The Compass

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi was sent off late in the game as Nigeria played out a 2-2 draw with Jordan in their second match of the Antalya invitational tournament on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Moses Simon and Emmanuel Fernandez scored for the Super Eagles at the Mardan Titanic Sports Complex in Antalya, but the Nigerians were unable to secure victory against a resilient Jordanian side. Eric Chelle made six changes to the team that beat Iran 2-1 on Friday, including handing a full debut to Fernandez and starting Francis Uzoho in goal for the injured Maduka Okoye. The match remained competitive throughout, with Jordan scoring the only goal of the second half. Tension boiled over in the closing minutes when Iwobi lost his composure after being fouled by Amer Jamous. The Fulham midfielder aggressively confronted his opponent, sparking a brief on-pitch clash that saw both benches empty onto the field. After order was restored, Iwobi was sh...

By Adenuga Toheeb Ayoola  The Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (retd.), alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, on Tuesday, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to end terror and restore peace in the North-East, as they paid tribute to soldiers killed in action during counter-insurgency operations in Borno State. The ministers arrived at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri with senior military officers, including the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj Gen Abubakar Abdulsalam, where wreaths were laid in honour of the fallen personnel. Earlier, they visited Governor Babagana Zulum and sympathised with the state over a recent bomb blast that claimed 23 lives and injured 108 others. During the visit, Musa assured that the Federal Government would sustain efforts to end terrorism in the region. He said, “Borno remains our home and whatever happens to Borno happens to all of us. We want to assure you that we will not...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the results of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Mock, conducted on Saturday, 28th March 2026. In an announcement dated 31st March 2026, the board revealed that candidates can now access their performance by sending the SMS code MOCKRESULT to either 55019 or 66019, using the exact phone number registered during the 2026 UTME application. The move brings relief to thousands of Nigerian students who sat for the mock as a dress rehearsal for the main examination. A total of 224,597 candidates had registered for the mock exercise, but only 152,586 actually sat for the test across 989 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide. JAMB noted that the examination was largely successful despite some hitches, with the board taking decisive action by delisting over 20 CBT centres that experienced technical challenges. In the same statement, JAMB issue...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has sacked head coach Otto Addo with immediate effect following a poor run of results in the March international window. The decision was taken on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 — just 72 days before Ghana’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture — after the Black Stars suffered a 2-1 defeat to Germany in Stuttgart. That loss came on the back of a humiliating 5-1 thrashing by Austria and marked Ghana’s fourth straight friendly defeat. Addo, in his second spell since March 2024, had successfully guided Ghana to the 2026 World Cup but failed to qualify the team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The recent heavy losses were viewed as the final straw by the GFA, raising serious doubts about the team’s readiness for the tournament in North America, where they face a tough group containing England, Croatia and Panama. The German-Ghanaian tactician had been re-appointed to rebuild the side after Ghana’s disappointing 2...

By Igwe Grace  The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly spoken out against the recent killings in Plateau State, calling for urgent justice and better security. The attack happened in the Angwan Rukuba and Gari Ya Waye areas of Jos North on Palm Sunday. Armed men reportedly stormed the community and opened fire on residents, killing many people, including women and children. In a statement released in Abuja, CAN President Daniel Okoh described the attack as “tragic and unacceptable.” He pointed out that the attackers, who were reportedly dressed in security uniforms, carried out the assault on a day meant for peace and prayer. Deeply saddened by the incident, Okoh said what should have been a holy day turned into “a moment of grief and bloodshed.” He questioned why citizens can no longer feel safe even in their own homes. “We mourn the victims, but we must also demand answers,” he stated, adding that Nigerians are tired of seeing violence happen over and ...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Super Eagles and Werder Bremen striker Victor Boniface has returned to the club’s training base in Bremen after completing his rehabilitation in Leverkusen. The 25-year-old forward, who has been sidelined for three months following knee surgery, began individual light training on the pitch this week, including ball work. He is expected to train separately for the next few days before being carefully re-integrated into full team sessions under the supervision of the club’s medical staff. Boniface underwent surgery for a knee contusion in January after consultations in Austria. Werder Bremen confirmed at the time that he would miss several months of action. The Nigerian international has now expressed optimism about his recovery, posting a video of himself performing leg exercises on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: “Help me post this one too, I dey training.” The club remains hopeful that the striker could make a return before the end ...

By Adenuga Toheeb Ayoola The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has addressed what it described as misinformation circulating about the monthly upkeep allowance for student beneficiaries under its scheme. In a statement issued on Monday, the Fund clarified that the approved monthly allowance for students remains N20,000, contrary to reports suggesting an increase to N25,000. The Director of Strategic Communications at NELFUND, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, said “The approved upkeep allowance remains N20,000 (Twenty Thousand Naira) monthly, and not N25,000 as being reported.” NELFUND urged students to ignore unverified claims and rely strictly on its official communication platforms for accurate updates. Moreover,students are advised to disregard any contrary information and rely only on official NELFUND communication channels for accurate updates. The organisation reassured its commitment to transparency and efficiency in delivering support to beneficiaries across the country. It also expre...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Super Eagles and Brentford defender Benjamin Fredrick has resumed on-grass training as he steps up his recovery from a long-term knee injury that has kept him sidelined since November 2025. The 20-year-old highly-rated centre-back, currently on loan at Belgian Pro League side F.C.V. Dender EH, suffered the injury during a routine training session. The setback unfortunately ruled him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Eagles secured a respectable third-place finish under coach Éric Chelle. Brentford FC made the announcement on the youngster’s recovery progress, confirming that Fredrick has now begun controlled on-grass sessions in a gradual bid to regain full fitness. Reports indicate a structured rehabilitation phase that is expected to last several weeks, with full recovery projected to take about a month as he focuses on rebuilding strength and match sharpness. Despite the lengthy lay-off, the talented defen...

By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther There is a lie that has been passed down quietly from generation to generation, whispered into the ears of young girls like a secret to a good life. The lie goes like this: once you marry a rich man, you are sorted. His money is your money. It sounds like security. But for many women, it has turned out to be one of the most expensive beliefs they ever held. Picture this. Your friend needs urgent financial help. You want to send her money immediately, but you have to wait until your husband comes home to ask. He is in a meeting. Then he is tired. Then he wants to know why, how much, and whether it is really necessary. By the time the conversation is over, the urgency has passed and your friend has sorted herself. You felt helpless in a house full of money. That is the reality nobody talks about. No matter how wealthy your husband is, there will always be a limit to what he gives you. Not because he is wicked, but because there is a fundamental ...

By Adewusi Aisha  I said I’m fine and honestly… I almost was. Just needed a little less overthinking, a little more sleep, and maybe one good message from someone who actually means it. Life lately feels like tabs left open in my brain music playing somewhere, stress buffering, and me… forgetting what I opened in the first place. Some days I’m that main character, walking with confidence, playlist loud, dreams louder Other days? I’m just trying to exist without crying over something small that somehow feels… big. It’s weird how you can laugh with people and still feel slightly misplaced, like a puzzle piece in the wrong picture. But I guess that’s life, right? Not every day is a breakthrough, some days are just “you made it through” And maybe that counts too.

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced plans to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from 24 to 28 teams, marking a major shift aimed at increasing participation and competitiveness across the continent. CAF President Patrice Motsepe revealed the decision as part of a broader vision to elevate African football and provide more opportunities for the continent’s top talents. The expansion is expected to take effect after the 2027 edition, with discussions ongoing about a new format that could feature seven groups of four teams. According to Motsepe, the move reflects CAF’s “commitment to world-class football with the best African players from all over the world returning to compete on the continent.” In addition to the AFCON expansion, CAF intends to introduce a new Nations League-style competition starting in 2029. The tournament will involve 16 teams and culminate in a final competition held every two years...

By Momoh Oluwateniola  The Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area after a deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba left several people dead and many others injured. The attack happened late Sunday night and caused panic across the area. In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government described the incident as a “barbaric and unprovoked attack.” The curfew started from midnight on Sunday and will last until April 1, 2026. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang said security officers have been deployed to restore peace and asked residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities. The incident also affected academic activities at the University of Jos, where exams scheduled for Monday and Tuesday were postponed. School officials advised students and staff to stay safe and report any suspicious movement, while authorities continue investigations into the attack.

By Enakaye Peculiar  Nigeria’s opposition landscape is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) moves toward a consensus approach while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) steps up efforts to identify a strong presidential candidate. Recent developments within both parties suggest a renewed determination to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which currently dominates the political space across most states. Party leaders and stakeholders are increasingly focused on unity, coalition-building, and strategic positioning to present a formidable alternative in the next election cycle.  A major boost to the ADC came with the planned defection of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, alongside his Kwankwasiyya Movement. The move is expected to strengthen the party’s grassroots support, particularly in the northern region, while signaling a broader realignment among opposition forces....

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu has been appointed as the Acting General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), replacing Véron Mosengo-Omba. Adamu, who previously served as CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, becomes the first Nigerian to hold the prestigious position since the continental body was founded nearly seven decades ago. His appointment was proposed by the CAF Executive Committee and ratified by the Congress during its meeting on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Giza Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. He takes over from the Swiss-Congolese administrator Véron Mosengo-Omba, who tendered his resignation on the same day. Adamu’s elevation marks a significant milestone for Nigerian football administration on the African stage. The new acting General Secretary is the son of prominent Nigerian sports figure Amos Adamu, a former FIFA Executive Committee member and ex-Director General of the Nigerian Natio...

By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther If every man in your contact list can comfortably call you “baby,” pause and pay attention. Not panic, pay attention. Familiarity is not always a sign of closeness. Sometimes it is a sign of access that was never earned. Your phone rings. “Baby, abeg help me check something.” It’s Emeka. He doesn’t check on you. He doesn’t invest in you. He shows up only when he needs something. Now imagine there are five versions of Emeka in your life, all this comfortable. That is not coincidence. That is a pattern, and patterns are information. We are in a time where growth is no longer out of reach. With the same phone you use for distractions, you can build skills, develop your mind, and create something meaningful. So yes, look good, but let that be the least remarkable thing about you. Add substance. Add value. Add presence. Respect is not demanded loudly. It is established quietly through standards.When people ask, “What do you bring to the table?” mos...

By Enakaye Peculiar   Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has expressed his condolences to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following the death of his mother. In a statement issued on Saturday, Sani described the loss as not only a personal tragedy for the El-Rufai family but also a significant loss to Kaduna State and the nation at large. He paid tribute to the late matriarch, highlighting her contributions to community development and the values she upheld during her lifetime. Sani praised her legacy of service, noting that she embodied strong leadership within her community and was widely respected for her motherly role and guidance. He said her life reflected compassion, dedication, and a lasting impact on those around her. Offering prayers for the deceased, the former lawmaker asked Allah to forgive her shortcomings and grant her eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. He also prayed for strength and comfort for El-Rufai and his family as they mourn...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Super Eagles and Olympiacos defender Bruno Onyemaechi and his Portuguese partner, Inês Fontes, have welcomed their first child together on Saturday, March 28, 2026. The left-back made the joyful announcement on social media, sharing a heartfelt photo of himself cradling the newborn. He captioned one post “Best gift ever” and another “feeling complete,” clearly expressing his overwhelming happiness at becoming a father for the first time. Onyemaechi, who plays his club football in Greece with Olympiacos, was on international duty with the Super Eagles in Antalya, Turkey when the birth happened. The 25-year-old had featured for Nigeria in their 2-1 friendly victory over Iran on Friday before briefly leaving the team camp to be with his family. Inês Fontes, a popular content creator and influencer, has been in a relationship with Onyemaechi since 2022. The couple, who first met during his time at Boavista in Portugal, recently celebrated their...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei described Nigeria as “a very good team” after his side suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Super Eagles in an international friendly in Antalya, Turkey on Friday, March 27, 2026. Ghalenoei’s compliment came despite the loss, as Moses Simon opened the scoring on his 96th cap for Nigeria and Jerome Akor Adams added the second goal. The Super Eagles showed strong attacking intent from the outset, pressing high and using quick transitions and wing play to dominate the early stages of the match at Corendon Airlines Park. The Iranian tactics was measured in his assessment after the game, acknowledging Nigeria’s quality while reflecting on his team’s performance under challenging circumstances. This comes after previous high-profile defeats where Ghalenoei had been more self-critical, once describing a 2024 Asian Cup loss as “the worst day of my life.” It was Nigeria’s second victory over Iran, following a 1-0 win in the 19...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Being a man isn't about how much you can do or the size of your arms. It's about how you show up when life gets tough,  that's the real test. "True nobility is being superior to your former self," as Confucius wisely put it. This isn't about competing with other men—it's about beating the man you were yesterday. Every time you choose discipline over comfort, honesty over shortcuts, or patience over anger, you're building true nobility. It's an inside job that no one can take away from you. Success can look flashy, money in the bank, status, recognition but value runs deeper. It's about who you become in the process. A man of success might chase wins for the applause, but a man of value builds something real: reliability, wisdom, self-control, and the ability to lift others without losing himself. This conversation is heating up right now on X (formerly Twitter). Just in the past few days, men have been ...

By Momoh Oluwateniola  Nentawe Yilwatda and Ajibola Basiru have emerged as the National Chairman and National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC).  They were elected during the party’s national convention held on Friday at Eagle Square in Abuja, where both candidates were returned unopposed through a consensus arrangement. The decision followed the party’s earlier move to maintain its zoning formula for positions in the National Working Committee (NWC). The convention, themed “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” was attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, among other party leaders. Party officials said thousands of delegates took part in the convention, which was organised by a committee led by Aminu Masari and Anyim Pius Anyim.

By Enakaye Peculiar  Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it often comes down to small, consistent choices you make every day. According to the World Health Organization, maintaining good health starts with a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and proper rest. These basics form the foundation for a stronger body and a clearer mind. One of the most important habits is eating a balanced diet. Try to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, while the other half includes whole grains and healthy proteins. Reducing salt, sugar, and saturated fats can help lower the risk of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Simple swaps—like choosing water over sugary drinks or using healthier oils—can make a big difference over time. Staying active is just as essential. You don’t need an intense workout routine; even 30 minutes of daily movement like walking, dancing, or light exercise can improve your mood, boost your immune syst...

By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther There is something beautiful about building with a partner. Growing together, supporting each other, becoming stronger as a unit. Nobody is arguing against that. But somewhere between the romance and the reality, a lot of women forget to ask one simple question: what am I building for myself? Before you carry brick and cement for someone else’s future, pause. Have you finished laying your own foundation? We have all seen it. The girl who dropped her admission, paused her business, or relocated her entire life for a relationship that did not make it to the altar. She gave years. He gave excuses. And when it ended, she was left picking up the pieces while he moved on like nothing happened. Support is a gift. Love is a gift. But when those gifts come at the cost of your own growth, they stop being generous and start becoming self-destructive.You were not created to shrink yourself into someone’s idea of “wife material” while your own dreams sit o...

By Igwe Grace  The “Japa syndrome” is one of the most talked-about topics in Nigeria today. It has existed for some time, but recently it has become more rampant.Many people see it as a struggle for greener pastures , a way of escaping poverty and hardship in search of a better life. There are two sides to this issue. On one hand, many people, especially those who have experienced economic hardship, support the idea of leaving the country. Imagine a graduate who has spent years without a job; when an opportunity to travel comes, it feels like an escape from suffering. Similarly, a family living in abject poverty that wins a visa lottery would immediately jump at the opportunity. On the other hand, some people are strongly against it. Perhaps the already made ones advise young Nigerians to stay and build their country. They argue that life abroad is not as easy as many believe. Which is  actually true, stories about racism and discrimination are not just rumours; ma...

By Momoh Oluwateniola   Students of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) have emerged winners of the 2025/2026 NextGen Insurers Knowledge Challenge after scoring 14 points to beat students from University of Lagos with 12 points and Lagos State University with 10 points. The competition, organized by the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, was held on Thursday at the 700-Seater Auditorium, College of Applied Social Sciences (CASS), LASUSTECH, Ikorodu. UNILAG scored 12 points to come second, while LASU also participated. The quiz tested students’ knowledge of NIIRA 2025 and basic insurance ideas. Speaking at the event, CIIN officials said the aim was to help students understand insurance better and prepare for future careers. Guest speakers, including Seun Oyelere and Rilwan Sunmonu, encouraged students, while Banjo Kudirat Adeola advised them to stay focused on their studies. The Registrar/CEO of CIIN, Abimbola Tiamiyu, said the instit...

By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther Know your body type before you pick an outfit. It will save you every time.Always wear what makes you confident, whether that is trousers, a skirt, or a gown. If it makes you feel like yourself, wear it. Learn to combine colors. Do not be like Sister Amaka stepping out in a purple skirt, blue blouse, and yellow shoes all at once. If color matching is not your strength, stick to combinations you already know work. Comfort matters with footwear too. If heels are not your thing, wear flats. Wear sneakers. Wear sandals. Just keep them clean and wear them with pride.Know the hairstyles that suit your head shape, and make sure your makeup blends with your skin tone. You do not want to look like the confluence of River Niger and River Benue. Your natural face is also a perfectly valid option. When you wear leggings, wear a top that covers your butt. When you wear tight outfits, keep your panty liners hidden. Every outfit also has a walking pattern. L...

By Igwe Grace  The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a $346 million budget to support the fight against HIV and tuberculosis in 2026.The funding, revealed by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health, is part of efforts to improve healthcare services, increase accountability, and strengthen the country’s response to both diseases. As part of the plan, the government has introduced a new HIV prevention drug called Lenacapavir. The injection, taken twice a year, will be provided free, especially for people at higher risk of infection. Health officials also reported a rise in tuberculosis cases, with about 440,000 cases recorded in 2025, compared to around 138,000 in 2020. Despite the increase, treatment success remains high at 94 percent. Health Minister Muhammad Pate said: “By aligning resources across all levels of government and working with partners in a coordinated manner, we are building a system that is efficient, effective, and capable of ending TB and HIV.” ...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  The Super Eagles defeated Iran in an international friendly played in Antalya, Turkey on Friday, March 27, 2026.Nigeria secured a 2-1 full-time victory over Iran. Moses Simon, on his 96th senior cap for Nigeria, opened the scoring, while Jerome Akor Adams added the second goal as the Super Eagles showed strong attacking intent from the start, pressing high and exploiting spaces with quick transitions and wing play to dominate the early stages of the match. At the Corendon Airlines Park, home of Turkish Super Lig side Antalyaspor, the game was played largely behind closed doors. Coach Éric Chelle’s side combined early attacking verve with late defensive discipline, a team still taking shape but already showing clear identity under the French coach. The three-time AFCON champions wasted no time stamping their authority on the game, creating several scoring opportunities through fluid movement and purposeful build-up play. Despite Iran pulling...

By Enakaye Peculiar  The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has re-arrested a suspected fraudster linked to an online scam that targeted over 100 candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The development highlights ongoing efforts by the board to clamp down on examination malpractice and protect candidates from exploitation. The suspect, Emmanuel Akataka, was reportedly picked up again after returning to fraudulent activities following an earlier arrest. He is accused of operating an online scheme that falsely promised candidates assistance in boosting their examination scores, luring them into paying for services that do not exist. According to JAMB, no fewer than 131 candidates were affected by the scam, with each victim allegedly paying between ₦5,000 and ₦8,000. While the suspect claimed to have earned a smaller sum, the board believes the total amount collected could be significantly higher, raising concerns about ...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Senegal has confirmed plans to publicly parade the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy 15 minutes before their international friendly against Peru at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday, March 28, 2026. The move comes as a bold act of defiance following CAF’s controversial decision to strip the Teranga Lions of the title and award it to hosts Morocco. Despite the Confederation of African Football overturning the on-field result of the January 18 final in Rabat, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has vowed to fight to retain the trophy. Senegal originally won the match 1-0 in extra time through Pape Gueye’s goal after a chaotic final that included a brief player walk-off in protest. The FSF has described CAF’s ruling as an “administrative robbery” and has formally appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). “Senegal will not bend the knee,” declared FSF President Abdoulaye Fall. The federation has promised a d...

By Momoh Oluwateniola  Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied having any connection to the controversial OPL 245 oil block. In a statement released by his media office, it said he never had any interest in the oil asset and that his involvement was only in the public interest and to support the rule of law.  The statement also described OPL 245 as “one of the most consequential oil assets in Nigeria, long entangled in complex litigation and international scrutiny.” Furthermore, the media office called on the Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi, to focus on addressing the main legal issues instead of dismissing concerns as propaganda. It stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, adding that ignoring key facts could damage Nigeria’s image both locally and internationally. The statement concluded by saying, “Nigeria cannot build credibility, locally or internationally, by ignoring documented facts or dismissing legitimate questions. The rule of...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Fulham midfielder and Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi has received a double nomination for the Premier League’s Player of the Month and Goal of the Month awards for March 2026, recognising his outstanding form during the month. Iwobi’s influential performances, particularly his brilliant long-range strike against Tottenham Hotspur on March 1, have earned him a place on both shortlists. The goal, a composed side-footed effort in the 34th minute that doubled Fulham’s lead in a 2-1 victory, has been shortlisted for Goal of the Month and marks his fourth league goal of the 2025/26 season. The Nigerian international has been in excellent form under manager Marco Silva, contributing three assists alongside his goals in 23 Premier League appearances this term. His versatility and consistency have made him a key figure for the Cottagers. Iwobi faces stiff competition from Bruno Fernandes, David Raya, James Garner, Morgan Gibbs-White, Anthony Gordon an...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has been called up to replace injured Fulham centre-back Calvin Bassey in the Super Eagles squad for the March 2026 international friendlies against Iran and Jordan in Antalya, Turkey. The late change comes after Bassey was ruled out on Wednesday with a back injury sustained during Fulham’s 3-1 Premier League win over Burnley last weekend. The 26-year-old will remain in London for further assessment and rehabilitation, leaving the Super Eagles short-handed in central defence. Nwaiwu, 22, who can operate as a centre-back or defensive midfielder, earns his maiden call-up following impressive performances in the Turkish league this season. The former Enyimba International FC player brings versatility and youthful energy to coach Éric Chelle’s backline. With only three recognised centre-backs now available, Chelle moved quickly to strengthen the squad. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Nwaiwu’s inclu...

By Enakaye Peculiar  The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears to be turning a new page, as leaders signal renewed commitment to internal unity while preparing for the 2027 general elections. After months of divisions and public disagreements, key party stakeholders met in Abuja to discuss reconciliation and strategies to restore cohesion, sending a message that the party is serious about regaining strength and credibility. One of the major takeaways from the meeting is the party’s openness to a peace pact. Leaders acknowledged that the ongoing crisis could weaken their chances if not properly addressed. Figures like Kabiru Tanimu Turaki have emphasized dialogue and compromise, stressing that unity is more important now than ever. The message is clear: if the PDP wants to remain relevant, it must first fix its internal issues. At the same time, the party is trying to reassure Nigerians that it is not losing sight of the bigger picture. With the 2027 general elections a...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  The Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has been ruled out of the squad for the upcoming four-nation friendly tournament in Antalya, Turkey, due to a back injury. Bassey was initially expected to link up with the team for the matches against Iran and Jordan, but he will now remain in London to focus on recovery and rehabilitation.  The 26-year-old sustained the injury during Fulham’s 3-1 Premier League victory over Burnley last weekend. In a brief statement released on the team’s official channels, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the withdrawal and wished Bassey a speedy recovery. The federation also acknowledged the importance of his presence in the squad, especially as coach Éric Chelle looks to build defensive cohesion ahead of future competitive fixtures. The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for the Super Eagles coaching staff, who had hoped to assess their strongest defensive combinations during the...

By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther There is a kind of poverty that has nothing to do with money. The poverty of self-belief. It is quiet, invisible, and far more dangerous than any material lack. I once sat with a colleague who had reduced herself to nothing in her own mind. Talented, capable, full of potential she could not see. She called herself useless. Empty. Done. She was none of those things. The truth is this: no one arrives in this world without something valuable placed inside them. Your experiences, your perspective, your capacity to think, to feel, to create. These are not accidents. They are assets. And unlike money, no economic crisis can wipe them out. The problem is not that people lack wealth. The problem is that they have stopped looking for it in the right place. Your thoughts shape your reality more than your circumstances do. Feed them with intention. Speak to yourself with the same grace you would offer someone you love. Remind yourself daily of what you c...

Somewhere between “I’ve got it all figured out” and “What am I even doing with my life?” we exist. You’ll see it in the way people laugh too loud, or say “I’m fine” like it’s a full-time job. You’ll find it in 3 a.m. thoughts, unfinished dreams, and that one memory that still stings for no good reason. We’re all just… trying. Trying to be enough in a world that keeps moving the finish line. Trying to heal without really knowing how. Trying to stay soft in places that reward being hard. And somehow we still show up. We wake up. We reply messages (eventually). We smile in pictures. We keep going. Not because it’s easy, but because stopping feels scarier. So if today feels heavy, or confusing, or like you’re the only one who doesn’t get it you’re not. We’re all a little lost. A little hopeful. A little tired. And weirdly… that’s what connects us.

By Enakaye Peculiar  Sometimes, the comments people laugh at are the ones that hurt the most. Body shaming is often brushed off as harmless jokes, but for many people, it’s something they carry with them longer than others realize. I’ve noticed how easy it is for comments about someone’s body to slip into everyday conversations even among friends without anyone thinking about the impact. Whether it’s about weight, height, skin tone, or body shape, those words can stick. A big reason body shaming is so common today is the pressure created by unrealistic beauty standards, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Scrolling through perfectly curated images can make it seem like there’s only one “right” way to look. I’ve had moments where I caught myself comparing my appearance to what I see online, forgetting that most of it is filtered or edited. It’s a trap many people fall into, even when we know better. The effects go beyond just a bad day. Body shaming can sl...

By Adewusi Aisha  The crisis rocking the opposition Peoples Democratic Party worsened  as governors in the party distanced themselves from the consensus selection of a national chairman and secretary by the Nyesom Wike-backed faction, insisting on legal redress and a review of the process. This is as Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Abdulrahman Mohammed emerged as consensus candidates for National Secretary and National Chairman, respectively, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Senior PDP members aligned with the governors-backed National Working Committee led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) said they would pursue legal options to resolve the crisis. Meanwhile, members of the Wike-backed National Caretaker Committee said all geopolitical zones had agreed on consensus candidates ahead of the March 29–30 convention. After nearly a year of internal crisis, the PDP remains divided into two factions. The governors’ camp held a convention in Ibadan on...

By Irikefe Oghenetega Victor  Alex Iwobi, Nigeria's Super Eagles key figure and the Fulham midfielder, has been recognised on the 2025 Football Black List, an annual celebration of the most influential Black professionals making significant contributions across football. Iwobi earned his place in the Players category primarily for founding Project 17 in 2021, an initiative that empowers underserved Black youth through football clinics, education workshops, mentorship programmes, and flagship events such as the P17 Cup.  Joining Iwobi on the list is Arsenal's Eberechi Eze, who represents England and was also named in the Players category. Eze was highlighted for the impactful work of his foundation in south London, which creates pathways in education and sport for young people in his community. This year's edition marks a historic milestone, featuring more women than men for the first time, reflecting the growing diversity and representation within th...

By Enakaye Peculiar  Signature Bank has announced the appointment of Alex Alozie as its new Deputy Managing Director, in a move aimed at strengthening its leadership team and driving strategic growth. The bank disclosed that Alozie brings a wealth of experience in the financial services sector, having built a strong career spanning several years in banking operations, risk management, and corporate leadership. His appointment is expected to enhance the bank’s operational efficiency and support its long-term vision of expanding its footprint in Nigeria’s competitive banking industry. According to the bank, Alozie will play a key role in shaping business strategy, improving service delivery, and fostering innovation across its operations. His expertise is also expected to contribute to strengthening customer relationships and improving overall performance. The appointment reflects Signature Bank’s commitment to reinforcing its executive management team with seasoned profe...

By Momoh Oluwateniola  President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has warned that Nigeria could face serious economic problems if the ongoing conflict involving Iran does not end soon. Dangote said the war in the Middle East is already affecting global oil supply and pushing up crude oil prices. According to him, if the situation continues, it will make fuel more expensive and increase hardship for Nigerians. He explained that Nigeria is still affected by global oil market changes, even with local refining. Rising crude prices usually lead to higher fuel costs, which then affect transport, businesses, and daily living. Furthermore, he noted that disruptions in oil supply routes, especially in the Middle East, could make it harder and more expensive for countries like Nigeria to get petroleum products. Experts have also warned that the conflict could put pressure on economies that depend on imported fuel, as higher energy costs may lead to inflation and increased cos...

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola  Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation industry are divided over allegations by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) that some airlines engaged in price fixing. The controversy follows an investigation by the Commission, which indicted five unnamed domestic airlines over airfare increases during the festive season, sparking widespread debate across the sector. Airlines, operating under the umbrella of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), have rejected the findings. They argued that the FCCPC lacks the technical expertise to interpret airline pricing and warned that such claims could threaten the survival of local carriers. However, aviation consultant Chris Aligbe supported the Commission’s position, stating that the FCCPC has the legal authority to regulate anti-competitive practices across all sectors. He noted that the sharp rise in ticket prices during peak travel periods justified regulatory scrutiny.

By Salu Fatimah  The dinner table, once a sacred space for family bonding, has become a battleground of silent disconnection. Mobile phones, once a luxury, have become a ubiquitous presence that often dictates the rhythm of family life. As screens glow, meaningful interactions fade, and relationships wither.  Excessive phone use has created a culture of distraction, where partners neglect meaningful conversations and kids prioritize virtual connections over real-life interactions. The consequences are evident: decreased emotional intimacy, increased misunderstandings, and a sense of isolation. Couples find themselves arguing over phone use, with one partner feeling neglected or suspicious of the other's online activities. Kids, too, are not immune, often preferring the comfort of their screens to engaging with family members. Trust issues simmer just beneath the surface, fueled by social media interactions and secret messaging apps. Relationships suffer as suspicio...