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Gov. Yusuf Scraps Higher Education Ministry

Tosin Onisuuru
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Gov. Yusuf Scraps Higher Education Ministry

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has dissolved the state’s Ministry of Higher Education as part of a broader restructuring of the education sector in Kano State.

The ministry was previously headed by the state’s Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who served as Commissioner for Higher Education.

Under the new arrangement, the Ministry of Higher Education has been merged with the existing Ministry of Education in what the government described as a strategic effort to improve coordination and accelerate reforms within the state’s education system.

The development was announced in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature.

Governor Yusuf explained that following the restructuring, tertiary education oversight will now be handled by a newly created Directorate of Higher Education within the Ministry of Education.

According to the statement, “The directorate will be headed by a Permanent Secretary and supported by the necessary personnel to ensure effective management of higher education institutions in the state.

“Under this restructuring, all agencies under the defunct Higher Education Ministry such as Scholarship Board will return to the Ministry of Education while state owned universities and other Higher Education Institute will also be supervised by the new Directorate under the merged ministry.

“The move is part of the state government’s ongoing State of Education sector reform, aimed at repositioning the sector, eliminating duplication of responsibilities, improving policy coordination across all levels of education and reducing cost of governance,” the statement added.

Governor Yusuf said the restructuring is designed to streamline governance, cut administrative costs, and improve efficiency in the management of education policies and institutions across the state.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing reforms aimed at strengthening the education sector and creating better opportunities for young people.

“Consequently, the Office of the Secretary to the State Government and the Office of the Head of Service have been directed to ensure the immediate and seamless realignment of the affected ministries and their respective departments,” the statement however reads.

Kenya Flood Death Toll Rises To 66: Why Is Nairobi Vulnerable?

Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
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Kenya Flood Death Toll Rises To 66: Why Is Nairobi Vulnerable?

​Kenya continues to battle devastating flash floods as the national death toll climbed to 66 on Sunday.

While the capital, Nairobi, remains the hardest-hit region, the interior ministry warns that the risk remains high across the country as rivers continue to burst their banks.

​Nairobi Under Water

​Nairobi accounts for exactly half of the fatalities as 33 deaths is recorded so far. Recent overnight downpours led to several high-stakes rescues:

​Matatu Rescue: The Kenya Red Cross saved 11 people trapped in a submerged minibus taxi and two children were rescued from a flooded home as water levels rose rapidly.

​Meanwhile, multiple bridges have been compromised, leading to road closures and the flooding of several schools.

​Why Is The Capital So Vulnerable?

​Despite the heavy rainfall, residents and experts point to man-made issues as the primary drivers of the destruction ranging from blocked and inadequate drainage systems that cannot handle the seasonal volume.

Buildings and developments are also increasingly obstructing natural waterways and residents in areas like Parklands noted that while their cars were submerged in up to 2 meters of water, nearby areas with proper infrastructure remained dry.

​The Response And The Reality

​President William Ruto stated that authorities are actively clearing drainage systems and delivering emergency food and medical aid. However, some local resident associations claim they have been forced to clear debris themselves without government assistance.

​A Regional And Global Pattern

​The crisis extends beyond Kenya’s borders; neighboring Ethiopia has reported over 100 deaths due to recent landslides and floods.

​Climate scientists note that while seasonal rains are normal, the intensity is being amplified by global warming. With the earth having warmed by approximately 1.1°C since the industrial era, extreme rainfall events are becoming more frequent and severe.

FIFA Sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo Over World Cup Playoff Incidents

Tosin Onisuuru
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FIFA Sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo Over World Cup Playoff Incidents

FIFA has sanctioned the Nigeria national football team and the DR Congo national football team following incidents that occurred during their tense 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff clash.

The disciplinary action comes after FIFA’s review of the heated encounter, which drew widespread attention across African football due to the intensity on the pitch and the behaviour of some supporters in the stands. While the governing body confirmed that neither country would face a suspension from international competitions, both football federations were fined and issued warnings for breaches of FIFA’s disciplinary regulations.

According to FIFA’s disciplinary committee, the sanctions were largely connected to supporter misconduct and match-day security breaches during the playoff fixture. Reports from match officials indicated that objects were thrown onto the pitch by sections of the crowd, while other disturbances were recorded around the stadium.

As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation was found responsible for failing to adequately control the behaviour of some Nigerian supporters during the match. FIFA’s regulations hold national associations accountable for the conduct of their fans at international fixtures, particularly when incidents disrupt play or endanger players and officials.

The world football governing body emphasized that maintaining order and safety at matches is a key responsibility for all participating federations.

DR Congo Federation Also Penalised

The football authorities in DR Congo were also not spared from disciplinary action. FIFA ruled that the Fédération Congolaise de Football Association had committed separate infractions related to supporter behaviour and organisational issues surrounding the match.

Although the governing body did not outline every specific incident in detail, the disciplinary panel concluded that both sides failed to fully meet the standards required for international matches.

Despite the sanctions, the outcome of the playoff match itself remains unchanged. DR Congo’s result in the game stands, meaning the team continues its push toward securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria, meanwhile, was left frustrated after the encounter, which had already generated debate and scrutiny among supporters and football administrators in the aftermath of the match.
FIFA stressed that the punishments were financial and administrative rather than sporting sanctions, meaning neither team faces bans from future competitions. Instead, the fines serve as a warning to both federations to strengthen crowd management, stadium security, and match organisation in future international fixtures.

The ruling effectively closes the disciplinary review surrounding the controversial playoff clash, while also highlighting FIFA’s continued efforts to clamp down on supporter misconduct and ensure higher safety standards across global football competitions.

Pope Leo XIV Returns To Apostolic Palace After Major Restoration

Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
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Pope Leo XIV Returns To Apostolic Palace After Major Restoration

​For the first time in over a decade, the traditional papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace is occupied once again.

On March 14, Pope Leo XIV officially moved into the historic quarters, marking a significant return to centuries-old Vatican ciry tradition.

​The move comes roughly 10 months after his election, ending a temporary stay at the Palace of the Holy Office. This transition effectively ends the precedent set by Pope Francis, who famously opted to live in the more modest Casa Santa Marta during his entire pontificate.

​Key Details Of The Move

The apartment had been vacant since Pope Benedict XVI stepped down in 2013. It recently underwent a meticulous, months-long renovation to prepare for Leo XIV.

The Pope is expected to be joined in the residence by his two secretaries, Monsignor Edgard Iván Rimaycuna Inga (Peru) and Father Marco Billeri (Italy).

​The residence includes a private chapel for daily Mass, a dining room, and the famous private study, the window from which the Pope delivers the weekly Angelus.

​A Return To Tradition

​Pope Leo XIV is making a clear move toward reinstating classic papal customs and beyond the return to the Apostolic Palace, he has also revived the use of the summer residence at Castel Gandolfo.

​After spending the summer of 2025 at Villa Barberini, the Holy Father has established a new routine, traveling to Castel Gandolfo nearly every week for short retreats from Monday evening through Tuesday.

Arsenal Strengthen Title Charge As Barcelona Respond In La Liga

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Arsenal Strengthen Title Charge As Barcelona Respond In La Liga

The Premier League title race took another dramatic turn over the weekend as Arsenal FC tightened their grip on top spot while Manchester City dropped crucial points.

At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal secured a 2–0 victory over Everton FC, but the result was far from straightforward. The league leaders struggled to break down a resilient Everton side for most of the match before the game came alive late on. Viktor Gyökeres finally broke the deadlock in the closing minutes, and the drama continued when 16-year-old Max Dowman scored Arsenal’s second goal in stoppage time, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history. The win pushed Arsenal further ahead in the standings and strengthened their bid for a first league title since 2004.

Meanwhile at the London Stadium, Manchester City were held to a 1–1 draw by West Ham United in a result that significantly dented their title hopes. City dominated possession and chances throughout the match, but their superiority did not translate into victory. Bernardo Silva opened the scoring with a clever lob in the 31st minute, but West Ham responded shortly after when Konstantinos Mavropanos headed in from a corner. Despite relentless pressure from City, the hosts held on for a valuable point. The dropped points left City nine points behind Arsenal, albeit with a game in hand, intensifying the pressure in the title race.
Other Premier League Matches

Manchester United Defeat Aston Villa

At Old Trafford, Manchester United secured an important 3–1 victory over Aston Villa, strengthening their position in the race for Champions League qualification. Bruno Fernandes delivered a standout performance, providing key assists and orchestrating United’s attacking play as they maintained their hold on third place in the table.

Newcastle Stun Chelsea At Stamford Bridge

Elsewhere, Newcastle United claimed a 1–0 away win against Chelsea FC. Anthony Gordon scored the decisive goal in the 18th minute after a well-worked move involving Tino Livramento and Joe Willock. Despite Chelsea dominating possession for long stretches, Newcastle defended resolutely and held on for a rare victory at Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool And Tottenham Share The Points

At Anfield, Liverpool FC and Tottenham Hotspur played out a 1–1 draw in an entertaining contest. Tottenham striker Richarlison found the equaliser to earn Spurs a point in a match that saw both teams struggle to convert several chances.

Other results from the round included Crystal Palace drawing with Leeds United, Nottingham Forest sharing the spoils with Fulham FC, and Brighton & Hove Albion edging Sunderland AFC in a narrow encounter.

With only a handful of matches remaining, Arsenal’s growing lead has put them firmly in control of the title race, while City now face a difficult challenge to close the gap in the final stretch of the season.

La Liga Review

Barcelona Respond in Style to Stay Top

In La Liga, league leaders FC Barcelona delivered an emphatic statement with a 5–2 victory over Sevilla FC at Camp Nou.

Brazilian winger Raphinha stole the spotlight with a hat-trick, scoring twice from the penalty spot in the first half before completing his treble early in the second. Goals from Dani Olmo and João Cancelo rounded off a dominant performance for Barcelona. Sevilla managed two responses through Oso and Djibril Sow, but they were unable to contain the hosts’ attacking quality. The win restored Barcelona’s four-point lead at the top of the table.

Real Madrid Keep Pressure On The Leaders

Earlier in the weekend, Real Madrid CF had temporarily reduced the gap at the summit with a 4–1 win over Elche CF. Madrid’s victory briefly moved them within a point of Barcelona before the Catalan side responded with their emphatic win over Sevilla to re-establish control of the title race.

The weekend’s football action saw Arsenal tighten their grip on the Premier League title race, capitalizing on Manchester City’s slip at West Ham. In Spain, Barcelona responded strongly to Real Madrid’s win, with Raphinha’s hat-trick ensuring the Catalan giants remain firmly on top of La Liga.

Ondo Government Restricts Motorcycle Operations Across 18 LGAs

Tosin Onisuuru
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Ondo Government Restricts Motorcycle Operations Across 18 LGAs

The Ondo State Government has introduced new security measures restricting the operations of commercial motorcycles across all 18 local government areas of the state.

The directive, which took effect on Wednesday, limits motorcycle operations between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., as part of efforts to strengthen security and maintain public order.

The announcement was made by Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, the commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency Amotekun Corps, during a briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Akure.

Adeleye explained that the directive was issued on the instruction of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and in line with existing state laws on public safety.

“I want to put it on record that by the directive of the governor of Ondo State and pursuant to the relevant laws and public safety regulations of Ondo State, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, hereby notifies the general public of the following security measures and regulatory directives currently in force within the state.

“These measures are aimed at strengthening security, maintaining public order, and protecting lives and property across Ondo State. Members of the public are therefore required to take note of and comply with the following directives. One, a restriction on the use of motorcycles at night. The operational use of motorcycles within Ondo State is prohibited between the hours of 7 pm and 6 am.”

According to him, the restriction applies to all motorcycle operators except security personnel and individuals providing essential services who are officially exempted by the government.

He also stated that all motorcycle riders must register with the Amotekun Corps and obtain the required certification before operating within the state.

“All motorcycle users and operators within the state shall register and obtain the requisite certification from the Ondo State Security Network Agency either at the headquarters of the Corps or the various local government commands of the Corps. Any person who fails to comply with this registration requirement shall be deemed to be operating unlawfully within the state.”

As part of the broader security strategy, the government also banned the activities of cart pushers in major cities across the state.

“The activities of cart pushes within major metropolises across Ondo State are hereby prohibited. This measure is intended to promote public safety, ensure better traffic management, and maintain environmental order within urban centres.”

Authorities further directed dealers in condemned iron scrap metals to register with the government within two weeks.

“Mandatory registrations of dealers in condemned iron scrap metals. All persons and businesses dealing in condemned iron scraps or related metallic materials within Ondo State are hereby directed to register with the Ondo State government within two weeks from the date of this announcement, that is today. Failure to comply with this directive within the stipulated period may result in appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with the law.”

The government also banned the display and sale of farm produce in unauthorized locations across the state.

“The display or sale of farm produce in any place other than the approved market is hereby prohibited.”

Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps disclosed that 70 suspects have been arrested across the state for various criminal offences.

While presenting the suspects on Wednesday, Adeleye said they were linked to crimes including kidnapping, burglary, vandalism, theft and human trafficking.

“Today, I’m parading 70 suspects, and out of these 70, we have 39 breaking the law and order. We have 18 kidnapped suspects arrested across the state. We have one anti-grazing, one human trafficking, and 11 arrests on court-related cases.”

He added that the arrests were part of ongoing operations to strengthen security and protect residents across Ondo State.

Nine Nigerian Senators Defect To ADC In Major Senate Realignment

Tosin Onisuuru
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Nine Nigerian Senators Defect To ADC In Major Senate Realignment

Nine senators in the Nigerian Senate have officially defected from their respective political parties to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in what observers describe as one of the most notable political shifts in the chamber in recent months.

The defections were announced during plenary on Thursday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who read the letters submitted by the lawmakers informing the Senate of their decision to leave their former parties.

Among those who joined the ADC are Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto South), Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo (Nasarawa South), Binos Dauda Yaroe (Adamawa South), Austin Akobundu (Abia Central), and Lawal Adamu Usman (Kaduna Central), all of whom previously belonged to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Also joining the ADC are Ireti Kingibe (Federal Capital Territory), Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), and Tony Nwoye(Anambra North), who were elected under the Labour Party (LP). In addition, Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) left the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to join the ADC.

While reading one of the letters on the floor of the chamber, Akpabio quoted Tambuwal as attributing his defection to internal disputes within the PDP.

“The persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, litigations, and divisions within the party at various levels have made it increasingly difficult for me to continue my active participation and commitment as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“The ongoing conflicts have unfortunately weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party. Please accept this letter as a formal notice of my defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the African Democratic Congress.”

However, the Senate leadership indicated that it would examine the circumstances surrounding Abaribe’s defection. He has been given one week to reconsider his decision after questions emerged over whether his claim of being removed from APGA leadership structures in September 2025 satisfies constitutional provisions for defection without risking his Senate seat.

The latest development highlights the ongoing political realignments within the 10th Senate, where lawmakers have increasingly changed party affiliations amid internal conflicts in several opposition parties.

Following the defections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) still maintains a commanding majority with 87 senators, while the PDP’s representation has dropped to seven members.

The ADC, strengthened by the new entrants, now also has seven senators in the chamber.

Other minority parties represented in the Senate include APGA, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), each with one senator, bringing the total number of lawmakers currently sitting in the Senate to 106.

With the latest defections, both the Labour Party and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) now have no representation in the Senate.

Who Is Lamido Abubakar Yuguda? The New CBN Deputy Governor Nominee

Tosin Onisuuru
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Who Is Lamido Abubakar Yuguda? The New CBN Deputy Governor Nominee

Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated seasoned financial expert Lamido Abubakar Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), marking a return to the country’s apex banking institution for the veteran economist and former capital market regulator.

The nomination, which is subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, follows the appointment of former Deputy Governor Bala Bello as Special Adviser to the President on Political Economy.

Yuguda’s appointment places him at the centre of Nigeria’s monetary policy leadership at a time when the country is navigating complex economic challenges, including inflation, currency stability, and financial sector reforms.

A Return to the Central Bank

Before his nomination, Yuguda served as Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria from 2020 to 2024, where he oversaw regulatory reforms in Nigeria’s capital market and efforts to strengthen investor confidence.

However, his relationship with the Central Bank of Nigeria dates back decades. Yuguda began his career at the apex bank in 1984 as a Senior Supervisor in the Foreign Operations Department. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, eventually serving as Director of the Reserve Management Department, a role he held for six years before retiring from the institution in 2016.

His extensive experience in reserve management and monetary policy is expected to strengthen the leadership team at the CBN.

International and Academic Background

Yuguda also brings international policy experience. Between 1997 and 2001, he worked as an economist in the Africa Department of the International Monetary Fund, contributing to economic analysis and policy development for countries across the continent.

Academically, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Ahmadu Bello University and a Master’s degree in Money, Banking and Finance from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.

He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder, credentials that underscore his expertise in financial management and capital markets.

Role in Nigeria’s Financial System

With decades of experience spanning central banking, international finance and capital market regulation, Yuguda is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most experienced financial technocrats.

If confirmed by the Senate, his appointment as CBN Deputy Governor will place him in a strategic position to contribute to the formulation and implementation of Nigeria’s monetary policies and financial sector reforms.

Daniel Daga: Rising Nigerian Midfielder Facing Prison Sentence In Norway

Tosin Onisuuru
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Daniel Daga: Rising Nigerian Midfielder Facing Prison Sentence In Norway

Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga has emerged in recent years as one of the promising young talents in Nigerian football. However, the 19-year-old player is currently facing a major legal challenge in Norway that has cast uncertainty over what had been a rapidly rising career.

Early Life and Football Development

Born in Nigeria, Daga began his football journey through grassroots development programmes before gaining recognition at youth level. His early career included spells with Nigerian clubs such as FC One Rocket and Dakkada FC, where he developed a reputation as a hardworking and versatile midfielder.

His performances eventually earned him a move to Enyimba FC, one of Nigeria’s most successful clubs. At Enyimba, Daga impressed scouts with his physical strength, tactical awareness, and ability to operate in multiple roles across midfield and defence.

International Recognition

Daga’s breakthrough came on the international stage when he represented Nigeria with the Nigeria national under-20 football team.

He played a key role during the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, starting every match as Nigeria reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by South Korea. His performances during the tournament earned him praise from analysts and scouts, positioning him as one of Nigeria’s emerging midfield prospects.

Move to Europe

Daniel Daga

In 2025, Daga took a major step in his professional career when he signed for Norwegian club Molde FK on a three-year deal.

At Molde, he quickly became part of the first-team setup, making several appearances and scoring a few goals in the Norwegian league. The move was seen as a crucial opportunity for the young midfielder to develop in European football and potentially attract attention from bigger clubs.

Legal Challenges in Norway

Daga’s career trajectory took a dramatic turn in 2026 after a Norwegian court found him guilty of committing a sexual act without consent following an incident reported in April 2025. The Nordmøre and Romsdal District Court sentenced the midfielder to six months in prison and ordered him to pay legal costs of 10,000 Norwegian kroner.

The player has denied wrongdoing. Through his lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, Daga maintained that the encounter was consensual and announced plans to appeal the verdict. Because the case is being appealed, the ruling is not yet considered legally final. 

Following the court’s decision, Molde confirmed that the midfielder would not be included in matchday squads while the legal process continues, although he may continue training with the team. 

Uncertain Future

The case has drawn significant attention in both Norway and Nigeria, particularly because of Daga’s reputation as a rising football talent. With an appeal underway, the final legal outcome could determine both his immediate future in European football and his long-term career prospects.

For now, the young midfielder’s journey, once defined by promise and rapid progress, stands at a critical crossroads.

Katsina Bandit Attacks Kill 14, Leave Many Injured

Tosin Onisuuru
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Katsina Bandit Attacks Kill 14, Leave Many Injured

At least 14 people have lost their lives and several others were injured in two separate bandit attacks in Katsina State’s Dandume and Musawa local government areas.

In the first incident, armed assailants stormed the Dansoda community in Dandume LGA around 8 p.m. on Tuesday, killing 11 residents.

A local, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the harrowing attack:

“People ran helter-skelter as the bandits shot sporadically and also targeted some of the fleeing community members.
After they left, we cautiously came out and discovered that 11 people had been killed during the mayhem.”

The victims were buried according to Islamic rites on Wednesday morning, while the injured were taken to hospitals for treatment. As of filing this report, the state police command had not commented on the Dandume incident.

In a related attack, Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed that bandits struck Jikamshi village in Musawa LGA at about 6:10 p.m. the same day, leaving three people dead and 11 others injured.

“On March 10th, 2026, at about 1805 hrs, a distress call was received at Musawa Division that suspected armed bandits attacked Jikamshi village, injuring 14 persons before the arrival of security agencies.
A joint security team responded and engaged the bandits in a gun duel, successfully foiling the attack,” DSP Sadiq said.

He added:

“The injured victims were rushed to the nearest hospital. Unfortunately, three were confirmed dead, while 11 are receiving treatment.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the attack and directed further investigation to apprehend the perpetrators.”

Sources revealed that the bandits operated for over an hour, looting shops and carting away food items and other valuables worth millions of naira. Residents had reportedly informed security operatives and government officials prior to the attacks.

These incidents come shortly after a peace agreement between security-prone communities and repentant bandits, which included the release of about 70 suspected and convicted bandits, a move that drew criticism from many Nigerians.

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