2025 | Page 152 of 265 | Trendbrio.com

Trump Accuses South Africa of White Genocide in Tense White House Meeting With Ramaphosa

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

In a contentious Oval Office encounter on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump stunned South African President Cyril Ramaphosa by accusing South Africa of perpetrating a “genocide” against white Afrikaner farmers — a claim long discredited by experts. The meeting, which Ramaphosa hoped would ease tensions between the two nations, quickly spiraled into controversy as Trump presented news clippings and videos, including footage of South Africans singing the anti-apartheid song Dubul’ ibhunu (“Kill the Boer”), to support his allegation. Ramaphosa firmly rejected the accusation, stating, “If there was Afrikaner farmer genocide, I can bet you, these three gentlemen would not be here,” referring to white South Africans Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, and billionaire Johann Rupert, who accompanied him. Experts, including historian Saul Dubow of the University of Cambridge, dismissed Trump’s claims, noting that while South Africa faces high crime rates, the violence is overwhelmingly non-political and disproportionately affects Black citizens. Trump’s dramatic display, which included a dimmed Oval Office and a five-minute video montage, came just weeks after his administration flew 59 white South African “refugees” to the U.S. Meanwhile, critics pointed out the inconsistency of welcoming South African migrants while revoking protections for displaced people from Venezuela, Haiti, Afghanistan, and Cameroon. Some observers linked Trump’s rhetoric to political retaliation over South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. 👉 Continue reading

Barcelona Interested in Rashford and Diaz, Confirms Sporting Director Deco

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed the club’s interest in Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, stating both are admired targets for the Catalan giants. Speaking in an interview with Catalan radio station RAC1, Deco said, “We like Luis [Diaz], we like [Marcus] Rashford, and we like other players. When we go to the market, there are names that we know and that could improve the team.” Rashford, who is under contract with Manchester United until 2028, is expected to make a decision on his future at the end of the current season. Reports suggest he favours a move to a Champions League club and is not keen on relocating to London. Rashford has been sidelined with injury and spent part of the season on loan at Aston Villa. Barcelona’s reported admiration for the players reflects their intent to strengthen the squad with proven attacking talent. However, given financial constraints and long-term contracts of the targets, any potential move could be complicated and depend on summer departures or restructuring within the squad.

Tinubu Approves Maritime Bank Takeoff Appoints Aderogba as Pioneer CEO

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

President Bola Tinubu has approved the long-awaited operational launch of the Regional Maritime Development Bank (RMDB), with Mr. Adeniran Aderogba appointed as its pioneer President and CEO. The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made the announcement on Thursday, describing the development as a historic breakthrough for West and Central Africa after a 16-year delay. The RMDB, originally conceived in 2009 by member states of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), is expected to fund key infrastructure and logistics projects across the sub-region. Oyetola praised President Tinubu’s decisive leadership in breaking the deadlock, noting that the bank’s takeoff aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The RMDB will provide long-term funding solutions for projects including port development, fleet expansion, shipping logistics, and intermodal transport systems. “This is a moment of great significance for Nigeria and the entire sub-region,” Oyetola said, adding that the bank will boost regional integration and economic cooperation. Mr. Aderogba, who brings over three decades of experience in maritime finance and investment, previously held leadership roles at NIMASA, First Atlantic Bank, and MBC International Bank. He is also the founder of CLG Securities Limited and has led over $5 billion in structured finance transactions. A Fellow of ICAN and an alumnus of the University of Lagos, Aderogba’s appointment is seen as pivotal in steering the RMDB towards impactful delivery in the maritime sector.

Tinubu Dismisses One-Party Rule Fears, Earns APC Endorsement for 2027

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed fears that Nigeria is sliding into a one-party state, assuring that democracy remains intact despite the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s growing dominance. Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu said the party’s growing influence was based on visible achievements in less than two years of governance. “A one-party system is not suitable for democracy,” he said, adding, “You don’t expect people to remain in a sinking ship without a life jacket.” At the summit, key APC stakeholders, including the National Assembly leadership, Progressive Governors Forum, and party executives, unanimously endorsed Tinubu for a second term in 2027. The endorsement was formalised by a motion moved by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and seconded by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani. APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje declared Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election. President Tinubu defended tough economic reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and multiple exchange rates, as necessary steps to stabilize the economy and fight corruption. He cited increased foreign investments and the recovery of over 750 properties by the EFCC as early wins. The summit also reviewed progress in key sectors under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including infrastructure, health, and national security.

El-Rufai Endorses Minister Bosun Tijani, Says 2027 Coalition Will Unseat Tinubu

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has endorsed the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, lauding his performance and affirming he would retain his ministerial role if a new opposition coalition succeeds in removing President Bola Tinubu in 2027. El-Rufai made the statement during the second edition of the Arewa Tech Fest in Katsina, where Tijani delivered the keynote address to a gathering of tech innovators, investors, and policy stakeholders. El-Rufai, a central figure in the emerging opposition alliance, explained that his late arrival at the event was due to a late-night political meeting focused on building a broad coalition to challenge Tinubu’s leadership. “We will still keep Bosun Tijani because he is doing good work,” El-Rufai stated, adding that the coalition’s goal is to “send Tinubu back to Lagos” in the next general election. Having reportedly defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in March, El-Rufai is positioning himself as a key opposition strategist. His comments underscore intensifying political realignments and growing momentum among opposition blocs ahead of the 2027 elections.

Ivorian President Ouattara Dispels Coup Rumours, Presides Over Cabinet Meeting

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire made a high-profile public appearance on Wednesday, leading a council of ministers meeting in Abidjan amid swirling social media rumours of a military coup and his alleged death. The Ivorian presidency released official photos showing Ouattara with key cabinet members at the presidential palace, discussing national development issues including electricity diversification and housing reforms. The public outing came in response to widespread false reports circulating on platforms like Facebook, X, and TikTok, which claimed that the military had seized power and that both President Ouattara and Army Chief Lassina Doumbia had been killed. These rumours caused a wave of concern both locally and internationally. However, journalists and authorities in Abidjan firmly dismissed the claims, insisting there was no coup or unrest. Christelle Kouamé, a leading journalist and member of the National Union of Journalists of Côte d’Ivoire, confirmed that the president had recently attended major events and that the internet remained active despite online disinformation. The incident highlights ongoing regional instability, with recent coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, as Côte d’Ivoire prepares to host the African Development Bank’s annual meetings in the coming days.

CAF Unveils ‘New Look’ CAF Champions League Trophy

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago15 mins

The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) has unveiled the new TotalEnergies CAF Champions League trophy together with partners TotalEnergies, marking a bold new chapter in the legacy of Africa’s premier club competition. The unveiling took place at TotalEnergies’ South African Headquarters in Johannesburg and was attended by some of African football legends including Lucas Radebe, Teko Modise and Siphiwe Tshabalala as well as several African football leaders. One of the two Finalists, Mamelodi Sundowns and Pyramids will make history when they lift the new trophy. CAF’s official unveiling of the striking new trophy design is far more than a mere replacement; it represents a powerful evolution of CAF’s commitment to modernisation and innovation. As part of CAF’s broader strategy to rebrand and elevate its Competitions, the new design was conceived to amplify the visual impact of African football’s most coveted prize. “In line with the vision of the CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, we are rebranding and repositioning African football with a special focus on interclub competitions at the moment. This TotalEnergies CAF Champions League trophy reveal reflects our goals and bold steps toward an exciting African club football environment. With this, we aim to elevate the stature of African club competitions to global prominence, strengthen our commercial appeal, and inspire a new generation of footballing talent,” CAF General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba said. “TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa is honoured and privileged to be a part of this historic moment in our country. This goes beyond revealing the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League trophy, it is about celebrating a powerful momentum that brings people together in Africa — a continent where TotalEnergies has long been a dedicated and trusted energy partner. TotalEnergies partnership with CAF reflects our deep-rooted commitment to supporting the growth of a sport that embodies the values we hold dear—diversity, unity, and cohesion. We take pride in what this trophy represents and we are delighted that the ceremony is taking place in South Africa, a reflection of the unbreakable spirit that defines African football,” Mr Aluko said. Thursday’s unveiling builds on the growing excitement across the continent ahead Saturday’s much-anticipated 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final, first leg, between South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns and Pyramids FC of Egypt in Pretoria. The return leg for the prestigious title will be on 1 June in Cairo. The new Trophy draws inspiration from the fierce competition and rich cultural heritage of the continent, the trophy features sleek silver and gold lines, symbolising unity, rivalry, and the competitive balance that defines the tournament. At its peak, the golden sphere – embellished with African symbolism – represents the ultimate prize: victory. The interplay of contrasting silver and gold elements celebrates both the triumph of champions and the honour of worthy opponents, reinforcing the spirit of respect, ambition, and excellence that underscores African football. The redesign mirrors the successful evolution of African football, positioning the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League trophy as a visual icon that reflects the prestige and passion of African club football.

Luka Modric Announces Departure from Real Madrid

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Croatian Luka Modric, Real Madrid player, announced on Thursday his departure from the club after a historic career filled with achievements and trophies. Modric said in an official statement: “The time has come for a moment I never hoped for, but this is football, and everything in life has a beginning and an end. On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu.” He added, “I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and the ambition to achieve great things, but I could not have imagined what would happen next.” He continued: “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I felt proud to have been part of one of the most exciting periods in the club’s history.” He added, “I would like to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially President Florentino Perez, my teammates, the coaches, and everyone who has helped me throughout these years. I have experienced unforgettable moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabeu. We won everything, and I was extremely happy.” He continued, “But beyond the titles and victories, I also carry in my heart the love of all the Real Madrid fans. I don’t know how to describe how connected I am to you, and how much support, respect, and love I have felt and continue to feel. I will never forget every applause and every gesture of affection you have shown me.” He concluded, “I leave with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Although I won’t be wearing this shirt on the pitch after the Club World Cup, I will always be a Real Madrid fan.” The Croatian star joined Real Madrid on August 27, 2012, from Tottenham Hotspur for £30 million.