Nigerian-American biomechanical engineer and Harvard graduate Yinka Ogunbiyi has secured $7 million in seed funding to commercialise HaloBraid, a patented braid-assist robot designed to help professional hairstylists cut braiding time and reduce physical strain.

The funding round was led by venture capital firm Seven Seven Six, founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, with participation from AlleyCorp and Bling Capital.

The startup is entering the market with more than 7,000 professional salons already on its waiting list, reflecting strong demand for the technology before its commercial rollout.

Ogunbiyi, who holds a joint MS/MBA from Harvard Engineering School and Harvard Business School, previously worked on smart kitchen appliances and Internet of Things (IoT) devices before turning her attention to the haircare industry.

The idea for HaloBraid was born during the COVID-19 pandemic after Ogunbiyi spent four days installing her own knotless braids at home. She later partnered with co-founder David Afolabi to develop a robotic solution for professional braiders.

Rather than replacing hairstylists, HaloBraid is designed to work alongside them as a collaborative robot, or “cobot.” The machine performs the repetitive mid-length braiding movements that account for most of the time spent during knotless braid appointments, while stylists remain responsible for the creative and technical aspects of the service.

Under the process, the stylist first parts and sections the client’s hair before creating the foundation of the braid. HaloBraid then takes over the repetitive weaving motion, reducing appointment times by about half. The stylist completes the service by sealing, trimming and styling the finished braids.

Speaking about the technology, Ogunbiyi said it is intended to support, rather than replace, professional braiders.

“I don’t think anything will get lost from the experience. If anything, it enriches it. Technology simply assists with the repetitive movements that consume the most time and place the greatest strain on the body.”

Beyond reducing appointment times, HaloBraid also aims to address occupational health challenges faced by professional braiders, many of whom experience conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and chronic back pain after years of repetitive work.

By automating the most physically demanding part of the braiding process, the company hopes to help hairstylists extend their careers while increasing the number of clients they can serve each day.

The company also cited consumer demand for faster appointments, noting that 95% of Black women surveyed said they would wear protective hairstyles more often if salon visits took less time. The latest funding is expected to support HaloBraid’s commercial expansion as it prepares to introduce the technology to salons worldwide.

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The International Olympic Committee has rejected a complaint filed by the human rights NGO FairSquare against FIFA president Gianni Infantino for alleged breaches of rules on political neutrality, an IOC spokesperson told AFP on Friday.

The FairSquare complaint alleges that Infantino has “repeatedly breached IOC’s rules on political neutrality by offering his political support for US president Donald Trump”.

“The IOC Ethics Commission thoroughly analysed the complaint by FairSquare,” the spokesperson told AFP.

“The commission noticed that, pursuant to the Olympic Charter, each International Federation (IF) maintains its independence and autonomy in its governance.

“The complaint falls outside the IOC Ethics Commission’s jurisdiction”.

The oath taken by the Olympic body’s roughly one hundred members — including Infantino — requires them to act “independently of commercial and political interests,” an obligation also enshrined in the Olympic Charter.

In February, the IOC also dismissed an earlier controversy regarding Infantino’s attendance at the first meeting of the Board of Peace convened by Trump, where he wore a red cap emblazoned with “USA” and “45-47” — a reference to Trump’s two terms in office.

“The IOC has been in contact with FIFA,” an IOC spokesperson told AFP in February.

“We understand that FIFA is supporting, through football, a comprehensive sport recovery investment programme in Gaza, Palestine, by providing sporting infrastructure, education and elite development proposals.

“This is entirely in keeping with the role of an International Sport Federation. The IOC, through Olympic Solidarity, which is our development vehicle, has been and continues to support sport development in the region.”

FIFA awarded Trump its inaugural peace prize in December, with Infantino saying at the time it was in recognition of the US president’s “exceptional and extraordinary” actions to promote peace and unity around the world.

During the World Cup in North America, Trump boasted of  calling Infantino before FIFA lifted the suspension imposed on US striker Folarin Balogun following a red card.

AFP

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By Emmanuel Okogba

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has fixed October 8 as the date for a landmark hearing that could determine the rightful winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The case pits the Senegalese Football Federation against the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation over CAF’s decision to award the 2025 AFCON title to Morocco following the controversial circumstances surrounding the tournament’s final.

At the heart of the dispute is Senegal’s appeal against the CAF Appeals Board’s ruling that the Teranga Lions had forfeited the final, leading to a 3-0 administrative victory for Morocco and their declaration as African champions.

CAS announced that the hearing will take place behind closed doors on October 8, after the parties failed to agree on an accelerated process. The proceedings will therefore follow the court’s standard arbitration timeline.

“The Parties did not agree to expedite this procedure, which is therefore following a standard timeline according to CAS procedural rules. The hearing will take place behind closed doors,” CAS stated.

The hearing is expected to feature legal representatives from the Senegalese Football Federation, CAF, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, each presenting detailed arguments, documentary evidence, and witness submissions before the arbitration panel.

The outcome of the case will depend entirely on legal interpretation, sporting regulations, and the application of CAF’s competition rules. A ruling could either uphold Morocco’s status as 2025 AFCON champions or overturn the governing body’s decision, potentially reshaping the tournament’s history.

While CAS has confirmed the hearing date, it has not indicated when a final verdict will be delivered. The arbitration panel is expected to retire for confidential deliberations after the October 8 proceedings and issue a written decision at a later date.

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Nollywood filmmaker Biodun Stephen has dismissed claims that romantic scenes in movies are responsible for breaking marriages, insisting that actors and their spouses understand the demands of the profession.

Speaking in a video shared on Instagram late Thursday, Stephen reacted to comments by a young woman who argued that filmmakers should reduce kissing scenes because they could ruin the marriages of actors.

Addressing the claim, Stephen said she found it difficult to understand the argument, noting that kissing is not a major part of her filmmaking style.

“I just watched a video. There’s this young lady who always has something to say about Nollywood. Nobody is even casting her, but she said producers should take it easy on having actors kiss because we are possibly ruining their marriages,” she said.

Stephen explained that while she deliberately limits intimate scenes in her films because she wants them to be suitable for family viewing, she is not opposed to including them when the story requires it.

“I don’t even know how to address this. Kissing is not a big part of my craft, not because I don’t enjoy a little romance and ashewo things in my films. But I want films you can watch with your children, which is why I sort of limit it. That does not also mean that if an opportunity comes, I won’t embrace it,” she said.

The filmmaker stressed that portraying love and emotions is part of an actor’s job, adding that convincing performances often make audiences emotionally invested in on-screen relationships.

“One of the things we are selling as actors is emotions and love. When people believe in that storyline, they start rooting for the love. That can be done with or without intense kissing,” she added.

Stephen maintained that responsibility for handling romantic scenes lies with the actors and their spouses, who should already understand the nature of the profession.

“I think that responsibility is on the actor who has chosen this profession and on the spouse who has accepted that their spouse is an actor. They must have made their peace with it,” she said.

She also noted that some actors decline romantic scenes because of their personal beliefs, while others are comfortable with them.

“There are actors who have said they can’t participate in romance because of personal beliefs, and there are actors who do not mind. So whether you are kissing or being intimate, my job as a movie producer is to protect you. My job is not to break your home,” Stephen concluded.

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Crystal Palace Women midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet has drawn praise after taking part in pre-season training despite being seven months pregnant.

The 34-year-old Belgium international was pictured training alongside her teammates as the south London club stepped up preparations for the new Women’s Super League (WSL) season.

Vanhaevermaet, who joined Crystal Palace last summer and helped the club secure an immediate return to the WSL, is expecting her first child in September with her fiancé, physiotherapist Thomas De Jonghe.

Sharing photos of the midfielder during training, Crystal Palace celebrated her commitment in a post on X.

“Seven months pregnant and still putting the work in,” the club wrote.

The midfielder also impressed fans by showing off her ball-juggling skills during the training session.

Vanhaevermaet will not be the only new mother in the Crystal Palace squad this season. Teammate and Wales international Josie Green recently welcomed a baby daughter with her partner, Marcus Gan.

The Belgian’s training sessions have sparked admiration on social media, although experts note that exercising during pregnancy should be done within recommended medical guidelines.

According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), pregnant women are encouraged to remain physically active for as long as they feel comfortable.

“Keep up your normal daily physical activity or exercise for as long as you feel comfortable.”

The NHS also states, “Exercise is not dangerous for your baby. There is evidence that active women are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labour.”

It advises pregnant women not to overexert themselves and to slow down as their pregnancy progresses or if advised by their maternity team.

“Do not exhaust yourself. You may need to slow down as your pregnancy progresses or if your maternity team advises you to. If in doubt, consult your maternity team.”

The guidance further notes:

“As a general rule, you should be able to hold a conversation as you exercise when pregnant. If you become breathless as you talk, then you’re probably exercising too strenuously.”

While physical activity is generally encouraged during pregnancy, football carries additional risks, including falls or accidental contact with the ball, as changes in balance and looser joints can increase the likelihood of injury.

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Sean “Diddy” Combs has reportedly been placed in solitary confinement after being involved in a fight with another inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Fort Dix, where he is serving a 50-month prison sentence.

According to ABC News, citing a source familiar with the incident, the altercation began after another inmate made a remark to Combs, prompting the confrontation.

Following the fight, prison authorities placed the music mogul in solitary confinement, the source said.

It remains unclear whether the solitary confinement is a temporary disciplinary measure or if Combs will remain in isolation for a longer period.

Combs is currently serving a 50-month sentence after being convicted of transporting prostitutes. The report did not provide further details about the nature of the altercation or whether either inmate sustained injuries.

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The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) welcomes President Bola Tinubu’s creation of four new Army divisions across the country, a statement says.

The statement says the simultaneous creation of four new divisions is the largest single expansion of the Nigerian Army in modern history, adding that the bold step shows the President’s renewed commitment to security of lives and property.

“We wholeheartedly welcome this development, including the president’s approval for the Army to hire 28,000 new personnel and acquire more critical military assets. We are confident that this initiative will enhance the government’s counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts,” according to the statement.

The Forum pledges its continued support for and collaboration with the President on national security and all other issues of national development.

“The Forum again urges citizens to continue to support government and security forces to strengthen security in every part of the country, including giving timely information to the security agencies,” the statement says.

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By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

ABUJA— Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Abuja-based lawyer Mr. Pelumi Olajengbesi on Friday described the Osun State governorship poll, slated for August 15, as a litmus test for both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies in the country.

Olajengbesi said he had formally petitioned the international community, including the British High Commission, calling for closer scrutiny of pre-election activities, with specific reference to allegations of partisan conduct by the state’s police leadership.

At a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the Osun-born lawyer called on the federal government to guarantee a free, fair and credible gubernatorial contest, saying it would offer a preview of what to expect in the 2027 general elections.

“We have written to the British High Commission that the police in Osun are completely compromised, that the Commissioner of Police in Osun is being partisan and is working for a political party.

“This should not be happening when we are talking about democracy, when Nigeria is talking about free, fair and credible elections. The people of Osun must be allowed to go to the polls and vote for a candidate of their choice.

“This election is a litmus test of the integrity of INEC, a major test of the integrity of the Inspector General of Police, and beyond that, it is a major test of the integrity of our institutions to know if we are able to conduct a free, fair and credible election in the forthcoming 2027 general elections,” he added.

According to him, the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers had been monitoring developments in the state.

Decrying the rising spate of violence mostly attributed to political thugs, Olajengbesi implored election observers to remain vigilant.

“We know that this election will come and the choice and decision of the people will be determined,” he said, citing his earlier petition to the police in which he warned against the shielding of those engaged in pre-election violence.

It will be recalled that Olajengbesi had personally submitted a petition to the IGP, Tunji Disu, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, in which he raised alarm over a pattern of election-related violence ahead of the poll.

He stressed that the reported killings posed a serious threat to democratic governance and the credibility of the election, citing loss of lives, injuries to residents, destruction of property, and widespread fear across communities in Osun State.

He accused the Osun State Police Command of complacency despite several reports of violence, and demanded the immediate redeployment of the state’s Commissioner of Police.

Furthermore, Olajengbesi called for a comprehensive investigation into every documented incident of political violence in the state, as well as the identification, arrest and prosecution of all those found to have participated in, sponsored, financed or facilitated political violence, irrespective of political affiliation.

He equally demanded the deployment of additional tactical and conventional police personnel to identified flashpoints across the state, as well as a comprehensive review of Osun’s security architecture ahead of the election.

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By Nkiruka Nnorom

The United States has slapped Nigeria and seven other African countries with a 12.5 percent tariff on their exports to America over alleged failure to curb forced labour in supply chains.

Read Also: Cybercriminals, family members from Nigeria, other countries face new US visa ban

The action, taken under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, USTR, was part of a sweeping measure against 38 economies that the US accused of failing to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour after launching an investigation into 60 economies.

Aside from Nigeria, other African countries affected are Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and South Africa.

The USTR said the affected nations have not put in place or enforced measures strong enough to block goods made with forced labour from entering their markets.

Unlike that broad measure aimed at correcting trade imbalances, the new tariff is targeted specifically at labour-related practices.

According to the USTR, which announced the outcome of its final investigation and decision on Thursday, countries that fail to stop the import of goods produced with forced labour gain an unfair edge by allowing cheaper products to flood global supply chains and argue that this distorts competition and undermines American workers and businesses.

The agency added that the lapse burdens and restricts U.S commerce by exposing American producers to unfair competition both in the U.S and abroad, while also diverting goods made without forced labour out of foreign markets and into America.

Commenting on the latest action, Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer, said: “President Trump recognizes that decades of moral suasion have not eradicated forced labour from global supply chains.

“The United States has had a forced labour import ban for nearly a century, and rigorously enforces it; it’s well past time for our trading partners to do the same.

“Today’s action will begin to correct what is both a human rights abuse and distortive trade practice to improve the welfare of workers everywhere. I am encouraged by the trading partners who have moved quickly to adopt forced labour import prohibitions, and look forward to ensuring their effective enforcement.”

USTR, which initiated investigations earlier on 60 economies in June, found that countries including Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Canada, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom, were either now taking steps to impose a forced labour import prohibition; have committed to impose and enforce such a prohibition through an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade; or imposed a partial regime with the effect of preventing the importation of certain forced labour goods, and imposed a 10 per cent on them.

Following the investigation, the USTR also determined that 10 percent or 12.5 percent, net of Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate was the appropriate rate of Section 301 duties for certain products of the European Union, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and Switzerland, while the rest of the other investigated economies, including Nigeria had 12.5 per cent tariff imposed on them.

“The measure is about leveling the playing field,” USTR had said in a statement prior to the fresh move, adding that only economies with credible legal and enforcement frameworks to keep such goods out would be spared.

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The latest generation of phones is closing the gap with professional cameras, offering improved sensors, advanced image processing and stronger low-light performance for photography enthusiasts and content creators.

Photography accessories brand Moment has released its list of the top six camera phones of 2026, ranking devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus and Xiaomi based on their photography and video capabilities.

iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro was ranked as the best camera phone for creators. Moment praised its 48MP ProRaw sensor, improved dynamic range and strong low-light performance, saying it delivers image quality that rivals some mirrorless cameras. The review also noted that while Apple’s “optical quality zoom” is essentially a digital crop, users will get the best results from the phone’s primary 1x camera.

iPhone 17

The standard iPhone 17 was named the best everyday camera phone. According to the review, its 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera, balanced 24MP image output and simple user experience make it ideal for travel, family photos, landscapes, portraits and social media content.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra earned the top spot for zoom and versatility. The smartphone features a 200MP main sensor, dual telephoto cameras and up to 10x optical-quality zoom, while also offering improved low-light photography, video stabilisation and AI-powered editing features.

Google Pixel 10 Pro

The Google Pixel 10 Pro was recognised for its all-round reliability. Equipped with a triple-camera system and 5x optical zoom, the phone delivers realistic skin tones and high-quality images, although the review suggested its AI-heavy processing may not appeal to every photographer.

OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 was recommended as the best flagship value for budget-conscious buyers. Its triple 50MP camera system offers flexibility for portraits, landscapes and zoom photography, making it a solid choice for users looking to improve their mobile photography skills.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Completing the list is the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, which was described as the best option for photography enthusiasts. The phone combines a large main sensor, ultra-wide lens and high-resolution periscope telephoto camera, giving users greater flexibility for RAW editing and advanced mobile photography.

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Enzo Maresca said Friday it is a “privilege” to follow Pep Guardiola as manager of Manchester City.

Former Chelsea and Leicester boss Maresca was named as Guardiola’s successor after the Catalan stepped down at the end of last season, having won 20 trophies during a superbly successful 10-year spell at the Etihad Stadium.

“First of all, I have to say that it’s a privilege,” said the Italian in his first press conference as City boss.

“I’ve said many times that I consider Pep probably the best coach in the world in the last 20, 25 years. But again, it’s a challenge. It’s nice. It’s a privilege.”

Many clubs have struggled following the exit of serial trophy-winning managers, with City’s local rivals Manchester United falling from the summit of the English game following the retirement of Alex Ferguson in 2013.

Maresca believes City are well set-up to continue as one of the leading powers in the Premier League.

“I think the organisation is the main thing,” he said. “They (City) had three managers in 17 years. This is not normal, it doesn’t happen often.

“So this is probably one of the things that I’m confident that we can do a great job.”

AFP

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Mark van Bommel is the new coach of the Belgian national football team, the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) announced on Friday.

The 49-year-old former Dutch international succeeds Frenchman Rudi Garcia, who stepped down having guided the ‘Red Devils’ to the World Cup quarter-finals.

“Mark van Bommel has signed a contract that will see him lead Belgium’s national team through UEFA EURO 2028,” read an RBFA statement.

Van Bommel, who was an uncompromising midfielder and key member of the robust Netherlands side that lost to Spain in the 2010 World Cup final, said it was a “great honour” to have been appointed.

“I would like to thank the Royal Belgian Football Association for their confidence in me,” he said.

“Belgium has outstanding players and enormous potential.

“Together with my coaching staff, we want to build a team that is disciplined, ambitious and brave enough to compete with the very best.

“Success is never guaranteed, but hard work, honesty and commitment are.”

After hanging up his boots in 2013, Van Bommel has cut his teeth as coach of PSV Eindhoven, Wolfsburg and Antwerp.

Van Bommel has been without a team since departing Belgian top-flight club Antwerp in June 2024, a year after having guided them to a first league title in 66 years.

Belgium, made up of a mix of the last of their ageing ‘golden generation’ and younger talent, improved as the World Cup went on.

They exited after being beaten 2-1 by eventual champions Spain, though they had the consolation of being the only team to breach the Spanish defence.

Local media reported differences of opinion between Garcia and several players, as well as with technical director Vincent Mannaert, who was unhappy with certain group-stage performances.

Garcia’s departure, however, was met with bewilderment by many supporters on social media.

However, according to the media, Belgian football chiefs were keen to hire a younger coach than 62-year-old Garcia.

They achieved that aim with van Bommel.

“I am truly delighted that Mark van Bommel and his assistants have agreed to take on this challenge,” said Mannaert.

“They are highly motivated and ambitious, and I am convinced that, with their international experience as both coaches and players, they will be perfectly placed to help our Belgian Red Devils continue to improve, achieve results and reach their full potential, both individually and as a team.”

Van Bommel’s first challenge will be three Nations League matches, beginning with Italy on September 25.

AFP

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US President Donald Trump will return to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner amid heightened security on Friday, three months after an alleged assassination attempt forced his chaotic evacuation from the event.

Defying threats from what he called “lunatics,” Trump is set to give the speech he was prevented from delivering in April when gunshots were fired at the Washington Hilton and the black-tie dinner was called off.

California man Cole Allen, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempting to kill the president.

This time the US Secret Service is taking no chances, shutting down a swathe of Washington and throwing up a huge security cordon to ensure the White House dinner 2.0 passes off safely.

The venue has also been changed from the Hilton to the Waldorf Astoria, a former Trump hotel, meaning the gala will be much smaller and “more intimate,” according to organizers.

While Trump had been expected to deliver a furious media-bashing speech at the original event, it remains to be seen what tone he will take at the rescheduled dinner.

“In April, President Trump promised to finish the job and plan another WHCA Dinner, and today, he will deliver on that promise,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement to AFP.

“We look forward to a great and fun evening celebrating 250 years of American greatness and a free press.”

Weijia Jiang, president of the White House Correspondents Association which organizes the dinner, said in June as she announced the re-do that “we will not allow an act of violence to have the last word.”

– ‘Off the charts’ –

Trump offered rare praise for the press in the immediate aftermath of the dinner, and praised their decision to go ahead with a re-run as a “sign of strength and fortitude.”

But he has hinted that he might go back to his old habits in his speech on Friday.

“I don’t know whether or not I will give the same rather nasty statements, at least as it concerns certain people, but we will soon find out,” Trump said in June when he announced that he would attend.

“In any event, it will be a ‘HOT’ ticket!”

Trump’s attendance at the dinner in April was his first in either of his two terms as president, reflecting his disdain for the media he has branded the “enemy of the people.”

As well as Trump’s speech, the rescheduled dinner will keep to a similar program that includes a performance by mentalist Oz Pearlman.

But it will also include a tribute to a Secret Service agent who helped stop the alleged gunman in April despite being struck in his protective vest, and to the staff of the Hilton.

The head of the Secret Service said it was ready for the rescheduled dinner, despite facing criticism over the original incident.

“It did work, the system worked,” director Sean Curran told reporters on Wednesday, insisting that a cordon had prevented the alleged attacker from reaching the main hall where the dinner was taking place in April.

But Curran, who was at Trump’s side when an assassin’s bullet hit the Republican’s ear at an election rally in 2024, said that current threats against top US officials were “off the charts.”

“The threat picture and environment is as large as I’ve ever seen it,” added Curran.

AFP

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By Vincent Ujumadu

AWKA — Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has approved an indefinite ban on graduation ceremonies in kindergarten, primary and secondary schools across the state.

The state Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, said the measure is aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents.

In a statement issued on Friday, Mefor said the clarification became necessary following inquiries and concerns from members of the public over the directive.

According to him, the ban applies to all graduation-related ceremonies in kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, whether described as graduation, passing-out or crossover events, in both public and private schools.

He, however, clarified that students completing Senior Secondary School (SS3) are exempt from the directive.

“Graduation ceremonies for students exiting Senior Secondary School are optional and, where held, must not involve any levy or financial demand on students or their parents,” the commissioner said.

Mefor warned that any school found violating the directive would face sanctions, including the possibility of closure.

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Nigeria’s Roland Ezuruike has secured Team Nigeria’s first medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after claiming silver in the men’s Lightweight Group A Para Powerlifting event.

The experienced para powerlifter produced a strong display throughout the competition and came close to winning the gold medal.

Ezuruike successfully completed his opening lifts but narrowly missed out on the top prize after failing in his final attempt to set a new Commonwealth Games record with a 190kg lift.

He finished the event with a total of 153.9 points from two successful lifts, earning the silver medal and giving Nigeria its first podium finish of the Games.

The medal provides an early boost for Team Nigeria as the country’s athletes continue their campaign for honours across multiple events at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

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By Gift Chapi Odekina

Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu, on Friday defended the agency’s role in the controversial budgetary allocation to the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC), insisting that despite provisions made in the 2026 Appropriation Act, not a single kobo was released or spent because the statutory conditions for expenditure were never fulfilled.

Appearing before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the alleged unlawful establishment and funding of the council, the DG maintained that the Budget Office neither created the council nor approved its establishment, recruitment or salaries.

He told lawmakers that the office merely carried out its constitutional responsibility of assessing the fiscal implications of approvals issued by other government institutions.

“The Budget Office did not create the council. It did not assign its budget code. It did not approve its establishment. It did not grant its recruitment waiver. It received official instruments and did what the law required of it. It measured their fiscal effect,” he said.

The DG explained that while the council requested N3.8 billion as personnel cost, the Budget Office rejected the estimate and independently calculated a much lower figure of N802.98 million based on the approved establishment and applicable public service salary structure.

“That estimate did not form the basis of the Budget Office’s recommendation. The Budget Office rejected it and made an independent calculation… That calculation produced N802,978,783. This was not a concession to the council. It was the Budget Office’s own fiscal proposal,” Yakubu said.

He stressed, however, that the personnel provision never translated into actual spending because the office withheld the mandatory financial clearance.
According to him, financial clearance is the final legal approval required before recruitment, payroll enrolment and salary payments can commence.

“There was therefore no financial clearance. There was no lawful recruitment. There was no payroll enrolment. There was no salary payment.”

He added that although the personnel provision represented about 61.63 per cent of the council’s total appropriation, no funds were ever accessed.

“Not one naira of the personnel provision has been drawn. There is no personnel expenditure to recover because no expenditure ever occurred,” he said.

The DG further explained that the N200 million overhead allocation also remained untouched because treasury warrants and cash backing were never issued.

Similarly, the N300 million capital allocation never progressed beyond the appropriation stage as none of the procurement requirements prescribed by law was completed.

“No procurement reached the point at which expenditure would arise. No Ministerial Tenders Board approved a transaction. No Certificate of No Objection was issued. No treasury warrant followed. No treasury cash-backing followed,” the DG said.

He maintained that the country’s financial control mechanisms functioned exactly as designed.
“The law did not recover money after it had gone. It prevented the expenditure before it began,” he said.

During the hearing, members of the committee questioned the legal basis upon which budgetary provisions were made for the council after examining what they described as a purported Act establishing it.

A member of the Committee, Abubakar Fulata, noted that the document submitted by the Budget Office lacked a gazette number, the signature of the Clerk to the National Assembly and evidence of presidential assent, insisting it was not a genuine Act of Parliament.

“The purported Act is very clear. It is not genuine because it did not carry the gazette number, it did not have the signature of the Clerk of the National Assembly and it did not carry the signature of Mr. President,” he said.

The lawmaker also faulted government agencies for failing to verify the authenticity of the document before acting on it.

Responding, the Budget Office DG said the agency acted strictly on official establishment approvals, recruitment waivers and salary structures issued by the appropriate statutory authorities.
He explained that although the council submitted a request seeking personnel funding, such correspondence did not influence the Budget Office’s computations.

“We do not rely on any instrument to calculate personnel costs other than the establishment authorisation and the directives of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission,” he said.

The committee chairman, Rep. Yusuf Gagdi, defended the Budget Office’s actions, saying the evidence before lawmakers showed the office acted on approvals issued by the relevant government agencies.

He said the investigation had already established that the documents relied upon by those agencies were later discovered to be forged.

“The question is whether the Budget Office allocated budget to this agency without the agency satisfying the requirements. The answer, based on the documents before us, is no. I repeat, no,” he said.
Gagdi noted that the investigation had shifted from the Budget Office to determining how forged documents found their way into official government processes.

“The agency satisfied all the requirements the Budget Office needed before allocating a budget. The issue now is whether those documents were genuine. That is what this committee is investigating,” he said.

He announced that the Accountant-General of the Federation would appear before the committee on Monday to explain how the council obtained its budget code, while other agencies would also be questioned as the panel moves toward concluding its investigation.
“By the special grace of God, we will conclude our findings and finish by next week,” the chairman said.

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A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Engr. Anselm Ijebor, has expressed support for former Anambra State Governor and ex-Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Ijebor said he would mobilise support for Obi, describing him as a leader with a track record in public service.

According to him, Nigerians should support candidates they believe possess the experience, vision and capacity to address the country’s challenges.

He also mentioned former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, saying both leaders have demonstrated commitment to public service and enjoy the support of many Nigerians.

“As the 2027 general election approaches, Nigerians have an opportunity to elect leaders with the experience, vision and capacity to deliver good governance and rebuild the country,” he said.

Ijebor commended Obi’s tenure as governor of Anambra State, saying he demonstrated integrity, competence and commitment to development.

He further expressed the view that an Obi-led administration would prioritise infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, job creation, security and youth and women empowerment.

He urged eligible voters to participate peacefully in the electoral process and support candidates of their choice.

“I call on every eligible voter, every youth, every woman, every elder and every stakeholder to participate in the democratic process and support the candidate they believe can move Nigeria forward,” he said.

Ijebor also said Obi’s contributions to national development and unity have earned him recognition across the country.

He called on Nigerians to remain committed to peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced on Thursday new sanctions targeting a prominent official in Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, along with three individuals and three entities, which it said had provided financial and logistical support to Hamas through international networks for raising and transferring funds.

The sanctions released on Thursday included Mahmoud Al-Ebiary, whom the U.S. Treasury Department described as a prominent leader of the Muslim Brotherhood, residing in the United Kingdom, and holding the position of Secretary-General of the group’s General Secretariat.

The Department said that Al-Ebiary participated in fundraising efforts on behalf of institutions previously sanctioned by Washington over alleged ties to Hamas, and that he also worked with parties affiliated with the Brotherhood to provide financial support to the movement.

The Department stated, in a statement, that the sanctions were issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), and targeted what it described as multi-tiered financial networks that used charitable associations, commercial companies, and informal banking networks to transfer funds to Hamas’s military wing.
Washington also imposed sanctions on two institutions it said had been used as fronts for collecting funds on behalf of Hamas’s military wing.

The Treasury Department says that funds collected under the cover of humanitarian aid for civilians were, according to its allegations, diverted to Hamas’s military activities.

Under the decision, all assets and property belonging to the sanctioned individuals and entities that fall under U.S. jurisdiction will be frozen, and U.S. citizens and companies will be prohibited from conducting any transactions with them.
The Treasury Department added that foreign financial institutions facilitating significant transactions on behalf of the listed individuals or entities could in turn face secondary sanctions, including restrictions on their dealings with the U.S. financial system.

It noted that these measures were taken in coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as part of efforts targeting the financial infrastructure that Washington says supports Hamas.

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Award-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter, Teni, has released her highly anticipated extended play (EP), The Wellness Package, marking a new phase centred on personal growth, healing and community.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project reflects Teni’s personal experiences over recent years, presenting wellness as a lifestyle rooted in love, laughter, self-care and meaningful human connections.

The six-track EP also marks the beginning of Teni’s strategic partnership with Gamma, aimed at expanding her creative vision and global reach.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gamma, Larry Jackson, described Teni as an exceptional artiste with a rare ability to connect with audiences across different cultures.

President of Gamma Africa, Sipho Dlamini, said Teni continued to raise the standard for African music and culture through authentic storytelling and artistic excellence.

Vice-President of Gamma Africa, Larry Gaaga, described The Wellness Package as an honest reflection of Teni’s personal and artistic evolution.

The project features collaborations with Nigerian rapper Olamide, singer Chike and highlife duo, The Cavemen.

Notable tracks include Zion, featuring Olamide, and Wuru Maya, featuring Chike.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the project, Teni said the EP reflected her renewed mindset and positive outlook.

“It is just how I was feeling. It was a new year. I was feeling the energy. You can pause but never stop,” she said.

Beyond the music, Teni has introduced a fan-focused campaign featuring a cinematic teaser, the Wellness Package Run Club, a treasure hunt offering exclusive wellness boxes and an immersive listening party.

The singer said the initiative was designed to encourage movement, community engagement and shared experiences beyond music.

The EP follows the success of her single Zion, which has recorded more than 20 million streams across digital platforms and generated over 500,000 user-created videos on TikTok.

The song also reached the top of YouTube Nigeria and ranked highly on Spotify and Apple Music charts.

Teni has previously performed at major international events, including Coachella with DJ Spinall, Madison Square Garden with Davido, Montreal’s MURAL Festival and London’s O2 Arena.

With the wellness package, the singer delivers a project celebrating self-discovery, community and everyday moments of wellness.

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Nigerian content creator and blogger, MC Izzy, has called on Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi to apologise to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over allegations made against the presidential aide, saying he believes the claims have not been substantiated.

In a video posted on his social media platforms, MC Izzy said his comments were informed by recent developments surrounding the matter, including the involvement of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

According to the blogger, Gbajabiamila honoured an invitation from the anti-graft agency, responded to questions from investigators and returned to his official duties.

MC Izzy also referred to media reports concerning legal proceedings involving Adeyemi but did not provide further details.

The blogger said individuals making allegations against public officials should be prepared to support their claims with credible evidence.

He urged Nigerians to assess issues objectively and avoid reaching conclusions before investigations are concluded.

“We should not allow hatred for an individual to stop us from standing by the truth,” he said.

MC Izzy said that, based on his assessment of publicly available information, Adeyemi should apologise to Gbajabiamila if he is unable to substantiate his claims.

“I don’t know Gbajabiamila personally, but after weighing both sides of the story, I believe the truth must be told,” he added.

He further urged members of the public to allow the relevant authorities to conclude their work and avoid speculation while the matter remains under review.

The allegations involving Gbajabiamila have attracted public attention and are being reviewed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Gbajabiamila has denied any wrongdoing and has described the allegations against him as false.

The ICPC has not announced the outcome of its review, and no court has made any finding establishing liability in relation to the allegations. Accordingly, the claims remain unproven

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