Nigeria, Egypt Book World Para Championships Tickets

Nigeria and Egypt reaffirm their continental dominance, winning multiple gold medals at the 2025 ITTF-Africa Para Championships, which came to an end on Sunday, November 23, 2025, in Giza, Egypt. The championships, which brought together top competitors from across the continent, including host nation Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, Cameroon, and Côte d’Ivoire, also served as a qualifier to the 2026 World Championships in Bangkok, Thailand. Nigeria finished slightly ahead with six gold medals, while Egypt secured five. Côte d’Ivoire also impressed, with Bayala Jean Pierre’s spirited silver medal in the singles, adding depth to the event. 2024 Paralympics bronze medallist, Ogunkunle Isau, led the charge in the Men’s Singles Classes 4–5. Adesope Abiola Wali, Farinloye Victor, and Lawal Kehinde added to Nigeria’s gold tally with victories in their respective singles categories. Isau once again stepped up by excelling in mixed doubles with Oputa Kate, winning the Mixed Doubles class 10 title, while Adesope Abiola Wali and Kehinde finished first in the Mixed Doubles classes 14–20 category. Egypt’s campaign was marked by dominant singles victories, including Ramadan Khaled’s triumph over compatriot Elmahsy Ahmed in the Men’s Singles Classes 1–3, Youssef Sayed’s commanding win against Abdelmoneim Abousteit in the Men’s Singles Classes 6–7, and further golds from Abdelwahab Abdelrahman and Mahmoud Faiza in the women’s classes 1-5. The host’s doubles strength was also evident as Sayed teamed up with Abdelwahab Abdelrahman to clinch the Men’s Doubles Class MD18 title in a hard-fought 3–2 battle against Nigeria’s duo Adesope Abiola Wali and Agunbiade Tajudeen on the final day. Speaking after the conclusion of the championships, Tournament Director Amr Fahmy described the event as a resounding success. He noted that the level of competition continues to improve, with more athletes participating each year. “We are hopeful that future editions will attract even greater participation, which will further enhance the growth and stature of this championship,” Fahmy said. By the close of the competition, eight qualification slots to Bangkok 2026 had been secured, while additional slots will be earned through African rankings in 2026 according to the ITTF rules, ensuring broader representation and opportunity for athletes across the continent.

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Catholic Releases Names of 265 St. Mary’s School Students and Teachers Still in Captivity

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora in Niger State has released the names of 265 students and teachers still in captivity following an attack on St. Mary’s School, Papiri. On November 21, armed men stormed the school, abducting 315 people, including 303 students and 12 teachers. According to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, 50 students managed to escape on Sunday. On Monday, the diocese published a list of those still held: 239 students from nursery and primary schools, 14 secondary school students, and 12 teachers, totaling 265 individuals. Niger State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, stated that security forces are working tirelessly to secure the safe release of the abducted students and staff. The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has also called on the public to pray for the safe return of all those kidnapped.

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Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Calls On FG To License Firearms Amid Rising Insecurity

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, has urged the Federal Government to consider allowing citizens to own firearms if it cannot guarantee their safety. Speaking on Monday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Rhodes-Vivour highlighted the surge in kidnappings and general insecurity across the country. “This is not just about the north. Over the weekend, we witnessed abductions in Kwara and Ogun States. The breakdown of institutions and loss of public trust make people lose faith in the government,” he said. He added, “I am raising this because of the government’s failure. If it cannot act decisively, then it should start considering licensing firearms for citizens.” Rhodes-Vivour warned that repeated lapses in security could force Nigerians to take matters into their own hands and cautioned that short-term government responses would not stop people from seeking long-term self-protection. He described leaving citizens defenseless amid escalating threats as “wickedness,” emphasizing the government’s responsibility to protect its people.

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns To Senate After Serving Six-Month Suspension

Federal High Court Adjourns Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Cybercrime Trial to February 2026

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday adjourned the trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for alleged cybercrime to February 4, 2026. The hearing, which was scheduled for Monday before Justice Mohammed Umar, could not proceed due to the judge’s absence. The trial, initially set to begin on February 4, 2025, had previously faced multiple delays. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), proceedings were also stalled on October 21 following a protest led by Mr. Omoyele Sowore demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who was recently convicted on terrorism charges. Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar, and granted bail. Justice Umar initially adjourned the trial to September 22, 2025, for the commencement of proceedings. However, on the last scheduled date, the defence raised a preliminary objection just as the prosecution was about to call its first witness. Defence counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, argued that the objection, which challenges the court’s jurisdiction, must be resolved before the trial could proceed. He contended that the case involves an abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation and that the defence had not been served with statements of the prosecution’s witnesses. Although the prosecution, led by David Kaswe, argued against halting the trial, Justice Umar ruled that the objection must first be addressed before any further steps could be taken. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan faces charges under the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention, etc. (Amendment) Act 2024. She is accused of transmitting false and injurious information electronically to malign, incite, and endanger lives and public order. The allegations stem from statements she reportedly made on April 4 in Ihima, Kogi, and in a television interview, claiming that Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed former Governor Yahaya Bello to have her killed.

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US, Nigeria Agrees To Boost Security Collaboration With Intelligence Sharing And Military Support

The United States and the Federal Government of Nigeria have agreed to strengthen security cooperation, with commitments to expand intelligence sharing and provide military support for nationwide counter-terrorism and counter-extremism operations. The agreement follows a series of high-level meetings in Washington last week between senior Nigerian officials and key US Government agencies, aimed at deepening defence ties and exploring new areas of collaboration. The Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, met with officials from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense. Other members included Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, said the meetings provided an opportunity to address misconceptions about Nigeria’s security situation, including claims of genocide, and to emphasize that violence affects multiple religious and ethnic communities. “The discussions allowed us to correct misconceptions, foster a solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforce mutual trust, and advance a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt,” Onanuga said. He added that the US has expressed willingness to provide complementary support, including humanitarian aid for affected populations and technical assistance to enhance early-warning systems. Both countries have agreed to implement a non-binding cooperation framework immediately and to establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate actions in priority areas. The Nigerian government also reiterated its commitment to improving civilian protection and addressing concerns around religious freedom and security. “The Federal Government recognizes the heightened sensitivities surrounding religious freedom and security and assures citizens that firm, urgent, and coordinated measures are being taken to safeguard the nation,” Onanuga concluded.

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Reggae Pioneer Jimmy Cliff Dies At 81, Leaving Enduring Musical Legacy

Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican singer and songwriter whose music helped propel the genre onto the global stage, has died at the age of 81. His family announced the news on Monday via his official Instagram account. In a touching statement, his wife, Latifa Chambers, revealed that Cliff passed away following a seizure and complications from pneumonia. “It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who shared his journey with him,” she wrote. “To all his fans around the world, your support was his strength throughout his career. He truly appreciated every fan’s love. I also want to thank Dr. Couceyro and the medical team for their support during this difficult time. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes. Please respect our privacy during these hard times. Further information will be provided later. See you, and we see you, Legend.” Cliff, born James Chambers in 1944 in St. James, Jamaica, was one of reggae’s most influential figures. He had his first hit at just 14 with Hurricane Hattie and went on to release iconic songs such as Many Rivers to Cross, You Can Get It If You Really Want, and The Harder They Come, which introduced millions to Jamaica’s vibrant music and culture. His starring role in the 1972 film The Harder They Come and its internationally acclaimed soundtrack are credited with bringing reggae to the world long before Bob Marley’s global fame. Over his career, Cliff won two Grammy Awards, received seven nominations, and in 2010, became one of only two Jamaicans inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside Bob Marley, an honor presented by Wyclef Jean. His music crossed borders and genres, with collaborations including Paul Simon and the Rolling Stones, and covers of his songs by Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, and others. Bob Dylan hailed his song Vietnam as “the greatest protest song ever written.” Despite his long career and global acclaim, Cliff remained dedicated to his craft. After releasing his Grammy-winning 2012 album Rebirth, he reflected, “I feel I have not completed what I’m here on this planet to do. I have to say what I have to say and do what I have to do via music and films. Every morning I wake up, that keeps me going.” Jimmy Cliff leaves behind a legacy as a pioneering artist whose music and storytelling shaped the global appreciation of reggae.

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Adekunle Gold’s Daughter Adejare Melts Hearts With Adorable Stage Introduction In London

Adekunle Gold’s London show became an unforgettable evening when his daughter, Adejare, joined him on stage to introduce him to the crowd. In a video that has gone viral, Adejare held the microphone confidently and spoke to the audience: “Ladies and gentlemen, you look beautiful today, all of you, every one of you. Thank you for coming to my daddy’s show. I introduce to you, my daddy, Adekunle Gold.” Each pause in her words was met with cheers and applause, showing just how captivated the audience was. Her charming introduction set the tone for the performance, creating one of the most heartwarming moments of the concert. Cutest moment on stage! Adekunle Gold getting introduced by his daughter, Deja, is pure sweetness.#AdekunleGold #Deja #FatherDaughterMoment #AGBaby #CuteMoments #LiveShow #StageMagic #CelebrityFamily #WholesomeVibes pic.twitter.com/9zs2qmA0VN — Glide Nigeria (@glidenigeria) November 24, 2025

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South-West Governors To Hold Emergency Meeting In Ibadan Over Rising Security Concerns

Governors of Nigeria’s South-West region are set to convene an urgent meeting in Ibadan on Monday to address critical issues affecting the zone, with security challenges taking centre stage. The meeting, to be held behind closed doors at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, will be hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. All six governors from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti are expected to attend. According to sources, the session was hastily arranged to discuss strategies for curbing rising security threats, accelerate infrastructural projects, and enhance regional cooperation under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN). Officials are also expected to review the performance of existing joint security efforts, including the Amotekun Corps, with plans to strengthen its capacity to respond effectively to emerging challenges.

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