Trendbrio.com

News and Entertainment Update

Live
World
Gaming Icon And Call Of Duty Co-Creator Vince Zampella Dies In Auto Crash 01
02
News
US Announces Partial Visa Ban On Nigerians Effective January 1, 2026
03
Entertainment
Harrison Gwamnishu Breaks Silence After Release From Police Custody
04
Entertainment
Twitch Suspends Carter Efe’s Account Following Viral Davido Livestream
05
News
FG Introduces Mandatory Pre-Employment Drug Testing For Public Service Applicants

Fola Badmus

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

Fola Badmus02 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.

Read More

Ivorian President Ouattara Dispels Coup Rumours, Presides Over Cabinet Meeting

Fola Badmus02 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.

Read More

CAF Unveils ‘New Look’ CAF Champions League Trophy

Fola Badmus15 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.

Read More

Luka Modric Announces Departure from Real Madrid

Fola Badmus03 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.

Read More

Troops Neutralise Terrorists, Recover arms and Amunition

Fola Badmus01 mins

In a decisive blow against terrorism, troops of Operation Hadin Kai , in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have successfully engaged and neutralized several Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in separate operations. On May 21, 2025, troops encountered terrorists attempting to loot food items from a broken-down civilian vehicle in Rann. The swift response of the troops resulted in the elimination of six terrorists and the recovery of some AK 47 rifles with ammunition. In a related development, troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) MOLAI, along with the CJTF, conducted a successful ambush at a terrorist crossing point near Komala, along the Maiduguri-Damboa road. The ambush resulted in the neutralization of some terrorists and the recovery of several motorcycles and IED materials intended for burial by the terrorists.

Read More

Chelle Picks Simon, Musa, Nwabali, Ndidi, 21 Others for Unity Cup Tourney in London

Fola Badmus16 mins

Head Coach Eric Chelle has selected rave-of-the-moment in France, Moses Simon, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ahmed Musa among a total of 25 Super Eagles who will execute this month-end’s Unity Cup Tournament in London. Chelle, who admitted that “we’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” has included a number of standout Nigeria Premier Football League players in the Unity Cup houseparty. Junior Harrison Nduka, captain of the CHAN-bound Super Eagles B and of champions Remo Stars, will seek a slot in the defence that also has Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Igoh Ogbu and fellow home-boys Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Sodiq Ismaila and Waliu Ojetoye, while Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ugwueze will have to contend with Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Chrisantus Uche in midfield. At the fore, Ahmed Musa, Adamu Abubakar and Sikiru Alimi are up against Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Tolu Arokodare and Kelechi Iheanacho. The Unity Cup Tournament, involving Nigeria, Jamaica, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, will be staged at the 17,250-capacity Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London. The tournament will kick off with the first semi-final on Tuesday, 27th May as Trinidad & Tobago tackle Jamaica in the first-ever ‘Trini-Jam’ on UK soil. The following day, three-time African champions Nigeria will take on four-time African champions Ghana in the second semi-final, which will come with all the intrigues and variables of a 74-year rivalry between the two continental giants. All four teams will return on Saturday, 31st May for the grand finale, with the losers of the semi-final fixtures featuring in the third-place game, before the Final to determine The Unity Cup 2025 champions. For the friendly with Russia’s senior men team at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on Friday, 6th June, Chelle has picked a total of 21 players, with captain William Ekong, fellow defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar joining a number of picks from the Unity Cup cohort. SUPER EAGLES FOR UNITY CUP TOURNAMENT: Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic); Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars); Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers); Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars); Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes); Collins Ugwueze (Enugu Rangers) Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars); Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United) Available for training only: Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany) SUPER EAGLES FOR RUSSIA FRIENDLY: Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes) Forwards: Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Sadiq Umar (Valencia CF, Spain)

Read More

NFF President, Gusau, Becomes President of WAFU B

Fola Badmus02 mins

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) was on Monday installed as President of the West African Football Union (Zone B). Gusau’s instalment followed the resignation of the Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association, who left the WAFU B number one seat following his election into the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football two months ago. WAFU B headquarters in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire reported that Gusau “enjoys strong support among the zone’s members to bring continuity and dynamism to WAFU Zone B.” Gusau has been President of the NFF since 30th September 2022, and was First Vice President of WAFU B before this fresh elevation. The instalment comes less than 24 hours after the Nigeria U20 boys, Flying Eagles, won the bronze medals at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations finals in Egypt, with a ticket to the FIFA U20 World Cup finals to boot.

Read More

Proud Aruna Bows Out to Calderano in Doha

Fola Badmus03 mins

Quadri Aruna may have concluded his campaign at the 2025 ITTF World Championships in Doha, Qatar, after a tough fourth-round defeat. The proud Nigerian succumbed to Brazil’s Hugo Calderano in a one-sided Men’s Singles clash at the Lusail Arena on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Billed as one of the tournament’s marquee matchups, the contest fell short of expectations, with Calderano displaying outright dominance from start to finish. The South American star cruised to a commanding 4-0 (11-4, 11-4, 11-4, 11-6) victory to book his place in the quarterfinals. Tactically astute, Calderano effectively neutralized Aruna’s powerful forehand—his most dangerous weapon—by forcing the Nigerian into backhand exchanges, which proved largely ineffective. Despite strategic input and encouragement from his coaching corner, Aruna struggled to find rhythm, committing numerous unforced errors that further tilted momentum toward his opponent. The 22-minute encounter showcased Calderano’s elite technique, including his blistering backhand and explosive forehand topspin, which consistently earned him points. Despite the loss, Aruna continues to make history. At 36, he remains a trailblazer for African table tennis. He became the first African to reach the Round of 16 at the ITTF World Championships twice, following his quarterfinal appearance at the 2021 edition in Houston, USA. In Doha, he was the only African to finish in the top 16, further cementing his legacy. Speaking after the match, Calderano acknowledged the threat posed by Aruna. “It’s never easy to stay at the same level in every competition, especially after winning the ITTF World Cup last month. I had to take some rest and resume training, focused because table tennis is unpredictable. Against someone like Aruna, you always have to be at your best,” Calderano said. Though his journey ends in Doha, Aruna’s impact continues to resonate. His performance remains a source of pride for Nigeria and the African continent.

Read More