Ethan Nwaneri: How Arsenal Trashed Man City 5-1 at the Emirates

By

-

February 3, 2025

In a commanding display at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal bolstered their Premier League title aspirations with a resounding 5-1 triumph over reigning champions Manchester City. The match not only highlighted the Gunners’ attacking prowess but also showcased the emergence of 17-year-old prodigy Ethan Nwaneri.

Match Overview

Arsenal seized the initiative early, with captain Martin Ødegaard capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Manuel Akanji to open the scoring. City’s Erling Haaland briefly restored parity with a powerful header, but the Gunners quickly regained control. Thomas Partey’s deflected effort reinstated the lead, and further goals from Myles Lewis-Skelly, Kai Havertz, and Ethan Nwaneri sealed the emphatic victory.

Ethan Nwaneri’s Impact

Introduced in the second half, Nwaneri made an immediate impression. In stoppage time, he showcased his technical brilliance by curling a precise shot from outside the penalty area, marking his fifth goal of the season. This achievement places him among elite company, as he becomes only the third player to score at least five Premier League goals in a season before turning 18, following in the footsteps of Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney.

Sport Journalist Opinion

What gave Arsenal the arsenal over Manchester City? Sport journalist have been speaking and according to LN247 sport analyst, Austin Ogueri, it was a great challenge the winner brought to the game.

“I believe strongly that Arsenal got this win over City largely thanks to their hunger and their belief in themselves as title challengers because that’s the only way you make a statement. Beating the reigning champions 5-1, and for someone like Pep who’s only been beaten by 5 goals only one time in his entire career and now Arsenal makes it two. And that’s not the only record that Arteta and his boys smash, Pep has only lost a game once from January till end of a season stamping his authority as one who finishes strongly. That loss was at the hands of Brentford on the last day of the 2022/2023 which they had already won. This underscores what Arsenal has done”.

“We saw an Arsenal side that we’ve not seen on many occasions, an Arsenal side with an appetite to kill off the game and when when got ahead you could tell they still wanted more and that why the scoreline is what we have. You also have to give kudos to Arteta’s belief in his young lads because they want to prove a point and play thier hearts out and Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri repay that favor time and time again.
You wonder why all my thought is centered on Arsenal, well it’s because we didn’t see a Man City side very different from the Man city we’ve been seeing in recent times but we definitely saw a different Arsenal and it’s that difference that’s piqued my interest. If Arsenal keep this up then we’ll have an interesting rest of the season”.

“Arsenal’s comprehensive win not only narrows the gap to league leaders Liverpool but also underscores the depth of talent emerging from their academy, with Nwaneri’s performance offering a tantalizing glimpse into a bright future for the Gunners”.

Other Premier League Results

Brentford 0-2 Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Brentford. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Brentford’s Vitaly Janelt inadvertently deflected a corner from Son Heung-min into his own net. Spurs solidified their lead late in the game with a goal from substitute Pape Matar Sarr. This win was vital for Tottenham, easing their relegation concerns.

Manchester United 0-2 Crystal Palace

Manchester United’s struggles continued with a 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace. Jean-Philippe Mateta was the standout performer, netting both goals in the second half. United’s attack lacked potency, marking the fourth consecutive game against Palace without scoring. This loss dropped them to 13th place in the league standings.

Naira Appreciates to Seven-Month High

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

February 3, 2025

0

Nigeria’s exchange rate experienced significant appreciation in January 2025, strengthening by N63.72 against the US dollar to close at N1,474.78/$ on January 31 at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market.

According to data from FMDQ Securities Exchange Limited and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), this 4.14% increase marks the highest exchange rate in seven months. The last time the naira traded at a similar level was on June 11, 2024, when it stood at N1,473.88/$ in the official market.

CBN Policies Drive Naira’s Recovery

The naira’s recent strength is attributed to key monetary and foreign exchange policies introduced by the CBN, which have influenced market trends.

At the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), currency dealers quoted the dollar at a high of N1,495.01/$ and a low of N1,447.50/$ during trading sessions.

The naira started the year at N1,538.50/$ on January 2 and showed steady improvement, briefly dipping to N1,535/$ on January 3 before fluctuating. It peaked at N1,560/$ on January 16, marking its highest level for the month. However, from the third week of January, the local currency began a sustained appreciation, closing at:

N1,531/$ on January 24
N1,520/$ on January 28
N1,506/$ on January 29
N1,493/$ on January 30
N1,474.78/$ on January 31

In the parallel market, the naira also strengthened, closing at N1,610/$ on Friday, up from N1,630/$ recorded the previous day, reflecting a N20 gain within 24 hours.

Electronic FX Matching System and FX Code Drive Market Stability

A major driver of the naira’s appreciation is the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System, launched in December 2024. This system, powered by Bloomberg’s BMatch, enhances transparency by allowing anonymous central order book matching for authorized dealers.

Another significant reform is the introduction of the Nigeria Foreign Exchange Code on January 28, 2025. Speaking on the development, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso emphasized:

“The FX Code marks a new era of compliance and accountability. It is not just a set of recommendations but an enforceable framework under the CBN Act 2007 and BOFIA Act 2020. Violations will result in penalties and administrative actions.”

The FX Code sets governance and risk management standards, aligning Nigeria’s FX operations with global best practices and boosting investor confidence.

Foreign Reserves Drop Despite Naira’s Strength

Despite the naira’s positive trajectory, Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves saw a $1.11 billion decline in January, falling from $40.88bn on January 2 to $39.77bn on January 30, marking a 2.72% drop.

The decline is attributed to:

CBN interventions in the FX market
External debt servicing
Capital outflows

In the final week of January, reserves dipped below $40bn for the first time in months, falling to $39.99bn on January 23 and $39.77bn on January 30. This mirrors the sharp $2.16bn reserve drop in April 2024, which Cardoso had linked to debt servicing rather than FX stabilization.

Outlook for the Naira

The continued policy-driven stabilization of the FX market suggests that the naira may maintain its upward trajectory. However, the decline in foreign reserves raises concerns about the sustainability of CBN interventions.

Going forward, the effectiveness of CBN’s FX Code, market transparency measures, and liquidity management strategies will determine whether the naira can sustain its gains or face renewed volatility.

2025 U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup: How IND-W Thrash SA-W In A Two-Time Win, What This Means For Nigeria

By

Yemisi Lanre-Idowu

-

February 2, 2025

1

India’s U-19 Women’s T20 cricket team once again proved their dominance on the global stage, cruising to a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the final on Sunday, February 2nd, at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur.

The Women in Blue, led by a clinical bowling attack and a confident batting display, outclassed South Africa to lift the trophy once again.

The star of the match, Gongadi Trisha, delivered an outstanding all-round performance, scoring an unbeaten 44 runs, ensuring India chased down South Africa’s 83-run target in just 11.2 overs. With this, India secured their second consecutive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup title, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in women’s cricket.

But beyond India’s triumph, there is a bigger story—a story of inspiration, aspiration, and the rise of new challengers, including Nigeria’s own Junior Yellow Greens.

Nigeria’s Journey: A Story of Hope and Progress

For many years, cricket in Nigeria was overshadowed by football. However, the participation of the Nigeria U-19 women’s team in the just-concluded World Cup has changed that narrative. Their journey has brought the sport into the hearts of Nigerians and given young girls a new avenue to dream big.

Though they did not reach their target of a semi-final berth, the Nigerian girls finished among the top six teams in the world, securing an automatic spot in the next ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in Nepal and Bangladesh in 2027.

This achievement is monumental. It is a clear signal that Nigerian cricket is on the rise, and with continued investment, Coach Sarah Bhakita’s squad, led by the dynamic Lucky Piety, could be the foundation of a team that will soon challenge the world’s best.

Building the Future: The Role of Leadership and Investment

India’s success did not happen overnight. It was built on long-term planning, grassroots investment, and unwavering support from the country’s cricketing authorities*. Nigeria is now following a similar path.

During the reception for the returning Junior Yellow Greens, the President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), Dr. Uyi Akpata, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bridging the gap and ensuring the country remains competitive on the global stage. He highlighted:

The expansion of grassroots tournaments across Nigeria to identify and develop young talents.

A well-structured succession plan* for the current squad members who will surpass the age limit before the next World Cup.

Strategic partnerships with international cricket bodies*such as the ICC and OMTEX Cricket Academy in India to enhance player development.

These initiatives are clear indicators that Nigeria is not just participating in global tournaments but is actively building a future where Nigerian cricket teams can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world.

A Call to Dream Big

As the Indian team celebrated, draped in their national colors, it was a reminder of what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Nigeria’s young cricketers have already begun their journey, and their potential is limitless.

Imagine a future where a Nigerian all-rounder, much like Gongadi Trisha, takes center stage in a World Cup final, delivering a match-winning performance that sends the nation into celebration. That future is not far-fetched—it is within reach, **and with the right support, it will become a reality.

This is more than just cricket. It is about empowerment, opportunity, and national pride. The Nigerian U-19 women’s cricket team has already inspired a new generation, proving that **with resilience, passion, and investment, anything is possible.

The journey has begun. The dream is alive. And with time, Nigeria will rise to claim its place among cricket’s elite.

Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports Surge to $5.46bn in 2024 – NEPC

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 31, 2025

0

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has reported a significant 20.79% increase in Nigeria’s non-oil exports, which reached $5.456 billion in 2024, surpassing the $4.5 billion recorded in 2023.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on the 2024 non-oil export sector performance, NEPC’s Executive Director, Nonye Ayeni, highlighted the sector’s resilience and diversification as key drivers of this growth. She emphasized that the shift away from oil dependency aligns with Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.

Ayeni attributed the surge to heightened economic activities in agriculture, manufacturing, and solid minerals. She noted that agricultural exports, including cocoa seeds, cocoa butter, sesame seeds, and cashew nuts, played a major role, alongside the increased export of urea and manufactured goods.

“Despite economic challenges and global uncertainties, the NEPC, through strategic partnerships with relevant agencies and institutions, has bolstered economic diversification, achieving an impressive non-oil export performance of $5.456 billion in 2024. This marks a substantial 20.79% increase from the $4.517 billion recorded in 2023,” she stated.

She further highlighted that this growth reflects the impact of the federal government’s policies aimed at enhancing trade through effective fiscal and financial strategies.

JAMB Postpones 2025 UTME Registration to February 3

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 31, 2025

0

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has postponed the commencement of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration to Monday, February 3.

Initially scheduled to begin on Friday, January 31, the registration was delayed to allow JAMB to implement crucial adjustments to its registration system.

This announcement was made by the Board’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, in a statement shared on JAMB’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday.

Benjamin explained that the postponement was prompted by several factors, including the recent suspension of law programmes in some Nigerian universities and the discovery of fraudulent Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres that obtained approval through deceptive means.

JAMB expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to prospective UTME candidates and stakeholders, assuring them that the delay is aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent registration process.

“These changes are necessary following the suspension of certain law programmes at select universities, as communicated to the Board by the Council for Legal Education,” the statement read.

“Additionally, some CBT centres were found to have gained approval using misleading facilities. To maintain the integrity of the examination process, the Board is carrying out further verifications and disapproving such centres,” it added.

JAMB also reassured candidates that the additional time would help facilitate a seamless registration process.

JAMB advised prospective candidates to prepare in advance by obtaining their National Identification Number (NIN) and a dedicated phone number for registration.

“You can secure your NIN ahead of time and use a phone number that has not been previously registered on our platform to generate your profile code before registration begins,” JAMB tweeted via its official X handle.

Furthermore, the Board announced that The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba has been selected as the recommended reading text for the 2025 UTME Use of English examination.

Inflation In Zimbabwe Rises By 10.5%

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 31, 2025

0

Zimbabwe experienced a sharp rise in inflation this January, with rates increasing by 14.6% in U.S. dollar terms and 10.5% in local currency terms compared to the previous year.

Independent economist Prosper Chitambara attributes the inflation spike to higher taxes and last year’s regional drought, which drove up food prices. The Finance Ministry’s recent tax measures, including a 0.5% levy on fast food and a 10% tax on sports betting winnings, came into effect this month, further impacting prices.

Despite launching a gold-backed currency in April 2023, Zimbabwe saw a sharp devaluation in September, forcing most transactions to rely on the U.S. dollar. Since its devaluation, the Zimbabwe Gold currency has continued to lose value, trading at 26.3 per dollar as of Tuesday, according to the central bank’s website

AFCON 2025: How Far Can Nigeria Go In Group C?

By

Austin King

-

January 31, 2025

0

The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is back, and the Super Eagles of Nigeria are ready to soar. Drawn into Group C, Nigeria faces a mix of familiar foes and rising challengers. With Tunisia’s tactical discipline, Sudan’s resilience, and Tanzania’s hunger to prove themselves, this group promises to be a thrilling battleground. Let’s break down Nigeria’s opponents, their strengths, qualifying performances, and head-to-head records to give you a comprehensive preview of what to expect.

The Group: A Closer Look at Nigeria’s Opponents

Nigeria has been placed in Group C, alongside Tunisia, Sudan, and Tanzania. This group is a blend of tactical nous, grit, and unpredictability. Here’s a detailed look at each team:

1. Tunisia: The Carthage Eagles’ Tactical Mastery

FIFA Ranking: 3rd in Africa, 28th globally (as of latest rankings).
AFCON Titles: 1 (2004).
Key Player: Youssef Msakni (Al-Arabi) – The experienced forward is Tunisia’s creative engine and dead-ball specialist.
Recent Form: Tunisia reached the quarterfinals in the last AFCON (2021) and have been consistent in qualifiers, losing only once in their last 10 matches.
Qualifying Performance: Tunisia topped their qualifying group with 13 points (4 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss), scoring 11 goals and conceding just 1. Their defense was rock-solid, keeping 5 clean sheets in 6 games.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 20
Nigeria Wins: 7
Tunisia Wins: 8
Draws: 5
Last Meeting: Tunisia won 1-0 in the 2019 AFCON third-place playoff.

What to Expect: Tunisia is a well-drilled side with a strong defense and a knack for grinding out results. Nigeria will need to be clinical in attack and avoid mistakes in midfield to overcome their tactical discipline. The Carthage Eagles’ defensive record in qualifying suggests they’ll be tough to break down.

2. Sudan: The Underdogs with a Point to Prove

FIFA Ranking: 29th in Africa, 127th globally.
AFCON Titles: 1 (1970).
Key Player: Saif Terry (Al-Hilal Omdurman) – A versatile forward who can create and score.
Recent Form: Sudan surprised many by qualifying for AFCON, finishing second in their group ahead of South Africa. They’ve shown resilience, especially at home.
Qualifying Performance: Sudan finished second in their group with 12 points (4 wins, 0 draws, 2 losses), scoring 9 goals and conceding 8. They were particularly strong at home, winning all 3 matches.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 10
Nigeria Wins: 7
Sudan Wins: 1
Draws: 2
Last Meeting: Nigeria won 3-1 in a friendly in 2021.

What to Expect: Sudan may lack star power, but they are a disciplined side that thrives on counter-attacks. Nigeria cannot afford to underestimate them, as they’ve proven they can grind out results. Their home form in qualifying shows they can be a tough nut to crack.

3. Tanzania: The Rising Challengers

FIFA Ranking: 31st in Africa, 131st globally.
AFCON Titles: None.
Key Player: Mbwana Samatta (PAOK) – The former Genk striker is Tanzania’s talisman and main goal threat.
Recent Form: Tanzania qualified for AFCON by finishing second in their group, ahead of Uganda. They’ve shown improvement in recent years but remain inconsistent.
Qualifying Performance: Tanzania finished second in their group with 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses), scoring 6 goals and conceding 5. They struggled away from home but were solid in front of their fans.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 3
Nigeria Wins: 3
Tanzania Wins: 0
Draws: 0
Last Meeting: Nigeria won 1-0 in the 2019 AFCON group stage.

What to Expect: Tanzania is a physical, hardworking team that relies on Samatta for goals. Nigeria must be wary of their energy and set-piece threats. While they’ve never beaten Nigeria, their qualifying campaign showed they can be stubborn opponents.

Nigeria’s Chances: Strengths and Weaknesses

FIFA Ranking: 5th in Africa, 32nd globally.
AFCON Titles: 3 (1980, 1994, 2013).
Key Players: Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan).
Qualifying Performance: Nigeria topped their group with 15 points (5 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss), scoring 22 goals and conceding just 4. They were dominant, with Osimhen scoring 10 goals in 6 games.
Recent Form: The Super Eagles have won 7 of their last 10 matches, with their only loss coming against Guinea-Bissau in the qualifiers.

Strengths:

A potent attack led by Osimhen, one of the most in-form strikers in Europe.
A midfield anchored by Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, offering balance and creativity.
Experience in big tournaments, with several players plying their trade in top European leagues.

Weaknesses:

Defensive vulnerabilities, especially in set-piece situations.
Over-reliance on Osimhen for goals.
Inconsistent performances against lower-ranked teams.

Tactical Keys for Nigeria

Exploit the Wings: With Chukwueze and Moses Simon, Nigeria has the pace to stretch defenses and create chances.
Midfield Control: Ndidi and Iwobi must dominate the midfield to nullify Tunisia’s creativity and break down Sudan and Tanzania’s compact setups.
Defensive Discipline: Cutting out errors and staying organized at the back will be crucial, especially against Tunisia’s tactical approach.

Prediction: Can Nigeria Advance?

Nigeria has the talent and experience to progress, but it won’t be easy. Tunisia is the biggest threat, and dropping points against Sudan or Tanzania could prove costly. If the Super Eagles can address their defensive issues and fire on all cylinders in attack, they should finish in the top two.

Likely Group Standings:

Nigeria
Tunisia
Sudan
Tanzania

The Super Eagles are poised for a thrilling AFCON campaign, but they must navigate a tricky group to keep their dreams alive. With a blend of youth and experience, Nigeria has the tools to succeed. However, complacency could be their downfall. Football fans, buckle up – this group promises drama, goals, and unforgettable moments. Will Nigeria rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.

South Africa Reduces Interest Rate to 7.50%

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 30, 2025

0

South Africa’s central bank has reduced its key lending rate by 25 basis points to 7.50%, aligning with market expectations. Prior to this reduction, the rate stood at 7.75%. This decision, announced on Thursday, reflects the bank’s assessment that while inflation remains controlled, the medium-term economic outlook is more uncertain than usual.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reached a split decision, with four members favoring the rate cut, while two preferred to keep rates unchanged.

In December, annual inflation edged up to 3.0%, the latest available data, yet it remains at the lower end of the central bank’s 3%-6% target range. Throughout 2024, inflation averaged 4.4%, slightly below the mid-point of this range. Additionally, inflation expectations among analysts, business leaders, and trade union officials—key indicators monitored by the central bank—have shown signs of improvement.

This rate cut follows a previous reduction in November 2024, when the central bank lowered the rate by 25 basis points to 7.75%.

JAMB Suspends Law Admissions in Eight Universities

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 30, 2025

0

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has suspended admissions for the Law programme in eight universities across Nigeria.

JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, announced this decision in a statement on Wednesday, citing the suspension of the Bachelor of Laws programme by the Council of Legal Education for the 2025/2026 academic session in the affected institutions.

The universities impacted by this directive include:

Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin, Kwara State
Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State
Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State
Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State
Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State
Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State

Notably, the suspension of the Law programme at the Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, will last for two academic sessions—2025/2026 and 2026/2027.

“As a result, JAMB will not process admissions for candidates applying to study Law at these institutions for the 2025/2026 academic session,” the statement read.

Additionally, the Nigerian Police Academy will remain ineligible for Law programme registrations through the 2026/2027 academic session.

Tariff Hike: Labour Plans Nationwide Protest

By

Tosin Onisuuru

-

January 30, 2025

0

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, against the proposed 50% hike in telecommunications tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In a communiqué signed by its National President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned the increase as insensitive and unjustifiable, warning that failure to reverse the decision could lead to a mass boycott of telecommunication services.

The resolution was reached during the NLC’s National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting on January 29, where the union reaffirmed its commitment to resisting policies that further burden Nigerians.

Civil Society Groups Join the Protest

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), and Take It Back Movement, have pledged their support for the protest. They condemned the tariff hike, arguing that it worsens economic hardship for Nigerians already grappling with rising inflation, high fuel costs, and increased electricity tariffs.

Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, criticized the telecom tariff increase, stating that multinational corporations and their government collaborators are exploiting Nigerians. He assured that CISLAC would support any action that reduces the financial burden on citizens.

Similarly, Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the Take It Back Movement, confirmed the group’s participation, stressing that the hike should not just be reduced but completely reversed.

Labour Calls for Nationwide Mobilization

The NLC has directed all affiliates and state councils to begin full-scale mobilization for the protest. Ajaero emphasized that the demonstration would serve as a warning to the government, adding that Nigerian workers must resist policies that prioritize corporate profits over public welfare.

“The minimum wage is only N70,000, yet Nigerians are being forced to pay higher prices for fuel, food, electricity, and now telecom services. This is economic suffocation,” Ajaero stated.

He urged the Federal Government, NCC, and National Assembly to immediately suspend the tariff hike and engage stakeholders in discussions. Failure to do so, he warned, could escalate into a mass boycott of telecom services and additional nationwide actions.

Telecom Operators Push Back

Meanwhile, telecommunications companies have criticized the planned protest, arguing that they have absorbed financial pressures for years without passing the burden to consumers.

Tony Emoekpere, Chairman of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), questioned why NLC is targeting telecom operators while similar price hikes in transport, food, and energy sectors have gone unchallenged.

“When the prices of tomatoes, onions, or bread increased, did we see any protests? No one took to the streets when transport fares rose due to increasing fuel costs,” he remarked.

With tensions rising, the February 4 protest is set to be a defining moment in Nigeria’s economic landscape, as labour unions, civil society groups, and citizens push back against policies they deem oppressive.