February 2025 | Page 4 of 8

Cote d’Ivoire 2025: Flying Eagles coach accepts North Africans, South Africa challenge

Prince Odutola3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

The head coach of Flying Eagles, Aliyu Zubairu, has voiced his optimism following Thursday’s group stage draw for the Africa U20 Cup of Nations, which will take place in Cote d’Ivoire, 26th April – 18th May. The Nigerian team finds itself in a demanding group alongside traditional powerhouses Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa, all of whom have a rich history in African youth football. In his reaction to the draw, Coach Zubairu remarked: “It’s a very good draw. If a team truly aspires to reach the FIFA World Cup, there is no need to shy away from any opponent. Facing Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa at this stage presents a tremendous opportunity. I believe it’s a blessing.” This perspective not only highlights Zubairu’s confidence in his squad’s capabilities but also underscores his commitment to challenging his players against formidable rivals, which can ultimately foster their development and resilience. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Coach Zubairu stressed the necessity of mental preparation as his team gears up for these high-stakes matches. He is keen on instilling a robust sense of self-belief within his players, emphasizing that they should approach every opponent with respect and seriousness. “We need to dispel the notion that this is a ‘group of death,’” he said. “In African football, there are no small teams anymore. The key is to prepare very well. A lesser-known nation can surprise everyone if they come prepared.” To ensure the team is adequately prepared for the task, the NFF has not only put the Flying Eagles in camp to resume training, with a 30-man squad, but has also organised a two-match tour of Cairo for the team to play the Egyptian U20 team at the end of this month. The friendly matches in Cairo have been scheduled for 25th and 27th February.

Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo dies at 96

Prince Odutola3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

Elder statesman and chieftain of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, has died at the age of 96. Adebanjo died on Friday morning at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State. The family confirmed his death in a statement made available to our correspondent on Friday. The statement was jointly signed by his children, namely, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo. “With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo. “He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement reads. Afenifere asks Tinubu to probe NNPCL fuel import, refinery repairsIt added, “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. “His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.” The family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across the country and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral. According to the statement, details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, adding that a condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lagos and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. The former organising secretary of the Action Group is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

2Baba proposes to Edo Lawmaker Natasha Osawaru

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

A viral video on Wednesday captured the moment music icon, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, proposed to Edo State lawmaker, Natasha Osawaru. In the video, the singer and the lawmaker were seen dancing together to the admiration of some of their friends. 2Baba later proceeded to present Osawaru with a ring after which they were locked in a long embrace. This comes just a day after 2Baba publicly confirmed his romantic relationship with Osawaru, setting social media abuzz. The revelation follows his recent separation from his wife, Annie Idibia, with the singer expressing his intention to take things further with Osawaru. Speculation about their relationship had been growing after 2Baba was seen at the Edo State Assembly and a video surfaced showing the two together at a Lagos club. Addressing the rumours, 2Baba took to Instagram on Tuesday to set the record straight. In the video, he said in part, “Allegedly, I have been seeing so many things, so many people coming up with their own false narratives and malicious nonsense after I posted that stuff that I posted. Yes, I posted what I posted. “Hon. Natasha has been dragged, she has been called all sorts of names, she has been labelled as a home breaker. “She is a young brilliant amazing woman and she had nothing to do with what is happening between me and Annie in our marriage. “Yes I love her, she is amazing, she is cool, I want to marry her.”

COAS charges Troops to intensify operations against security threats

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has charged troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE and the 401 Special Forces Brigade to sustain their offensive operations against security threats in Benue and neighbouring states. He commended their professionalism, dedication, and selfless service while reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to their welfare and operational effectiveness. Lieutenant General Oluyede gave these directives during his maiden operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE and the 401 Special Forces Brigade at Joe Akahaan Cantonment, Makurdi, on February 12, 2025. Upon arrival, he was warmly received the Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Lewis Lepdung and the Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, Brigadier General AS Bugaje. During a briefing, Major General Lepdung highlighted the successes recorded in the ongoing operations as well as the challenges faced by the troops. In response, the COAS assured them of his unwavering support, pledging to provide the necessary resources and combat enablers to enhance their operational efficiency. Addressing the troops, General Oluyede expressed deep appreciation for their relentless efforts in safeguarding citizens and securing Benue and its environs. He praised their bravery, discipline, and sacrifice, emphasizing his pride in leading a professional and dedicated force. He reaffirmed that the welfare of troops and their families remains a top priority and assured them that any challenges hindering their mission success would be promptly addressed. Furthermore, the COAS urged the troops to intensify their offensive operations against terrorists, reiterating the Nigerian Army’s resolve to combat internal and external threats to national security. He encouraged them to remain resolute and committed to their duties, assuring them of continued support to ensure their success. As part of his visit, Lieutenant General Oluyede inspected ongoing projects at the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering and the 401 Special Forces Brigade. These projects are aimed at addressing accommodation shortages and improving the living standards of personnel and their families within the barracks community. The COAS concluded his visit by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the Nigerian Army, ensuring that troops remain well-equipped, motivated, and ready to defend the nation.

CAF to conduct live draws for four competitions in Cairo

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) will today (Thursday), 13 February, 2025 conduct Live Draws for four of its upcoming competitions that will take place this year. The Live Draws will be held at the CAF Headquarters in Cairo, Egypt and will be streamed on CAF’s Official YouTube channel, CAF TV from 13h00 Cairo Time (11h00 GMT). The Final Draw for the nine teams taking part in the inaugural CAF Women’s Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 will be conducted first at 13h00. The draw for the CAF African Nations Championship, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024 Second Stage Qualifiers will follow at 13h25 Cairo time (11h25 GMT). The Final Draw for the expanded 16-team CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 will take place at 13h45 Cairo Time (11h45 GMT). That will be followed by the Final Draw for the 13-team TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d’Ivoire 2025 at 14h25 Cairo Time (12h25 GMT). LIVE DRAW SCHEDULE: 13h00 Cairo Time (11h00 GMT) | CAF Women’s Futsal AFCON, Morocco 2025 13h25 Cairo Time (11h25 GMT) CAF CHAN 2024 2nd Stage Qualifiers 13h45 Cairo Time (11h45 GMT) CAF U-17 AFCON, Morocco 2025 14h25 Cairo Time (12h25 GMT) | TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON, Cote d’Ivoire 2025

Policemen, Naval personnel clash in Delta

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

The Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Police Command has revealed the real reason behind the men of the Quick Response Squad clash with some Naval personnel in the State recently. In a statement issued and made available on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, Superintendent of Police, Edafe Bright claimed the clash eschewed as the Naval personnel make attempts to ensure the release of a suspected drug peddler. “The command is aware of the embarrassing situation between Policemen attached to the Quick Response Squad of the Command and some Airforce personnel attached to Airforce base Jeddo in Okpe Local government Area where the personnel of Nigeria Airforce without any provocation attacked the policemen who were performing their lawful duty. “On 11/2/2025, at about 1700 hours, operatives of Quick Response Squad (QRS) while on crime prevention patrol flagged down a Toyota Corolla car with reg. no. AKD-73-FL, but the occupants of the vehicle on sighting the police took to their heels which prompted the policemen to go after them, and arrested one of the suspects identified as Ibohama Precious aged 25yrs and recovered some weed suspected to be Indian hemp, Canadian loud and other hard drugs. “While the Policemen were on their way to the station alongside the suspect and exhibit, upon getting to the Airforce checkpoint at Jeddo, they were stopped by the Airforce personnel and were told that they wouldn’t be allowed to proceed until they released the suspects they were carrying which the policemen vehemently resisted and subsequently, the Airforce personnel attacked the Policemen without justification. “The Delta state Police command under the leadership of CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, the Nigeria Airforce, Navy, Army and other security agencies in the state have a cordial working relationship worthy of emulation and the incident is indeed an embarrassing one,” SP Edafe Bright pointed out. He assured that the Commissioner of Police Delta State CP and Airforce authorities are looking into the ugly incident and putting all modalities in place to forestall future occurrence of this embarrassing situation.

Tyson Fury takes up ‘new job’ weeks after quitting boxing

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

Tyson Fury appears to be enjoying the retirement life by training his wife Paris at a local gym in Lancashire. Last month, the 36-year-old announced his decision to walk away from the sport of boxing following back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk. “Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet,” he said to the camera. “I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it. I’m going to end with this. Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side. Get up!” Fury was recently seen taking his family to Disneyland Paris. Tyson, his wife Paris, and their seven kids spent the day at the park, enjoying the rides and attractions. Paris shared photos from their trip on social media, showing the family having a great time. Tyson was seen pushing his youngest child in a stroller, smiling as they explored the park together. Paris captioned the wholesome post: “If you can dream it, you can do it” Walt Disney.” For now, it seems as if the ‘Gypsy King’ is happy with his decision and it looks as if he has taken up a new job, being Paris’ personal trainer. In a story uploaded to his official Instagram page, Fury, along with wife Paris, were working out at the Salt Ayre Leisure Centre in Lancaster, Lancashire. The pair were seemingly warming up on the treadmills before Fury asked his wife: “How’re you feeling, babe?,” to which she immediately replied: “Tired.” Fury continued: “Tired, on your warm up?! Training her right up I am. What a sort she’s going to be when I train her right up! How’re you feeling?” Paris jokingly replied back: “You’re as daft as a brush.” The ‘Gypsy King’ concluded: “Daft as a brush? Please, that’s a compliment, daft as a brush. Of course I am!” It’s fair to say that the British heavyweight star was looking rather lean in the video amid talks of a potential showdown with rival Anthony Joshua despite being fulled retired. Derek Chisora, a former foe of the ‘Gypsy King’ believes the 36-year-old will make yet another return to the ring to take on ‘AJ.’ His comments came after ‘Del Boy’ sensationally toppled Otto Wallin in his penultimate fight on Saturday night. Fury’s long-time promoter Frank Warren recently revealed that the former heavyweight star is set to make some ‘serious announcements’ soon. Speaking on the Seconds Out YouTube channel, he said: “Didn’t even discuss it with him,” the 72-year-old said of the Brit returning to the ring. He later added: “He’s enjoying himself. He’s had a hard, hard year last year. Tough fights, three training camps… tough times. Missed his family, missed his kids.” Warren revealed he wouldn’t encourage Fury to fight again before adding that the former world champion is set to reveal a big announcement. “I wouldn’t encourage him to fight again,” he continued. “But if he does fight again, who knows, he may do it again. If he does that’s up to him. What I know he’s going to be doing is making some serious announcements about things he is doing outside of the ring that are exciting. I’m not going to say what they are, but they are bloody exciting. Everybody’s going to love it.”

LGA Elections: Gov. Adeleke craves for peaceful process

Prince Odutola4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has urged politicians to embrace peaceful process ahead of the State’s Local Government Elections slated for February 22, 2025. The Governor in a post on his official X handle called all the candidates to engage the electorate with their agenda, focusing on issues rather than resorting to violence or coercion. His words; “As a government, we remain committed to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. We have closely monitored the preparatory activities of the state electoral commission and reaffirm our respect for its independence in conducting a transparent electoral process. “Osun State boasts a highly educated population, with literacy at an all-time high. This is not a state where falsehood thrives. Our people read, analyze, and understand court rulings and political developments. I encourage every eligible voter to prepare for February 22nd an opportunity to elect council chairmen and councilors of their choice. “However, we have received credible reports of plots by certain opposition elements to instigate unrest. Let me issue a clear and strong warning: desist from such actions, as the consequences will be grave. As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I have directed security agencies to deal decisively with any individual or group attempting to disrupt the peace, in line with the rule of law. Osun will not be plunged into needless conflict. “Democracy is about ballots, not violence. On February 22, go to the polls, cast your votes, and express your preferences peacefully. Osun remains a stronghold of democracy, and we stand ready to protect our democratic values.”