2025 | Page 103 of 136 | Trendbrio.com

Tinubu To Mark 73rd Birthday With Special Prayer At Abuja National Mosque

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Ahead of his 73rd birthday on Saturday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will join fellow Muslims at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday for a special prayer session for the nation. He will also use this occasion to thank God for preserving and supporting him in the onerous task of piloting the nation’s affairs. President Tinubu’s birthday coincided with the holy month of Ramadan and comes two months before his administration’s second anniversary. On this significant day, the President will dedicate himself to spiritual reflection and supplication for Nigeria’s continued peace, progress, and prosperity. Choosing a prayer session reflects President Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s spiritual and moral well-being and his commitment to seeking divine guidance, insight, and strength in leadership. He believes collective prayer is a powerful tool for guiding the nation towards progress and harmony. Tinubu invited the public to join the prayer session in spirit by offering prayers at their places of worship or wherever they may be, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to unity and shared destiny. He expressed profound gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support and goodwill as his administration works tirelessly to advance economic reforms, strengthen national security, and expand opportunities for all citizens. He stated: “I am deeply thankful to Allah for the gift of life and the privilege to serve this great nation. As I mark another birthday and look forward to our second anniversary, my heart is filled with Renewed Hope for Nigeria. I urge all citizens to pray for divine guidance, unity, and healing for our land. Together, we shall overcome challenges and build a nation where every citizen thrives.” The President reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating democratic gains, fostering economic recovery, and promoting national cohesion. He encouraged citizens to remain steadfast in believing in Nigeria’s destiny as a beacon of hope in Africa.

Senate Passes Bill for Same-Day General Elections

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

A bill aimed at empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct all general elections on the same day has passed its second reading in the Senate. The bill, which seeks to amend the Electoral Act 2022, is designed to reduce the high costs associated with elections, shorten campaign periods, and allow elected officials to serve as ad hoc delegates in party congresses. Senator Saliu Mustapha, who led the debate on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, pointed out the unsustainable rise in election costs, which have grown from ₦1.5 billion in 1999 to ₦350 billion in 2023. He stressed that the current staggered election system is financially burdensome and inefficient, contributing to voter fatigue and low turnout. According to Mustapha, holding all elections on the same day would save costs, increase voter participation, and reduce political tension. While the proposal received support from several senators, some expressed reservations about INEC’s capacity to manage nationwide elections in a single day. Senator Adams Oshiomhole cautioned that the reform should not be rushed, urging lawmakers to consider INEC’s preparedness for such an undertaking. He also raised concerns about the potential confusion caused by multiple ballots, particularly for illiterate voters. The bill will undergo further scrutiny in the coming weeks, as the Senate evaluates its implications for Nigeria’s electoral process.

Kenya Probes Goalkeeper Match-Fixing Allegation

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Kenya opened a match-fixing investigation Thursday following allegations that a national team goalkeeper helped rig an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed it was aware of videos circulating online involving goalkeeper Patrick Matasi which raised concern about the possibility of match manipulation. “FKF upholds the integrity of football and has launched an official investigation, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities,” the Kenya football board said in a statement. “We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and are committed to safeguarding the credibility of our competition.” The secretly filmed online amateur video seen by AFP shows an unnamed man talking to Matasi over a plan to fix a match in return for cash. The former AFC Leopards and Tusker goalkeeper, who also had a playing stint with Ethiopian side Coffee Sports Club, played in Kenya’s 4-1 loss to former African champions Cameroon in a 2025 AFCON qualifier in Yaounde last October. The defeat dimmed Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the finals in Morocco, and led to the resignation of the team’s coach Engin Firat. Matasi was dropped from the team by the new coach Benni McCarthy and did not feature in the recent 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon. Kenyan football has been hit by the dark shadow of match-fixing malpractices in the recent past with 14 players and two coaches suspended by the FKF in January 2023 following a tip-off about cheating in the national league. In February 2020, FIFA banned four Kenyan-based players — one for life — over an “international conspiracy” to fix league matches. Five Kenyan referees were also later suspended over the same scandal. The Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis, an independent think tank, warned that match-fixing had infiltrated multiple levels of Kenyan football from grassroots competitions to the professional leagues. “This has left a trail of disillusionment among fans and undermined the integrity of football and could lead to loss of public trust and confidence in the football industry,” the organization said in a January 2024 report.

CAF Launches Registration For Young Reporters Workshop In Ghana

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened applications to register for the Young Reporters Workshop that will be run alongside the CAF African Schools Football Championship continental finals in Accra, Ghana from 21-26 April, 2025. CAF, in partnership with CANAL+ University, is seeking candidates under the age of 25 to take part in the workshop and develop their journalistic skills to become the future voices of football on the African continent. Participants will benefit from masterclasses held by renowned CANAL+ journalist Charles Mbuya and the chance to put their learnings into practice at the CAF African Schools Football Championship continental finals. Candidates hoping to be part of the workshop must send a covering letter motivating why they have a passion for football journalism, their resume and a text article, audio clip or video as a sample of their work to youngreporter@cafonline.com. The registration process will close on 4 April, 2025. CAF and CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL, under the banner of CANAL+ University, entered into a strategic partnership in January to develop training programmes in the field of sports journalism for young African talent. The Young Reporters Workshop has been a key development programme at the CAF African Schools Football Championship since the competition was first played in 2022. The Young Reporters Workshop is one of several development programmes that will be held at the continental finals. Other capacity-building initiatives include: CAF D License Coaching Course, CAF Safeguarding workshops, Safety and Security workshops, Young Medical Officers Programme and Young Referee Programme.

CAF Awards U20 AFCON 2025 Hosting Rights To Egypt

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago01 mins

The Confederation African Football (CAF) has awarded the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and Egyptian Government the rights to host the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025. This is subsequent to CAF having been informed by the Fédération Ivoirienne de Football (FIF) and the Government of Côte d’Ivoire that due to unforeseen circumstances, they are unable to host the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025. The Egyptian Football Association and the Egyptian Government had previously submitted a bid to host the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025. The opening match of the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 will be played on Sunday, 27 April 2025 and the Final on 18 May 2025.

IGP Tours Adamawa Command, Ultra Modern Headquarters in Yola

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday 27th March, 2025, undertook an official tour of the Adamawa State Police Command, during which he commissioned the newly constructed ultra-modern Command Headquarters in Yola, a monumental edifice which would provide a conducive working environment for officers and ensuring effective service delivery in the fight against crime and criminality. The IGP also inspected various police formations in the state, assessing operational efficiency and the welfare of personnel as part of the drives to ensure improved security and strengthening policing mechanisms across the country. After the commissioning,while addressing guests, officers, and men of the Command, the IGP charged them to maintain the already existing synergy between the Police Force and other security forces, to continually and adequately combat insecurity in the state and, by extension, across the country. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among security agencies in ensuring a safer Nigeria. As part of his engagements, the IGP paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, at the Government House in Yola. The Governor commended the IGP for his relentless efforts in safeguarding lives and property, noting the significant impact the Nigeria Police Force is making in maintaining peace and stability in the state and the nation at large. In a bid to further bolster security in Adamawa State, the Governor called for the establishment of an additional Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) Base and the reopening of the Police Training School in Mbaba, Yola South Local Government Area in the state. He also emphasized that these measures would enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling emerging security threats, particularly insurgency and banditry, which have posed serious challenges to the region. The IGP, in his response, assured the Governor and the good people of Adamawa State of the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to proactive policing, community partnership, and intelligence-driven security strategies, noting that the request for an additional CTU Base and the reopening of the Police Training School would be given due consideration in line with the strategic security and training framework of the Force. The IGP also paid a visit to the Palace of the Lamido of Adamawa, His Royal Highness, DR Muhammad Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, appreciating him for his leadership steadfastness, and for the support he has shown the Police to enable them adequately combat all forms of crime in the State and urged him to continuously pray for the success of the Nigeria Police Force in its fights against criminality and Nigeria as a whole. The Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to modernizing its infrastructure, enhancing personnel welfare, and leveraging advanced technology to improve crime prevention and investigative capabilities. He emphasized that the commissioning of the ultra-modern Adamawa State Police Command Headquarters represents a significant milestone in the Force’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance security operations nationwide.

Seplat Energy Promotes Golf at the 6th Orodje of Okpe Tournament

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago08 mins

Sapele, Nigeria – March 22, 2025 – Seplat Energy, a leading indigenous energy company, reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and sports development as the headline sponsor of the 6th edition of the prestigious Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament. The two-day tournament, held at the historic Sapele Athletic Club from March 21 to March 22, 2025, brought together over 150 golfers from across Nigeria, to compete in a thrilling 18-hole contest. The event, which has continued to grow in prominence on the Nigeria golfing calendar, provided a platform for skillful play, and the promotion of the sport at both professional and grassroots levels. Golfers navigated the challenging fairways and greens, demonstrating precision, strategy, and endurance over the two-day event. Speaking at the tournament, Kingsley Udebor, Base Manager, Western Asset, Seplat Energy, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering community-driven initiatives. “Sapele and environs have been good hosts, and at Seplat Energy, one of our core values is recognizing and supporting the communities that welcome and sustain our operations. Our sponsorship of this tournament aligns with our long-term vision of investing in our host communities, and we are proud to see the tangible results of our continued commitment. We look forward to a time when this tournament will attract players from all over the world, further elevating its status. Beyond golf, our dedication to community development is reflected in initiatives such as the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, as well as the PEARLs Quiz which benefits teachers and students in Delta and Edo States. Additionally, through our ‘Eye Can See’ initiative, we have provided critical eye care services, culminating in the recent donation of a state-of-the-art Eye Centre at Sapele Central Hospital. These initiatives underscore our unwavering commitment to uplifting our host communities across multiple fronts.” His Royal Majesty, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.) the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, represented by Chief Peter Asagba, Duke of Amukpe District, Okpe Kingdom, expressed his appreciation for Seplat Energy’s continued support and the growing stature of the tournament. “The Sapele Athletic Club is the oldest golf club in the country and we hope to elevate the tournament further. Seplat Energy has been supportive and we appreciate their sponsorship of this tournament and their continued presence in our community.” Echoing similar sentiments, Bright Abeke, Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State represented by Raymond Overah, Secretary to the Sapele Local Government Area, underscored the impact of the tournament on local tourism and community engagement. “The Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament continues to grow in prestige, and I must commend all participants for making this edition a remarkable one. Golf is a sport that brings people together, and this tournament is a testament to that. We have seen golfers travel from Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Asaba to compete here. On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Sapele Local Government, I extend our sincere appreciation to Seplat Energy for their commitment and dedication to this tournament. Their investment in this event and the community at large is commendable.” Alexander Verhees Fritz, the Captain of the Sapele Athletic Club highlighted the significance of the event in promoting golf within the region. “The Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament has evolved into one of the most respected golfing events in the country and we are proud of the progress we have made. With over 150 golfers joining us from all over the country, this tournament continues to gain national recognition. Looking ahead, we are eager to continue partnering with Seplat Energy to expand the tournament, and we are hopeful of hosting a Governor’s Cup tournament in the near future to attract even more players and further establish Sapele Athletic Club as a premier golfing destination.” The tournament concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing the exceptional performances of participants across various categories. Some of the winners included John Okojie for the longest drive in the men’s category and Sandra Monica for the longest drive in the ladies’ category. Chief Faith Gbagi emerged as the Super Veteran Winner for men, while Chief Mrs. Oke Gbagi took the Super Veteran Winner title for ladies. Roland Ukpedor claimed victory in the Veteran Guest Men’s category, with Chief Mrs. Ochukor Orogun winning the Veteran Guest Ladies’ category. In the Guest category, Peters Omuaraye emerged as the winner for men, while Destiny Okoh won for ladies. The Veteran Members Men’s category was won by Sir Kofi Ajekuko, and Lucky Akpieyi triumphed in the Veteran Members Ladies’ category. O. Gbagi took home the Ladies Members Winner award, while Stephen Asagba claimed the Men Members Winner title. John Okojie was awarded Best Gross, and Ogaga Kelvin Gagophine secured the Best Nett honor. As the sun set on another successful edition of the Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament, Seplat Energy has demonstrated its commitment to promoting sportsmanship, excellence, and community engagement through golf and other impactful initiatives.

GOtv Boxing Night 33: Nigeria, Ghana Renew Rivalry As Otoo Clash with Osaigbovo

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Top Ghanaian lightweight boxer, Emmanuel Otoo, will face rising Nigeria’s Tosin “Soldier Boy” Osaigbovo, in an international lightweight showdown at GOtv Boxing Night 33, scheduled for April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium Otoo, an experienced campaigner with nine wins and nine knockouts from 15 fights, brings power and grit to the ring as he looks to upset the undefeated Osaigbovo, who boasts a flawless 11-0 record with eight knockouts. The Ghanaian has vowed to make a statement on Nigerian soil, but Osaigbovo remains confident that he will extend his perfect streak in front of his home crowd. The fight will see a renewal of the age-old Nigeria-Ghana sporting rivalry. Beyond this clash, the night promises more fireworks with bouts featuring Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan against Segun Gbobaniyi also in the lightweight division. Also on the card, William “Kaki” Amosu faces Emmanuel “Ability Famous” Abimbola in a light welterweight battle, while national super featherweight champion, Lateef “Latest” Azeez faces Sodiq Oyakojo. GOtv Boxing Night 33 takes place on April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium.