Author: Faith Babatunde

Dutch brewing giant Heineken has selected Rafael Oliveira as its next chief executive officer, subject to shareholder approval. Oliveira, who previously held a senior leadership role at JDE Peet’s, will take over at a time when the company is navigating weaker beer sales, rising costs and ongoing restructuring efforts. His appointment signals a new chapter for the brewer as it seeks to improve growth, enhance operational efficiency and maintain its position in an increasingly competitive global beverage market. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how the new CEO steers the company through economic challenges while pursuing long-term expansion…

The Kwara State Government has expressed concern following the discovery and closure of 724 illegal drug premises by inspectors of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria. While commending the enforcement operation, officials described the scale of the illegal activities as alarming and warned that the widespread presence of unlicensed drug vendors poses a serious threat to public health and safety. Authorities noted that many of the illegal outlets are operated by individuals without the professional qualifications required to handle and dispense medicines. Health experts warn that the circulation of drugs through unregulated channels can result in treatment failures, medication errors, antimicrobial…

OPay has officially launched a new office in Kaduna State as part of its efforts to expand access to secure and inclusive financial services across Nigeria. The opening ceremony brought together business leaders, merchants, community stakeholders, and company executives, who described the development as a significant step toward strengthening financial inclusion and supporting local economic growth. The Kaduna office is expected to serve as a major hub for customer support, merchant engagement and business partnerships across the state and neighbouring communities. Company officials said the expansion reflects OPay’s long-term commitment to bringing digital financial services closer to Nigerians, particularly underserved…

Tunisia, Haiti and Türkiye have become the first countries to be eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering consecutive defeats in their respective groups. Tunisia exited following a 4-0 loss to Japan, while Haiti’s hopes ended after a 3-0 defeat to Brazil. Türkiye also bowed out after losing 1-0 to Paraguay, leaving all three nations without a point from their opening two matches. Their early exits highlight the competitiveness of the expanded tournament, where teams have little room for error despite the larger format. Football analysts believe the performances of these nations will prompt reviews of their tactical…

A 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, was allegedly shot dead by suspected hoodlums near the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat in Ilobu, Osun State, causing panic among residents and visitors in the area. Another victim sustained gunshot injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Witnesses said the attackers opened fire indiscriminately after spotting an individual wearing a cap associated with a political party. Police authorities have identified a suspected gang leader known as Saheed, popularly called “Tanfeani,” as the prime suspect in the attack. The Osun State Police Command said efforts are underway to arrest the suspects, who remain at…

The Association of Resident Doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, has appealed to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to facilitate the immediate disbursement of the Medical Residency Training Fund and settle outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to healthcare workers in the state. While commending the administration’s investments in healthcare infrastructure and service delivery, the doctors expressed concern over welfare challenges affecting resident doctors and the quality of healthcare services. The association noted that Oyo remains the only state in the South-West yet to disburse the Medical Residency Training Fund since the enactment of the Medical Residency Training Act in 2017.…

Oil prices fell on Monday as renewed optimism surrounding US-Iran negotiations eased fears of prolonged disruptions to global energy supplies. The talks, which resumed in Switzerland after an earlier postponement caused by regional tensions, are aimed at addressing Iran’s nuclear programme and ensuring the security of vital shipping routes in the Middle East. The development helped calm investors who had been worried about escalating conflict and its potential impact on inflation and economic growth. Analysts say investors will continue to monitor developments from the negotiations in the coming weeks, as any breakthrough could have a significant impact on global energy…

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that Lassa fever has claimed 214 lives in 2026, with the fatality rate increasing to 25 per cent from 18.9 per cent during the same period last year. The outbreak has spread across 23 states and 109 Local Government Areas, with Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo and Benue accounting for the majority of confirmed cases. Health officials have expressed concern over the continued spread of the disease despite ongoing response efforts. Health experts have continued to urge Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene and take preventive measures against rodent infestations, which are…

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already witnessed eight own goals within the first 10 days of competition, putting the tournament on track to challenge the all-time record of 12 own goals set during the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The latest incident came when Saudi Arabia defender Hassan Altambakti inadvertently scored against his own team during a heavy defeat to Spain. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches, the likelihood of additional own goals remains high. Football analysts attribute the rise in own goals to the increased intensity of modern football, with defenders often placed under…

South Africa defender Ime Okon has reaffirmed his commitment to representing Bafana Bafana despite being eligible to play for Nigeria through his father. The 21-year-old centre-back, who currently plays for Hannover, said South Africa is the only home he has ever known and that his loyalty has always been with the country. Okon made the comments while participating in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, where he continues to establish himself as one of the team’s key defensive players. Okon’s comments are expected to end speculation about a potential switch to Nigeria, as the defender reaffirmed his commitment to South Africa.…