Super Eagles of Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro says he has confidence in his other goalkeepers should Stanley Nwabali fail to gain fitness ahead of Angola clash.
Peseiro stated this while speaking in a press conference ahead of the quarter-final clash against the Black Antelope of Angola.
He said that Nwabali will undergo a late fitness test on Thursday and he will make his decision on whether to field him or not afterwards.
Peseiro, however, stated that should Nwabali fail to make it in time for the clash, he will play Uzoho in goal.
He said, “Today we will make the final decision. He will do one last test to see if he is really fit but if he cannot play, Francis [Uzoho] will play. And I trust him.”
Nwabali has conceded just once in four appearances for the Super Eagles at the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.
The Chippa United goalie has won Nigerians’ hearts with his performances at the ongoing AFCON in Ivory Coast.
The news of his training with his Super Eagles teammates on Tuesday came off as heartwarming with Nigerians anxious to know if he will be fit to face the boisterous Angola side.
The Super Eagles will take on the Black Antelopes in a quarter-final tie at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, Abidjan.
THE beheading of a police personnel identified as Inspector Osang by hoodlums numbering over 10 is currently generating fear among the residents of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.
It was gathered, yesterday, that the incident occurred about 8:30 p.m., on Wednesday in his residence, located on a street which links Even Afaha and Afaha Ube, a suburb in Uyo metropolis
Although facts surrounding his death were still sketchy at press time, sources from the area told newsmen that the assailants bearing arms stormed the residence of their victim, shooting sporadically.
The shooting, according to a source, caused most of the residents and passersby to run for safety.
State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Odiko MacDon, who confirmed the incident, said: “We have received that information and it is an unfortunate situation.
“Already, investigation is ongoing and we are committed to ridding the streets of criminal elements. Again, we are not dettered and we are committed to ensuring that, criminal-minded persons will account for their actions.”
The Wednesday killing has brought the number of gruesome killings in the state to four in the past two weeks.
It will recalled that a young lady’s body was dismembered, tucked in a Ghana-Must-Go bag and dumped by the roadside along Nwaniba area last week.
Similarly, a woman was reportedly killed at the Banking Layout, Udo Udoma Avenue while a man’s lifeless body was dumped at Ikot Oku Ikono junction in the Uyo metropolitan, two weeks ago.
A former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of deceiving him to accept the allegation of N109bn fraud against himself.
The former AGF made the allegation in court on Thursday when he and his co-defendants appeared on 14 counts charges of stealing and criminal breach of trust to the tune of N109.5 billion.
According to Idris, the EFCC tricked him into accepting the fraud allegation as he was told by the anti-graft agency that they wanted to use him to get the minister of finance and some other governors.
Idris was arraigned alongside Godfrey Olusegun Akindele, Mohammed Kudu Usman, and a firm — Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited.
In a statement said to be written by Idris and dated May 16, 2022, which was partly read out by the prosecution witness, Hayatudeen Ahmed, in court on Thursday, the ex-AGF stated that the EFCC promised him that whatever information he gives would not be used against him.
The prosecution witness read the statement during a cross-examination by Idris’ counsel, Chris Uche (SAN), at the request of the lawyer.
However, after reading, the prosecution witness stated that such assurances were not given, and neither was he under duress.
He said, “There was no such assurance. The statements made by Idris on the 25th, 26th, and 31st of May 2022 and that made on the 1st, 6th, 10th, 20th of June 2022, and 5 July 2022 were made willingly by the defendants contrary to the claims that they were allegedly made under duress by the defendants.”
Earlier, when the hearing commenced on Thursday, the counsel for the EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs(SAN), applied to tender video evidence that contained a recorded interview of the first to third defendants at the Commission’s Monitoring Unit Chairman’s office as an exhibit before the court.
Naija News recalls Idris served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and was embroiled in multiple fraud allegations, leading to his suspension from office and arrest by the EFCC.
There is growing restiveness among the staff of the federal civil service, ministries, departments and agencies, and MDAs, over unpaid January salaries.
The worker’s situation is compounded by the fact that they also owed a backlog of N35,000 in wage awards.
It was gathered that non-payment of the January salary to core civil servants and non-core civil servants is due to the inability of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, OAGF, to finalise the 2024 Appropriation on the Government Integrated Financial Management System, GIFMIS, platform.
The failure has prevented the release of the personnel warrant for January 2024 for salary payment.
General Secretary of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, NCSU, Bomoi Muhammed Ibraheem, confirmed to Vanguard that members of the union have not been paid.
A staff federal secretariat, Abuja, who lamented the situation, told Vanguard: ”The federal civil servants are frustrated with the delayed payment of January salary. Everybody knows what is going on in Nigeria today.
”The economic situation is unbearable, all because of government policies. The N35,000 wage award promised after the removal of the subsidy on petrol was only paid in September. Now, the government has refused to pay us January salary thereby compounding our woes.
”How do they expect us to meet our responsibilities to our families including school fees and other necessities? We cannot continue like this.”
To douse the restiveness of its staff, the management of the National Mathematical Centre, Abuja, in an internal memo dated January 31, 2024, titled “Delay in the payment of January 2024 salary”, among others said “We wish to inform you that January 2024 salaries will be delayed beyond normal.”
Gunmen on Thursday night, invaded the palace of Olukoro of Koro in Ekiti local government area of Kwara State and killed the traditional ruler of the community, General Segun Aremu (rtd).
The assailants also abducted the wife of the monarch and two others.
Naija News reports that Koro in Kwara is the neighbouring town of Irele/Oke Ako/Ipao/Oke Aiyedun and Ikole and shares boundaries with Ekiti State where two monarchs were recently killed.
The Spokeswoman of the Kwara State Police command, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi confirmed the unfortunate incident in the wee hours of Friday.
According to her, “immediate and intensive investigations are underway to apprehend those criminals for this reprehensible act.
“We assure the public that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly.
“Security measures in the koro community have been intensified, tactical teams are being mobilised to beef up security to ensure the safety and well-being of residents”.
Toun added that the CP, Victor Olaiya, “urged the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative as we work tirelessly to unravel this matter; arrest and charge the culprits to court.”
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the incident as “reckless, shocking, and abominable”.
He charged the security agencies not to spare any resources to track down the perpetrators, free the spouse and others taken away, and bring them to book.
Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, bid farewell to Barcelona Femini fans in an emotional post on Instagram on Thursday as she confirmed her departure from the club to join National Women’s Soccer League club Bay FC.
Oshoala completed her move to Bay FC on Thursday after signing a two-year deal with an option of another year for a reported fee of $162,000.
“As I bid farewell to this incredible team and the city that has been my home for the past five years, I am filled with mixed emotions,” Oshoala said in a post on Instagram.
“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to wear the Barcelona Femini jersey and represent this prestigious club.
“Since joining the team in 2019, I have had the opportunity to be a part of some of the most memorable moments in the club’s history. Together, we have lifted several trophies and these achievements are a testament to hard work, dedication and I feel privileged to have been a part of this team.”
The former Liverpool and Arsenal forward joined Barcelona permanently on a three-year deal after an impressive loan spell from Chinese side Dalian Quanjian in 2019.
She went on to make 162 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 117 goals, including a record-setting season feat in 2022, when she was the joint top scorer in the league with 19 goals.
The two-time Ballon D’or nominee top the scorers chart three times in Spain, helping the club win the UEFA Women’s Champions League twice in 2021 and 2023, four league titles, three Spanish Super Cups and the Copa de la Reina three times.
She is the first African woman to win the UEFA Champions League in 2021 and also score in the Champions League final in 2019.
She added, “But beyond the trophies and accolades, what I will cherish most are the relationships I have built with some of my teammates, coaches, staff and the amazing fans. You have become my family and I will forever be grateful for the love and support you have shown me.
“As I embark on a new journey, I want you to know that Barcelona Femini will always hold a special place in my heart. I will carry with me the memories, lessons and friendships that I have gained during my time here.”
Reacting to her arrival at the club, Bay FC General Manager Lucy Rushton, believes the Nigerian will bolster the club with her quality.
“To have the opportunity to add a player of Asisat’s quality, experience and winning pedigree to our roster is an exciting and important day for the club and the NWSL,” Rushton told the club website.
“She (Oshoala) brings a top-class mentality to the field combined with pace and technical ability that allows her to lead the line, while also giving those players around her the license to be creative and thrive in space. Asisat is a proven goal scorer at the most elite levels of World football, and she comes here to continue that with Bay FC.”
The six-time CAF Player of The Year winner will occupy an international roster spot and joins the team pending the receipt of her P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate.
The Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) is currently in the midst of a test-run, as confirmed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri.
Speaking to journalists about the refinery’s status, Lokpobiri emphasized its significance to the country’s economic well-being. He assured that refined petroleum products from the facility would soon be available in the market, highlighting the completion of the mechanical aspect of the refinery.
“I believe that very soon products will start coming from there…and the Warri refinery is in top gear.”
The minister who didn’t give a timeline, however, expressed optimism that in a few months, there would be enough petroleum products in the country.
“If you ask me, in the next few months, we would have tremendously increased our refining capacity.
“So I believe that very soon the Port Harcourt refinery and the other refineries will all come on stream,” he said.
Meanwhile, it was reported in December 2023 that the PHRC had resumed operations several months after it was shut down for rehabilitation by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
Business Day quoted Amaka Okafor, Special Assistant to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, who confirmed the resumption of operation at the refinery by saying, “Yes, the refinery is set, we will visit the refinery site today to kickstart its operation.”
Notable actress, Rosy Meurer finally reacts to claims of divorcing her husband, Olakunle Churchill who used to be Tonto Dikeh’s husband.
Taking to her Instagram story, she launched a question and answer session which generated a lot of queries from her followers who quizzed her on different personal issues.
Recall that a few months back, the controversial IG blog, Gistlovers alleged that the couple separated over claims of domestic violence.
According to the blogger, Churchill who was cheating in the marriage mercilessly beat up Rosy Meurer after she accosted him over his extramarital affair.
In a recent development, Rosy Meurer shut down rumours about their split after being quizzed by a netizen.
The unknown internet user wrote:
” Is it true you and Churchill got divorced”
Responding to the question, she shared a short video of Churchill carrying their newborn while dismissing the report as false.
Check out her post below:
Nigerian filmmaker cum actress, Bimpe Oyebade has celebrated her husband, actor Lateef Adedimeji in style on his fortieth birthday.
Taking to the photo and video sharing platform, Instagram, Mo Bimpe penned a lovely message to Lateef with goofy photos.
She wrote:
“To my husband @adedimejilateef, You have inspired me, impressed me, supported me, loved me, pissed me off, prayed for me, cry with me, laugh with me..
Doing Life with you Abdul is the best decision ever
“Sometimes it’s hard to find words to tell you how much you mean to me, even tho I might not say it enough. I hope that you know I appreciate all you do for us Richly blessed is how I feel having a husband like you babe
“Today, on your birthday I just want to let you know that you mean the world to me, HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADE MI. I LOVE YOU so much okomi @adedimejilateef.”
To mark his day, Lateef Adedimeji hopped on singer, Kizz Daniel’s Twe Twe challenge. The Jagun Jagun actor shared behind-the-scenes footage from his birthday shoot on Instagram moments ago, in which he danced to Twe Twe single released in 2023.
In the video, a happy Lateef could be seen showing off his dance moves while vibing to the song which’s remix version features Grammy nominee, Davido.
Captioning the video, he simply wrote:
“Thankful Heart.”
Lateef Adedimeji also posted several photos on his Instagram account to mark his new age. He captioned them:
“Here’s to all the struggles, all the pain, all the lessons and all the growth of my life. Here’s to celebrating a good human being
“IT’S A NEW DAY AND A NEW BEGINNING. I AM THANKFUL FOR ALL THAT I HAVE BEEN GIVEN.
HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY TO ME.”
The movie star also shared another photo with the caption:
“40 years of being alive. God I’m grateful. 1st of February baby.”
Celebrities like Faithia Williams, Kate Henshaw, Femi Adebayo, Bolanle Ninalowo, Kunle Remi, Kiekie, Kolawo Ajeyemi, Uzee Usman, Bimbo Thomas, Eso Dike and Eniola Ajao stormed the comment section of the couple’s posts to wish Lateef a happy birthday.
Lateef and Mo Bimpe are currently in the United States of America and plan to host their friends to a birthday bash later tonight at 7pm in Houston Texas.
Former contestant on the Big Brother Naija ‘Lockdown’ show, Ka3na Jones has recollected how she conceived through IVF after the first one failed.
The proud mother narrated her experience in a video shared on Instagram on Thursday, February 1, in which she chronicled her IVF and pregnancy journey.
Ka3na said she also experienced physical and psychological trauma for two years.
The UK-based influencer shared the video to celebrate her daughter, ahead of the latter’s birthday on February 13. Ka3na wrote:
“After one failed IVF circle. 2 years of physical and psychological trauma. We got to hold our priceless gift from God. 13-02-2019.”
“My IVF miracle will be 5 in 12 days.”
See post below:
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Nollywood luminary turned pastor, Yul Edochie has commenced his pastoral journey with a remarkable testimony from one of his congregants, signalling a promising start to his online ministry venture.
Yul Edochie announced his calling as a pastor just days ago via his Instagram platform and had his inaugural online sermon on Sunday, 28th January.
The fruit of this endeavour manifested swiftly as one Angela Uzoma on Facebook shared a compelling testimony of divine intervention.
Angela recounted enduring days of distress due to persistent diarrhoea before attending Yul’s online church service. Despite prior attempts with medication, her symptoms persisted unabated.
However, upon participating in the online service, Angela experienced an abrupt cessation of her ailment. She attributed this sudden relief to the power of the virtual service, hailing it as an instantaneous miracle.
Expressing her gratitude, Angela emphasized her pride in being a member of the True Salvation Ministries.
Yul Edochie, in response to Angela’s testimony, expressed profound joy and gratitude. Sharing Angela’s testimony on social media, he stressed his belief in God’s promise to work wonders through him, not for personal glory but for divine purpose.
Yul Edochie invited followers to join the upcoming Sunday service, anticipating further remarkable occurrences, and promising an impactful experience.
In his message, Yul Edochie exuded humility and gratitude, acknowledging the role of faith and divine intervention in the transformative journey ahead.
He wrote:
“Wow! I just came across this on Tunde Ednut’s page.
@mazitundeednut I’m overjoyed.
And I give God all the glory.
I’m not surprised because God told me He will do great things through me, not for my glory but for His.
This is just the beginning.
This coming Sunday, our program will be explosive.
Don’t miss it.
Thank You Lord.
God bless you all.
LOVE ALWAYS.”
See the post below:
BBNaija season seven winner and actress, Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna , has revealed her preference for a partner, expressing her desire to marry a man like singer Shallipopi rather than someone of a quiet nature.
She declared during an Instagram live session with her followers that she would rather marry a man that shares same character traits with her.
Phyna claims she loves a man like Shallipopi, someone who would allow her be her true self and whose oddball demeanor makes it difficult for others to identify him as her spouse.
With a zest for life, Phyna believes that being with a man who shares similar qualities would perfectly complement her own vibrant spirit.
In her words:
“I want to marry a lively person like me, someone that you wouldn’t easily know that we are husband and w!fe. I want to marry someone that is my spec, someone that we are alike. Someone who has a Shallipopi vibe.
Everyone has their choice, I don’t want a quiet man. Before I wanted a quiet man but I changed my mind. I want to marry someone that is like me.
I would have liked an Igbo man, but the last Igbo man I was with (laughs). Igbo men I feel like their family are too involved in their business. I think I would rather go for an Edo man of Yoruba man, I like Yoruba, I have always wanted to get married to a Yoruba man”
Media
Why I’m insisting on marrying a man with similar traits like me instead of a quiet man — Reality TV star, Phyna
— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) February 1, 2024
pic.twitter.com/JmKYDS4Psd
A little girl has captured the attention of many as she dressed up as the esteemed Nigerian economist and Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, for her school’s Career Day.
The little girl’s mother replicated Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s traditional outfit, glasses, and hair tie.
Upon stumbling upon the adorable photos of the little girl, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala herself took to social media to express her delight and appreciation for the gesture.
The economist, known globally for her exceptional contributions to the world of finance, shared her joy on her official social media page.
“Delighted to get this photo of a young 3-year-old girl, who I don’t even know, dressed for her school’s Career Day as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. What a fun thing to see! I pray for her and all young girls that their careers will be even more successful than mine!,” Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala wrote.
Tension has gripped the capital of Katsina State following a social media post deemed offensive by some residents.
The Facebook post, written in Hausa by a Christian indigene from the state, Mani Abubakar, reportedly contained derogatory comments about Islam.
The alleged blasphemous statement, now deleted from Facebook, claimed that Islam had no foundation and questioned the origins of the Quran.
The post sparked outrage and a mob, seeking retaliation, attempted to locate and harm Abubakar but resorted to burning his house and car at Babaruga after he escaped late Tuesday night, Jan. 30.
Abubakar’s current whereabouts remain unknown.
The Christian Association of Nigeria is working with authorities and plans to meet with the Emir of Katsina to ensure his safety when he reappears.
Christian leaders in the state have urged for calm and understanding.
The Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Katsina, Venerable Muyiwa Segun, condemned any act of violence or disrespect towards other religions.
"Everyone should respect the other’s religion," Segun stated, adding, "Christians don’t have any business abusing other people’s religion. That is not how to do evangelism."
Segun also confirmed that CAN is working with security officials and religious leaders to ensure peace and safety in the community.