Author: Faith Babatunde

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes Kylian Mbappe can become a club legend like Cristiano Ronaldo. The French star, who idolized Ronaldo, has already matched his 33-goal tally in his debut season after joining from Paris Saint-Germain. “I hope Mbappe achieves what Ronaldo did I believe he can,” Ancelotti said. “That would make him a legend.” Ronaldo, who joined Madrid in 2009, left in 2018 as the club’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals. Now at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he scored 33 goals in 35 matches in his first season—an achievement Mbappe has equaled. After scoring twice against Leganes,…

President Bola Tinubu has called on Muslims and all Nigerians to continue embracing kindness, charity, and selflessness beyond Ramadan. Speaking at the National Eid Prayer Ground in Abuja, he emphasized the need for collective responsibility in fostering peace and unity. “We give thanks to Almighty Allah. We saw the beginning of Ramadan,” he stated. Tinubu arrived just before 9 a.m., welcomed by top officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. He joined worshippers for Eid-el-Fitr prayers, marking the end of Ramadan. Later, he is set to host an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon at the State House, his…

The Bauchi State Police Command has announced plans to intensify security patrols during the upcoming Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. This initiative aims to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for residents throughout the festive period. In a statement released on Saturday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, shared details on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu. He emphasized that all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers have been directed to strengthen patrols, particularly in high-risk areas known as black spots or flashpoints. To deter any potential disruptions, Wakil warned individuals against engaging in unlawful activities. He urged…

PalmPay, one of Africa’s fastest-growing fintech platforms, has officially launched the PalmPay Debit Card in partnership with Verve, Africa’s largest domestic card scheme. This collaboration aims to enhance financial inclusion by providing seamless digital payment access. With over 35 million users and 1.1 million agents and merchants across Nigeria, PalmPay is evolving into a full-scale digital financial services provider. The new debit card is fully integrated with the PalmPay wallet, offering:Zero maintenance feesEasy in-app application & nationwide deliveryExclusive cashback & merchant rewardsAccess to high-yield savings (up to 16% APR, paid daily)Seamless online & offline payments via the Verve network The…

Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Mr Macaroni, has criticized former senator Ben Murray-Bruce for “hypocrisy” over his recent praise of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Murray-Bruce took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Akpabio, describing him as a man of “unimpeachable good character” who has been investigated and cleared. He stressed the importance of national stability and urged caution in handling legislative matters, stating he would not stand by while people attempt to undermine the institution. However, Mr Macaroni responded by digging up a 2018 tweet where Murray-Bruce had previously condemned Akpabio, accusing him of breaking national rules and even calling…

Air Peace has reached a major milestone on its Lagos-London route, operating 662 flights and transporting over 136,000 passengers since its inaugural flight on March 30, 2024. According to the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo, this achievement reflects Air Peace’s commitment to affordability, top-tier service, and global expansion. Chairman and CEO Allen Onyema described the route’s success as a historic moment for Nigerian aviation, emphasizing its economic impact, job creation, and role in reducing dependence on foreign carriers. He also highlighted the need for national support to sustain and expand operations. Air Peace remains focused on international growth,…

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers State has resolved 90% of the political crisis and prevented anarchy. APC Rivers Chairman Tony Okocha defended the move, calling it a “necessary evil” while emphasizing that the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara and key officials was essential. Rivers State has faced political instability for nearly two years, with tensions between former Governor Nyesom Wike and Fubara creating a governance deadlock. In response, Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and all elected assembly members for six…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced new guidelines to help countries reform and improve their mental health systems. Despite growing demand, mental health services remain underfunded, with up to 90% of people in some regions lacking access to care. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus emphasized that the guidance provides governments with tools to promote and protect mental health while ensuring alignment with international human rights standards. It highlights five key areas for reform: governance, service organization, workforce development, person-centered care, and addressing social determinants like employment and education. The guidance, developed with input from global experts and individuals with lived…

The Federal Government has officially declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on March 26. Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims on completing the Ramadan fast and urged them to uphold the values of self-discipline, generosity, and peace. He called on Nigerians to use the festive period for prayers, fostering unity, and promoting national stability and prosperity. The minister also encouraged citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly while remembering the less…

Victor Osimhen’s rise in Nigerian football is undeniable. With 26 international goals, he has surpassed Segun Odegbami’s 44-year record and is closing in on Rashidi Yekini’s legendary 37-goal tally. Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba believes Osimhen will soon eclipse Yekini’s record, while Odegbami himself praised the striker’s achievement. Despite the milestone, Osimhen remains humble, insisting Yekini’s legacy remains untouchable. Osimhen’s club form is stellar 20 goals and four assists for Galatasaray yet Nigeria’s World Cup qualification remains uncertain. A recent 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe left them fourth in Group C, making the road ahead tough. With the…