Fola Badmus

MRA Announces Call for Entries for Goodluck Jonathan FOI Awards 2026

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) today announced the formal opening of its Call for Entries for the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan Freedom of Information Awards 2026, designed to recognize and celebrate journalistic excellence in promoting transparency and accountability through the effective use of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, 2011.   Named in honour of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, who signed the FOI Act into Law on May 28, 2011, the first category of the awards will celebrate a journalist who has made the highest number of information requests under the Act, while the second category will honour a journalist who has made the most outstanding contributions in promoting the Act since its enactment by raising awareness among citizens, government officials and the media about it, including its provisions, how to use it, its benefits, and the rights it grants as well as advocating for its effective implementation.   In a statement announcing the opening of the call, MRA called on all eligible Nigerian journalists working across print, broadcast, online, and multimedia platforms to submit their entries for consideration in two distinct categories as follows:   Category 1: Most Active User of the FOI Act. This award will be given to a journalist who has made the highest verifiable number of information requests under the FOI Act between May 28, 2011, and December 31, 2025. This category aims to celebrate and encourage the active and consistent use of the Act as a tool for journalistic investigation as well as for promoting and ensuring transparency and good governance.   Category 2: Most Outstanding Promoter of the FOI Act. This award will recognize a journalist who has made the most outstanding contributions in promoting the FOI Act since its enactment in 2011. This includes raising public awareness about the Act, its provisions, how to use it, its benefits, and the rights it confers on individuals, as well as advocating for its effective implementation through news stories, feature articles, opinion pieces, or other media outputs.   Applicants must be journalists of Nigerian nationality, working in any print, broadcast, online, or multimedia outlet, and should not be under any legal constraint and must not have been adjudged by an appropriate regulatory or judicial body to be guilty of professional misconduct.   All interested journalists are required to complete an application form and attach relevant, verifiable documentation for their claims, which may include acknowledged copies of FOI requests or copies of published media outputs, depending on the category.   The deadline for all submissions is 23.59 (WAT) on January 31, 2026.   According to MRA, the winner in each category will receive a plaque, a certificate, and a prize. The Awards will be formally presented at a public ceremony to be held in Abuja on May 28, 2026, coinciding with an event to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the enactment of the Act.

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2026 WAFCON Race: Super Falcons Seek Comfortable Win over Bénin’s Amazons

The 25,000 -capacity Stade de Kégué in the Togolese capital, Lomè is venue for Friday’s 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying fixture, first leg match between 10-time champions Nigeria and their Bèninoise counterparts, known as Amazons, with the Cup holders seeking a comfortable win that will render the return leg in Nigeria on Tuesday a mere formality.   Head Coach Justine Madugu has a total of 19 players available for the encounter, and has promised his squad will go all out for the goals that will earn it the ticket to a defence of the title won in Morocco this summer. The Kingdom of Morocco will also host next year’s houseparty, where all semi-finalists will collect automatic qualification tickets to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Brazil.   “We have a team that will go out there and make us proud. Yes, we would have loved to have Jennifer (Echegini) but we do not and we can only pray for her to recover quickly.   “On Friday, we will go out and play our game and seek the goals that will put us in a good stead ahead of the return leg.”   With Echegini out, Madugu is likely to opt for US-based impresario Deborah Abiodun to start, alongside captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe in the middle, with Chiamaka Nnadozie (one of the best goalkeepers in the world) marshalling a defence-line of Michelle Alozie, Tosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale and Ashley Plumptre.   In the fore, Madugu has Esther Okoronkwo (doubtless one of Nigeria’s impact players at this year’s Women AFCON), the pushful Chinwendu Ihezuo, six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, new-face Joy Omewa and China-based Folashade Ijamilusi, who was also a delight as Nigeria won a tenth AFCON title in Morocco this summer.   Gambian official Ngum Fatou will be the referee of the encounter that begins at 3pm Togo time (4pm Nigeria time).   SUPER FALCONS TO FACE AMAZONS:   Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton Hove & Albion, England); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)   Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)   Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France); Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels); Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)   Forwards: Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorrin FC, Denmark); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)  

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Morocco 2025: Flamingos Trash Algeria 4-0 Confident of Victory in Algiers After Naira Rain

U17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos Battle-Ready for France

After a painful 4–1 defeat to Canada in their opening Group D fixture, Nigeria’s U17 girls find themselves fighting for survival against a confident French side that kicked off their campaign with a strong 4–2 win over Samoa.   This fixture is more than just a group match, as there is history and something at stake for the Flamingos. The last time Nigeria met France at this tournament was 13 years ago, in Azerbaijan, where both sides played out a tense 0–0 draw in regulation time before France edged Nigeria 5–3 on penalties to advance from the quarter-finals.   That memory lingers, and for many, this feels like unfinished business. Nigeria enter tomorrow’s match bottom of the table with zero points and a minus three goal difference, meaning defeat could mathematically end their World Cup journey. At minimum, a draw is essential, but a win would flip the entire narrative heading into the final group match against Samoa.   France play with speed, fluidity and dominant structure. Their 4–2 win over Samoa was ruthless. Nigeria showed flashes of brilliance against Canada, scoring once, but defensive lapses haunted them badly.   Coach Bankole Olowookere’s team must correct their transitions, stay compact, and rediscover their mental steel, as this is no longer about tactics alone, but also about character.   At the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1), 8pm in Rabat, the Flamingos won’t just be playing France, they’ll be playing for belief, redemption, and survival.

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2026 WAFCON Qualifier: Ajibade, Okoronkwo Expected as Injury Knocks Out Echegini

Head Coach Justine Madugu remains upbeat about Nigeria’s chances against Bénin Republic in their 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture, despite midfielder Jennifer Echegini being knocked out of the two games after suffering a hamstring injury in her club, Paris Saint Germain of France’s game on Monday night.   Echegini, who scored Nigeria’s winning goal in this year’s Women AFCON Final match against hosts Morocco in Rabat, will now miss Friday’s first leg of the final qualifying fixture at the Stade de Kégué in the Togolese capital, as well as the return at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex on Tuesday.   Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who also plays for PSG in France, is scheduled to arrive in Lomé on Tuesday night, alongside the Mexico-based duo of defender Osinachi Ohale and forward Chinwendu Ihezuo, USA-based duo of defender Michelle Alozie and midfielder Deborah Abiodun, Canada-based forward Esther Okoronkwo and Italy-based defender Shukurat Oladipo.   The camp swelled from nine players to 11 on Monday night with the arrivals of Portugal-based midfielder Christy Ucheibe and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Saudi Arabia-based defender Ashley Plumptre jetted into Lomé on Tuesday afternoon.  

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#FreeNnamdiKanuProtest: Police Bar Sowore, Others From Aso Rock

By Bunmi Ogunyale   The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions. This follows the subsisting Order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, given on 17th October, 2025, by Honourable Justice M.G. Umar, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others. The Order, in a press statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way. “In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order. The directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings. “The Nigeria Police Force recognises and respects the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression. However, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, particularly where public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are concerned. The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms. “Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order. The Force will ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens. “Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.   “Offenders will be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws — including laws relating to public order, violent conduct and terrorism where applicable. Those who incite others via social media or other platforms should note that digital evidence will be used in investigations and prosecutions,” the statement read. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has also directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and relevant operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the Court’s Order, maintain visible and strategic deployments across vulnerable locations, and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities in the FCT.   All organisers and participants are therefore advised to avoid the restricted areas specified by the Court; refrain from carrying weapons, engaging in provocative conduct, or encouraging others to breach the law; and channel grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues rather than the streets.   The Nigeria Police Force however assured law-abiding Nigerians that adequate security arrangements have been made to protect lives and property. Non-participants should go about their lawful businesses without fear. Anyone found to be in breach of the Court’s Order or in contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted.

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Usyk Reverses Plans for Retirement

Oleksandr Usyk has reversed his plans to retire after one more fight as he looks to extend his career beyond 2026. The undisputed heavyweight champion of the world had stated he would only box once more, in a fight which was earmarked for next year. But he has now revealed he plans to continue on beyond that. The 38-year-old knocked out Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in his last fight in a dominant performance. He expects to be able to compete for two more years. “I’ll fight until I’m 41,” Usyk told his Ready to Fight website. “Then I’ll build a sports academy. I’ll train there and train others.” A back injury sidelined Usyk for the rest of this year. But he is training and preparing to box. His targeted return is 2026. “Next year,” he said, “and, God willing, I’ll win.” But Usyk does not intend to fight rising star Moses Itauma, who is 20 years old, next. “No, I won’t fight Itauma [in the next fight]. He’s young – always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas!” Usyk said. “I can’t say who exactly because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name.”

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Pardoned Inmates Are Still in Custody -AGF Fagbemi

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi has clarified that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody. The process, according to him, remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued. Fagbemi wrote; “It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action. “This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.” Fagbemi appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance. “There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”

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Tinubu Returns After Heads of Government Meeting in Rome

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja today after participating in the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government-level Meeting in Rome, Italy. The Aqaba Process, in a press statement by the President’s Media aide, Bayo Onanuga, is a counter-terrorism initiative launched by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan in 2015. It is co-chaired by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Government of Italy. The Rome edition focused on strengthening regional and international collaboration in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, with particular attention to West Africa. The high-level meeting was held on Wednesday, October 15, at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rome. Many heads of State and Government attended, including King Abdullah II of Jordan, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the Presidents of Nigeria, Chad, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Azouz Nasri, President of Algeria’s Upper House, delegations from Côte d’Ivoire, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Senegal, and Uzbekistan, special envoys, and security experts were also in attendance. The meeting was held behind closed doors. On the sidelines of the event, President Tinubu held bilateral meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.S. President Donald Trump’s Senior Adviser on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos. President Tinubu also met with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, to discuss religious harmony in Nigeria. The meeting addressed the widespread disinformation campaigns that falsely portray the country as intolerant of religious diversity. Since its establishment in 2015, the Aqaba Process has convened 33 meetings at various levels, from Heads of State summits to technical expert sessions. It is built on three core pillars: prevention, coordination, and closing operational gaps in counterterrorism efforts.

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