Author: Basheer Luqman

After a strong group stage performance, the Falconets are set to face Japan in the Round of 16 at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota on Thursday. Coach Christopher Danjuma is confident in his team’s abilities, saying, “We’re excited about facing Japan and what the match brings.” Japan, a tournament favorite, topped Group E with 13 goals scored and only one conceded. They’ll be a formidable opponent, but Danjuma’s team is determined to go one step further than their previous runners-up finishes in 2010 and 2014. The two teams have met four times before, with Japan holding a…

Super Eagles interim coach, Austin Eguavoen, has strongly refuted rumors of his resignation, dismissing them as “fake news.” The speculation began circulating after Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Upon arriving at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Eguavoen, who is also the NFF Technical Director, clarified the situation. “I am still fully in charge and continue to hold my position as the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation,” he affirmed. “These reports are false, and I’m worried about the potential negative effects on the team.” Nigeria tops Group D with four points from…

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed Mariam Eniola Bolaji, a Kwara-born badminton star and Africa’s first Paralympic medalist, to Government House in Ilorin. Eniola, ranked World Number Two, was received with joy and praise by the Governor. “Your achievements inspire millions of young athletes nationwide, and we’re proud to have you represent our state and country,” said Governor AbdulRazaq. Eniola is one of many Kwara-born athletes benefiting from the Governor’s support for sports. Recently, he sponsored two underage scrabble players to represent Nigeria at the 2024 World Youths Scrabble Championship in Sri Lanka. Governor AbdulRazaq described Eniola as a…

Arsenal’s injury woes have intensified as star midfielder Martin Ødegaard was forced to leave the pitch during Norway’s recent match due to an ankle injury. Video evidence suggests a possible lateral ankle sprain, resulting from plantar flexion and inversion at the ankle, has raised significant concerns about the severity of the injury. With Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures set against fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur and defending champions Manchester City, Ødegaard’s potential absence could significantly impact the team’s performance. The Gunners will be closely monitoring his recovery as they prepare for these crucial matches. The injury has already cast a shadow over Arsenal’s…

Abdullateef Akeju’s remarkable journey from his early life to his current successful ventures is a testament to dedication, resilience, and strategic self-development. Growing up in a rural village, Akeju was instilled with a strong sense of purpose and determination. His early focus on self-improvement and skill acquisition laid the foundation for his future success. Akeju’s foray into farming began at a young age, guided by his father, a seasoned farmer. Even when he had little to contribute, his commitment to learning was unwavering. Alongside his elder brother, he immersed himself in the practical aspects of farming—ranging from land cultivation…

Ishowo Olanrewaju, a prominent kwara Based public affairs analyst, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the growing hardship faced by Nigerians following the recent fuel price hike. Ishowo, known for his consistent analysis of socio-political issues, expressed his deep concern over the increase in petrol prices from N580 to N897, despite earlier assurances that fuel prices would drop with the commencement of production at the Dangote Refinery. In his statement, Ishowo highlighted the suffering experienced by many Nigerians due to rising inflation, stagnant wages, and increasing unemployment. He emphasized that the latest petrol price surge has compounded…

Despite the growing presence of legal professionals and educators, Islamic knowledge remains a fundamental aspect of the Ilorin Emirate’s identity. It serves as the unmatched symbol that continues to uphold and enhance the city’s standing. Across all regions, Ilorin is most widely recognized for its deep-rooted connection to Islamic ideology. The city is blessed with thousands of Islamic scholars—prolific writers, captivating preachers, orators, and jurists among others. Ilorin remains central in Islamic discourse. Though I never had the opportunity to know Sheik Alimi bn Janta and his disciples, I had the privilege of witnessing the leadership of Sheik Adam Al-Ilory,…

The teachings of Islam emphasize the need for moderation and prioritizing lawful means in all aspects of life, including financial matters. Muslims are encouraged to tread carefully when it comes to wealth; ensuring that their pursuits align with Islamic principles. Just as it is proverbially said that, the size of one’s head can dictate the severity of a headache; it is a fact that, the increase in mundane wealth most often gives birth to heightened responsibilities and potential difficulties. It is a common misconception that money solves all problems, whereas in reality, it often leads to a new set of…

By Rafiu Ajakaye One of the most difficult conversations to have these days is around our local government councils and grassroots development. This is made more complicated by the split judgment of the Supreme Court that says federal allocations should now go straight to the individual accounts of the 774 councils. The judgment wasn’t unanimous, just as Nigerians, political or apolitical, are split on the sustainability of the verdict. But Supreme Court judgments are final until the court reverses itself in the future. Many people want the local councils to be independent of the state governments. They believe…

•••Receives Chieftaincy Title in Oke-Ero Hon. Peter Gbenga Makanjuola, a former representative for the Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero constituency in the House of Representatives, held an interfaith Thanksgiving service at his home in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government, on Saturday. The ceremony, which spanned several hours, was attended by prominent figures from both within and outside the community, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, well-wishers, and political allies. Alhaji Sodiq Muhammed Afolayan, Chief Imam of Omu-Aran, and Rt. Reverend Festus O. Shobanke, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Omu-Aran, offered prayers for the former Kwara lawmaker. The Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba Abdulraheem Adeoti, praised…