Author: Joy Ananias

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has described his leadership role at the bank as the greatest honour of his life. Speaking during a media breakfast session to open the AfDB 2025 Annual Meetings in Abidjan. Adesina reflected on a decade-long journey marked by dedication and impact. “It has been a decade of relentless purpose, enduring passion, and tireless service,” he shared. “I thank you for walking this journey with me.” A renowned Nigerian development economist and expert in agricultural transformation. Adesina took office in 2015 following a successful tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture. During…

In a surprising turn of events, Francesco Farioli has resigned as head coach of Ajax, just a day after the Dutch club finished second in the Eredivisie title race. The 36-year-old Italian tactician, who took over in May 2023, announced his departure following Ajax’s disappointing end to the season. Ajax had been leading the league by nine points with only five matches left, but a poor run of form two losses and two draws saw them surrender the title to PSV Eindhoven. Despite successfully steering Ajax away from early relegation fears and securing Champions League qualification. Francesco Farioli cited conflicting…

The 2024 National Sports Festival received a vibrant boost. As the Ogun State Government officially unveiled the event’s mascot, logo, and theme song. The unveiling ceremony was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre. It was a colorful display of culture, innovation, and unity. Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasized Ogun State’s readiness to host a world-class festival from May 16 to 30, 2025. He assured Nigerians of an unforgettable experience, pledging the most inclusive and inspiring sports event the nation has ever seen. The theme song, composed by Dr. Bayo Adepetun, and the mascot, designed…

A potential healthcare crisis is brewing across the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As doctors under the National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), FCT chapter, have issued a strong warning over unresolved welfare and infrastructure issues. In a statement signed by its chairman, Dr. Okoreaffia Ogbonnaya. The association expressed grave concern over the non-implementation of the approved N70,000 national minimum wage. Despite its ratification by the Federal Government in July 2024. The doctors, alongside other health workers, continue to face harsh working conditions, inadequate facilities, and unpaid entitlements. All of which are…

An Ikeja High Court has dismissed the defamation lawsuit. Filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, and his son, rapper Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, against Instagram personality Martins Otse, also known as Verydarkblackman (VDM). The suit was filed after VDM shared a video on social media. Referencing an audio clip in which controversial figure Bobrisky accused the Falanas of obstructing justice. The Falanas had demanded N500 million each in damages, citing reputational harm caused by the post. However, when the case came up for hearing on Tuesday, none of the involved parties were present in court. Counsel…

Debbie Larry-Izamoje, the dynamic CEO of Brila Media. Made a groundbreaking appearance at the 2025 World Football Summit (WFS) in Rabat, Morocco. Cementing her influence as a rising force in international football. As the summit explored the timely topic. “Challenges for Football Clubs: Similarities of European and African Clubs and What They Can Learn from Each Other.” Debbie stood out by injecting fresh, solution-driven insights that bridged the gap between two continents. Taking center stage during one of the summit’s most impactful sessions. Debbie guided an engaging discussion that explored real-world strategies for overcoming common challenges faced by clubs in…

Almost a year after a heartbreaking loss in Enugu, Patience (not her real name) remains too traumatised to speak. Her two children died within weeks—victims of a health emergency complicated by poor access. One rainy morning, when her child became critically ill, she and her husband attempted to reach the nearby Goodwill Medical Centre (GMC) in Umuchigbo. Though it’s typically a 20-minute walk, the journey was delayed by the flooded Avah River, which separates communities like Ifo, Ugbo-Ezeji, and Ugbo-Paul. With no money for transportation, they risked crossing the swollen river on foot. By the time they reached the hospital,…

The Cross River State Police Command has taken swift action by dismissing Inspector Effiong Bassey. Following a tragic shooting incident in Calabar that left one person dead and two others injured. The incident, which sparked public outrage, prompted immediate disciplinary and legal steps from the police authorities. According to a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo. The dismissed officer has already been charged to court and is currently remanded at the Afokang Correctional Centre. This move underscores the command’s commitment to accountability and justice. Furthermore, Ugbo emphasized that the police did not abandon the…

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development (MWID). Has intensified its enforcement activities at the Okunde Bluewater Scheme along the Lekki Coastal Road. In a renewed operation conducted on Friday. Officials removed unauthorized occupants and demolished newly built shanties that had surfaced on the cleared land. Leading the operation, Commissioner Ekundayo Alebiosu explained that the effort is part of an ongoing commitment to secure government-owned land and discourage illegal settlement. He noted that the area had been cleared in late 2023. He reaffirmed that the state would not allow any attempt to rebuild on the site.…

In a significant move to expand its footprint and promote healthy living. i-Fitness, West Africa’s fastest-growing fitness chain, has unveiled its largest branch yet in Ago Palace, Lagos. This new facility marks a major milestone for the brand. Adding to its robust and growing network of fitness centers across Nigeria. Completed in just four months, the Ago Palace location spans an impressive 3,600 square meters, making it the biggest i-Fitness center nationwide. With parking space for over 100 vehicles. The facility raises the bar for fitness infrastructure in Lagos and promises a premium workout experience for residents in the area.…