2025 | Page 31 of 263 | Trendbrio.com

Ruben Amorim: Manchester United will be different this season and I’m excited

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim believes fans can expect a transformed team this season, powered by a dynamic new £200m attack and a renewed sense of belief at Old Trafford Ahead of United’s Premier League clash against Fulham on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports from 4pm, Amorim sat down with Sky Sports News to share his thoughts on the club’s evolution, his approach to criticism, and why this year feels completely different A new-look attack: Sesko, Cunha, Mbeumo After a difficult 2024/25 season in which United scored just 44 goals, only three teams scored fewer, United splashed nearly £200m this summer on forwards Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo Amorim is already impressed “I felt Sesko was even better than what I was thinking,” he said, “He’s football-obsessed, and I believe he’s going to be our striker for many, many years” With Cunha and Mbeumo both offering versatility across the frontline and behind the striker, Amorim is confident this trio will provide the spark United lacked last season The spirit is different After finishing a disappointing 15th last term, Amorim admitted there were moments he entered matches with anxiety, This season, he says, the feeling is gone “Last year, sometimes I was worried going into games, but now I’m excited, it is completely different,” Amorim said “We suffered together so much last season, and that can bond people, The spirit is really good” He added that the arrival of new players, combined with the re-opening of the club’s training ground and a fresh internal culture, has revitalised the mood in the dressing room “The guys feel more free, They weren’t here during the very difficult moments, so they see something different” Responding to pressure: you have to be like a monk Amorim has already had to face scrutiny after goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made a costly error in the season opener against Arsenal, leading to a 1-0 defeat Rather than dwell on mistakes, Amorim is trying to shield his players from the intense media spotlight “The only way to protect myself and my players is to tell them not to see anything, You have to be like a monk,” he said “Altay made one mistake, but last year he had very good performances, I try to tell that to the players and battle the narrative” The long-term plan: in three years, win the title While some fans are hoping for immediate success, Amorim is more measured in his expectations “We are not in a moment where we can say we’re fighting for the league,” he admitted “But success is winning titles, and we want to do that, Not necessarily this season, but in three years we want to win the Premier League” For now, his focus is on small steps, game-by-game preparation, entertaining football, and consistent performances “We want to dominate games, score goals, and not bore our fans, If we tick those boxes, we will be better” Super Sunday test vs Fulham United’s new-look side heads to Craven Cottage on Sunday looking to bounce back from the narrow defeat to Arsenal and kick-start their Premier League campaign With Sesko, Cunha, and Mbeumo leading the line, Amorim believes this season could be the beginning of something special “I’m really happy, not just with Sesko, but with Cunha, Diego Leon, and Mbeumo, We know we have the players, and now we’re building the base” Watch Fulham vs Manchester United

Bill Gates-Backed Company Unveils Animal-Free Butter Made from Carbon

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Batavia, Illinois — In a revolutionary food-tech breakthrough, a company backed by billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has developed a lab-made butter derived entirely from carbon dioxide and hydrogen—without using animals, plants, or oils. The company, Savor, based in Batavia, Illinois, has begun commercial production of the product, which is made using a proprietary thermochemical process. The result is a butter alternative that looks, tastes, and smells like traditional dairy butter but is entirely synthetic and carbon-based. Savor’s innovative approach utilizes captured carbon dioxide and hydrogen in a closed-loop system, reportedly producing zero greenhouse gas emissions while consuming minimal land and water resources—a stark contrast to traditional dairy production. “This is a fundamentally new category of food,” a spokesperson for Savor said. “We’re not imitating butter from cows or plants. We’re building it molecule by molecule using carbon from the air.” Currently, Savor’s butter is being distributed to select restaurants and bakeries, with plans for broader retail availability in the coming years. The development marks a significant milestone in the growing push for climate-friendly and sustainable food alternatives, a movement increasingly backed by venture capital and high-profile investors like Gates. With the global food industry under pressure to reduce emissions and resource use, Savor’s carbon-based butter could signal the beginning of a new era in food innovation—one where taste and sustainability are no longer at odds.

NDLEA Arrests Widow Faking Pregnancy to Traffic Cocaine

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Lagos, Nigeria – Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 50-year-old widow and fashion designer, Mrs. Ifeoma Henrietta Ezewuike, for attempting to traffic 1.3 kilograms of cocaine disguised as a pregnancy. Ezewuike, owner of Golden Star Creation on Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, was intercepted at a bus terminal in Jibowu, Yaba, on Friday, August 22, while en route to deliver the illicit consignment to clients in Abuja. A follow-up search of her residence led to the recovery of 200 grams of a cutting agent commonly used in cocaine processing. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to inheriting the drug trade from her late husband. The arrest is part of an intensified nationwide anti-drug operation by the NDLEA targeting trafficking networks, illegal plantations, and urban distribution cells. Nationwide Crackdown Yields Massive Seizures In Lagos, NDLEA operatives also seized 90 parcels of Loud cannabis, weighing 48.6kg, concealed in three cartons of imported kitchen sinks from the United States. In Abuja, two dispatch riders were apprehended in the Jabi area while distributing illicit substances within the Federal Capital Territory. In Kano, a significant haul of 452,070 opioid pills was recovered from the residence of a suspect who is currently on the run. Several others were arrested in possession of codeine syrup, tramadol, and pregabalin capsules. In Adamawa, a raid on the home of a known drug dealer led to the recovery of 354,480 tramadol pills and the seizure of two vehicles believed to be used for drug distribution. Major Cannabis Plantations Destroyed In coordinated operations across Delta, Ondo, Edo, and Taraba States — supported by military and civil defence personnel — NDLEA teams destroyed more than 75,000 kilograms of cannabis (skunk) cultivated on plantations spanning over 25 hectares. Marwa Commends Officers’ Efforts Chairman of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), lauded the agency’s operatives for their diligence and courage. He urged officers to sustain the agency’s balanced approach in the ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), which combines enforcement with prevention, rehabilitation, and public education. “The agency’s operations are yielding results, but the fight must continue on all fronts — from arrests to awareness,” Marwa said. The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and safeguarding Nigerian communities from the scourge of illicit drug abuse and trafficking.

Tensions Rise Within ADC Coalition as Atiku, Obi Stall on Membership Ahead of 2027 Elections

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

With the 2027 general elections drawing closer, uncertainty looms within the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition as the much-anticipated membership of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi remains unresolved, casting doubt on the coalition’s momentum and strategic direction. Multiple high-level sources within the coalition, who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the delay by Atiku, Obi, and other political heavyweights in formally joining the ADC has stalled the party’s growth and weakened its position as a unified alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Further complicating the party’s outlook are administrative and legal setbacks, including the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) delayed recognition of Senator David Mark as ADC National Chairman. Legal disputes and limited funding have also reportedly hampered operational activities across the country. Despite growing concerns, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, insisted the coalition remains united and on course. “We are not disturbed over Atiku and Obi’s delayed membership. Nothing has changed; both of them are very much with the coalition,” he told Sunday PUNCH. “Anyone telling you otherwise is misinformed.” The coalition, unveiled in Abuja on March 20, was established to form a credible opposition front ahead of 2027. The initiative gained national attention following a July 1 meeting where Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other key figures endorsed the ADC as the coalition’s political platform. The party is currently under the interim leadership of Senator David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary. However, several insiders say the lack of formal membership from Atiku and Obi has discouraged other potential entrants and hampered the coalition’s credibility. “Members of the party, especially the National Working Committee, are seriously concerned,” a senior coalition official told Sunday PUNCH. “Atiku left the PDP over a month ago but has yet to officially join us. Obi also hasn’t made a move. Their absence is stalling the momentum and discouraging others from coming onboard.” The official added that while coalition leaders remain committed to challenging the APC in 2027, doubts persist over whether the current structure is strong enough to mount a serious challenge without firm commitments from major players. “If these figures had joined, the ADC would already have gathered significant momentum. Their presence would have brought resources, credibility, and mass followership. For now, things remain uncertain.” Another top coalition figure linked some of the party’s setbacks to political interference and unresolved legal issues. “INEC’s delay in recognising David Mark’s leadership and ongoing court cases—some believed to be government-sponsored—are slowing us down,” the source alleged. Despite the turbulence, he expressed confidence in the party’s long-term viability. “The ADC remains a formidable platform. Nigerians are gradually accepting it as a credible alternative to the APC. We believe Atiku and Obi will join fully in due time.” In response to enquiries, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, affirmed the former Vice President’s commitment to the coalition and confirmed that steps toward formal registration with the ADC are underway. “Atiku is not contemplating leaving the coalition,” Ibe said. “The party is being established across the country, and registration is ongoing. His membership is a process, and it’s in motion. He remains committed to the coalition’s vision to rescue Nigeria.” Efforts to reach Peter Obi’s associate and Obidient Movement coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, for comment were unsuccessful as calls to his phone went unanswered. As the opposition navigates these internal hurdles, political analysts warn that time is running short for the coalition to solidify its base, unify its ranks, and present a cohesive challenge in 2027.

India Passes Landmark Law Banning Online Gambling Amid Mounting Losses

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

New Delhi, India – India’s parliament has passed a landmark bill banning online gambling, following alarming government figures that estimate betting platforms have drained over $2.3 billion annually from nearly 450 million Indians. The new legislation, called the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, was passed by both houses of parliament late Thursday. It criminalises the offering, promotion, and financing of online gambling and fantasy money games, with violators facing up to five years in prison. The ban will impact platforms offering real-money card games, poker, and fantasy sports—most notably India’s wildly popular fantasy cricket apps. Uncertain Future for Cricket Sponsorships The move throws into question the future of major sponsorships, including Dream11, India’s largest fantasy sports platform, which became the lead sponsor of the national cricket team in July 2023, with its branding prominently featured on Team India jerseys. As of Friday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had made no formal announcement about Dream11’s sponsorship status. “If it’s not permissible, we’ll not do anything,” said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. “The BCCI will follow every policy of the country that is framed by the central government.” In response to the bill, Dream11 announced that all cash games and contests have been discontinued, though non-cash games remained accessible as the bill awaits formal ratification by the President. Curbing Addiction and Financial Harm A government statement described the bill as a response to the rise of “predatory gaming platforms”, which officials say exploit users with false promises of quick wealth, leading to addiction, financial distress, and even suicides. “This legislation is designed to curb addiction, financial ruin, and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms,” the statement read. Government data also links the online gambling industry to fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing. Exceptions for E-Sports and Education The bill excludes e-sports and educational games, which the government has pledged to promote under India’s digital economy strategy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the legislation, saying it would “encourage e-sports and online social games” while protecting society from “the harmful effects of online money games.” Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the law makes a clear distinction between games of skill and chance: “It promotes constructive digital recreation and separates it from gambling, betting, and fantasy money games that exploit users.” Industry Pushback and Warnings India is home to one of the world’s largest online gaming markets. Industry groups had lobbied for regulation and taxation, warning that a blanket ban could push users to illegal offshore platforms. But supporters of the law argue that the social and economic costs are far too great to allow the industry to continue unchecked. The legislation marks a decisive shift in India’s digital policy, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens while promoting responsible digital engagement.

Israeli attacks kill 51 in Gaza as more Palestinians die from starvation

Israeli Attacks Kill 51 in Gaza as Starvation Deaths Rise Amid Declared Famine

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

Gaza Strip – At least 51 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military attacks across the Gaza Strip, including 16 civilians seeking humanitarian aid, amid mounting concerns over famine and worsening conditions in the besieged enclave. According to medical sources, Israeli artillery shelled tents sheltering displaced families in the Asdaa area northwest of Khan Younis, southern Gaza, killing 16 people, including six children, on Saturday. Elsewhere: Hunger Crisis Deepens Gaza’s Health Ministry also reported eight new starvation-related deaths, including two children, over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of malnutrition-related fatalities to 281 since the onset of the humanitarian crisis. Of those, at least 114 were children, according to Munir al-Bursh, Director-General of the ministry. “The famine is silently ravaging the bodies of civilians, depriving children of their right to life, and turning tents and hospitals into daily scenes of tragedy,” al-Bursh wrote on social media. The United Nations on Friday formally declared a famine in Gaza – the first time such a classification has been made in the Middle East. The declaration follows months of warnings from humanitarian agencies and growing accusations that Israel is obstructing aid. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the crisis as a “man-made disaster,” while the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) said over 514,000 Palestinians are already facing famine-level hunger. That number could rise to 641,000 by the end of September. Mounting Death Toll, Aid Blockades Gaza’s Health Ministry says more than 2,076 Palestinians have been killed and over 15,300 injured while seeking aid since Israel implemented its “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation” (GHF) mechanism on May 27 — a unilateral aid system backed by the US and Israel but rejected by the UN and major relief groups. In total, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza — launched after the October 2023 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel — has killed more than 62,600 Palestinians, according to health officials in the territory. “Engineering of Starvation” In a statement, the Palestinian Health Ministry welcomed the famine declaration but criticized the timing: “We emphasise that the engineering of starvation is one aspect of the chapters of genocide, which also include the systematic destruction of the health sector, mass killing, and the policy of exterminating generations,” the ministry said on Telegram. Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary, reporting from Deir el-Balah, said many Gazans believe the UN famine declaration came too late. “They have been witnessing weeks and months of this ongoing starvation,” she said. Amid widespread destruction, collapsed infrastructure, and dwindling humanitarian access, the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza continues to escalate, with hundreds of thousands facing the daily threat of starvation, bombardment, and displacement.

PDP Governors Condemn Killings Across Nigeria, Back Party Leadership Ahead of National Convention

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

Gusau, Zamfara State – The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the spate of killings, kidnappings, and destruction of property in several Nigerian states, including Zamfara, Katsina, Plateau, Niger, and Benue. The governors also denounced what they described as the militarisation of recent by-elections in seven states, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of undermining democratic values and intensifying the country’s hardship. Speaking to journalists after the Forum’s 7th meeting of 2025 held in Zamfara State, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, outlined the resolutions reached by PDP governors and reaffirmed their commitment to national unity and democratic governance. “The Forum particularly commends initiatives by the government of Zamfara State in significantly curbing insecurity within the state,” Governor Mohammed said. “However, we condemn the continued monstrous killings in Katsina, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and other parts of the country, and call on the federal government to be more responsive to the lives and properties of the citizenry.” Support for Party Leadership and Convention Plans The PDP Governors reiterated their unwavering support for the party’s leadership, praising their resilience in the face of orchestrated defections and increasing political intimidation. “The Forum passed a vote of confidence on PDP leaders and assures them of continued support. The current wave of defections has not weakened our resolve,” Mohammed stated. “The PDP remains deeply rooted in the hearts of Nigerians. We urge party faithful to remain steadfast and believe in our shared vision.” On preparations for the PDP National Convention scheduled for November 15, the Forum reaffirmed its commitment to the resolutions of the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in July. “The Forum appeals to all aggrieved members to sheath their swords in the interest of unity and progress. We urge members to resist any attempt by anti-party forces to derail the upcoming convention,” he added. On Security and Governance The Forum praised Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State for his efforts to restore peace and rebuild public infrastructure amid security challenges. “We commend the Governor’s exemplary leadership in security, infrastructure, education, and social services,” the Forum stated. “Zamfara feels like home away from home. We thank the government and people of the state for the uncommon hospitality extended to us during this meeting.” Condolences and Solidarity The PDP Governors also extended condolences to the Government and people of Zamfara on the passing of the Emir of Gusau, and to the Government and people of Oyo State over the recent loss of traditional rulers. A Call to Uphold Democracy In a final note, the Forum reiterated its commitment to rescuing Nigeria from hardship and insecurity, blaming APC-led policies for rising poverty, division, and democratic backsliding. “The Forum urges Nigerians to hold fast to the principles of the PDP. The growing intimidation of the opposition reflects the desperation of a party with no clear agenda and no vision,” Governor Mohammed concluded.

China, India Watch Closely as Myanmar Rebels Advance on Strategic Western Frontier

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Rakhine State, Myanmar – The Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic armed group in Myanmar, has seized control of 14 out of 17 townships in Rakhine State, escalating a pivotal chapter in the country’s ongoing civil war and drawing the attention of regional powers China and India. Flush with military victories, the AA has vowed to capture the rest of Rakhine, including the state capital, Sittwe, and Kyaukphyu, a port town central to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Analysts say the group may soon launch a monsoon offensive to secure its position before critical military resources deplete. The strategic advances come amid growing humanitarian and political concerns, including accusations of abuses against Rohingya civilians, soaring prices, and mass displacement. The United Nations estimates over two million people in Rakhine face starvation as the junta imposes supply blockades. Residents describe lawlessness in Sittwe, now accessible only by air and sea. “They’re like gangsters breaking into homes in broad daylight,” one evacuee said. The Arakan Army’s military and political wing, the United League of Arakan (ULA), claims it is liberating the region from military occupation. However, international observers warn of a worsening crisis for Rohingya communities, with some reports alleging massacres and forced recruitment — claims the AA denies. Strategic Stakes for China and India Rakhine’s coastal towns have become flashpoints not only in Myanmar’s internal conflict but also in regional geopolitics. Control over these assets could allow the AA to tax regional trade, repositioning it as a powerful actor in the region. The Next Phase of War With an estimated 40,000 fighters, the AA is now the country’s largest ethnic armed force. Military analyst Anthony Davis warns that a decisive battle for Kyaukphyu could become “one of the most consequential and costliest campaigns” in the war. While the Myanmar military regains territory elsewhere and prepares for widely criticized elections in December, the AA continues to consolidate influence across Rakhine and beyond. The Institute for Strategy and Policy – Myanmar notes the AA’s growing alliances and reach, especially among the country’s youth fighters. However, the situation remains volatile. The AA’s ULA calls for vigilance, warning against the junta’s historical “divide and rule” tactics. “This time, we are confident that the resistance forces can achieve meaningful change in the country,” said a ULA representative.