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Lamine Yamal retains Kopa trophy

Lamine Yamal retains Kopa trophy

Fola Badmus01 mins

The Barcelona teenager wins the best young player award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony. He wins it for the second year running.  Was there ever going to be anyone else? Lamine Yamal could well go on to win the main men’s prize tonight.  Ruud Gullit asks him on stage if he is ready for it. All the 18-year-old could say is, “I don’t know”. Gullit says “maybe see you later” as he leaves the stage. Men’s Kopa trophy up first! Here are the nominees for the award given to the best young player:

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NFVCB Approves 139 Films in August 2025, Highlights Surge in English and Yoruba Titles

NFVCB Approves 139 Films in August 2025, Highlights Surge in English and Yoruba Titles

Fola Badmus03 mins

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) approved 139 films in August 2025, according to official statistics released on its website. Out of the total, 63 films were rated 18+, 57 were deemed suitable for viewers aged 15 and above, one was rated 12, another received a Parental Guidance (PG) classification, while one was cleared for General Viewing (G). This wide range of ratings reflects the board’s continued efforts to classify films appropriately and guide audiences on age suitability. English-language films led the approvals, with 92 titles accounting for 66.2% of the total. Yoruba films followed with 23 entries (16.5%), while 12 films were in Igbo (8.6%). Ijaw had 7 approved titles (5%), and Hindi films recorded 5 approvals (3.6%). Notably, no Hausa-language films were classified for the second consecutive month. Several notable productions received clearance during the month. Ovi Studios’ Till Death Do Us Part (69 minutes, rated 15) and Wandering Stranger (102 minutes, rated 15) were among them. WissyBelle Productions also had two films approved: For a Season (132 minutes, rated 15) and Broken Pieces (98 minutes, rated 15). The Big Score by Ray & Ijeoma Ventures (98 minutes, rated 18) made the list as well. Veteran actor Jide Kosoko’s historical drama Esugbayi Eleko (119 minutes, rated 12) was also approved. Other notable entries include Damilola Fasesan’s Ewa (158 minutes, PG) and John Musker’s family-friendly Aladdin (90 minutes, G). These selections reflect the creativity and diversity currently present in the Nigerian film industry. The NFVCB also cleared several foreign titles, including Over the Bridge (Hindi, PG), Son of Sardaar 2 (English, 12A), and Param Sundari (Hindi, 12A), demonstrating its commitment to regulating both local and international film content distributed in Nigeria. Speaking on the board’s role, NFVCB Executive Director and CEO Dr. Shuaib Hussein emphasized the importance of responsible storytelling and accurate classification. “The NFVCB’s leadership is committed to supporting responsible storytelling and ensuring that audiences are properly guided through classifications,” he said. With consistent regulatory efforts, the NFVCB continues to play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s film industry and ensuring that content aligns with societal standards while encouraging creativity and industry growth.

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TAFTA’s Kingmaker and Book Cover Thrill Audiences at Terra Kulture

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It was an evening of creativity, storytelling, and celebration at Terra Kulture in Victoria Island, Lagos, as the Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA), in partnership with MasterCard, staged two original one-act plays — Kingmaker and Book Cover. The event, part of the TAFTA Action Learning Project (TALP X), brought together emerging talents from TAFTA’s training program and showcased their original scripts, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and self-discovery. Before the curtain rose, the atmosphere was energized by saxophonist Timileyin Sax Monac, who opened the evening with a vibrant performance of Davido’s hit With You and another crowd-pleaser, setting the perfect tone. A Platform for Emerging Voices Both Kingmaker and Book Cover featured standout performances from TAFTA trainees, who brought their stories to life with passion and professionalism, earning enthusiastic applause from a full house. Bolanle Austen-Peters, Founder and CEO of TAFTA, expressed her pride in the performers: “I am so proud of what our trainees are doing. TALP is giving them the opportunity to practically showcase what they’ve learned. My vision is to expand TALP beyond Lagos so more young creatives can share their voices with the world.” TAFTA’s General Manager, Joseph Umoibom — also a producer at BAP Productions — highlighted the program’s broad reach: “Through MasterCard’s support, we’ve trained over 50,000 young creatives across Lagos, Ogun, and Kano. Many of these participants are staging their work for the first time on Nigeria’s biggest theatre platform.” He noted that TAFTA is not only training students in performance but also encouraging them to write, produce, and own their creative narratives. More Than Just a Stage TAFTA, founded by the award-winning director Bolanle Austen-Peters, is a creative institution offering free, world-class training in scriptwriting, lighting and sound design, animation, and creative entrepreneurship. Using both online and in-person methods, it equips young Nigerians with the tools and mentorship needed to thrive in the creative industry. Veteran actor and theatre consultant Dr. Afeez Oyetoro commended the initiative: “The creativity and professionalism displayed by these young talents is remarkable. TALP X is not just entertainment; it is education, social commentary, and a training ground for Nigeria’s next generation of theatre professionals.” Hands-On Learning in Action TALP (TAFTA Action Learning Project) is the final stage of TAFTA’s program, where students are grouped into production teams to collaboratively write and perform original plays. This real-world approach transforms learning into lived experience, preparing trainees for careers in theatre and beyond. By the end of the evening, the audience left inspired — a testament to the power of storytelling and the promise of Nigeria’s growing creative community.

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Taliban Bans Books by Women and Women-Focused Subjects from Afghan Universities Amid Broader Crackdown

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The Taliban government has banned books written by women from Afghan university curricula, as part of sweeping new restrictions that also outlaw the teaching of human rights and sexual harassment. Out of 680 titles flagged as “anti-Sharia,” 140 were authored by women, including science texts like Safety in the Chemical Laboratory. Eighteen subjects have also been removed from university programs — six of them focused specifically on women, including Gender Studies and Women’s Sociology. A Taliban official stated these subjects conflict with “Sharia principles and government policy.” The move follows other recent bans, including one on fibre-optic internet in 10 provinces, aimed at curbing “immorality.” Women and girls remain disproportionately affected. They are already barred from schooling beyond sixth grade, and midwifery programs — one of the few remaining education options for women — were closed in late 2024. Former deputy justice minister Zakia Adeli, whose book was banned, said the move reflects the Taliban’s deep-rooted misogyny: “When women aren’t allowed to study, it’s no surprise their writings are also suppressed.” The ban also targets Iranian authors and publishers, reportedly to curb “Iranian influence” in Afghan education. Of the 679 banned books, 310 are linked to Iran. Professors warn the restrictions will isolate Afghan academia. One university lecturer said the banned books had been a key connection to global scholarship: “Their removal creates a substantial void in higher education.” Under the new guidelines, faculty must now create their own textbooks — but whether they can meet international academic standards remains uncertain.

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John Legend Honoured at Black Music Action Coalition Event

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John Legend was honoured with the Quincy Jones Humanitarian Award at the Black Music Action Coalition’s annual event, marking the group’s fifth anniversary. The 46-year-old singer praised BMAC for its advocacy work and vowed to continue uplifting under-represented voices in music. “I’m grateful to be honoured with an award named after my friend and mentor, Quincy Jones,” Legend said. “This work is about collaboration and amplifying voices that need to be heard.” Flavor Flav also attended, applauding Legend’s contributions and stressing the importance of recognition for Black artists. BMAC’s president reaffirmed the Coalition’s mission to promote equity and inclusion in the music industry through initiatives like music grants and pipeline programs.

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Martinelli’s Late Goal Draw Arsenal to Stay Five Points Behind Liverpool, Man City Remain Ninth

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Copy and paste from Tuesday night. Arsenal struggle to create much all game and then Martinelli saves them off the bench. “But was Mikel Arteta’s line-up just too pragmatic, especially after seeing City drop so deep?  “Merino and Rice once again failed to produce much in midfield. Could Eze – brought on at half-time – have started that game? And what would have happened had he did?” Rice: Martinelli always delivers big moments Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice:  “Since I’ve come to the club, even before I’ve come – he’s always delivered in big moments. The amount of times he’s scoring in big games for us.  “A lot of players can talk if they get put on the bench but every time he comes in, he shows his desire.  “The run and finish – it’s unbelievable at that stage of the game. To have that composure, he really deserves it.” For the second time in five days, Arsenal’s substitutes – or finishers, as Mikel Arteta likes to call them – make the decisive impact. The Gunners were staring at defeat but a huge goal from Martinelli ensures the gap to Liverpool is five points, not six. It’s a hugely frustrating end for City, who defended brilliantly for 93 minutes. Guardiola shrugs his shoulders – he decided 25-30 minutes out from the end of the game how he was going to win it and he got so close. “But credit to Arsenal, Eze and Martinelli for that bit of brilliance at the end, but those blue shirts will be disappointed. “It was a bit of a slugfest of a game, a real struggle that will not help either of them and Liverpool maybe the winners.”

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Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Fola Badmus07 mins

Coordinated move comes ahead of the UN General Assembly, as global support for a two-state solution gains momentum. By Kamal Yalwa | Published September 21, 2025 Canada and Australia have officially recognised the State of Palestine, joining the United Kingdom in a coordinated diplomatic move aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution in the Middle East. The announcement comes just days ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as international pressure mounts over Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza and continued settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. In a formal statement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, stating: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.” Carney also condemned the Israeli government’s ongoing actions, accusing it of working “methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established.” He clarified that this recognition supports peaceful coexistence and strengthens moderate voices within the Palestinian Authority, not extremist factions: “This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it. Recognising Palestine empowers those seeking peace and the end of Hamas.” Carney also revealed that the Palestinian Authority had made direct commitments to Canada, including pledges to reform its governance, hold democratic elections next year—excluding Hamas—and begin demilitarisation efforts. Australia Echoes Canada’s Move Shortly after Canada’s announcement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also confirmed his country’s formal recognition of Palestine. In a joint statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Albanese said the decision was made in coordination with Canada and the UK. The statement called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, while stressing that Hamas “must have no role in Palestine’s future.” UK Adds Diplomatic Weight UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had already signalled support for Palestinian statehood earlier this year, formally confirmed Britain’s recognition following the announcements from Ottawa and Canberra. “This move revives hope for peace for both Palestinians and Israelis, and reaffirms our commitment to a two-state solution,” Starmer said. Growing Global Shift The coordinated move from Canada, Australia, and the UK—three longstanding allies of Israel—marks a significant shift in the international approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recognition follows months of escalating violence in Gaza, where over 65,200 Palestinians have been killed according to local health authorities. Israel has faced increasing international isolation, with mounting criticism from both governments and civil society groups. At a protest in Toronto on September 20, thousands marched against Prime Minister Carney’s domestic policies and in support of Palestinian rights, reflecting the growing public pressure shaping foreign policy in Western democracies. Meanwhile, Israel and the United States have warned that recognising Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict “rewards terrorism,” arguing it legitimises Hamas. Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz criticised the announcements, claiming they embolden Hamas and undermine hostage negotiations: “If you truly want peace in the Middle East, Western leaders must focus on applying pressure on Hamas—not legitimising them through premature recognition,” Gantz posted on social media. Recognition Gains but UN Status Still Stalled So far, 147 of 193 UN member states have recognised the State of Palestine. However, this symbolic recognition does not translate into full UN membership, which requires approval from the Security Council—a move currently blocked by the United States’ veto power. Still, momentum is building. France and several other nations are expected to follow suit during the UN General Assembly. Some Western countries have also begun imposing sanctions on Israel or threatening diplomatic boycotts. Notably, nations like Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have pledged to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel participates next year. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently acknowledged the shifting global stance, admitting that Israel is experiencing a form of international isolation and will need to adapt its economy accordingly.

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Arsenal vs Man City: Arteta Faces Midfield Dilemma Involving Declan Rice and Mikel Merino

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Watch Arsenal vs Man City live Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a tough decision to make ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City, as he grapples with a growing concern in midfield involving Declan Rice and Mikel Merino. The Gunners secured a 2-0 win over Athletic Club in Bilbao earlier this week, with substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard making the difference off the bench — a testament to Arsenal’s increasing squad depth and attacking firepower. But the key question remains: why were they needed at all? Midfield Lacking Creativity Despite controlling large portions of the match and facing minimal pressure from the hosts — Athletic registered 11 shots, only two of which troubled David Raya — Arsenal struggled to create meaningful opportunities for much of the game. Much of that came down to their midfield setup. As seen in previous fixtures, Arteta once again paired Declan Rice and Mikel Merino as advanced No. 8s, ahead of Martin Zubimendi in the holding role. It’s a combination that has yet to fully click. Just like in last month’s draw against Liverpool, the Rice–Merino axis appeared too rigid, limiting Arsenal’s attacking fluidity and link-up play in the final third. Neither player naturally fills the creative void left when Martin Ødegaard is absent or deeper in midfield. Stats Paint a Cautionary Picture The numbers don’t lie:In the Premier League, Arsenal have started Rice and Merino together as No. 8s nine times.They’ve won just one of those matches — a 4-0 win over a struggling Ipswich Town side. Even that victory came under low pressure, with Champions League progression already secured. What It Means Ahead of City Showdown With Manchester City arriving at the Emirates this weekend, Arteta must weigh his midfield options carefully. The defending champions are ruthless at punishing sides that lack midfield cohesion — and if Arsenal struggle to transition quickly from defence to attack, it could prove costly. Arteta’s squad has improved in terms of depth and versatility, but his midfield combinations — especially in high-stakes games — remain under the microscope. The manager must now decide whether to persist with the Rice–Merino pairing or bring in a more attack-minded midfielder to balance out the structure and provide the creative spark that could tip the scales in Arsenal’s favour.

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