Besiktas part ways with Ole Gunnar Solskjær

Besiktas part ways with Ole Gunnar Solskjær

Besiktas have parted ways with Ole Gunnar Solskjær following their defeat by Swiss side Lausanne in the Conference League play-offs on Thursday night. The former Manchester United player and manager took charge of the Turkish club in January and steered them to a fourth place finished last season. In a shock statement following the game, the club said “Our contract with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær has been terminated following a decision made at a board meeting. “Following the meeting, our chairman, Serdal Adalı, thanked Solskjaer for his services to date.” Besiktas were knocked out of the Europa League qualifiers by Shakhtar Donetsk. Besiktas played St Patrick’s Athletic in their third round tie and were whilst they took a 4-1 lead in the first leg Stephen Kenny’s side gave them a scare in the second leg going 2-0 up before Besiktas found their feet and claimed the win 7-3 on aggregate. Former Borussia Dortmund player and manager Nuri Sahin has been linked with the role.

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I’ll Vote For Tinubu If Opposition Presents Peter Obi in 2027 – Deji Adeyanju

Human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, has declared that he would cast his vote for President Bola Tinubu if the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chooses Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in 2027. “God forbid that I support APC. If the opposition presents Peter Obi, I will vote for Tinubu,” Adeyanju said on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, when asked if he was deliberately seeking to discredit Obi. The rift between Adeyanju and Obi has, in recent times, escalated into a legal confrontation after the 64-year-old politician, through his lawyers, threatened to sue the activist for alleged defamatory remarks on social media and in media interviews. Adeyanju shrugged off the legal notice, saying he was ready to face Obi in court. He accused the former Anambra governor of fostering a hostile political climate, citing the conduct of some “Obidient” supporters online. He said, “We cannot have a man who leads a mob that terrorises people online and cannot tolerate criticism, who calls people all sorts of names. Anybody who cannot support their candidate is seen as an enemy of Nigeria or has been paid to do so. That is not democracy.” The activist also questioned Obi’s democratic track record, contrasting it with his own history of activism. “What sacrifices has he made for democracy? Many of us have put our lives on the line at great personal cost. We must sanitise our polity. We cannot have a country where people who terrorise others online dictate the tone of political discourse,” he argued. Speaking on his past choices at the polls, Adeyanju said he had always supported credible candidates. “In my opinion, I have never voted for a bad candidate. In 1999, I voted for Olusegun Obasanjo. In 2011, I voted for Goodluck Jonathan. In 2015, I voted for Jonathan again, against the so-called lovers of democracy who wanted Muhammadu Buhari,” he said.

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President Tinubu Condemns Recent Tragic Attacks, Vows Justice and Protection for All Nigerians

Economic Growth vs Public Welfare: Is Nigeria’s Rising GDP Helping the People?

Nigeria’s economy recorded a significant boost in the first quarter of 2025, with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reporting a 3.13% year-on-year growth in real terms. This marks a substantial improvement from the 2.27% growth rate seen in Q1 2024, driven largely by strong performances in services, trade, telecommunications, and industrial activities. The rebasing of the GDP to ₦205 trillion using 2019 as the new base year further underscores the expansion of the country’s economic structure. While the figures suggest progress, many Nigerians are questioning if this economic growth is improving their day-to-day lives. The rising cost of living, soaring food prices, and persistent unemployment have made it difficult for citizens to feel the impact of these positive numbers. For many, the increase in GDP is a statistical achievement that does not reflect the harsh realities they face daily. Critics argue that economic growth without corresponding improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare is insufficient. Despite Nigeria’s wealth in natural and human resources, poverty remains widespread, with millions struggling to meet basic needs. “GDP growth is encouraging, but when people are still battling with high inflation and poor social services, it’s clear that the benefits of growth are not evenly distributed,” says economist Dr. Tunde Adeyemi. The rebased GDP data shows Nigeria’s economy is more diversified than previously recorded, with sectors like real estate, telecommunications, and trade becoming major contributors. Crop production alone accounts for 17.58% of the GDP, while services dominate with over 53%. Yet, this structural transformation has not translated into sufficient job creation or a better standard of living for most Nigerians. Another concern raised by analysts is the growing disparity between the formal and informal sectors of the economy. The informal sector now contributes 42.5% of GDP, reflecting the reality that a large portion of economic activity remains unregulated and untaxed. This has implications for government revenue, which is needed to fund essential services and social welfare programs. With the 2027 elections approaching, the conversation around Nigeria’s economic growth is becoming increasingly political. Opposition figures argue that while the government celebrates rising GDP numbers, it has failed to deliver policies that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Issues such as youth unemployment, fuel subsidy challenges, and power shortages continue to dominate public discourse. The government, on its part, insists that ongoing reforms in agriculture, technology, and infrastructure will soon yield tangible results for the population. Officials maintain that growth in the services and trade sectors will lead to better job opportunities and higher productivity in the long term. As debates continue, Nigerians are left to wonder whether the country’s rising GDP will eventually trickle down to benefit the masses. For now, the question remains: Is the government working for the people, or are these numbers simply painting a picture of progress without impact?

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Kwankwaso Reaffirms Commitment to NNPP, Open to Alliances Ahead of 2027 Elections

Amid rising political speculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared that he has no intention of leaving the party, while remaining open to strategic dialogue with other stakeholders. Speaking in Abuja during the 9th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the NNPP, Kwankwaso reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, dismissing widespread rumours of a possible defection. “Many people thought today we would announce whether I will stay in NNPP or go to another party or join some individuals. That was not the intention of the meeting. We have our party, and we are comfortable and happy,” he stated. He acknowledged the speculation surrounding political realignments but urged party members not to be distracted by defections or political maneuvering, emphasizing that the NNPP is unified and prepared to offer credible leadership. “We are comfortable in the NNPP and believe that we have something to offer at the highest level of leadership in this country. We are ready to talk to anybody, but any negotiation will be collective,” Kwankwaso said. The former Kano State governor also addressed the broader national context, lamenting the pervasive poverty and insecurity affecting many communities across the country. “Poverty is everywhere in this country. Many communities are unable to visit the farm, go to the market, or even return to their homes. This situation must be urgently addressed,” he added. In his opening remarks at the NEC meeting, NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, reiterated the party’s confidence in Kwankwaso as its presidential candidate for 2027, describing the NNPP as the “beautiful bride” of Nigerian politics. Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo, also voiced his support for Kwankwaso’s leadership, noting his consistent efforts in strengthening the NNPP. Despite the ongoing influx of new members, the party emphasized that it remains focused and committed to its core principles, while allowing those who choose to exit the party to do so freely.

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Nigeria’s GDP Rebased to ₦205 Trillion, Grows 3.13% in Q1 2025

Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.13% year-on-year in real terms in the first quarter of 2025, according to new data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday. This marks a significant improvement over the 2.27% growth recorded in Q1 2024, driven mainly by robust activity in the services and industry sectors. In a related development, the NBS announced that Nigeria’s GDP has been rebased to ₦205 trillion using 2019 as the new base year, replacing the previous 2010 benchmark. Statistician General of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran, disclosed that the revised GDP at current prices stood at ₦372.8 trillion (approximately $243 billion) in 2024, reflecting a 41.7% increase from the last rebasing in 2014. Key Highlights of the New GDP Data: Top Sectors by Contribution: The rebased data shows real estate surpassing crude oil and gas due to improved coverage of informal sector activities. Services remain the largest classification, contributing 53.09% of GDP in 2019, followed by agriculture (25.83%) and industries (21.08%). Adeniran also highlighted the growing impact of the informal economy, which accounted for ₦86.85 trillion or 42.5% of GDP in 2019, up from ₦39 trillion in 2015. Read Full Report: News360 Nigeria

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Lagos Police Declare Abiodun Ariori Wanted After Deadly Clash at Owode Onirin, Ensure Stability in Area

Lagos Police Declare Abiodun Ariori Wanted After Deadly Clash at Owode Onirin, Ensure Stability in Area

The Lagos State Police Command has declared Abiodun Ariori, CEO of Prosperous Ariori Golden Venture Limited, wanted in connection with a violent clash between traders and alleged land grabbers at Owode Onirin, Lagos. The incident, which left three people dead and several others injured, has escalated tensions in the area. In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Ariori is accused of orchestrating the attack, which also involved the injury of a police inspector, whose life is reportedly in danger. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, responded swiftly by leading a combined police team from the command’s operations department to the scene, working to restore order. To prevent further violence, CP Jimoh has ordered the continued deployment of police personnel in the Owode Onirin area. Authorities are focused on ensuring that normalcy is maintained and the situation does not escalate further. The police have urged Abiodun Ariori to surrender himself to the authorities. In addition, the Commissioner has ordered an orderly room trial for four police officers who were reportedly brought into the situation from outside Lagos State by the suspected land grabber. In a separate development, the police addressed rumors regarding the recent altercation at Balogun Market, clarifying that the conflict had no ethnic motivations. The incident, which involved a fight between hoodlums, resulted in one Ebuka Adindu from Abia State fatally stabbing Sodiq Ibrahim from Kogi State. Adindu, who also injured himself during the melee, is currently under arrest and receiving medical treatment in the hospital. Authorities have emphasized that the fight was a random altercation and not driven by ethnic tensions. The police continue to investigate both incidents and have reassured the public that efforts are being made to maintain peace and ensure justice for those affected.

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President Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Successful State Visit to Brazil, Secures Key Bilateral Deals

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived back in Abuja at approximately 1:20 a.m. on Thursday following a productive three-day state visit to Brazil. The visit resulted in several significant agreements aimed at deepening Nigeria’s economic and diplomatic ties with South America’s largest economy. The President was welcomed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by a high-profile delegation, including Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Also present were top officials such as Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and several ministers, including Nyesom Wike (FCT), Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Economic Planning), and Bello Matawalle (Defence, State). During the visit, Nigeria and Brazil signed five key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), covering aviation, trade, diplomacy, science, and finance. One notable development was the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement that will enable direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo, to be operated by Air Peace. Additionally, President Tinubu announced the return of Petrobras, Brazil’s state-owned oil giant, to Nigeria, marking a significant shift after the company’s exit from joint ventures five years ago. “We have the largest gas repository in the world. So I don’t see why Petrobras doesn’t rejoin Nigeria as a partner as soon as possible,” Tinubu stated during a joint press conference with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brasília. Other key agreements included political consultations, scientific collaboration, and agricultural financing, with Nigeria’s Bank of Agriculture and Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development playing pivotal roles in these efforts. While in Brazil, President Tinubu also courted Brazilian investors, highlighting Nigeria’s stable and transparent economic environment. He pointed to recent growth in Nigeria’s capital markets as evidence of renewed investor confidence and committed to implementing reforms aimed at unlocking capital, protecting investments, and fostering innovation. In a meeting with Nigerians living in Brazil, the President encouraged the diaspora to take a more active role in Nigeria’s development, particularly in driving technology-driven growth and food security. “We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to change our destiny,” Tinubu emphasized. The visit also featured red-carpet honors, cultural exchanges, and productive bilateral talks, which both leaders hailed as the beginning of a new era in Nigeria-Brazil relations.

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Clash Between Traders at Mandilas Market on Lagos Island Leads to Fatality, Multiple Injuries

Tensions erupted at Mandilas Market on Lagos Island on Friday following a violent altercation between a youth and an Igbo trader. The confrontation quickly escalated, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. According to eyewitness reports, the dispute initially appeared to be a minor disagreement but soon spiraled out of control. The altercation culminated in the fatal stabbing of the Yoruba youth involved in the clash. His death sparked outrage among local youths, who retaliated with violent attacks that further fueled the chaos. In the ensuing melee, several bystanders were injured as traders sought refuge and closed their shops in fear. The normally busy market ground to a halt as panic spread. Security forces were promptly deployed to the scene in an effort to restore order, though the full scope of the damage and arrests remains unclear. As of this morning, the Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, but no official statement has been released at this time. Authorities are actively working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence. The situation continues to unfold, and more details are expected as investigations progress.

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