The Italian giants will face the winner of the other semi-final clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal in the final, set to take place in Munich on 31 May.
Inter Milan produced a thrilling performance at San Siro on Tuesday night, overcoming Barcelona 4–3 after extra time in a dramatic UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg.
The result sent the Italian giants to the final with a remarkable 7–6 aggregate victory.
Inter looked in control early, racing to a 2–0 halftime lead after Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring in the 21st minute, capitalising on a defensive error.
Hakan Çalhanoğlu added a second from the penalty spot just before the break, giving Inter a 5–3 advantage on aggregate.
Comeback
Barcelona, however, mounted a spirited comeback after halftime. Eric García volleyed home to reduce the deficit, and Dani Olmo headed in the equaliser just minutes later, levelling the tie at 5–5.
The momentum swung further in Barca’s favour when Raphinha scored in the 88th minute to put the visitors ahead 6–5 on aggregate.
But Inter refused to give up. In the third minute of stoppage time, Francesco Acerbi fired in a dramatic equaliser to make it 3–3 on the night, forcing extra time.
Extra time
With the match delicately poised, Davide Frattesi emerged as the hero in extra time, scoring Inter’s fourth goal to secure a historic win and seal their place in the final.
Inter, unbeaten at home in Champions League play for over 970 days, now return to the competition’s final for the first time since 2023.
They will face the winner of the other semi-final clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal in the final, set to take place in Munich on 31 May.
The Nerazzurri will be looking to lift Europe’s most coveted trophy once again after falling short in their last final appearance, losing narrowly to Manchester City.
China has sharply criticized recent recruitment videos released by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), describing the campaign as a “naked political provocation” aimed at luring Chinese officials into espionage.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian accused the United States of actively attempting to deceive and recruit Chinese personnel, particularly government officials, to leak sensitive state information.
“The United States not only maliciously smears and attacks China but also openly deceives and lures Chinese personnel to surrender, even directly targeting Chinese government officials,” Lin said.
The backlash follows the CIA’s release of a series of high-production videos reportedly aimed at recruiting disillusioned Chinese insiders to cooperate with U.S. intelligence. CIA Director John Ratcliffe noted that the agency is adapting its tradecraft and exploring new ways to engage foreign informants.
However, China sees the move as an overt admission of espionage.
“The videos released by the US Central Intelligence Agency on social media are another self-confession with solid evidence,” Lin said, adding that “China strongly condemns this.”
Beijing further accused Washington of long-standing interference and espionage practices, stating the U.S. uses “despicable methods” to steal foreign secrets and disrupt sovereign governance.
Tensions between the two nations have escalated over repeated claims of cyber and intelligence warfare. Just last month, Chinese authorities alleged that three U.S. “secret agents” were involved in cyberattacks during the Asian Winter Games in Harbin.
In another incident in March, China sentenced a former engineer to death for leaking state secrets to a foreign entity.
On Tuesday, China vowed to take “necessary measures to resolutely crack down on infiltration and sabotage activities by foreign anti-China forces.”
“China will firmly safeguard national sovereignty, development, and security interests,” Lin reaffirmed.
The incident marks yet another flashpoint in the increasingly strained U.S.–China relations, especially in the realm of cyber intelligence and national security.
Nigerian stars made a powerful impression at the 2025 Met Gala, infusing the iconic New York event with rich African flair and creativity. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this year’s celebration spotlighted global talent interpreting fashion through the lens of identity and heritage.
Among the Nigerian representatives who stood out on the red carpet were music heavyweights Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr, alongside acclaimed writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and celebrity stylist Swanky Jerry.
The Met Gala, an annual high-fashion gathering, welcomed industry elites on Monday night, all channeling the theme of the year through custom, head-turning ensembles.
For 2025, the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” encouraged attendees to blend personal and cultural stories with refined design. Nigerian attendees answered the call with ease and elegance.
Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, captivated onlookers with a contemporary twist on traditional fashion. Her outfit incorporated Aso-Ebi fabric, paying tribute to her heritage while aligning with the gala’s couture expectations.
Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, chose a bespoke outfit crafted by Ozwald Boateng, a Ghanaian-British fashion icon. Describing the look as “specially made,” Burna’s appearance quickly became a standout moment of the night. Later, he was spotted celebrating with UK rapper Central Cee, a scene that soon went viral.
Ayra Starr embodied her vibrant persona in a floor-length dress that balanced minimalism with edge, offering a bold but refined statement on the red carpet.
Chimamanda Adichie commanded attention in a vivid red dress that radiated confidence and sophistication. Though widely known for her literary influence, Adichie’s presence at the event demonstrated her growing footprint in fashion.
She was also reportedly part of the 2025 host committee for the Costume Institute Benefit, joining notable names like Usher, Tyla, Ayo Edebiri, Dapper Dan, and Doechii.
Celebrity stylist Jeremiah Ogbodo, widely recognized as Swanky Jerry, made his entrance in a daring creation by Deji and Kola. Posting a photo from the evening, he wrote, “On duty for Met Gala 2025, superfine. Tailoring black style. When the theme calls for legacy, I deliver. Heritage in every stitch. Legacy in every look. Style crafted. Culture honoured.”
Another standout was Ayo Edebiri, the American-Nigerian actress, whose look celebrated African heritage by blending Western aesthetics with details drawn from Benin traditions.
Known as fashion’s biggest night, the Met Gala is held every first Monday in May to raise funds for the Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The iconic event has been directed by Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, since 1995.
On Friday, 2nd May 2025, a group of women staged a protest during an empowerment event held at the EUI Centre in GRA, Port Harcourt. The event, organised under the Renewed Hope Initiative, aimed to empower 500 women across Rivers State.
Tensions rose when some attendees, including sacked local government vice-chairpersons loyal to Governor Sim Fubara, walked out of the venue. They alleged being sidelined and replaced on the programme list by individuals aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Chanting pro-Fubara slogans, the protesters insisted that the governor’s wife, Valerie Fubara, should address them instead of Mrs Theresa Ibas, the wife of the state’s administrator. Despite the disruption, the programme continued inside with Mrs Ibas delivering remarks on behalf of the First Lady.
Wike Condemns Protest Against First Lady
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday 3rd May condemned the action of a group of women loyal to suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over their walkout on the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during an empowerment programme in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The minister described the incident as a “show of shame” and an embarrassment to the people of Rivers State.
Wike, who is currently in China on official engagements, issued a statement on Saturday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
He described the walkout as a direct insult to the offices of the President and First Lady and offered an unreserved apology to President Bola Tinubu and his wife on behalf of the people of Rivers State.
“As for me and those who subscribe to my leadership, we condemn in totality yesterday’s show of shame, and we apologise to our First Lady for the embarrassing conduct of those few women who do not represent the character and ideals of the people of Rivers State,” the statement partly read.
The former Rivers State Governor also alleged that the walkout was sponsored by his successor, Governor Fubara, adding that his “shenanigans” referring to the incident would not bring peace to the state.
He urged Fubara to “demonstrate honesty by being bold enough to tell President Tinubu what exactly he wants,” stating that the governor’s actions contradicted his peace appeals.
“It is not enough to be visiting people to plead for peace; those who genuinely want peace must work and act for it. These are the same people pleading for peace, yet doing things contrary to their words.
“How can you claim to want peace and at the same time sponsor people to insult everyone, including the President and his wife? All these shenanigans will not bring peace, and I am sure they know that because they are not sincere in their back-and-forth calls for peace,” he added.
Rivers Women Debunked Claims
The Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in Rivers State, Mrs. Tonye Briggs-Oniyide, has dismissed claims that supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara staged a walkout on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during a women’s empowerment event held in Port Harcourt.
Briggs-Oniyide clarified that despite being on vacation, Governor Fubara ensured the programme received full logistical support.
According to her, the event progressed smoothly until a disruption occurred when Mrs. Theresa Ibas, wife of the Rivers State Administrator, took the stage.
She said, “despite being on vacation, the Governor Fubara ensured full support logistical and otherwise for the success of the empowerment programme organised under the esteemed leadership of the First Lady, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu”.
She explained further: “The event was progressing successfully, with the women of Rivers State expressing overwhelming appreciation for the initiative, until a disruption occurred when the wife of the Rivers State Administrator, Mrs Theresa Ibas, was making a speech.
“At that point, the women in attendance vocally opposed her participation, stating clearly that they did not recognise her as their First Lady and would prefer not to be addressed by her.”
She described the accusations as “deeply misleading and a calculated attempt to politicise a well-meaning, non-partisan event,” adding that “Rivers women are known for their dignity and unity beyond political affiliations.”
Meanwhile, the suspended Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, has also denied any involvement in the disruption of the event.
In a statement personally signed, she said: “The allegations levelled against her regarding the supposed disruption of the empowerment programme were entirely unfounded, completely false, and a product of the sick imagination of rumour mongers and conflict entrepreneurs.”
She added that the allegations were “nothing more than a feeble and mischievous attempt to tarnish her reputation and sow discord.”
Dr. Oreh also challenged the ‘Concerned Rivers Youth Organisation’ to provide proof to support their claims: “It is essential to base criticisms on facts rather than speculation or puerile political agenda.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has, after nearly a week, clarified the reason for detaining popular activist Martin Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
According to his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, the arrest took place last Friday at a Guaranty Trust Bank branch located in Abuja.
The incident quickly gained traction online, prompting strong reactions from the public and notable personalities. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and music stars like Davido, Rudeboy, and Mr P were among those who voiced concern and demanded VDM’s release.
In a statement released on Tuesday and shared with the media, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale explained that Otse was apprehended over allegations tied to financial misconduct.
The statement read: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him.
He refused to show up despite several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which the Commission cannot ignore.”
The agency further emphasized that it has full legal authority to detain individuals under active investigation, including VDM.
Addressing the uproar following Otse’s detention, the EFCC acknowledged the backlash but clarified, “It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, such attacks did not inform his arrest.
The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and will be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.”
The Commission also expressed gratitude for the public’s continued interest in its work and acknowledged the enthusiasm with which Nigerians engage with its activities. Still, it called for restraint in circulating unfounded narratives about its actions.
“The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.”
President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the National Integrated Electricity Policy, a comprehensive roadmap designed to overhaul Nigeria’s electricity sector and attract $122.2 billion in investment. This significant development was confirmed at the Federal Executive Council meeting held on Monday.
The policy, originally submitted in December 2024, aligns with the provisions of Section 3(3) of the revised Electricity Act 2023. It is expected to facilitate broad energy sector reforms that will support Nigeria’s development goals and bring the country in line with global best practices.
According to earlier reports from March, the plan targets a cumulative investment of $122.2 billion between 2024 and 2045. The goal is to expand the nation’s energy mix, reduce dependency on the central grid, and ensure greater energy reliability and sustainability.
The new policy promotes diversification into hydrogen, solar photovoltaic, biomass, wind energy, gas with carbon capture, nuclear, concentrated solar power, and bioenergy. It also earmarks $192 million to be spent over five years (2024–2028) to strengthen transmission infrastructure nationwide.
In a statement from Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser to the Minister of Power on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, the minister, Adebayo Adelabu, affirmed that implementation of the policy is already in progress.
Adelabu said, “The road map policy addresses critical challenges in Nigeria’s electricity sector through a comprehensive framework for sector transformation with clear guidelines for sustainable power generation, transmission, distribution, as well as integration of renewable energy sources, its promotion, energy efficiency and enhancement of sector governance.”
He further emphasized the significance of the Electricity Act 2023, describing it as a turning point for the industry.
“This National Integrated Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan is a comprehensive roadmap developed to guide all stakeholders – the Federal and State Governments, market participants, investors, and indeed all Nigerians, through this transition,” Adelabu added.
The government expects that the policy will soon begin to yield visible improvements across the power value chain.
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has introduced a new National Identification Number (NIN) Authentication Service, approved by the Federal Government, to enhance secure and seamless identity verification across Nigeria.
Announcing the launch in Lagos, Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, stated that the Presidency has mandated all government agencies to adopt this authentication service for identity verification purposes.
The initiative supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at modernizing identity management and ensuring better service delivery across both public and private sectors.
Accessible via web, mobile apps, and APIs, the NIN Authentication service is designed to safeguard personal data, uphold privacy, and simplify access to essential services such as:
SIM registration
Passport applications
Driver’s license renewals
Tax submissions
Financial transactions
Government support programs
The platform, known as NINAuth, integrates with NIMC’s central database and allows real-time verification of NIN records. It also incorporates user consent protocols, giving individuals full control over how their personal data is shared for services like Know Your Customer (KYC) checks.
“This service enhances trust, security, and control in digital identity management,” Adegoke said, emphasizing that users will benefit from protection against unauthorized access and enjoy a single sign-on feature for multiple services.
He also highlighted the system’s API compatibility, making it adaptable for integration with other platforms and ensuring regulatory compliance in identity-related operations.
NIN Authentication is now the official and unified platform for identity verification using NIN in Nigeria.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the results for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), a critical step for Nigerian students seeking admission into tertiary institutions.
With over 1.9 million candidates participating in the 2025 UTME, checking your results promptly and accurately is essential to plan your next academic steps. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to access your JAMB results using both online and SMS methods, ensuring you can verify your scores with ease.
Checking Your JAMB Result Online
To check your 2025 UTME result through the official JAMB portal, follow these steps: Visit the JAMB e-Facility Portal: Open a web browser on your smartphone or computer and go to the JAMB result-checking portal at https://slipsprinting.jamb.gov.ng/CheckUTMEResults. Ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions.
Log In with Your Credentials: Enter the email address and password you used during your UTME registration. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” option to reset it. Alternatively, you can input your JAMB registration number.
Access Your Result: Once logged in, locate and click the “Check UTME Results” button. Your scores for each subject will be displayed on the screen. You can take a screenshot or print the result for future reference.
Print Your Result Slip (Optional): Some institutions require an official JAMB result slip for admission processing. To obtain this, select “Print Result Slip” on the portal, make the required payment (approximately ₦1,000, payable via Mastercard or Verve card), and download the slip.
Note: Checking your result online is free for the first five attempts, but additional checks may incur a fee. Always use the official JAMB website to avoid fraudulent platforms.
Checking Your JAMB Result via SMS
For candidates without internet access or those preferring a quicker method, JAMB offers an SMS-based result-checking option. Here’s how to do it: Open Your Messaging App: On the phone number you used for JAMB registration, launch your text messaging application.
Compose the Message: Type “UTMERESULT” (in uppercase, without spaces) or “RESULT” followed by your JAMB registration number (e.g., RESULT 12345678AB).
Send the SMS: Send the message to either 55019 or 66019, the official JAMB SMS result-checking numbers. Ensure you have at least ₦50 airtime, as this service incurs a charge.
Receive Your Result: Within minutes, JAMB will send a reply SMS containing your subject scores and total score. If you don’t receive a response, verify your airtime balance or try again later.
Important: Only the phone number used during registration can access results via SMS. If you use a different number, you’ll receive a message stating, “This phone number was not used for registration.”
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Result Not Available: If your result isn’t displayed, it may still be processing or under review. JAMB releases results in batches, so check back later or contact JAMB support.
Result Withheld: A “Result Withheld” message indicates that your result is under investigation, possibly due to suspected malpractice. JAMB will notify you of further steps.
Network or SMS Delays: Ensure your phone has a strong network signal and sufficient airtime. If delays persist, try again after a few hours.
Forgotten Registration Number: Retrieve your registration number by checking your registration slip or sending “RETRIEVE” to 55019 from your registered phone number.
Verifying Information on the JAMB Website
To ensure accuracy, I cross-checked the official JAMB website (www.jamb.gov.ng) and confirmed that the result-checking process aligns with the steps outlined above. The website emphasizes using the e-Facility portal or SMS numbers (55019 or 66019) for secure access to results. JAMB also warns candidates to avoid unofficial websites or platforms claiming to offer result-checking services, as these may be scams. Additionally, the website notes that results are typically available within 24–72 hours after the exam, though some may be delayed due to verification processes.
Next Steps After Checking Your Result
Once you’ve accessed your result, take the following actions:
Compare with Cut-Off Marks: Check the cut-off marks for your preferred institution and course to determine eligibility for post-UTME screening.
Prepare for Post-UTME: If your score meets the required threshold, start preparing for your institution’s post-UTME screening by studying past questions and reviewing relevant subjects.
Consider Alternatives: If your score is lower than expected, explore options like changing your course or institution to one with lower cut-off marks.
Monitor Admission Status: Regularly check your admission status on the JAMB CAPS portal (https://caps.jamb.gov.ng). Log in, click “Check Admission Status,” and accept or reject any admission offer you receive.
In 2024, the Nigerian government made significant progress in combating insecurity, neutralizing over 8,000 terrorists and bandits nationwide, according to Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence. He also reported the apprehension of more than 11,600 suspects involved in criminal activities and the seizure of over 10,000 assorted weapons during the same period.
Dr. Matawalle attributed these successes to the effective security policies and reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu. He highlighted the creation of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), which has improved collaboration among security forces, resulting in more effective operations against kidnapping and other crimes.
In addition to security gains, the minister praised the government’s economic initiatives, particularly the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development. This ministry seeks to harness the agricultural potential of northern Nigeria to drive economic growth and empower citizens. Dr. Matawalle noted a recent drop in grain prices as evidence of the positive impact of these measures.
Infrastructure development has also been prioritized, with ongoing efforts to build roads and enhance transportation networks, particularly in the northern region, to support sustained economic progress. The minister also endorsed the new legislation granting autonomy to local governments, seeing it as a move toward improved grassroots governance and accountability. Dr. Matawalle expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms and leadership under President Tinubu provide a promising foundation for long-term national development. He suggested that these continued achievements could strengthen the President’s chances of securing re-election in 2027.
Nigerians may soon be paying more for electricity as the federal government pushes for tariffs that reflect the true cost of power. The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, says the country’s economy can no longer sustain broad electricity subsidies, especially with the government’s debt to power-generating companies (Gencos) now exceeding N4 trillion.
Currently, the actual cost of electricity stands at N116.18 per kilowatt-hour, but consumers are charged an average of N88.2, with the government covering the difference. However, this model is becoming unsustainable, and changes are imminent.
What the Minister of Power Is Saying
At a meeting with Genco executives in Abuja, Minister Adelabu emphasized the need for Nigerians to begin paying the correct price for electricity. He explained that subsidies would become more targeted — focusing on economically vulnerable groups — rather than applied across the board.
“We have to understand that our economy cannot sustain subsidies indefinitely,” he said. “Citizens must pay the appropriate price for the energy consumed.”
What People Are Saying
Reactions from Nigerians have been mixed — ranging from frustration over high costs and poor service to cautious optimism about reforms.
Consumers in Band A, who are already paying cost-reflective tariffs, say the price is high and yet doesn’t always guarantee reliable supply. “We’re charged more, but service is still inconsistent,” a Lagos resident said.
For many in Bands B to E — where subsidies still apply — concerns are rising over whether the quality of service justifies any proposed increase. One user shared, “We get 10 to 12 hours of electricity a day. Asking us to pay more with no improvement in service feels unfair.”
Others expressed the impact on their daily lives. “Electricity hasn’t improved but it’s more costly. I can’t run my appliances, and business expenses are rising. Even solar alternatives are now expensive,” said a small business owner.
Some have adjusted their usage to cope. “We now use energy-saving bulbs, run freezers only at night, and have stopped using air-conditioners completely,” one respondent shared.
A few highlighted deeper concerns with how the electricity sector is managed. “This hike won’t fix anything if the Discos remain understaffed and poorly managed. There’s too much corruption in the system,” someone noted.
Still, a handful of Nigerians see potential benefits — if reforms are properly managed. “It’s helped me cut energy waste. But the government must invest in better infrastructure, and Discos need to upgrade their distribution systems,” one respondent suggested.
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