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Morocco 2025: Super Eagles Target Fourth Crown as Biggest AFCON Kicks Off 01
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Tinubu Warns Governors of Federal Intervention Over Local Government Financial Autonomy
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Fantana Slams Diamond Platnumz for Mentioning Her Name at Juma Jux Concert
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Fola Badmus

FCT Administration Under Wike Restates Ban on Smartphones, Allows Only ‘Torchlight Phones’ During Work Hours

Fola Badmus03 mins

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its prohibition on the use of smartphones and other smart devices by staff on Grade Level 14 and below during official working hours, SaharaReporters has learnt. The directive, issued through a circular dated November 28, 2025, applies to all personnel of the Department of Land Administration and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS). Signed by Amaka Ezike, Assistant Director (Administration), on behalf of the Acting Director of Administration, the memo states that full enforcement of the policy will begin on Monday, December 1, 2025. According to the circular, the ban covers smartphones, smartwatches, and all internet-enabled devices, which staff are no longer permitted to use or possess within office premises while on duty. To ensure compliance, secured storage cabinets have been provided where affected staff must deposit their devices upon arrival. Access to these gadgets will only be permitted during designated break periods. The memo also referenced a staff general meeting held on November 18, 2025, where workers reportedly agreed that only basic “torchlight phones” without internet capability would be allowed for essential communication. “Affected officers are hereby reminded of our collective resolution that only torchlight phones without any internet facilities will be allowed for communication during office hours,” the circular read. It further warned that any violation of the policy would attract appropriate disciplinary action. Management staff have also been directed to ensure strict compliance among their subordinates. Earlier this month, SaharaReporters reported that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike ordered a sweeping ban on mobile phone use among AGIS and Land Administration staff. The initial directive, issued by AGIS Director Chijioke Nwankwoeze, prohibited officers on Grade Level 14 and below from entering office premises with their phones beginning November 12, 2025. The policy, which has generated significant debate, is being justified by authorities as a measure to improve productivity and reduce data leaks within critical land administration units.

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Anthony Joshua Losing to Jake Paul Would Be “The End for Boxing,” Says Eddie Hearn

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Promoter Eddie Hearn has issued a dramatic warning ahead of Anthony Joshua’s upcoming heavyweight showdown with Jake Paul, insisting that a loss for the former world champion would be catastrophic for the sport. Joshua and Paul are set to meet on December 19 in Miami, in a fight that has generated massive global attention. While Paul has transitioned from YouTuber to professional boxer with 13 fights under his belt, he now faces an Olympic gold medallist and two-time heavyweight world champion in Joshua. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hearn said he cannot imagine a scenario in which Joshua loses — and suggested that such an upset would force the entire sport into embarrassment. “If I’m wrong, I think my time’s up. Not just AJ and me retire — I think we should all retire,” Hearn declared. “So AJ, the weight of boxing is on your shoulders, my man.” “This Would Be a Straightforward Obliteration” — Hearn Despite acknowledging Paul as a “top 50 cruiserweight,” Hearn was blunt about the skill gap between the fighters. “I don’t think any non-world-class cruiserweight can step up to heavyweight and beat Anthony Joshua,” Hearn said. “I really believe this is going to be a straightforward obliteration.” Hearn also emphasized that the bout is a legitimate, fully sanctioned contest. “Fair play to Jake Paul — he’s signed up for a real fight. But within less than a minute, he’s going to be thinking: ‘What on earth have I done?’” Jake Paul Eyes Fury Next Paul has remained defiant in the face of widespread skepticism. During the press conference, he boldly predicted: “I’m knocking AJ out… and then fighting Tyson Fury in 2026.” The American entertainer-turned-boxer has been gradually building his résumé, but many analysts believe he is now entering completely unfamiliar territory by facing a top-level heavyweight. Joshua Expected to Finish Fight Early Hearn said Joshua has no intention of dragging the fight out. “AJ’s not capable of hanging around. The minute he smells weakness or blood, he’s letting his hands go… and that’s a major problem for Jake Paul.” He suggested that Joshua should finish the fight inside two rounds. “Two rounds is fair. I’d be disappointed if AJ didn’t get him out of there in two.” The bout is one of the most talked-about matchups of the year, blending star power, controversy, and high stakes — with Hearn insisting that Joshua’s victory is essential to protect the reputation of the sport itself.

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Gunmen Kill Three Immigration Officers in Fresh Kebbi Border Attack

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Gunmen suspected to be members of the Lakurawa terrorist group have attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) checkpoint in Bakin Ruwa, along the Maje border in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing three officers. The attack, which occurred around midnight on Wednesday, has intensified fear and tension among residents of border communities already grappling with insecurity. Multiple local sources told Channels Television that the assailants stormed the immigration checkpoint unexpectedly and opened fire on officers on duty, killing three instantly. A security source revealed that the attackers escaped through nearby bushes, making it difficult for security agencies to track them. The spokesperson for the Kebbi State Police Command, Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the incident but said details were still sketchy. Efforts to obtain an official response from the Nigeria Immigration Service in the state were unsuccessful, as officers were not reachable at the time of filing this report. However, residents and security personnel in Bagudo, who spoke anonymously, confirmed the deadly raid. This latest assault comes barely three weeks after gunmen killed a Nigeria Customs Service officer in a separate attack along the same border axis. “The terrorists came in large numbers and started shooting sporadically. Everyone ran for safety,” a local resident recounted. The attackers reportedly set the Customs camp ablaze during that earlier incident, leaving several official vehicles destroyed. The repeated assaults have raised serious concerns over mounting insecurity along the Nigeria–Benin border corridor in Bagudo. The Lakurawa gang is believed to be responsible for multiple violent attacks across Kebbi State, targeting both security personnel and civilians. While the motive behind the latest attack remains unclear, security authorities say investigations are ongoing.

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Obasanjo: Nigerians Have the Right to Seek International Help if Government Fails to Protect Them

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the government fails in its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property. Obasanjo made the statement during the 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carol held at the Ten Commandments Altar in Jos, where he served as a special guest at the invitation of the Plateau State Government. Speaking on the rising insecurity across the country, the former president said Nigerians should not feel compelled to apologise for seeking external support when internal mechanisms fail. “If our government cannot do it, we have the right to call on the international community to do for us what our government cannot do, and we should have no apology for that,” he said. Highlighting the capabilities of modern surveillance technology such as satellites and drones, Obasanjo questioned why criminals continue to operate freely and evade accountability. “Why are we apologising? Why are we negotiating? The government must stop the killing of Nigerians. We are being killed, we are tired, and we want the killing to stop,” he added. Obasanjo further expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and urged authorities to take decisive action to restore peace and stability across Nigeria.

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Chelsea vs Arsenal: Premier League Showdown Set to Shape Title Race

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The Premier League’s most anticipated clash of the season takes place on Sunday as leaders Arsenal travel to second-placed Chelsea in a match that could transform the title race — or push the Gunners closer to ending their two-decade wait for a league crown. Arsenal hold a six-point advantage at the top heading into the weekend. With Liverpool collapsing in form and Manchester City struggling to keep pace, the title appears increasingly within Arsenal’s grasp. Chelsea, however, remain their closest challengers. Fresh off winning the FIFA Club World Cup and boasting a squad assembled at a cost exceeding $1bn, Enzo Maresca’s youthful side is pushing well ahead of expectations. The Blues head into the derby on a three-match winning run and have won nine of their last 11 matches in all competitions, losing only once. Arteta’s side is unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions, winning 14 of them. Widely regarded as one of the strongest squads in Europe, Arsenal have shown consistency that has escaped their main rivals. Arteta: Chelsea “fully deserve” their spot Despite Chelsea being labelled outsiders for the title, Mikel Arteta is not buying into that narrative. “They are there because they fully deserve to be,” Arteta said on Friday. “The squad they have assembled, the quality they have, the numbers they’re producing — it makes sense. They’re very tough.” Arteta called Chelsea one of the teams he most enjoys watching due to their fluidity, individual brilliance and tactical clarity. “It’s a big London derby. They’re in really good form. We know the challenge — and the opportunity — on Sunday. We are fully ready.” Are Chelsea Arsenal’s biggest threat? This match represents the most difficult test yet for Chelsea’s title aspirations. Eighteen-year-old Brazilian sensation Estevao, with nine goals in his last 13 appearances for club and country, has been a revelation. His arrival from Palmeiras has added dynamism and unpredictability to Chelsea’s attack. With Liverpool in crisis — having lost nine of their last 12 matches — and Manchester City’s inconsistency continuing, Chelsea appear the only team capable of sustaining a push against Arsenal. City, however, could climb temporarily into second place if they defeat Leeds United on Saturday. Recent history After finishing runners-up for three consecutive seasons, optimism is building that Arsenal may finally reclaim the trophy. Chelsea’s last match Chelsea delivered one of their best performances of the season on Tuesday, beating Barcelona 3–0 in the Champions League. Maresca, in his second Premier League campaign, continues to blend youthful talent with an evolving tactical identity. Sunday’s encounter at Stamford Bridge now stands as a pivotal moment in the Premier League narrative — one that could define the season’s closing months.

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Zelenskyy’s Top Aide Resigns After Home Search by Anticorruption Investigators

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the resignation of his powerful chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, amid an escalating corruption investigation that has shaken Kyiv and raised concerns among Western allies. The announcement came on Friday, just hours after Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) searched Yermak’s apartment in connection with an ongoing inquiry. “The Office of the President of Ukraine will be reorganised. The head of the office, Andriy Yermak, has submitted his resignation,” Zelenskyy said in a televised address, adding that consultations on a possible replacement would begin on Saturday. Yermak, a central figure in Ukraine’s wartime diplomacy and the president’s closest adviser, confirmed earlier that investigators had searched his home, saying he was fully cooperating. “There are no obstacles for the investigators. They have been given full access… my lawyers are cooperating with law enforcement,” he wrote on social media. NABU and SAPO said the search was authorised and linked to an active investigation, though the details of the case were not immediately disclosed. Wider corruption probe The search follows a sweeping investigation unveiled earlier this month into an alleged $100m kickback scheme involving Energoatom, Ukraine’s state nuclear power operator. The probe has implicated former senior officials and Tymur Mindich, a past business partner of Zelenskyy. The developments come as Kyiv faces mounting pressure from the administration of US President Donald Trump to accept a revised peace proposal aimed at ending the four-year war with Russia. Ukraine and European allies have expressed concerns that earlier versions of the US plan included concessions favourable to Moscow. Political pressure rising Zelenskyy is also facing domestic criticism, with opposition lawmakers faulting Yermak’s influential role in peace negotiations and calling for greater political transparency. Despite the turmoil, Zelenskyy urged unity:“Russia very much wants Ukraine to make mistakes. There will be no mistakes on our part. Our work continues.” A key but controversial figure Yermak, 54, a former film producer and copyright lawyer, has been widely regarded as the second-most powerful man in Ukraine. Since joining Zelenskyy’s political circle in 2019, he has acted as the president’s gatekeeper and chief strategist, playing a crucial role in shaping diplomacy, security policy and wartime negotiations. His resignation comes at a critical moment, as Ukrainian, US and European officials work to refine a potential peace framework and as Russia intensifies military and political pressure. According to Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Kyiv, Yermak’s departure marks a serious setback:“It couldn’t be more critical for Ukraine. It is negotiating its very survival as a sovereign nation.” The corruption investigation, meanwhile, continues. Authorities say Mindich is suspected of orchestrating the alleged Energoatom scheme, which remains under intensive scrutiny.

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NFF Apologises to Tinubu, FG, Nigerians on Super Eagles’ World Cup Setback

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The Nigeria Football Federation wishes to openly and sincerely apologise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), to the Federal Government as a whole; and to millions of Nigerians, most especially our passionate, loyal football fans, following the Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.   Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat remains a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football. For a nation where the Super Eagles serve as a symbol of unity, hope, and collective pride, missing out on the World Cup for a second consecutive time is a disappointment of great weight and emotional depth.   The NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the gravity of this moment. We understand the expectations Nigerians rightly hold. We understand the passion and sacrifice of a country that has always stood firmly behind its team, through triumphs and trials. And we recognise that our collective effort did not deliver the outcome this nation deserved.   In the dressing room after the match, the pain among the players was palpable. Many struggled to speak.   Throughout the long journey of this qualification campaign, we were privileged to receive enormous support from the Federal Government through the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, key Ministries, Departments and Agencies, our diplomatic missions, the media, and, above all, the passionate fans whose devotion remains unmatched anywhere in the world.   Football in Nigeria is more than a game. It is a national language. A bridge across cultures, a source of pride and emotional identity. A powerful symbol of unity that binds over 200 million people as one family. We owe it to this nation to honour that bond with sincerity, accountability, and action.   As we look forward, our immediate attention turns to the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, which begins shortly. This tournament presents an opportunity for healing, for renewal, and for demonstrating the resilience that has always defined Nigerian football.   In the coming days, the NFF Board and Management will enter into a rigorous review process, honest, uncompromising, and strategic. We will evaluate the technical, administrative, and structural gaps that led to this outcome. And we will take decisive steps to reposition our national teams for future success.   We make this solemn commitment to the people of Nigeria: We will rebuild trust. We will restore pride. We will reclaim our standing on the global stage. We will not allow this disappointment to be the final word on Nigerian football.   Nigeria is a nation of resilience, of spirit, of unyielding hope. Just as our people rise from every challenge, so too will the Super Eagles.

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Food Prices Fall Sharply in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa as Supply Increases — Survey

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November 16, 2025 A new market survey has revealed a significant drop in the prices of major food items across Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States, offering much-needed relief to residents after months of food inflation. The survey, conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Maiduguri, Damaturu, Yola-North and Numan, shows steady declines in the prices of rice, maize, beans, pepper, millet, spaghetti and cooking oil when compared to earlier months. In Maiduguri’s Monday Market, a 50kg bag of rice—sold for between ₦78,000 and ₦82,000 in August and September—now goes for ₦64,000 to ₦65,000. A 100kg bag of maize has fallen from ₦60,000–₦65,000 to ₦40,000–₦45,000, while white beans decreased from ₦105,000 per bag to ₦85,000. One of the most dramatic drops was in the price of fresh pepper, which traded as high as ₦70,000–₦85,000 earlier in the year, but now sells for ₦6,500–₦8,500. Millet prices also declined from ₦65,000 to ₦46,000 per 100kg bag, while sorghum fell to ₦38,000 from earlier prices of ₦50,000–₦55,000. Traders attributed the decline to increased supply from local farmers and improved security access to farmlands around Zabarmari, Muna, Konduga, Jere and Mafa. “Prices came down because supply increased,” grains dealer Haruna Bukar said. However, some traders warn the drop may be temporary due to poor storage facilities. “If government provides storage centres, we can keep prices stable,” said retailer Amina Umar. In Damaturu, prices have also fallen sharply. A big measure of white beans, formerly ₦6,000, now sells for ₦3,000, while red beans dropped from ₦4,800 to ₦2,400. Rice now sells for ₦2,500 per measure, down from ₦5,000, and a carton of spaghetti has dropped from ₦19,000 to ₦13,000. An economist with Yobe State University, Dr. Binta Yahaya, linked the decline to massive imports of grains such as rice and wheat by the present administration to curb food inflation. “When supply floods the market, prices naturally fall,” she said, urging government to balance imports with support for local farmers. In Adamawa, a 50kg bag of local rice now sells for ₦32,000–₦36,000, compared to ₦48,000–₦55,000 three months ago. Prices of maize and beans have also dropped significantly. Traders and consumers across the three states appealed to the government to sustain market stability and continue improving road access, transportation systems and farming support. Agriculture expert Dr. Obadiah Noah warned that while lower prices offer short-term relief, heavy dependence on imports could affect long-term food security. He urged investment in irrigation, credit access, rural roads and security on farmlands to ensure sustainable production.

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