Football Event & News Update

Obi unveils 2027 agenda, prioritises security, unity

2026-11-11T01:31:01.382-08:00

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Mr Peter Obi, on Tuesday unveiled a comprehensive governance agenda centred on national unity, security, economic productivity and accountable leadership, pledging to restore hope to Nigerians if elected president in 2027.

Obi articulated his vision in Jos, Plateau State, during a town hall meeting with supporters and other Nigerians, where he said his administration would be anchored on listening to citizens and responding to their needs.

He said national unity remained the foremost priority of his candidacy.

“Our number one commitment is to unite the Federal Republic of Nigeria because today we have no unity. We are divided along tribal and religious lines. That should not be. We are Nigerians,” Obi said.

He identified insecurity as the second pillar of his agenda, stressing that the primary duty of government was to guarantee the safety of lives and property.

“Number two is to secure Nigeria. It is our duty to ensure that Nigerians live in safety, in a country where people are no longer killed daily.

“I assure you that no mother will continue to cry over the loss of her children. No woman should experience the pain of losing her husband, and no father should suffer the agony of losing his wife,” he said.

On displaced persons, Obi said the continued existence of internally displaced persons (IDP) camps would constitute a failure of leadership, adding that his administration would prioritise the safe and dignified return of displaced Nigerians to their ancestral communities.

“If any Nigerian remains in an Internally Displaced Persons camp, we have failed. Once one Nigerian is in an IDP camp, the entire Nigeria is in an IDP camp. People must return to their homes,” he stated.

He further pledged to strengthen the nation’s security architecture and confront kidnapping and other violent crimes decisively.

“Nobody will kidnap two children and disappear into the bush. If you kidnap children and go into the bush, you will not be alone there. We will come after you,” he declared.

Obi explained that his decision to engage communities ahead of the commencement of campaigns was deliberate, noting that effective leadership must be demand-driven.

“When you want to serve, you must listen to the people. When we come for campaigns, we only talk and we don’t listen to the people. We have decided that leadership must be demand-driven,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor recalled his visits to Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Mangu and other conflict-affected communities in Plateau State, describing the security situation as unacceptable.

“If I have one person in an IDP camp, it means we are all in an IDP camp. I am competing because I want to know how we talk to that mother whose child was killed, that husband who lost a wife and that woman who lost a husband. Who is going to listen to their cries?” he asked.

On the 2027 general election, Obi urged Nigerians to take active responsibility for safeguarding their votes.

“In the next election, every voter is an agent. Don’t vote and go home. Take that day as the one day you are giving to Nigeria as a patriotic Nigerian,” he said.

“Prepare yourself with your breakfast, lunch and dinner, and remain there. Your vote must be counted, recorded and transmitted. Nobody should give you any excuse. It is your vote, and we want this election to be about the future of Nigeria.”

Turning to the economy, Obi said his administration would transition Nigeria from a consumption-based economy to a production-driven one, arguing that increased local production would stimulate employment and improve living standards.

“Our determination is to unite Nigeria, secure Nigeria and pull people out of poverty. That is why we said we are going to move Nigeria from consumption to production,” he said.

“By increasing production, we will increase employment. Today, farmers cannot go to their farms because of insecurity. Companies operating in Plateau State have collapsed because of insecurity. When we unite Nigeria and secure it, we will create opportunities.”

2027: Abdulsalami panel flags 109 breaches, warns of election violence

2026-11-11T01:26:32.238-08:00

The National Peace Committee said 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory recorded 109 breaches of the National Peace Accord over 10 weeks of monitoring, raising concerns about potential threats to peaceful campaigns and the 2027 general elections.

The centre, in its monitoring report covering the period between August 19 and October 27, obtained by The PUNCH on Tuesday, identified political violence and thuggery, as well as misinformation and disinformation, as the leading violations, accounting for 33 and 29 incidents, respectively.

It identified Kaduna, Edo and Enugu as election flashpoints, citing recurring political violence, armed disruptions and other security concerns, revealing that the Federal Capital Territory also recorded seven incidents, while Kaduna had the highest number, with nine.

The panel called for investigations into reported violations and urged security agencies to provide equal protection for lawful campaign activities. It also asked political parties and candidates to condemn violence, disown armed groups and ensure accountability for threats and intimidation.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while the governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections will hold on February 6, 2027.

Campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections commenced on August 19, while those for the governorship and State Assembly polls began on September 9.

Against this backdrop, 19 political parties signed the National Peace Accord in Abuja on August 18, pledging to uphold 12 standards aimed at promoting peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Under the agreement, the parties and their candidates committed to rejecting violence, threats and intimidation.

Other commitments covered issue-based campaigns, the dissemination of truthful political information, responsible use of digital media, inclusive participation, respect for electoral and security institutions, rejection of the partisan misuse of public authority and civil communication among political actors.

According to the report, the 109 recorded breaches represented an average of about 11 incidents weekly, with political violence and thuggery accounting for the largest category.

It identified that “33 incidents of political violence and thuggery, representing 30.3 per cent of the total, while 29 cases of misinformation and disinformation accounted for 26.6 per cent.

“Attacks on political activities and campaign assets accounted for 19 incidents, representing 17.4 per cent, while intimidation and threats recorded 15 cases, or 13.8 per cent.”

The report also documented seven incidents of restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, four inflammatory statements, one intra-party conflict and one case of voter inducement.

It stated that, “The four leading categories accounted for 88 per cent, representing 96 of the 109 breaches recorded during the monitoring period. And 57 incidents, representing 52 per cent of the total, did not involve physical attacks”.

Man Utd open talks with Pochettino about replacing Carrick

2026-11-11T01:22:34.256-08:00

Manchester United have opened talks with USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino about replacing Michael Carrick, who is expected to lose his job this week.

Carrick's future at United will be decided at a meeting in Monaco on Wednesday that will be attended by chief executive Omar Berrada, director of football Jason Wilcox and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

And discussions for former Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea boss Pochettino to return to the Premier League are under way.

United have spoken to the ex-Argentina defender about their managerial position on three previous occasions - when Jose Mourinho was sacked in 2018, then in 2022 before the club appointed Erik ten Hag and again when the Dutchman was sacked in 2024.

Pochettino renewed his contract with the USA in August, and they have a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarter-final against Haiti over the next week.

The 54-year-old has a $10m (£7.5m) release clause.

Berrada and Wilcox have flown to Monaco for one of their regular, planned meetings to discuss strategy around the football club.

On this occasion, the main issue to be decided is Carrick's future and what should happen next.

It is expected that Berrada and Wilcox's recommendation is for the head coach to go.

United are 18th in the Premier League - inside the relegation zone - after winning just one of their first 10 games and none since August.

It is the club's lowest position at this stage of a top-flight season since 1986-87, when they were 20th.

Pochettino's first job in the Premier League was at Southampton from January 2013, before a five-year stint at Tottenham from 2014 that included a Champions League final appearance.

He managed Paris St-Germain from January 2021 to July 2022 before spending the 2023-24 season in charge of Chelsea.

Pochettino moved into international football by taking the USA job in September 2024, and led the co-hosts to the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

2027 AFCONQ: Don’t Underrate Tanzania — Udeze Warns Super Eagles

2026-11-11T01:20:13.542-08:00

Former Nigeria international Ifeanyi Udeze has warned the Super Eagles not to underrate Tanzania ahead of their Group L 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) double-header.

The Super Eagles will host Tanzania in the first leg on Friday, November 13 inside the Godswill Akpabio stadium in Uyo before going away for the reverse fixture on November 17.

After two games, the Super Eagles are second on three points while Tanzania are bottom with just one point.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Udeze said the game will be tough for the Eagles.

“It won’t be easy against Tanzania,” Udeze said on BRILA FM. “It will be tough and I hope they will not underrate Tanzania.”

The 2002 and 2004 AFCON bronze medal winner expressed disappointment that some player of the Super Eagle are yet to arrive camp.

“What is painful to me is that some players are yet to arrive camp, with such attitude how are we sure they are taking this game serious.

“I just wish them all the best and hope they get the three points.”

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles will be without star forwards Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze due to injuries.

Also Hull City defender Semi Ajayi is a doubt for the encounter, after he was substituted in last weekend’s Premier League tie with Arsenal at the Emirates with a knock.

NYSC deployment surge caused Sagamu camp overcrowding — Ogun

2026-11-09T05:19:15.904-08:00

The Ogun State Government has attributed the overcrowding at the National Youth Service Corps orientation camp in Sagamu to a significant increase in the number of prospective corps members posted to the state.

The government made the clarification following the circulation of a viral video showing prospective corps members sleeping in a crowded multipurpose hall at the orientation camp, popularly known as the Five-Star Camp.

It explained that the registration, screening, credential verification and hostel allocation of corps members were exclusively handled by NYSC officials and did not fall under the direct responsibility of the state government.

According to the government, the camp typically accommodates slightly over 2,000 corps members per batch, but the current batch has received more than 4,300 prospective corps members, placing considerable pressure on available facilities.

The Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kayode Akinmade, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, describing the scene in the viral video as a temporary arrangement during the registration exercise.

Akinmade said, “The video captured a temporary arrangement during the registration exercise, which continued into the night”.

Ogun NYSC convert orientation multipurpose hall to room for corps members due to overcrowding

He explained that prospective corps members had to undergo credential verification and screening by NYSC officials before being allocated hostels.

“The prospective corps members must first undergo credential verification and screening by NYSC officials before being allocated hostels.

“Those whose registration extended into the night were temporarily accommodated in the multipurpose hall, with mattresses provided for them to rest while the exercise continued,” he said.

Akinmade added that the number of prospective corps members deployed to Ogun had increased considerably compared with previous batches.

“The state received more than 4,300 prospective corps members for the current batch, compared with slightly over 2,000 in previous batches, increasing the pressure on available camp facilities,” he said.

He emphasised that although the NYSC was responsible for managing the registration process and camp accommodation, the state government consistently supported the agency through interventions aimed at improving the welfare of corps members.

As part of its support, Akinmade said the state government provided 500 mattresses during the current exercise, while the Akarigbo of Remo donated 100 mattresses, followed by an additional donation of 200.

He also recalled that Governor Dapo Abiodun had recently approved ₦50,000 each for the 3,050 corps members in the previous 2026 Batch C Stream I to assist with their transportation.

Akinmade further said Ogun State had been adjudged the best in the country in NYSC administration, describing the recognition as evidence of the government’s sustained commitment to supporting the scheme.

He urged members of the public to understand the distinction between the operational responsibilities of the NYSC and the supportive role of the state government, assuring them that the Abiodun administration would continue to provide assistance to make the state conducive for corps members to serve.

The controversy followed the emergence of a video showing overcrowding and what appeared to be poor sleeping conditions at the Sagamu orientation camp.

The footage, which surfaced online on Monday, showed graduates packed into a room, with mattresses placed closely together on the floor. Some prospective corps members were also seen sharing mattresses.

The multipurpose hall, ordinarily used for events, had reportedly been converted into a sleeping area to accommodate the increased number of prospective corps members, raising concerns about the adequacy of facilities at the camp.

An X user, Ayohid01 (@ayohid01), who appeared to be among those affected, expressed frustration over the situation, writing, “Bro, I can’t believe I am experiencing this right now at Ogun State camp Unna no try at all.”

When contacted by phone for comments, the NYSC Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, Mrs Tejumade Awoleye, declined to comment on the incident.

“There Is Reason To Panic” –Leboeuf Warns Man United Face Shock Relegation Threat

2026-11-09T05:13:01.522-08:00

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has issued a scathing assessment of Manchester United, warning that the club faces a genuine risk of relegation to the Championship if their slump continues.

Speaking on ESPN, Leboeuf voiced severe concerns over the club’s trajectory under Michael Carrick, insisting that fans have every reason to be alarmed by the current state of affairs.

“It’s been a while since you had to panic because we saw the games that they had. There is reason to panic and it’s been like that for a while,” Leboeuf stated.

The World Cup winner did not hold back in his criticism of the playing squad, questioning their commitment and suitability to wear the shirt.

“You can’t get rid of those players who don’t deserve to play for Manchester United, who aren’t good enough for Manchester United,” he added. “They don’t have the guts, the courage, the pride of fighting for the club.”

While expressing personal sympathy for Carrick, Leboeuf suggested the board may eventually be forced to make a managerial change if results fail to improve.

“Nothing is getting good, we don’t see any improvement, we don’t see how it can be better,” Leboeuf concluded. “Again, I’m all for Michael Carrick. But there is a time when there will be no other choices but getting rid of him. I don’t see any solution, I don’t see anything getting good, and if they carry on like that, you could see Manchester United getting relegated, which is amazing.”

Flamingos Touch Down In Abuja, Set For Trophy Parade

2026-11-09T05:10:20.775-08:00

Nigeria’s Flamingos, have arrived in Abuja following their triumphant campaign at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Akeem Busari-led side emerged champions after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final, played last Saturday at Pitch 3 of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

The players and their officials departed Rabat in the early hours of Monday aboard a Royal Air Maroc flight, which landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 5:50 a.m. local time.

The team is expected to embark on a trophy parade later in the day, taking their celebrations to major streets across the Federal Capital Territory.

The roadshow will begin around Eagle Square and the Federal Secretariat in the Central Business District before proceeding through Julius Berger Roundabout and Wuse Market. The procession will then move towards Maitama, Asokoro and Apo districts.

Meanwhile, the official reception in honour of the world champions will take place at a later date due to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s busy schedule.

Tinubu is currently engaged in campaign activities ahead of next year’s presidential election.

Nigeria claim the #U17WWC title. 🇳🇬🏆

2026-11-07T12:46:28.806-08:00

Is it a sin for Christians to remarry after divorce? Here's what the Bible and Christian leaders say

2026-11-07T00:16:13.252-08:00

While Scripture teaches that marriage is a lifelong covenant, being divorced does not make someone unworthy of God's love, grace or forgiveness.

"...to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health... until death do us part.” That oath binds Christian marriage, making it one of life's biggest commitments.

But what happens when that marriage becomes unhappy, abusive or simply falls apart?

If a Christian gets divorced, does that mean they must remain single for the rest of their lives? Can they fall in love again, marry someone else and still be right with God?

It is a question that has divided opinions among Christians, largely because some Bible passages appear to discourage remarriage after divorce. In contrast, others are interpreted as allowing it under certain circumstances.

To understand what Scripture says, Pulse Nigeria spoke to Spiricoco NG, a Christian digital organisation committed to providing resources for spiritual growth, and an anonymous Apostle.

While both agree that God intends marriage to be a lifelong commitment, they seem to have different opinions on when divorce and remarriage are permissible.

In Matthew 19:3–6, the Pharisees questioned Jesus on whether a man could divorce his wife for any reason, and Jesus referred to the creation of man and woman, explaining that a husband and wife become one flesh.

He then said, "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."

This passage forms the foundation of the Christian belief that marriage is meant to be a lifelong commitment and one that shouldn’t be broken.

However, Jesus also acknowledged an exception to this teaching in Matthew 19:9, where He said, "Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery."

The passage is one of the most frequently cited scriptures in discussions about divorce and remarriage. But how far does this exception extend, and what does it mean for someone whose marriage has already ended?

Under what conditions can a Christian divorce and remarry?

According to Spiricoco NG, the first thing Christians must consider is why the marriage ended. The organisation identifies two circumstances in which it believes divorce and remarriage are biblically permissible.

1. When a spouse commits adultery

Spiricoco points to Matthew 19:9, where Jesus makes an exception for sexual immorality. The organisation interprets this to mean that when one spouse commits adultery, the innocent partner is free to end the marriage and marry someone else.

In other words, a Christian whose marriage ends because of their partner's infidelity is not necessarily committing adultery by remarrying.

2. When an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage

The second circumstance comes from 1 Corinthians 7:12–15, where the Apostle Paul addresses marriages between believers and unbelievers. He encourages Christians married to unbelievers to remain in their marriages if their partners are willing to stay.

However, he adds that if the unbelieving partner chooses to leave, the Christian should allow them to go.

Verse 15 states, "But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God hath called us to peace."

According to Spiricoco, this means that the abandoned Christian is no longer bound to the marriage and is free to remarry.

The organisation maintains that Christians who divorce for reasons outside these circumstances should remain unmarried or reconcile with their former spouses based on 1 Corinthians 7:10–11, where Paul instructs separated couples to remain unmarried or reconcile rather than marry someone else.

Now, as mentioned earlier, not everyone interprets these Bible passages as a permanent restriction on remarriage.

An Apostle who spoke to Pulse Nigeria anonymously argued that being divorced does not automatically mean someone is living in sin or that they can never get married again.

According to him, God hates divorce, not divorced people, which is true based on John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world…”

He explained that God never intended for marriages to end, but human weaknesses and the failure to uphold the love that should exist between couples sometimes lead to broken relationships.

He also referred to Matthew 19:7–9, where Jesus explained that Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of people's hearts, even though it was not God's original intention for marriage.

The Apostle believes that Christians who have divorced can still remarry if they choose to or feel led to do so. He also encouraged anyone who feels guilty about getting divorced or remarrying to return to Jesus and restore their relationship and fellowship with God.

What if a Christian wants to divorce because of abuse or other serious problems?

Abusive Relationship-Signs

As the Apostle mentioned above, God hates divorce, not divorced people. He acknowledged that Matthew 19:9 is the New Testament passage that explicitly identifies sexual immorality as an exception to Jesus' teaching against divorce but also argued that Christians should not interpret the Bible's position on marriage using that passage alone.

He maintained that no specific New Testament verse explicitly permits divorce for every possible reason and that the broader teachings of Scripture, which are about love, justice, human dignity and peace, should also guide how Christians handle marriages that have become harmful.

He put it this way: "The covenant of life supersedes the covenant of marriage."

In other words, the commitment to marriage should not mean that someone must sacrifice their life, safety or well-being to remain with their spouse.

For example, someone experiencing domestic violence may need to leave the home, seek help and protect themselves and their children. The Apostle suggested that couples could also seek counselling, healing and prayer where reconciliation remains possible.

He explained that the central message of Scripture is love, which extends to forgiveness, restoration and reconciliation.

Paraguay Senate impeaches President Peña, VP Alliana takes over

2026-11-07T00:07:52.374-08:00

Pedro Alliana became president of Paraguay on Friday following the impeachment of his predecessor over a massive banking crisis that locked almost half the country out of their accounts.

Senators appointed Alliana, the former vice president, shortly after voting to remove Santiago Pena over the chaotic collapse of a bank to which he had links.

Senate President Basilio Nunez declared Pena “guilty of poor performance in his duties” after 44 out of 45 senators voted in favour of impeachment, with one lawmaker absent.

Hundreds of people waiting outside Congress raucously celebrated his impeachment.

“Justice has been done. Now we want him to give us back our money and go to jail,” Jessica Aquino, 32, told AFP.

Paraguayan authorities placed the ex-leader under house arrest minutes after his removal, prosecutor Silvia Margarita Gonzalez Vester told reporters.

Alliana promised not to abandon the almost three million depositors, including pensioners, affected by Ueno Bank’s takeover amid insolvency concerns.

“Compatriots who are now going through a difficult time as a result of the financial collapse will be fully compensated,” said Alliana, who will serve as president until 2028.

Opposition lawmakers had also filed a motion to impeach Alliana over the crisis, but the request failed to gain congressional approval.

• Money trickles back –

The bank’s demise brought thousands of people onto the streets demanding repercussions for US-backed Pena, who until last year had a stake in Grupo Vazquez, which controlled Ueno.

Advance payments to an unspecified number of impacted depositors began on Thursday afternoon, a Central Bank official told AFP.

The first phase of aid deposits, up to around $1,600, will go to clients who don’t have loans and have an account at another bank or institution in Paraguay to receive the funds, said Jose Maciel of the Central Bank’s Deposit Guarantee Fund.

The next beneficiaries “will be announced progressively over the course of the payment process,” he added.

Pena had offered his resignation over the disaster, but lawmakers pressed ahead with impeachment proceedings that have stripped him of political immunity.

The opposition accused the US-backed politician of a conflict of interest, which he denied.

The Attorney General said it was investigating him for “acts related to the supervision and resolution of Ueno Bank S.A. and the placement of public funds in said entity.”

He will be questioned over alleged crimes of breach of trust, influence peddling, and misappropriation of funds on Saturday, prosecutor Gonzalez Vester said.

Pena urged reconciliation in an X post shortly before his removal.

“Today, we must come together as Paraguayans to rebuild our institutions and restore trust,” he said.

The US Embassy in Paraguay expressed “its solidarity with the Paraguayan people” on Friday, without mentioning the president.

• ‘Pena in prison’ –

“Pena in prison,” read one of the protest signs outside Congress on Friday.

On Thursday, thousands demonstrated for a third consecutive night in Asuncion and other cities to demand the return of their money.

“Santiago Pena has hurt so many Paraguayans, so many families, business owners and small business people, including my own son, who had savings in Ueno Bank,” Cynthia Farina told AFP at a protest in the capital that police dispersed with tear gas and water cannons.

Ueno began as a small fintech company with a digital-first model that attracted low-income customers, rapidly becoming a major bank that handled state pensions and the accounts of several state entities.

The scandal has claimed the heads of Central Bank President Carlos Carvallo and Interior Minister Enrique Riera, while eight Ueno executives have been arrested.

Police conducted raids on various locations linked to Grupo Vazquez on Wednesday and Thursday.

Nearby Argentina felt the impact of the crisis as some 1,000 employees of technology company ITTI, which is part of Grupo Vazquez, were suspended for 30 days without pay.

Football also took a hit.

Ueno Bank sponsors several first division teams as well as the national team.

“We were also victims of this situation,” members of the national team said in a statement on X.

AFP

Pastors’ marital woes spark divorce debate

2026-11-07T00:02:27.759-08:00

The recent remarriage of the Senior Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Jimmy Odukoya, has reignited controversy over divorce among pastors, with religious leaders expressing divergent views on the growing number of failed marriages involving prominent clerics.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that at least eight marriages involving prominent Nigerian pastors, including Chris Oyakhilome, Chris Okotie, Joshua Iginla and Olumide Emmanuel, ended in divorce or separation between 2012 and 2026.

In 2016, the divorce between Christ Embassy founder Oyakhilome and his wife, Anita, was finalised, while Household of God Church founder Okotie separated from his second wife, Stephanie, in 2012.

Similarly, the General Overseer of Champions Royal Assembly, Iginla, announced the breakdown of his marriage to Yemisi in 2020.

In 2023, Pastor Emmanuel also spoke publicly about the collapse of his first marriage.

Jimmy’s collapsed marriage and new bride

Findings by our correspondents showed that Jimmy married his first wife, Oluwakemi Banjoko, in March 2013 in London.

The couple have two children together, but the cause of their marriage breakdown remains unknown.

While introducing his new wife, Jimmy disclosed that his first marriage collapsed long before he assumed the role of senior pastor in 2023, following the death of his father, Taiwo Odukoya.

According to reports, the couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in the United States after an introduction in Lagos.

Born Motunrayo (Mo) Daniel, the new wife is a creative entrepreneur and designer, and the daughter of Reverend Theophilus and Bolaji Daniel.

She was previously married to a British-Nigerian gospel music producer and artist, Mosadoluwa Adegboye, popularly known as itsMOSA.

Church members raise eyebrows

A member of The Fountain of Life Church, who spoke to Saturday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, alleged that the relationship between Jimmy and his new wife, Mo, had been a subject of controversy among some people familiar with the family over the years.

The source alleged that Jimmy had been “involved” with Mo several years after the breakdown of his first marriage.

The source also claimed that Mo was previously a close friend of Jimmy’s elder sister, Pastor Toluwani Odukoya-Ijogun, popularly known as Tolu.

According to the source, the friendship between the two women ended after Tolu learnt of the relationship between her brother and Mo.

“I have also been curious to know who he eventually married because he was dating this Mo lady some years ago after his marriage ended. Mo was Tolu’s best friend. When Tolu got to know she was having a relationship with Jimmy, the friendship ended,” the source said.

The church member further alleged that the relationship generated controversy long before the couple’s marriage became public.

“No issues with divorcing and remarrying, but you see, the thing has been controversial for a long time. I knew her through Tolu,” the source stated.

The church member expressed concern that the alleged circumstances surrounding the relationship could create tension within the Odukoya family and the church.

2026 U-17 WWC: ‘We Are Determined To Make Nigeria Proud’ – Flamingos Captain Chidi

2026-11-06T23:54:53.828-08:00

Flamingos captain Harmony Chidi has declared that the team is determined to make Nigeria proud by defeating Japan and clinching the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

Akeem Busari’s side will face Japan in the final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat on Saturday (today).

The encounter will mark the first-ever meeting between Nigeria and Japan at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup level.

The Flamingos are chasing their maiden title in the competition, while Japan will be aiming to secure their second championship.

Chidi Reveals Flamingos’ Ambition

Chidi described reaching the final as a dream come true, insisting that the team is eager to complete their impressive campaign by returning home with the trophy.

“I think it would be a great thing, a joy, and would never be forgotten in life,” Chidi told FIFA.

“Reaching the final is a very big thing, it’s a great thing and it’s something that we have dreamed of. [Winning] would be something myself, my country, my team-mates, our coaches, and everybody would be proud of.”

The eagerly anticipated final is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m. Nigerian time, with the Flamingos hoping to make history by lifting the trophy for the first time.

The EFCC has warned Nigerian girls and young women that allowing fraudsters to use their bank accounts

2026-11-06T07:07:18.020-08:00

The EFCC has warned Nigerian girls and young women that allowing fraudsters to use their bank accounts to receive or transfer illicit funds could expose them to prosecution and imprisonment.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede gave the warning in Abuja on October 12, also cautioning against cybercrime, online blackmail and sextortion.

He urged young women to pursue legitimate income sources, including technology, tailoring, baking and content creation.

5 years later, she’s still in detention and attending court.

2026-11-06T06:03:07.000-08:00

Chidinma, the suspected ki||er of Super TV boss Usifo Ataga, was just a 24-year-old Lagos big girl when she was arrested in connection with the crime.

Interestingly, 5 years later, she’s still in detention and attending court.

Now, she’s 29 years old.

Five years is gone

No loud birthday party

No glamorous birthday shoots

No birthday gifts.

No fo||owers on her IG, TikTok or SnapChat.

No new life connections.

No life achievement.

No iPhone upgrade.

If she was outside, she would have bought an iPhone 17 by now.

Possibly no s3x in 5 years.

No rephin0l and l0ud smoke [like the one she 0rdered when she was with the man] According to her recent court testimony.

Just regret, shame, faith in God and "had I know"

Now, this is how you literally press the “pause” button on your life when you conceive the thought of a crime, commit one, or even aid someone else to commit it.

Imagine how a beautiful, bright young woman is wasting away in a cell because of whatever pushed her into that act.

If found guilty, we already know—she’s gone forever.

Say no to crime.

E no dey pay.

2027: Court ruling rattles ADC, threatens Atiku’s presidential bid

2026-11-06T01:33:21.902-08:00

The crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress leadership deepened on Thursday after the Federal High Court in Abuja nullified the National Working Committee led by former Senate President, David Mark, in a ruling that also invalidated the process that produced former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

The judgment, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, also nullified the emergence of former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary, and other decisions taken by the Mark-led leadership, including the nomination of candidates for elective offices. The court further ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission not to recognise or act on decisions taken at the party’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting of July 27, 2025.

While Atiku vowed to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress of attempting to weaken the opposition ahead of the elections, the faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe hailed the judgment as a victory and declared that the Mark-led ADC had no valid candidates for the 2027 polls.

Gombe also ruled out immediate reconciliation with Mark and Atiku, asking them to register as members of the party in their respective wards before seeking to participate in its affairs.

The ruling triggered widespread condemnation from opposition parties and political figures, who warned that the development could shrink the democratic space and undermine electoral competition. However, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo defended the judgment, blaming the Mark-led camp for the crisis and insisting that the dispute was a consequence of its actions.

Atiku, who was in Kebbi State on Thursday for his campaign rally, nevertheless vowed to continue his presidential bid, pledging to restore fuel subsidy and tackle insecurity if elected.

The court also nullified the emergence of former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary, as well as the appointments of other national officers and the party’s nominations for the 2027 elections.

The judgment followed a suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, filed by former ADC Deputy National Chairman (North-East), Nafiu Bala Gombe, who challenged the process through which Mark and other members of the caretaker committee assumed control of the party.

Gombe argued that following the resignation of former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, he was constitutionally entitled to take over the party’s leadership.

He asked the court to invalidate the actions of the Mark-led leadership and restrain Mark and Aregbesola from parading themselves as National Chairman and National Secretary.

The ADC, INEC, Mark, Aregbesola and Nwosu were listed as defendants.

Upholding Gombe’s case, Justice Lifu held that the emergence of the Mark-led leadership violated the ADC constitution, relevant provisions of the Electoral Act and the 1999 Constitution.

The court also directed INEC not to recognise or act on decisions taken at the party’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting held on July 27, 2025.

A bitter end for Ronaldo - the icon who transformed Portugal

2026-11-06T01:30:32.447-08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo's old rival Leo Messi left Argentina less than a month ago with a nation applauding him.

The Portugal legend has gone another way, and it was always going to be the case.

The 41-year-old announced his international retirement after 23 years but also after a fallout with coach Jorge Jesus which was resolved with a sanction of 30 days, that had already been served, and a fine of 255 euros.

It was the punishment imposed on the Portuguese striker for leaving the team's training camp without permission. Jesus kept him on the bench for one match and said he did not plan to start him in the next, so Ronaldo went home.

His last appearance came on 24 September against Wales. He ends his international career with 146 goals in 234 games.

A message went around Portugal with a big thank you for everything, calling Ronaldo a global ambassador and an inspiration to millions. Even so, the way it ended leaves a bit of a bitter taste.

Was he going to be named in the next squad? Possibly, as Jesus said the door was open and the decision was Ronaldo's. What is clear is that he was no longer an automatic starter, and Cristiano has never handled that well.

So is this another hissy fit? Partly, yes. He reacted the way he always has when a coach questions his place. But the label hides how much he adapted over the years.

Such a pattern appears with almost every man who sat on the Portuguese bench - there were clashes, but also communion with managers and team-mates that help explain this ending.

2026 U-17 WWC: Japan Determined To Make History Against Flamingos –Shirai

2026-11-06T01:27:04.981-08:00

Japan U-17 women’s head coach Sadayoshi Shirai says his team are determined to make history by lifting their maiden title at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Japanese side will face Nigeria in the final on Saturday at Pitch 3 of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

The encounter will mark the first-ever meeting between both nations in the history of the competition, with each team chasing a historic maiden triumph.

Japan have been impressive throughout the tournament, winning all three of their group-stage matches to become the only team to achieve a perfect record in the opening round.

Shirai Sets Trophy Target

However, Shirai insists his players are not satisfied with their progress so far and are determined to go one step further by claiming the trophy.

“We don’t want to stop here. We’ll continue moving forward, prepare as well as we can for the final, and give everything we have to become world champions,” Shirai told FIFA.

FIFA U-17 WWC: Ex-Delta Queens Coach Blankson Confident Flamingos Will Beat Japan In Final

2026-11-06T01:22:40.487-08:00

Coach Tosan Blankson, former Delta Queens and Rivers Angels Head Coach has in no unclear terms spoken of his confidence the Nigeria U-17 Women’s National Team, Flamingos, will lift the 2026 FIFA U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time, Completesports.com reports.

Flamingos will on Saturday, 7 November, 2026, file out against 2014 winners and three time finalists, Japan, inside Pitch 3 of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco

It will be Japan’s fourth final appearance in history following previous final appearances in 2010, 2014, and 2016, lifting the title in their second final appearance in 2014.

Flamingos best credentials was a bronze medal win in India in 2022 when Spain scooped the title.

Despite an apparent shortfall in final experience, Blankson remains confident that Flamingos will make the most of their first ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final appearance.

Nigeria's flamingos will face Japan in the final of the fifa U-17 women's world cup!

2026-11-06T01:20:11.817-08:00

The battle lines have been drawn!

Nigeria's flamingos will face Japan in the final of the fifa U-17 women's world cup!

One more hurdle. One more fight. One chance to make history.

Presidential battle: Promises, power struggle as campaigns gather pace

2026-11-04T23:36:58.548-08:00

The January 17, 2027 presidential race gathered momentum on Wednesday as President Bola Tinubu and opposition candidates Atiku Abubakar, Seyi Makinde and Peter Obi intensified their campaigns, unveiling competing promises on security, economic recovery, national unity and improved living conditions.

While Tinubu sought another four-year mandate on the strength of his administration’s policies and promised continuity, the opposition candidates criticised the state of the country and offered alternative plans to tackle mounting economic and security challenges.

The African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, former Vice-President Atiku and that of the Allied People’s Movement, Oyo State Governor Makinde stepped up their campaigns against President Tinubu, with both opposition figures outlining their plans to address the country’s challenges.

Atiku, who took his presidential campaign to Sokoto, pledged to tackle insecurity and restore fuel subsidy if elected in 2027.

File photo: 2027 APM Presidential Candidate and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde

Similarly, Makinde unveiled his Reset Nigeria manifesto in Abuja, promising to ease the economic burden on Nigerians and improve their living conditions if elected president.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, also pledged to promote national unity, tackle insecurity and fight corruption if elected in the 2027 general election.

He condemned political violence ahead of the elections following an attack on his campaign convoy by suspected thugs in Calabar, Cross River State, on Wednesday.

While Tinubu is seeking re-election for a second term, Atiku, Makinde and Obi, who are contesting on the platforms of the ADC, APM and NDC, respectively, are among the major opposition figures challenging his bid.

Tinubu has urged voters in Nasarawa State’s 13 local government areas to support candidates of the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections.

He made the appeal on Wednesday through Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the APC presidential campaign rally in Lafia, the state capital.

Tinubu said voting for APC candidates at all levels would guarantee the continuation of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He also cited road construction and rehabilitation, alongside improvements in healthcare facilities and schools, as some of the achievements recorded in Nasarawa State under his administration.

He urged residents to renew his mandate for another four years in 2027, promising to deliver more dividends of democracy if re-elected.

Tinubu stated, “We want to assure you that, if God wills and we win the upcoming elections, we will ensure that we support you for maximum safety. We call on you to vote for all our party’s candidates. The biggest message from the leader of the country is: APC from top to bottom, APC from bottom to top.

“We do not want a situation where they say, vote for the President and not the governor, or vote for the governor and not the President, or the senator, or the House of Assembly.

“We want APC straight! APC straight! APC from top to bottom and bottom to top. May God give us peace and understanding. May God grant us peace of mind. We thank you very much.”

He also commended Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, for executing projects aimed at improving residents’ living conditions.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, highlighted the benefits of Tinubu’s economic policies and urged Nigerians to re-elect the President for another four-year term to enable him to deliver more dividends of democracy.

He said, “It is our decision to continue the deliberate trajectory of Nigeria through the architect of modern Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We have come to Nasarawa State, and we have seen the developments. We have seen that, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, the hope of Nasarawa State has been renewed.

“And we are here to affirm once more that Nigeria is in good hands. All of you should vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We have worked so hard. We have 31 governors. The party is a family. We plead for peace and harmony, and we pray for a peaceful Nigeria. Support our President, support our governorship candidate, and support Nigeria. May God bless all of us as we support the All Progressives Congress,” he said.

The APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; and Director-General of the party’s Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, expressed confidence that Nasarawa State would deliver massive support for the APC in the 2027 elections.

Earlier, Governor Sule, who expressed delight at the large turnout of APC supporters from Nasarawa and neighbouring North-Central states, assured Tinubu that the presidential and state campaign councils were committed to securing victory for all the party’s candidates.

Meanwhile, the APC Presidential Campaign Council has said the education reforms introduced by Tinubu’s administration have led to the disbursement of N372.62bn in student loans and the training of 156,446 beneficiaries under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme.

The council, in a statement by its spokesperson and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, on Wednesday, said the reforms had also expanded access to basic education, improved teachers’ welfare and stabilised the academic calendar in tertiary institutions across the country.

However, the administration’s education policies and reported achievements have faced criticism from opposition parties as the January 16, 2027 presidential election approaches.

While some opposition figures have faulted the reforms, others have questioned their impact on Nigerians.

In response, the APC PCC said the administration had introduced free technical education covering tuition, boarding, textbooks and uniforms to strengthen vocational skills and expand employment opportunities.

The statement read, “President Bola Tinubu’s reforms in the education sector since assuming office have expanded access to learning, improved teachers’ welfare and stabilised the academic calendar across higher institutions in the country.

“According to the Federal Ministry of Education’s 2026 report on the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative, the government’s interventions cover basic and secondary education, technical and vocational training, and tertiary education.

“The reforms focus on six priority areas: technical and vocational education, science and medical sciences, out-of-school children, girl-child education, digitalisation and education quality assurance.

“According to the NESRI report, the Federal Government allocated a record N3.52tn to education in the 2026 budget and secured $552m for the HOPE-EDU programme, which targets 29 million children, over 500,000 teachers and 65,000 public schools.”

The APC PCC stated that the BESDA programme had returned more than one million out-of-school children to classrooms, trained 1,400 Tsangaya teachers and established 200 bilingual centres in 17 northern states.

It added that the AGILE programme had reached 7.19 million girls, including 3.7 million enrolled in secondary schools, while more than 10,000 schools had received facility upgrades.

Why Man Utd's Roma comeback has echoes of Mourinho and Solskjaer

2026-11-04T23:31:09.237-08:00

It was impossible not to get swept up in the emotion and delirium of Manchester United's late 3-2 Champions League comeback win against Roma.

Old Trafford was transformed from a mutinous, baying cathedral of distrust and fury to one of joy and celebration.

Nine games and almost eight weeks is an eternity to wait for a victory at a club of Manchester United's size.

It didn't take Michael Carrick long to calm the mood.

"It's one win, so we're not getting too carried away with things, but it was an important win."

It was a huge result in the sense it bought Carrick some time. But given United's general state, no-one can be sure how much.

And, as was quickly pointed out in the aftermath of the victory, Manchester United have been here before.

Another 'miracle' in Istanbul - but this one hurt Liverpool

2026-11-04T23:26:58.614-08:00

When it comes to comebacks, Liverpool and Istanbul have plenty of history - but this time Andoni Iraola's side made the wrong kind.

Having hit the front for a second time against Fenerbahce, when Alexander Isak nodded in after 69 minutes, Liverpool were seemingly on their way to a thoroughly impressive away win.

But Iraola's players then capitulated amid a febrile atmosphere, as spirited hosts led by interim boss Dirk Kuyt - a Liverpool hero of years gone by - pulled off a shock Champions League comeback victory.

By losing 3-2 at the Sukru Saracoglu stadium, Iraola's visitors created that unwanted slice of history: this was the latest Liverpool have ever gone ahead in a major European game and then been beaten.

Iraola described the goals they conceded as "cheap" and "messy".

After Liverpool let three points slip from their grasp, Kuyt spoke of how he had encouraged Fenerbahce's players to embrace the never-say-die mindset that allowed the Reds to achieve so many great feats in Europe in the past.

He joined Liverpool in 2006, a year after the team's famous 'Miracle of Istanbul' comeback in the Champions League final, and spent six years at Anfield.

"We told each other to stick together and be united. That's something I learned from Liverpool, who we played against," Kuyt said. "We made a miracle tonight - not many expected us to win."

He and Fenerbahce will remember this one for a long time. Liverpool will want to quickly forget it.

After winning five games in a row, Iraola's side have gone on to lose twice in four days. Arsenal on Sunday, and now this.

On their overnight flight back from Istanbul, there will be plenty of disappointment at the way in which Liverpool failed to see this game out.

"It's frustration because it's a difficult place to come and play," said Iraola. "We were, during most part of the game, thinking we can win this one. But obviously it hasn't happened."

All three of Fenerbahce's goals came from set-pieces.

Two were scored by Englishmen.

Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood benefited from a slice of luck when his free-kick deflected in off Jeremy Jacquet in the first half for Fenerbahce's first equaliser, and Liverpool only had themselves to blame when Cody Gakpo's header took the ball past Alisson and gave Birmingham-born Archie Brown a tap in to make it 2-2.

Six minutes later, Liverpool made a mess of Brown's looping ball in the box and Vedat Muriqi beat three players in red and headed past Alisson.

"They are cheap goals. They are messy goals," said Iraola.

"It's a free-kick. It's quite far also and it's through the wall.

"Mistakes can cost you. For the last goal, it's a long throw and the first phase is controlled but after a very long ball, Muriqi wins it.

"The second goal, Cody [Gakpo] is the one touching the ball just in front of Ali [Alisson].

"In the stadium it was almost impossible to communicate because it was so noisy. It was even difficult for me to give any kind of instruction. I suppose the communication between Ali and Cody was difficult."

Getty Images

Liverpool lost 3-2 having twice been ahead against Fenerbahce

Kuyt's Fenerbahce fight back to beat Liverpool

'They look like they can concede at any moment'

02:55

Why Iraola's Liverpool are still a work in progress

After showing signs of genuine progress in recent weeks, Liverpool let potential victory slip away here in a concerning manner.

Trey Nyoni's first goal for the club had given them an early lead, but the teenager's deflected strike was cancelled out by Greenwood's reply in kind four minutes later.

The real drama came from the 69th minute to the 79th, with Liverpool inching ahead again, close to a fourth win in four in the competition, but unable to see the job through.

"It feels like a step back from what we saw against Arsenal because everyone thought, OK, we are seeing huge improvements from Liverpool," said ex-Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, who was watching the game for Match of the Day.

"It was a much-changed team. However, the simple mistakes that they made from set-pieces or simple balls into the box are not good enough.

"The frustrating part for Liverpool fans is that we all know what the problems are. So, where is the solution? That's what Iraola is trying to find at the moment, but it's just a question of how long it takes.

"The biggest issue is that this keeps on happening, with Liverpool looking like they can concede at any moment and being so open on the counter-attack. There is a repetitive theme of the goals they are conceding and it undoes all the good work they do when they go forward.

"When you go ahead, twice, away from home at Fenerbahce in the Champions League then, if that is Arsenal they win that game - they see it out against a team like Fenerbahce.

"Liverpool don't have the ability to do that at the moment, and that is what is really frustrating."

'We showed Europe how big Fenerbahce is'

Getty Images

Dirk Kuyt was a passionate presence on the touchline for Fenerbahce

On the eve of this game in the Kadikoy neighbourhood of Istanbul, Kuyt spoke passionately about how Fenerbahce had the opportunity to show Europe their true colours.

He will step aside now, with former Newcastle player Emre Belozoglu taking over as head coach.

But thanks to this night, the continent saw what Fenerbahce can do.

They have had a torrid season so far, though, having lost four of their 10 league games and taken a 6-0 drubbing at Aston Villa, but Kuyt's men delivered a performance that will live long in the memory for anyone associated with the club.

"We showed Europe how big Fenerbahce is. This is what the spirit of this side is," said Kuyt.

"I think it's very special that for the first time since 18 years, Fenerbahce win a game against [an English side].

"Some people will remember but the number on the back of my shirt was 18 in Liverpool. So that's something really special for me.

"I said exactly the same thing to the players before the game. Although we are in a very difficult situation, we have a chance to bring another miracle in Istanbul. And if you get that miracle, things can change in a positive way."

They delivered in style, with 24-year-old former Derby County prospect Brown getting a goal and an assist in the second half.

"The Champions League is a great opportunity for Archie to show himself," said Kuyt.

"It's well known how good a player he is in Turkey. He did a fantastic job today. His defence and attack were very good. I'm very pleased with his performance, I'm pleased with the performance of all my players.

"It's a very special night for everyone who loves Fenerbahce."

2026 U-17 WWC: ‘It’s An Awesome Thing’ – Busari Celebrates Flamingos’ Final Feat

2026-11-04T23:23:17.194-08:00

Flamingos head coach Akeem Busari has described his team’s qualification for the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as a remarkable achievement for Nigeria and African football.

Nigeria secured a historic 3-1 victory over Brazil in their semi-final clash at the Mohammed VI Football Complex Pitch 3 in Rabat on Wednesday night to book their place in the final.

Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Poland in their opening match, the Flamingos have bounced back impressively to become the second team since 2014 to reach the final after losing their first game of the tournament.

Busari’s side delivered an outstanding performance against Brazil, dominating proceedings and showcasing impressive determination and tactical discipline throughout the encounter.

Their qualification also marks a historic milestone, as Nigeria become the first African nation to reach the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Busari Talks Up Win Over Brazil

Busari expressed his delight at the team’s achievement, describing it as a major boost for the country and Nigerian football.

“It’s an awesome thing, it’s a great achievement. Reaching the final is a plus for our country, it’s a plus for our football. We are happy, the girls are happy,” Busari told FIFA.

Huge Respect For Opponent

The coach also acknowledged the quality of the Brazilian side, noting that his players had to demonstrate courage and tactical discipline to overcome their opponents.

“It was a key contest and it wasn’t an easy one. Brazil really showed the stuff they have technically, but we tried to really block the view of their passing line, so we had to show character.

“[We played] really, really bravely. We appreciate the girls because they are young. We could only encourage them and tell them what they needed to do to make the final,” Busari added.

Benitez Eyes Premier League Return

2026-11-04T23:20:18.678-08:00

Rafael Benitez admits he wants a Premier League return, with four managers under pressure heading into the international break.

The former Liverpool manager has not managed in England since he was sacked by Everton in 2022 after only six months in charge.

He has extensive experience of taking charge of English clubs including his time at Newcastle, Chelsea, and Anfield.

Across his spells in England he won the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, and the EFL Championship.

Benitez was last managing in Greece at Panathinaikos on a 2.5 year contract before moving on seven months later in May.

Since, he has become a member of the UEFA Technical Observer Group for the current season to help the organisation to analyse matches, study tactical trends, and contribute to reports.

However, he spoke to talkSPORT on Tuesday evening about his desire to return to the dugout.

Asked about a potential return on talkSPORT Drive, Benitez said: “You know that I’m working now for UEFA, but I’m watching games all the time, and especially the Premier League, because I want to know the players, I want to know their style.

“I could see the other day when I was watching Juventus vs Napoli, then I was watching Liverpool vs Arsenal, and you can see the difference.

“So I like the Premier League because of the intensity. Every game, every ball is a challenge.

” I think it’s fantastic. The problem is that you need to find the right project. Talking about projects in football now is quite complicated.”

Andy Goldstein then asked: “Would that project be in the Premier League, Rafa?”

Benitez responded: “Yeah, yeah, I would be happy with that, for sure.”

How to download your NIN slip free — NIMC

2026-11-04T04:45:45.282-08:00

The National Identity Management Commission has explained how Nigerians can download their National Identification Number slips online for free through its NINAuth mobile application.

The commission outlined the process in a video shared on its official X account on Wednesday, demonstrating how NIN holders can obtain the document without visiting its enrolment centres or paying third-party agents.

According to NIMC, the following steps are required to download the slip:

Download the NINAuth application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Open the application on your mobile phone.
Tap “Do More with NINAuth”.
Select “NIN Slip” from the available options.
Complete the facial authentication process to verify your identity.

According to the commission, successful authentication would allow users to download and save their official NIN slips directly to their mobile phones.

“Once verified, click on ‘Download NIN Slip’ to generate and save the official NIMC-issued NIN slip into your mobile phone,” it said.

Describing the process as convenient and secure, the commission said the service was free and required only a few steps to complete.

“It is that simple, it is free, available, and a few taps away. Get yours today,” NIMC added.

The commission said the process was designed to make obtaining the document easier while reducing the need for physical visits to its offices.

NIMC launched the NINAuth platform in October 2025 to let Nigerians control who accesses their personal data across government, banking, telecoms, and education services.

In June 2026, the commission announced that NIN holders could download their official NIN slips directly through the application at no cost.

According to information published on the NINAuth website, the downloaded slip is the same official document issued by NIMC and can be used at banks, government offices and other institutions where it is required.

The National Identification Number is an 11-digit unique number issued to Nigerians and legal residents following successful enrolment. It serves as a means of establishing and verifying an individual’s identity and is used to link personal records to the National Identity Database.

To obtain a NIN, an individual must visit an NIMC enrolment centre, complete the registration process, provide the required demographic information and undergo biometric capture, including fingerprint and facial scans, before being issued an 11-digit identification number.