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AFCON 2025: Can Senegal Repeat 2021 Glory Against Egypt?

By
Austin King
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The first semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations brings back familiar memories, as hosts Senegal face seven-time champions Egypt in a repeat of the dramatic 2021 final.

Senegal edged past Egypt on penalties to lift the trophy three years ago, and they arrive at this stage once again showing the resilience that has become their trademark. After a disappointing title defence in 2023 that ended in the Round of 16, the Teranga Lions are now into their third semi-final in the last four AFCON editions.

Their quarter-final victory over Mali was narrow — a 1–0 win aided by Mali being reduced to ten men after Senegal took the lead — but it underlined their ability to grind out results. Senegal have now lost just once in their last 11 matches against African opposition, winning ten and drawing one. Head coach Pape Thiaw, however, has challenged his side to be more clinical, despite already scoring three goals in three separate matches at this tournament.

Egypt, meanwhile, continue to live up to their reputation as perennial contenders. The Pharaohs have reached the semi-finals for the third time in the last five AFCON tournaments and are targeting a first continental title since 2010, having fallen at the final hurdle in both 2017 and 2021.

Their dramatic 3–2 quarter-final win over Ivory Coast exposed lingering defensive concerns, with head coach Hossam Hassan admitting improvements are needed at the back. Egypt have kept just two clean sheets in their last 11 matches, a record that suggests tightening up defensively will be key if they are to go one step further this time.

Head-to-Head Record

Senegal have enjoyed the upper hand in recent meetings, winning four of the five encounters since 2014. That run includes penalty shootout victories in both the 2021 AFCON final and the decisive stage of 2022 World Cup qualification. Historically, this fixture has been tight — 12 of the 15 all-time meetings have produced less than two goals.

Players to Watch & Absentees

Sadio Mané has once again been influential for Senegal, registering one goal and three assists at this tournament, and will be keen to emulate his decisive role in the 2021 semi-final. For Egypt, Mohamed Salah is enjoying his most productive AFCON campaign to date with four goals and now sits just two shy of equalling the national scoring record held by head coach Hossam Hassan.
Senegal report no major injury concerns ahead of the clash, while Egypt will be without defender Mohamed Hamdy, who is sidelined with a knee injury.

The Flying Farmer: How Femi Adekoya Is Revolutionising Agriculture In Nigeria Through Drone Technology

By
Koko Lawrence
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Femi Adekoya, widely known as The Flying Farmer, is redefining the future of agriculture in Nigeria and across Africa by leveraging the power of drone technology. As the driving force behind an Integrated Aerial Precision company, he is bridging the long-standing gap between modern technology and traditional farming practices.

Through the use of agricultural drones, Adekoya is enabling farmers to monitor crops more efficiently, improve yield outcomes, and adopt data-driven farming techniques. His work focuses on precision agriculture—helping farmers reduce waste, cut operational costs, and make informed decisions based on real-time aerial insights.

Beyond innovation, The Flying Farmer’s mission is impact. By making advanced farming tools accessible, he is empowering local farmers, strengthening food security, and positioning African agriculture for global competitiveness. His approach demonstrates how technology can be a catalyst for sustainable agricultural development.

This video highlights Femi Adekoya’s journey, his groundbreaking solutions, and the growing role of drone technology in shaping the future of farming in Africa.

95 Princes and Princesses Vie For Awujale Stool

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu-Ode on Monday, January 12, 2026, commenced the nomination process to select the next Awujale of Ijebuland, following the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91 after a 65-year reign.

The nomination exercise, held at the Bisirodipe Hall, GRA, Ijebu-Ode, drew members of the ruling house, delegates, observers, and residents eager to participate in the selection process.

Otunba Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi, Olori Ebi of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, disclosed that a total of 95 princes and princesses had expressed interest in the Awujale stool. He said the names of candidates who pass the initial screening would be forwarded to the kingmakers, known as the Afobajes, who will select one candidate to be presented to the Ogun State Government for confirmation.

The nomination exercise experienced some controversy when a group believed to be from the Orubodo Ruling House was denied participation for failing to produce valid entry passes. Their leader, Prince Adeyemi Ridwan, an Oduneye of the Orubodo Ruling House, protested the decision, alleging that his group had been excluded from the selection process.

Fuji music star and Olori Omooba of Ijebu Land, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1), who is from the Fidipote Ruling House, had previously raised concerns about being sidelined in the process. Through his lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN), KWAM 1 wrote to Governor Dapo Abiodun expressing that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House was taking actions contrary to the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021.

In his letter dated January 8, 2026, KWAM 1 stated: “It is a matter of deep concern to our client that all these directives, which contravene the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law, and the letter from the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, were included in the family’s letter dated January 6, 2026. It is clear that there are plans by the leadership of the ruling house to disenfranchise members desirous of participating in the nomination of candidates for the Awujale stool.”

He further emphasized: “All members of the ruling house are entitled to attend the meeting to nominate candidates of their choice. A group of people in the ruling house cannot usurp these rights. The directive providing for screening and nomination by delegates is inconsistent with both the spirit and letter of the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021. In the interest of justice and compliance with due process, we urge timely intervention to address these concerns, ensuring the integrity of the process and protecting our client’s rights.”

The nomination exercise resumed after an earlier suspension, with members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House preparing to forward their selected candidates to the Afobajes, who will make the final recommendation for the next Awujale.

‎”I Have Fulfilled My Mandate” — EFCC Chairman

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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‎‎‎In a recent interview, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman Ola Olukoyede reiterated his dedication to prosecuting former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, emphasizing that the commission has fulfilled its investigative and prosecutorial roles.

‎With Bello facing multiple high-profile charges, the cases continue to unfold in Nigerian courts, drawing public scrutiny and debates over accountability in governance.

‎Latest Developments

‎As of January 13, 2026, Yahaya Bello’s legal battles remain active, with the EFCC maintaining that the trials are proceeding according to judicial processes.
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‎The commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, recently stated that Bello’s renewed political activities, including his December 2025 announcement of a senatorial bid within the All Progressives Congress (APC), will not impact the ongoing prosecutions.
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‎Uwujaren emphasized the EFCC’s focus on evidence presentation, independent of party affairs, and noted that Bello is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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‎Court proceedings have seen adjournments, with one trial rescheduled to January 29, 2026, following rulings on interim forfeiture orders related to Bello’s alleged properties.
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‎ Bello remains on bail, allowing him to engage in political activities while the EFCC insists on pursuing the charges diligently.

‎Why Yahaya Bello Faces Prosecution

‎The prosecution of Yahaya Bello stems from allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure as Kogi State Governor.
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‎Central to the case is the claim that Bello transferred $720,000 from state government accounts to a bureau de change as an advance payment for his child’s school fees, anticipating his exit from office.
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‎ Olukoyede described this as a blatant misuse of public funds in a economically challenged state like Kogi, questioning attempts to dismiss the investigations as politically motivated.
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‎The EFCC declared Bello wanted in April 2024 over suspected financial crimes totaling around N80 billion, sparking a nationwide manhunt and political controversy.
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‎Investigations revealed patterns of fraud, money laundering, and property acquisition allegedly funded by illicit means, prompting the commission to file charges to hold him accountable and deter similar abuses of power.
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‎The Charges Against Him
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‎Yahaya Bello faces two major sets of charges in separate courts. In one case before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, he is arraigned on a 19-count charge involving fraud and money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion.
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‎This includes accusations of diverting state funds for personal use, such as the aforementioned school fee payment.
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‎Additionally, Bello is on trial alongside Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on a 16-count charge related to property fraud valued at N110 billion.
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‎These allegations involve the unlawful acquisition and concealment of assets. The EFCC has presented witnesses and evidence in ongoing hearings, with the cases emphasizing breaches of financial regulations and anti-corruption laws.
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‎* EFCC Chairman previous statement*
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‎EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has been vocal about the Bello case since assuming office.
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‎In April 2024, he publicly vowed to resign if he failed to oversee the completion of the investigation and prosecution, stating, “If I do not personally oversee the completion of the investigation regarding Yahaya Bello, I will tender my resignation as the chairman of the EFCC.”
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‎In a recent interview, Olukoyede defended his stance, asserting that he has fulfilled his promise by investigating Bello, filing charges, and advancing the cases to court.
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‎”Have I not made good that promise of commitment? Is Yahaya Bello not being prosecuted? The case is still in court,” he said.
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‎He clarified that the EFCC’s role ends at prosecution, leaving convictions to the judiciary, and urged Nigerians to support the agency while allowing the legal process to unfold.
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‎ Olukoyede also highlighted three active cases against Bello, emphasizing his mandate’s completion despite public impatience.

AFCON 2025 Semi-Final: Can The Super Eagles Break Morocco?

By
Austin King
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Nigeria and Morocco lock horns in Rabat on Wednesday, with a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final at stake in what promises to be one of the tournament’s defining nights.

The Super Eagles arrive with momentum firmly on their side. A composed 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals preserved their perfect record at this year’s AFCON, making Nigeria the only team to have won all of their matches so far. With 14 goals scored, they are the competition’s most potent attack and now stand on the brink of history one more multi-goal outing would make them the first team to score two or more goals in six consecutive matches in a single AFCON edition.

Such a return would also carry Nigeria into a ninth AFCON final, and potentially back-to-back finals for only the second time in their history. Still, history urges caution. Nigeria have lost three of their last four AFCON meetings with hosts Morocco, a reminder that pedigree alone guarantees nothing at this stage.

Morocco, meanwhile, continues to look every bit like a host nation growing into the tournament. A commanding 2–0 win over Cameroon in the last eight marked their third successive clean-sheet victory, a run they have never extended to four matches at AFCON. Achieving that here would send the Atlas Lions into just their third final, following appearances in 1976 and 2004, as they chase an end to a 50-year wait for continental glory.

Goals have rarely been an issue for Walid Regragui’s side. Morocco have failed to score in only one of their last 18 AFCON matches, underlining their consistency in the final third and their readiness for another step toward the trophy.

Head-to-Head

This will be Nigeria and Morocco’s first AFCON meeting since 2004. Across five previous tournament encounters, Morocco holds the edge with three wins to Nigeria’s two.

Key Stats

* Nigeria has scored two or more goals in just one of their last seven AFCON semi-finals.

* The Super Eagles are averaging 16.8 shots per game, the highest figure at this tournament.

* Morocco has failed to score in three of their last four AFCON semi-finals.

Players to Watch & Absentees

Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman has been directly involved in 11 goals in 11 AFCON appearances (six goals, five assists), more than any player across the last two editions. For Morocco, Brahim Díaz has scored in all five matches at this tournament and could make history by finding the net in six different games in a single AFCON.

Nigeria will be without suspended captain Wilfred Ndidi, while Morocco continue to monitor Azzedine Ounahi, who remains sidelined with a calf injury.

All signs point to a fierce and finely balanced contest as two of the tournament’s most dangerous attacking sides collide. A semi-final in name, but very much a final-quality encounter.

Royal Supremacy Dispute Between Alaafin And Olubadan Escalates in Oyo State

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The perceived supremacy rift between two foremost traditional rulers in Oyo State, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has resurfaced following a tense public incident at a government event.

The latest development occurred on Monday during the 2026 Inter-Faith Service organised for civil servants at the Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.

Tension reportedly filled the venue when the Alaafin, seated among other monarchs, extended his hand in what appeared to be a gesture of courtesy to greet the Olubadan.

Eyewitnesses said the Olubadan, who had arrived shortly after Governor Seyi Makinde, ignored the outstretched hand, proceeded to exchange pleasantries with the governor and other dignitaries, and then took his seat, leaving the Alaafin visibly unsettled.

The incident triggered murmurs among attendees and has since sparked widespread public debate within and outside the state.

Observers said the atmosphere around the seating area of the monarchs remained tense throughout the event. Opinions have since been divided over the incident.

While some argue that it was improper for the Alaafin to attempt to greet the Olubadan while seated, citing age and traditional etiquette, others insist that the Alaafin stool is historically superior and must be accorded due respect regardless of the incumbent’s age.

Sources familiar with palace affairs claimed the disagreement is rooted in an unresolved supremacy tussle between the two royal stools.

The public display of tension is not the first involving both monarchs. A similar situation reportedly played out on December 15, 2025, during the unveiling of the Oyo@50 logo at the same venue.

On that occasion, the Alaafin was represented by one of his chiefs. Trouble began when the Olubadan objected to being seated beside the Alaafin’s representative, whose chair was placed ahead of his despite the Alaafin’s absence.

The disagreement reportedly caused anxiety among top government officials and politicians present, who intervened to pacify the Olubadan. Eventually, his seat was relocated to a position ahead of the Alaafin’s, resolving the immediate tension.

The recurring incidents have raised questions about earlier efforts by the state government to foster harmony between the monarchs. On December 22, 2025, Governor Makinde held a brief closed-door meeting with both the Alaafin and the Olubadan shortly after signing the 2026 Appropriation Bill at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan.

The unscheduled meeting, which lasted about 15 minutes, was believed by observers to be aimed at promoting unity and peaceful coexistence between the two first-class monarchs, though details were not made public.

Despite that intervention, the latest episode has reignited public discourse around hierarchy, tradition and mutual respect among Yoruba traditional rulers.

Cultural enthusiasts, historians and residents have taken to social media to express divergent views, with some faulting the Alaafin’s action and others condemning the public nature of the Olubadan’s response.

However, calls have continued from various quarters for calm, dialogue and reconciliation to preserve the dignity, unity and stability of the revered traditional institution in Oyo State.

Iran Protests Turn Deadly As Student Named Among Hundreds Killed

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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A sports referee and a university student are among the hundreds of people reportedly killed amid widespread anti-government protests across Iran, according to human rights groups and media reports.

Twenty-six-year-old coach and referee Amir Mohammad Koohkan was shot with live ammunition on 3 January during demonstrations in the town of Neyriz, a close friend told BBC Persian.

“Everyone knew him for his kindness,” the friend said, adding that Koohkan’s family is grieving and “angry because he was killed by the regime.”

Five days later, 23-year-old student Rubina Aminian was fatally shot during a protest in Tehran, according to multiple rights organisations. “She fought for things she knew were right,” her uncle told CNN.

A US-based human rights group estimates that nearly 500 protesters and 48 members of the security forces have been killed within two weeks of unrest. Sources inside Iran have told the BBC that the actual death toll may be higher.

The demonstrations began on 28 December in Tehran over economic grievances and quickly spread nationwide. According to the Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA), protests have taken place in 186 cities across all 31 provinces.

What started as economic protests has evolved into the largest wave of unrest Iran has seen in years, with demonstrators calling for an end to the Islamic Republic and the rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Authorities have responded with a sweeping crackdown. HRANA reports that at least 10,600 people have been arrested and 496 protesters killed so far.

Medical workers have described hospitals overwhelmed with casualties. BBC Persian verified that 70 bodies were delivered to Poursina Hospital in Rasht on 9 January, while footage from a morgue near Tehran showed at least 180 body bags believed to have been filmed the same night.

Independent reporting has been hampered by an internet shutdown imposed by Iranian authorities since Thursday, along with restrictions on foreign media access.

Koohkan, an indoor futsal coach and referee, was killed in Neyriz in Iran’s Fars Province. His friend, who cited eyewitness accounts, said he was known for his compassion and concern for others.

“It was far too soon for him, really far too soon. He was so young,” the friend said.

Having known Koohkan for a decade, the friend described him as “someone who didn’t like to see people in this state… in this misery.”

“Everyone knew him for his kindness and good nature. The whole town loved him,” the friend added. “The family are both grieving and angry. Grieving because they lost their son, angry because he was killed by the regime.”

Aminian, a Kurdish student, was also among those killed. Rights groups including Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) and Kurdish organisation Hengaw said she was shot in the head, while the Kurdistan Human Rights Network reported she was shot in the back. Both Kurdish groups alleged she was shot by government forces. The BBC has not been able to independently verify the circumstances.

The 23-year-old, whose name has also been spelled Robina or Roubina, was studying textile and fashion design at Shariati Technical and Vocational College in Tehran, according to IHRNGO.

“She was a strong girl, a courageous girl, and she was not someone you could control and make decisions for,” her uncle told CNN. “She fought for things she knew were right and fought hard.”

He added that she was “thirsty for freedom, thirsty for women’s rights.”

“Overall, she was a girl who was alive, who lived.”

Family members travelled from their hometown of Kermanshah in western Iran to Tehran to identify her body, a source close to the family told IHRNGO. According to the source, they were forced to search through hundreds of bodies near her college.

“It wasn’t just my daughter; I saw hundreds of bodies with my own eyes,” Aminian’s mother said, according to the source.

The family alleged that authorities initially refused to release Aminian’s body and later barred burial and mourning ceremonies in her hometown. She was reportedly buried along the road between Kermanshah and Kamyaran.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has dismissed protesters as “troublemakers,” while US President Donald Trump has warned of possible intervention, saying the US military is considering “very strong options.”

Iranian officials have accused protesters of being supported by the United States and Israel.

The unrest marks the most extensive protests since the 2022 uprising triggered by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman detained by Iran’s morality police for allegedly violating hijab rules. That wave of protests left more than 550 people dead and 20,000 detained, according to human rights organisations.

Federal Government And ASUU Set To Reveal New Agreement On January 14

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will on Wednesday, January 14, formalise a fresh agreement aimed at improving the quality of university education and promoting stability in the sector.

The Ministry of Education, in a statement released on Sunday, said the event will hold at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja.

The agreement signing will be overseen by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad.

The move follows a recent 14 day ultimatum issued by ASUU.

However, the planned strike was suspended before it began after overnight negotiations between the union and the Federal Government.

In an update, the ministry said the new agreement reflects the government’s resolve to engage key stakeholders constructively and resolve industrial disputes through dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation.

The statement, signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, explained that the agreement is the result of years of discussions between the Federal Government and ASUU over industrial relations.

The ministry noted that the agreement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places education at the centre of national development, human capital development, and socio economic progress.

It is expected to promote industrial peace, provide a more conducive learning environment, and restore confidence among students, university workers, and the wider public.

According to the ministry, the unveiling ceremony will be attended by senior government officials, ASUU representatives, heads of tertiary institutions, development partners, and members of the media.

The disagreement between the Federal Government and ASUU has remained a long standing issue in Nigeria’s higher education system, often revolving around funding, conditions of service, and the implementation of past agreements.

Over the years, ASUU has embarked on several strikes in pursuit of better funding for public universities, improved staff welfare, and the full implementation of earlier accords, including outstanding aspects of the 2009 agreement.

The most recent significant industrial action occurred in October 2025, when ASUU began a two week nationwide strike.

These strike actions have repeatedly disrupted academic calendars, sometimes lasting months and resulting in lost study time, delayed graduations, and increased movement of students to private or foreign universities.

FG Unveils ₦40bn CCTV Control Centre For Third Mainland Bridge

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Federal Government has officially opened a ₦40 billion closed-circuit television (CCTV) control centre for Lagos’s Third Mainland Bridge.

At the inauguration on Sunday, Minister of Works David Umahi explained that the project came after extensive rehabilitation work was carried out on the bridge since the current administration assumed office in 2023.

Umahi stated that the CCTV system, initially announced in 2025, aims to curb reckless driving, prevent suicide attempts, and enhance security.

He added that security personnel would monitor live footage from the control centre and enforce speed limits across the bridge.

“When we came on board in 2023, we met a very terrible Third Mainland Bridge,” Umahi said, noting that the structure, along with Carter and Iddo bridges, required thorough inspections and repairs both above and below the water.

He mentioned that President Bola Tinubu approved the total rehabilitation of the bridge, including the replacement of expansion joints.

Umahi highlighted that the completed works have improved driving conditions and extended the bridge’s lifespan.

The minister also pointed out that the contract covers a surveillance boat and two Hilux vans, which will be handed over to the police to aid monitoring and rapid response.

“The idea is that we can see everything that is happening on the bridge,” Umahi said, stressing concerns about speeding and urging motorists to adhere to traffic rules.

Niger State Starts Gradual Reopening of Schools

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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Schools in select safe areas of Niger State resumed academic activities on Monday, January 12, 2026, following a government directive aimed at balancing education continuity with heightened security risks.

The partial reopening comes weeks after mass student abductions in November 2025 prompted a statewide shutdown, affecting thousands of learners.

The Niger State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education announced that only public and private schools, including boarding facilities, in secure zones would reopen.

Specifically, the initiative covers four local government areas (LGAs): Bida, Suleja, Chanchaga, and parts of Bosso, out of the state’s 25 LGAs.

Commissioner Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed emphasized that this is part of a phased approach, with schools in unsafe areas remaining closed until cleared by security agencies.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago approved the move after extensive consultations with security stakeholders, underscoring the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives.

Out of 45 boarding schools statewide, only 18 in the approved LGAs have been cleared for resumption, primarily those in urban centers rather than outskirts vulnerable to banditry.

The decision follows a joint assessment by the ministry, local authorities, and security forces, with a detailed list of approved schools released for transparency.

Dr. Mohammed stated, “We cannot reopen all schools at once due to the security challenges facing Niger State. We will continue in phases, starting with these cleared areas.”

Parents and educators have welcomed the resumption but expressed mixed feelings about overall safety. In interviews, some Minna residents voiced concerns over potential risks, urging enhanced patrols around school premises.

Education experts highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring to prevent disruptions.

The abductions last year, which saw over 100 students kidnapped in Niger and neighboring states, exposed vulnerabilities in rural education infrastructure.

Officials say the phased strategy will allow for adaptive measures, with future reopenings dependent on improved security.

As classes resume in the designated areas, the government has called on communities to report suspicious activities, aiming to restore normalcy while prioritizing student welfare in one of Nigeria’s most insecurity-plagued regions.

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