April 2025 | Page 13 of 45

Transfer Window Heats Up: Major Moves Brewing Across Europe

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Manchester United have drawn up a two-man wishlist of Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimarães and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as they aim to strengthen in midfield, TEAMtalk reports. Bruno, who scored in Newcastle’s 4-1 win over Man United earlier this month, has a contract at St James’ Park that runs until 2028, while Wharton is committed to Selhurst Park for a further year. Christian Eriksen is expected to leave Old Trafford in the summer, but the Red Devils could struggle to offload Casemiro due to the Brazilian’s large wages. Arsenal and Aston Villa are among the clubs that have held exploratory talks about Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, reports Sky Sports, who add that Saudi Arabian clubs are also willing to trigger the 25-year-old’s release clause. They also reference interest from Manchester United who, sources have told ESPN, are exploring the possibility of triggering Cunha’s release clause. Real Madrid’s defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League has shifted their focus to the transfer window, reports AS. As such, Los Blancos are looking at AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen at centre-back and Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi in midfield. Both players being worth €60m complicates things — as does Bayer Leverkusen wanting €150m for Florian Wirtz — and Real Madrid could have to offload players to make a move and prefer to focus on players whose contracts are coming to an end. Real Madrid will announce a contract extension for Vinícius Júnior at the end of this season, according to Cadena SER. The Brazil international’s deal — which currently runs until 2027 — will be extended by another two or three years, the radio station reported on Tuesday. Interest from Saudi Arabia was not, in the end, tempting for Vinícius, according to SER, with the player having doubts over moving to the Saudi Pro League on a five-year deal. He would only have considered a switch to Saudi for two years, at the most. Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García — who’s been LaLiga’s standout keeper this season — has offers from the Premier League, the Bundesliga, and other LaLiga clubs, Cadena COPE reports, although he hasn’t received an approach from Real Madrid. García, 23, will be available on a €25m release clause this summer, or 15 million if Espanyol are relegated, which now looks unlikely. According to COPE, García’s agents are waiting to see if an offer arrives from Madrid before taking a decision on where his future lies.

Senator Neda Imasuen Set to Defect to APC

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

STRONG indications emerged on Wednesday that the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State would soon be hit by another defection as its member representing Edo South Senatorial District in the Senate, Senator Neda Imasuen, may soon defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as members of the APC are believed to be mounting pressure on the Chairman, Senate Committee and Public Petitions, Ethics and Privileges to leave the LP. The lawmaker recently said that the Supreme Court decision on the crisis in the LP may have come too late as much damage has been done to the party that has led to many defections. Imasuen enjoys good relationship with notable leaders of the APC in the state and he has been severally in public functions with some of them in addition to the fact that he was a senior legislative to his predecessor in office, Sen. Matthew Uroghide now in the APC and he was the Director General APC Campaign Council ahead of the September 21st governorship election in the state. Giving credence to the speculation and his imminent defection, it was gathered that the Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Political Mobilisation and Engagement, Hon Eugene Utubor, Tuesday night visited the LP Senator in a bid to convince him to join Okpebholo in his developmental agenda. It was reliably gathered that the meeting, which lasted for several hours, centred on discussions on having the LP National Assembly member join the party. A source privy to the meeting described it as fruitful. Imasuen was said to have expressed gratitude for the visit and commended the efforts of Governor Monday Okpebholo in driving development in the state. He was quoted as saying, “The Governor has done remarkably well in such a short time. “It is crucial that we come together to ensure the success of his vision for our people. Every well-meaning Edo citizen is encouraged to rally around the Governor as he works diligently for our collective progress

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, warning that such actions threaten the democratic progress and stability the region has painstakingly achieved. Speaking at the official launch of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, Tinubu—represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu—reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, good governance, and regional unity. He emphasized that the resurgence of military coups, which have gripped parts of the region since 2021, undermines the fundamental values of democracy, rule of law, and peace. Between 2020 and 2024, West and Central Africa witnessed nine coup attempts, with Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger falling under military rule. ECOWAS responded by suspending the affected countries and imposing sanctions in a bid to restore civilian governance, but tensions eventually led to the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the bloc. Despite the strain, President Tinubu used the occasion to advocate for reconciliation and reintegration of the estranged member states. He stressed that this milestone anniversary should be a time to renew unity and shared responsibility. “It is a time to strengthen the bonds that tie us together through shared values, collective responsibility, and a common vision for a prosperous region,” he said. Calling for constructive engagement, Tinubu urged ECOWAS to remain open to dialogue with the junta-led countries while implementing sweeping reforms to enhance the bloc’s credibility and institutional strength. “There is an urgent need to implement bold, comprehensive reforms that will enhance our institutions’ effectiveness, relevance, and credibility to meet the challenges of today and the future,” he concluded.

Tinubu Warns Against Coup Resurgence in West Africa Calls for Reconciliation

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, warning that such actions threaten the democratic progress and stability the region has painstakingly achieved. Speaking at the official launch of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, Tinubu—represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu—reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, good governance, and regional unity. He emphasized that the resurgence of military coups, which have gripped parts of the region since 2021, undermines the fundamental values of democracy, rule of law, and peace. Between 2020 and 2024, West and Central Africa witnessed nine coup attempts, with Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger falling under military rule. ECOWAS responded by suspending the affected countries and imposing sanctions in a bid to restore civilian governance, but tensions eventually led to the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the bloc. Despite the strain, President Tinubu used the occasion to advocate for reconciliation and reintegration of the estranged member states. He stressed that this milestone anniversary should be a time to renew unity and shared responsibility. “It is a time to strengthen the bonds that tie us together through shared values, collective responsibility, and a common vision for a prosperous region,” he said. Calling for constructive engagement, Tinubu urged ECOWAS to remain open to dialogue with the junta-led countries while implementing sweeping reforms to enhance the bloc’s credibility and institutional strength. “There is an urgent need to implement bold, comprehensive reforms that will enhance our institutions’ effectiveness, relevance, and credibility to meet the challenges of today and the future,” he concluded.

NSA Ribadu: Tinubu Inherited Extremely Bad Government Urges Support Amid Benue Killings

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has said that President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited a deeply troubled government, especially in terms of insecurity. Ribadu made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to Benue State, where he sympathized with the government and people following the recent killings of over 72 individuals by suspected herdsmen. Condemning the attacks, Ribadu urged residents of Benue to support the Tinubu administration and avoid politicizing the crisis, noting that cooperation would enable the federal government to restore peace in the region. “Our Armed Forces are doing well, but it’s impossible to deploy soldiers or police to every hamlet,” he said. “We inherited an extremely bad government. Things have improved, and we’re working to address these lingering issues. Give us a chance and stop politicizing the killings.” In response, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, described the situation as tragic, saying the state has suffered continuous attacks and devastating loss of lives since 2011. According to reports, Benue and Plateau States have witnessed a surge in deadly violence in recent weeks. In the latest attack, gunmen stormed Afia community in Ukum LGA on Tuesday, killing 11 people and injuring many others.

House of Reps Donates ₦18 Million to Victims of Enugu Tanker Explosion

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday presented an N18 million relief cheque to the Enugu State Government to support victims of the January 25 petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. The tragic incident claimed multiple lives and left several others injured. Presenting the donation in Enugu, the Speaker’s delegation, led by Hon. Nnolim Nnaji and comprising other members of the Enugu State Caucus in the House, described the explosion as a national tragedy. The lawmakers commended Governor Peter Mbah for his swift response in providing aid to affected families and reaffirmed the House’s commitment to standing with states during crises. “We are here to deliver the Speaker’s heartfelt condolences and this financial support to further assist the victims and their families,” said Hon. Nnaji. “The House of Representatives recognizes the gravity of this loss and will continue to support Enugu State in its recovery efforts.” Governor Mbah expressed deep gratitude for the gesture, noting that the funds would be disbursed transparently to those impacted by the disaster. “This donation reflects the Speaker’s compassion and solidarity beyond words. We assure you that every naira will reach the intended beneficiaries to help alleviate their suffering,” the governor stated. The explosion, which occurred at a busy section of the expressway, had drawn national attention, prompting calls for improved safety measures on highways. The Enugu State Government has since intensified efforts to assist victims while reviewing transport regulations to prevent future tragedies.

Enugu Signs Deal to Establish Industrial Hub Eyes $30 Billion GDP Growth

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

The Enugu State Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lion Business Park Limited to establish a world-class industrial and commercial hub within the Enugu Industrial Park Free Trade Zone; a strategic step aimed at boosting the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. Governor Peter Mbah, speaking at a brief event on Tuesday at the Government House in Enugu, announced that the project would leverage the incentives of operating within a Free Trade Zone to attract foreign direct investments. He added that the initiative would promote human capital development, stimulate innovation and technological advancement, and create employment opportunities, contributing to shared economic prosperity for Enugu State, the South-East region, and Nigeria as a whole. Governor Mbah emphasized that the industrial hub aligns with his administration’s economic blueprint, which aims to expand the state’s economy and position Enugu as Nigeria’s leading destination for investors. Government’s commitment to infrastructureHe further said that the state’s proposed exponential growth could only be possible with investment deals, such as the one executed with the Lion Business Park. “The Enugu State Government has committed to increasing its stake in this going concern by providing all the necessary infrastructure that is required in order for this business park to be fully functional,” he said. Strategic location for logistics and tradeThe governor highlighted that the location of the park was carefully chosen based on strategy, innovation, and due diligence by a team of economic experts in the administration. “The business park is strategically located three hours from Onne Sea Port in Rivers, less than two hours to Asaba in Delta, and less than 25 minutes to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, “Mbah explained. Creating an investor-friendly climateGovernor Mbah assured that his administration will continue to make Enugu attractive for investors by offering key incentives such as reliable electricity, paved roads, and other critical infrastructure. He also appreciated the support of the host communities and urged them to continue cooperating with investors to ensure the project’s success.Earlier, the Chairman of the firm, Dr. Okechukwu Mbonu, commended Governor Peter Mbah for his visionary leadership, remarkable developmental strides, and the notable achievements of his administration within a short time in office.Speaking on the objective of the partnership, Mbonu stated that the company is committed to developing an industrial and commercial hub that will stimulate trade and industry, drive economic growth, and generate employment opportunities for the youth. “This strategic collaboration aligns with Your Excellency’s bold economic agenda to grow Enugu State’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, ultimately benefiting the people of Enugu and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. Mbonu also urged the business community, private sector leaders, and global investors to seize the unique opportunities the park aims to offer and become part of Enugu’s unfolding economic revolution

Lagos Records Over Two Million Passengers on Blue Line Rail

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

The Lagos State Government has revealed that over Two Million passengers have been transported on the Blue Line Rail since its launch, while state-run buses move an average of 42,000 commuters daily. Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, disclosed this during the Year 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa. The event marked the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, showcasing major strides in the transport sector under the THEMES Plus Agenda. Osiyemi highlighted that the Lagos State Transport Policy, launched in May 2024, is now in its implementation phase, focusing on inclusivity, safety, affordability, and sustainability. On rail developments, he noted that Phase I of the Blue Line (Marina to Mile 2) has served over two million passengers, with Phase II (Mile 2 to Okokomaiko) in progress, adding that Phase I of the Red Line (Agbado to Oyingbo) is now operational with eight stations and additional rolling stocks procured, while Phase II (Oyingbo to link Blue Line at National Theatre) is underway. In the State-owned bus operations, he revealed that over 60 million commuters have been served since 2019, with daily ridership exceeding 40,000, noting that plans are on to deploy new buses with Quality Bus Corridors under construction. The Abule Egba Bus Terminal has also been commissioned. For water transport, Osiyemi stated that 15 locally-built Omibus Ferries have been launched and are in operation, with the Ijegun Egba Terminal now open. He said the OMI EKO project, in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), will deliver 25 terminals and 78 electric ferries. Over 280,000 passengers have used ferry services in the past year, and 12 boats have been upgraded to meet safety standards. On road infrastructure and traffic management, the Commissioner said 49 junction improvement projects have been completed, including ongoing ones at Ikorodu, Iju, and Allen-Opebi-Toyin. He added that solar-powered Traffic Signal Lights, road markings covering 67.9km, new medians, laybys, and 3,941 parking slots have also been provided. Additionally, Osiyemi announced that the deployed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras have detected over 470,000 traffic violations, stating that the Vehicle Inspection Service issued over one million roadworthiness certificates, while LASDRI trained more than 32,000 drivers. He also mentioned that LASTMA has trained over 800 personnel, evacuated over 100 broken-down vehicles, and revived its school safety advocacy programme across 59 schools.

Herdsmen Attack Afia Community In Benue 11 Dead

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

Barely a week after suspected armed herders massacred over 50 farmers in parts of Benue State, fresh violence erupted in the early hours of Tuesday as gunmen stormed Afia community in Ukum Local Government Area, killing 11 residents and leaving several others injured. The Ter Ukum, His Royal Highness, Chief Iyorkyaa Kaave, disclosed in Makurdi while addressing a security meeting convened to assess the spate of violence in the area. Describing the attack as unprovoked and part of a calculated agenda to displace indigenous farmers, the monarch condemned the continued loss of lives and property in his domain. “As I speak to you, these attacks began on Thursday in Logo and by Good Friday had spread to several communities in Ukum. We are still counting the dead, recovering more corpses and many of our people remain missing,” the monarch lamented. According to him, Tuesday’s attack on Afia was particularly brutal, as the armed assailants stormed the community at dawn, firing sporadically at residents and leaving eleven dead on the spot, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries. Kaave expressed fears that the armed herders are bent on displacing local populations to seize their lands, noting that the situation has reached a crisis point. “These people are different from the Fulani we knew and lived peacefully with in the 1970s and 1980s. Back then, they would come during the dry season with their families and cattle. But what we are witnessing now are armed men with AK-47s, attacking our people in their sleep, and returning to occupy their homes,” the monarch stated. He urged President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action, warning against any move to negotiate with those behind the killings. “The president should understand this clearly — we do not want to settle with murderers. These people have a hidden but now obvious agenda: to kill, displace and occupy,” he said.