summit involving some delegates from Jigawa, Ardo downplayed the incident, describing it as a normal phase in political alliances.
“At the formative stage of any coalition, disagreements are expected,” he said.
“The current divide is largely ideological — mainly over whether to join an existing party or establish a new one. Many coalition members, including some leaders, favour the former. However, our group, the LND, believes that creating a new party is the way forward.”
He noted that the coalition remains intact despite strategic differences.
Ardo also reflected on President Tinubu’s 2023 electoral victory, which he claimed was secured with support from less than 38 per cent of registered voters.
“This indicates that a majority of Nigerians either did not vote or felt unrepresented,” he said. “With over 90 million people voluntarily registering to vote, it is clear that many Nigerians are eager to engage in the political process.”
He concluded that the high cost of maintaining political party structures is a major barrier for new entrants but argued that forming a new party backed by the coalition could overcome this hurdle and mobilise widespread support
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that disinformation was a major factor during the Nigerian Civil War, which lasted from 1967 to 1970.
Obasanjo stated this at the Sixth Edition of Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium organised by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said the theme of the symposium, which is “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War”, was germane, especially in this era of asymmetric warfare.
According to him, disinformation, propaganda, psychological warfare and propagation of false narratives are means through which a weaker force attempts to discredit a superior force in asymmetric wars.
“Disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War, exacerbating tensions and influencing public opinion.
“The same strategy is currently being employed by the insurgents in the northeast and other violent groups in other parts of Nigeria.
“In line with the theme, the symposium will therefore highlight the importance of media and information operations in conflict resolution and nation-building,” he said.
The former president emphasised the need for Nigeria to be deliberate and diligent in the study of history, particularly military history, to bring out and apply valuable lessons.
He quoted a popular saying that “a child that does not learn history will be told history”, adding that understanding the past would help to better navigate the present and build a more equitable future for all Nigerians.
Obasanjo commended AWCN for the inclusion of the study of the Nigerian Civil War in its curriculum to enhance the capacities of operational-level leaders to effectively apply the lessons from past campaigns in operational planning.
“This fratricidal conflict left an indelible mark on our nation’s collective memory and continues to shape our identity.
“The war’s complex causes, consequences and lessons offer valuable insights for us all,” he added.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who was presented by Maj.-Gen. PE Eromosele, described the symposium as a vital platform for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military.
Oluyede praised the theme’s relevance to current operations and reiterated the army’s commitment to building a combat-ready force guided by sound leadership and informed strategy.
Earlier, the Commandant of AWCN, Maj.-Gen. Umar Alkali, said the symposium was designed to enhance the intellectual and leadership capacity of officers undergoing the AWCN Course 9/2025.
Alkali said the college deliberately included the study of the civil war in its curriculum to help participants dissect and draw practical lessons from historical campaigns.
He said the theme aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy ‘to build a combat-ready and professional force capable of delivering on its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment’.
“This symposium allows us to analyse past military operations at strategic, operational, and tactical levels.
“By understanding how disinformation shaped the Nigerian Civil War, we are better equipped to manage the information space in today’s battles,” he said.
The guest lecturer, Prof. Christopher Ogbogbo, who is the Vice Chancellor of Admiralty University, dissected the role of propaganda, media manipulation, and false narratives during the conflict.
He illustrated how misinformation often shaped public perception and policy decisions during the war.
Days after floods devastated several communities in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, victims at makeshift camps have continued to voice deep frustration over handling of relief efforts.
It will be recalled that the flood caused by torrential rains last Thursday led to the death of over 200 persons, with more still missing, while properties worth millions of naira were also destroyed.
Consequently, over one thousand people, including women and children now live in temporary internally displaced persons, IDPs, camps.
However, the victims’ frayed nerves got assuaged yesterday as President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of N2 billion and 20 trucks of assorted foodstuffs.
But investigation at some of the affected communities, revealed frustration and disappointment of the victims, especially over lack of adequate food supplies and poor camp conditions.
Many displaced residents lamented that although they were photographed with food items by authorities and relief personnel, they were not given the supplies.
Expressing her pain, one of the victims, Mama Isah, said: “We are 17 people in my household, but we were only given one loaf of bread and some tea. How can that be enough for even our breakfast?”
She appealed to the government to allow well-meaning individuals and organisations support them directly without interference or diversion.
Another victim, Rukaiya Usman, echoed similar concerns, criticising the quantity of food being distributed.
She said: “We are barely surviving, the food they bring is not enough for any family. We feel forgotten.”
Bad camp conditions
The victims also complained about the condition of the camps. Community volunteer, Hussaini Muhammed, described as unsuitable for human habitation.
“There are no toilet facilities, and we don’t have access to clean drinking water. People are getting sick,” he said.
Another volunteer, Ibrahim Abubakar, noted the absence of major emergency response agencies at Kpege Primary School, which serves as one of the major shelters.
On healthcare, Victoria Abubakar, confirmed that all medical assistance and supplies being given to flood victims were sourced through personal and community efforts.
“We are giving out drugs and attending to sick victims out of goodwill. None of this is coming from the government,” she said.
NSEMA admits gaps in relief operations
Reacting to the allegations, the Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, Hussaini Ibrahim, acknowledged the gaps in the relief operations.
“The challenges we are facing are partly due to the absence of a conventional camp,” he explained, adding that the agency is currently undertaking a comprehensive data-capturing exercise to accurately identify real victims and ensure relief materials reach intended recipients.
“We are working to ensure that the right people get what they deserve. This process takes time, but we are committed to transparency and fairness,” he said.
Tinubu orders release of N2bn, 20 trucks of assorted foodstuffs
Apparently responding to the cries of the victims, President Bola Tinubu yesterday ordered the release of N2billion for the reconstruction of Mokwa town to serve as immediate resettlement of the victims.
He also directed that 20 trucks of assorted food items be released and distributed to the affected victims of the flood.
Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this when he led a Federal Government delegation to commiserate with the government and people of Niger State over the tragic incident.
The President also directed the ministries of Environment and Agriculture to immediately commence reconstruction of drainages in Mokwa town.
“President Tinubu has directed me to come and represent him and asked me to tell you that his heart is with you and that government will do everything possible to ameliorate your sufferings.
“On my part, I will direct the immediate release of electricity transformers on my arrival in Abuja to replace the ones damaged in Mokwa town,” the Vice President assured.
Shettima urged other arms of government to rise to the present situation, adding that they have roles to play in the governance of the state.
“The Federal Government will play its part, the state government and the local governments should also play their part to alleviate the suffering of the people,” he declared.
He said the intervention of the Federal Government is not playing politics but as normal role of intervention, and pleaded with the people to continue to live in peace with one another and be their brothers keepers, especially in this type of situation.
To achieve the task ahead, the vice president ordered the Minister of State for Agriculture Alhaji Sabi Abdullahi, to relocate to Minna and monitor the distribution of food items and construction of the drainages.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of the state, Comrade Yakubu Garba, thanked the Federal Government for the steps taken so far and also commended the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and Niger State Emegerncy Management Agency, NSEMA, for the outstanding roles that they played since the disaster occurred.
He disclosed that so far, 13,354 people had been identified to be directly affected, while 4,534 individuals were displaced from their homes.
He also said 458 households were impacted, with 161 lives lost.
The deputy governor stated further that 186 people were injured, with 84 individuals still missing, 265 buildings destroyed or severely damaged and two major roads washed away.
According to him, five key bridges, including the vital Goodwill Bridge linking Mokwa to other parts of the country, collapsed.
Earlier in his remarks, the district head (Ndalile) of Mokwa, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu Shaba, appealed for more support and prayers for the victims.
Meanwhile, the state government has directed a low key Eid-el Kabir celebration, in line with the mood in the state.
The low-key celebration, according to the government, will affect the suspension of Hawan Bar
iki, Durbar,(horse riding) and other elaborate Sallah activities across all emirates in the state.
Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, who disclosed this in a statement, said: “This decision was taken as a mark of respect for the victims of the tragic incident and to allow for a period of mourning, prayer and reflections.’’
Motorists stranded, as Kogi sees high volume of vehicular movement
The flood, in which Mokwa bridge collapsed, has resulted in significant high traffic volume on roads in Kogi State, as trucks conveying goods to the Southern part of the country have been trapped in traffic for days.
Consequently, motorists who ply Mokwa-Jebba highway, enroute Kwara State, are now forced to use the Abuja-Lokoja-Kabba- Egbe road to link Kwara due to collapse of the bridge.
Some of the heavy duty vehicle transporters who spoke with Vanguard at Nataco Junction in Kogi, said the extent of the damage of the bridge had caused them to travel longer hours to get to their destinations, after getting out of the gridlock
One of the transporters, Muhammed Ahmed, said the bridge collapse has created a major bottleneck and delay in reaching his destination.
Vanguard also gathered that the bridge collapse has compounded the working hours of Federal Road Safety officers in Kogi State who are now made to work till midnight to control traffic to avoid gridlock in all parts of the state. Kogi Sector Commandant of the Federal Road Safety Corp, FRSC, Kumar Tsumwam, confirmed the rise in volume of vehicles on the state roads.
He said they started noticing high influx of vehicles from Gegu point of the state four days ago.
“We noticed the influx of heavy articulated vehicles since four days, specifically last Saturday. For now, our men are on the road up till midnight, controlling traffic. If we don’t do that, the tendency for blockage is very high.
‘’We are now running shifts on the road, so we can have our officers at designated points on the road.”
The officer said their fear was further heightened by the forthcoming Sallah celebration, which increased further the number of vehicles on the highways.
“By Thursday when movement for Sallah festival will commence, it may become uncontrollable. Normally, during festive periods, there is always heavy vehicular movements, now imagine when that is combined with the already tense situation of the heavy traffic, occasioned by the Mokwa bridge collapse,’’ the sector commandant said.
Risk managers demand review of disaster framework, early warning systems
Meanwhile, risk managers have called for an urgent review of existing disaster framework and early warning systems in Nigeria, following the devastating flood in Mokwa town.
The President/Chairman of Governing Board of Risk Managers Society of Nigeria, RIMSON, Dr. Abbas G. Idriss, advised the Niger State Government to develop evacuation routes, shelter locations and resource management system, among other comprehensive emergency response plans that will ensure quick and effective action during floods.
He also advocated the enforcement of zoning laws and land use policies to discourage construction in flood-prone areas, as well as improving community engagement in flood preparedness, response training, and awareness campaigns.
“There urgent need for evaluation of existing early warning systems, their effectiveness, evacuation plans and structural remedies, especially review of construction designs for flood prone areas,’’ Idriss said.
Other critical interventions highlighted include “the urgent review of town planning and strict enforcement of violations; the urgent need to ensure disaster management agencies at the national, state and local governments are manned by qualified risk management professionals; and the urgent need to upskill and equip all existing disaster management personnel for greater efficiency.”
RIMSON also advocated creation of the Office of Risk Management of the Federation to coordinate and monitor all risk management efforts across the geopolitical zones as a national security issue.
It also recommended the “urgent need for incorporation of disaster awareness and education into the national educational curriculum and the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme; and regular national simulation of disaster readiness and response.”
While it stressed the need for an urgent review of budgetary allocations for disaster prevention and relief for survivors, RIMSON called on the lawmakers and the civic groups to monitor the deployment of funds for disaster management.
[Vanguard]