Tyson Fury Announces Retirement From Boxing

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January 13, 2025

Boxing legend Tyson Fury has officially announced his retirement from the sport, ending a remarkable career following back-to-back defeats by undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Speculation had been rife about Fury’s future, with fans hoping for a third fight against Usyk or a long-awaited clash with Anthony Joshua. However, the ‘Gypsy King’ has decided to hang up his gloves, leaving an unforgettable legacy in the boxing world.

In an Instagram video shared on Monday, Fury addressed his millions of followers:
“Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast. I’ve loved every single minute of it. I’m going to end with this: Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”

His post caption read: “Thanks, it’s been a blast 💥 thanks to everyone who helped out along the way! Happy New Year 🥳. Jesus is King 👑 now & forever.”

Fury’s first loss to Usyk in May last year came by split decision, marking his only professional defeat and making Usyk the undisputed heavyweight champion. In their December rematch, Fury showcased his fighting spirit but ultimately lost by unanimous decision.

The defeats sparked widespread debate, with many urging a showdown between Fury and Anthony Joshua. Joshua himself expressed interest, stating at The Ring Magazine Awards: “It has to happen this year.”

Despite mounting pressure, Fury has chosen to step away from the ring after over a decade of dominance. His decision closes the chapter on a career defined by resilience, charisma, and unforgettable achievements both inside and outside the ring.

According to Eurosport, Fury’s retirement marks the end of one of boxing’s most celebrated eras.

“I only pay my light bill and my pension money is gone”…Phillip Egede, Retired Pensioner

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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Phillip Egede is a 67 year old retired Nigerian police officer, who has been receiving pension from the government for 6 years now, but the meagre sum and irregularity in payment has cost him his basic needs.

Pension is a regular income paid by the state to senior persons who have retired from work and usually in Nigeria, from the age of 50 to 60 years.

However, the failure of government to meet the pension expectation of retirees has shattered the plans of many like Philip, as well as inducing economic trauma, which in some cases have led to fatalities.

Philip spoke to LN247 about the proposed pension increment by the government.

How has life been after retirement?

“Very hectic, life has not been so easy for us, it’s like you finished from the job and the suffering continues, to suffer more than we were suffering when we were on the job”. He said

How much are you paid as a pensioner?

“My take home pension is 36,000 naira every month”.

So what do you think about this amount paid to you?

“It’s not encouraging at all, it’s very bad, so many of my mates now are dead, some can’t make a call, some of them that their children are still in school, they had to drop out, it’s very hectic”.

With the Inflation in the country, is your pension able to sustain you?

“No, it can’t sustain me, how can it sustain me, it’s just 36,000. When the pension comes, I only pay my bill, I buy gas, 18,000, I pay my light bill and the money is gone. So I live in borrowing and begging, the money is nothing to write home about”.

The government has proposed an increment in pension payments, how do you see this development?

“Good! if they can do that, fine at least to make us live life again because many of us there is no life in us again, we are just waiting for the day that God will call us, if the government can do that, it means they are praying for us to live longer so it will be good.

As a pensioner, what do you want from the government?

“The government is supposed to know what is happening now in the country today, at least give us reasonable money for us to live the remaining of our lives”.

“I retired 2017, so I’m 67 years old now and I’m suffering, if they can give us a reasonable amount to sustain us, better”.

Philip is just one among millions of senior citizens who face this plight as a pensioner in Nigeria. Retired public servants have bemoaned pension fraud and government neglect while battling debilitating changes to their health and lack of funds to attend to their most basic needs due to inconsistencies in the payment process, or unpaid pensions. Some pensioners have also yet to receive their full entitlements.

The Federal Government has now taken some steps to ameliorate the pensioners’ plight, including a 20 percent increase in pay and the introduction of a minimum pension of N32,000 for retirees.

5 Major Events That Happened Between Arsenal And Manchester United

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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In the FA Cup third-round match on Sunday, January 12, 2025, Manchester United edged past Arsenal in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium. Here are five major events from the game:

1. Bruno Fernandes’ Opening Goal: In the 52nd minute, Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes capitalized on a counter-attack, firing a powerful shot past Arsenal’s goalkeeper to give United a 1-0 lead.

2. Diogo Dalot’s Red Card: Shortly after the goal, United’s Diogo Dalot received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Gabriel Martinelli, reducing United to ten men in the 61st minute.

3. Gabriel Magalhães’ Equalizer: Taking advantage of the numerical superiority, Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães scored an acrobatic goal in the 63rd minute, leveling the score at 1-1.

4. Altay Bayindir’s Penalty Save: Arsenal had a golden opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty. However, United’s goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, made a crucial save to deny Martin Ødegaard’s spot-kick, keeping the score level.

5. Penalty Shootout Decider: With the match tied after extra time, it proceeded to a penalty shootout. Bayindir emerged as the hero again, saving Kai Havertz’s penalty. Joshua Zirkzee then converted the decisive spot-kick, securing a 5-3 shootout victory for Manchester United.

Arsenal’s loss can be attributed to several factors:

– Missed Opportunities: Despite creating numerous chances, Arsenal failed to capitalize, including a missed penalty by Martin Ødegaard and squandered opportunities by Kai Havertz.

– Defensive Lapses: A slip by Gabriel on the halfway line led to United’s goal, highlighting a momentary defensive error that proved costly.

– Inability to Exploit Numerical Advantage: After Dalot’s red card, Arsenal couldn’t effectively break down United’s ten-man defense during regular and extra time.

– Goalkeeping Heroics: United’s goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, made crucial saves during the match and the penalty shootout, thwarting Arsenal’s attempts to secure a win.

These elements combined led to Arsenal’s exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Manchester United.

South Korean’s Suspended President to Get Salary Increase

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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Despite facing an impeachment trial and an ongoing insurrection investigation, suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to receive a salary increase for 2025. According to official documents from the Ministry of Personnel Management, Yoon’s annual salary will rise by 3%, bringing it to 262.6 million won (approximately $178,400).

Although currently suspended, Yoon retains his presidential status while the Constitutional Court reviews his impeachment case, which allows him to continue receiving his salary and associated benefits.
“It makes my blood boil. He’s (Yoon) getting paid for doing nothing,” one user wrote in a post on social media platform X that quickly went viral.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment followed his controversial decision to suspend civilian rule on December 3rd during which soldiers were deployed to parliament.

This move triggered South Korea’s most significant political crisis in decades, resulting in Yoon’s suspension just hours later. He now faces a separate investigation into his actions, with authorities seeking to detain him for questioning.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is currently serving as interim president, is also suspended and will see his salary increase to 203.5 million won (around $138,350). Public reaction to these developments has been largely critical, with widespread protests and viral social media posts condemning Yoon’s salary increase amid his suspension.

Meanwhile, investigators are preparing another attempt to arrest Yoon after a previous effort earlier this month failed.

Federal Fire Service to Enforce Mandatory Fire Insurance for Buildings

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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The Federal Fire Service is set to mandate fire insurance as part of its building inspection checklist. This decision emerged from a strategic meeting between the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the Federal Fire Service at the NAICOM headquarters, aimed at strengthening their collaboration.

Fire insurance provides coverage for losses and damages caused by fire incidents, allowing property owners to file claims in case of such disasters.

In an official statement, NAICOM announced, “The Federal Fire Service, as a core member of the committee overseeing insurance for public buildings and properties under construction, will now integrate fire insurance policy checks into their inspection processes. This initiative aims to enhance compliance and broaden insurance adoption across Nigeria.”

Key benefits highlighted from the partnership include:

Improved Compliance: Ensuring that property owners adhere to insurance regulations.
Increased Insurance Penetration: Raising awareness and adoption of fire insurance among building owners and developers.
Risk Mitigation: Reducing risks associated with building collapses and other hazards.
Economic Growth: Promoting investment, job creation, and financial stability.

The meeting, led by NAICOM’s Deputy Commissioner for Finance and Administration, Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon, underscored the importance of this collaboration in fostering a safer and more insured environment in Nigeria.

Lagos Assembly Speaker Obasa Impeached Over Alleged Multibillion-Naira Fraud

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday impeached its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, citing numerous statutory and financial misconduct allegations.

Obasa has been replaced by his deputy, Lasbat Meranda, who previously served as the House’s chief whip and currently represents Apapa Constituency 1.

The impeachment followed reports by detailing Obasa’s alleged involvement in the withdrawal of N43.5 billion for lawmakers’ backup vehicles and other questionable transactions.

Makinde Presents Staff of Office to Abimbola Owoade, New Alaafin of Oyo

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 13, 2025

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Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented the Staff of Office to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, during a ceremony held at the governor’s office in Agodi, Ibadan, on Monday.

The governor’s approval of Owoade’s appointment was announced on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade. The new Alaafin becomes the 46th monarch to ascend the revered throne.

The event drew a distinguished audience of traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, and jubilant Oyo indigenes. It commenced with prayers by Islamic, Christian, and traditional clerics and featured cultural performances symbolizing a historic moment for the Oyo Kingdom.

While presenting the insignia of office, Governor Makinde praised Oba Owoade as a visionary leader poised to uphold and promote the kingdom’s rich cultural legacy. He expressed confidence in the monarch’s ability to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity.

“We trust that Oba Owoade will lead with wisdom and integrity, fostering unity and progress in the Oyo Kingdom,” Makinde stated.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade pledged to prioritize the kingdom’s development and the welfare of its people.

“I am dedicated to advancing the prosperity of the Oyo Kingdom while preserving the traditions and values that define us,” the monarch affirmed.

The new reign is expected to bring a renewed focus on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and economic growth for the Oyo Kingdom.

Italy’s Flag Carrier Resumes Direct Flights to Libya after 10-Year

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 13, 2025

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Italy’s flag carrier ITA Airways launched its first direct commercial flight to Libya’s capital on Sunday, marking the resumption of air links between the two countries after more than a decade, Libya’s Airports Authority said.

The inaugural flight connected Rome’s Fiumicino airport with Tripoli’s Mitiga airport, with services scheduled twice weekly, according to a statement from the authority on its Facebook page.

At a ceremony marking the occasion, Libya’s Transport Minister Muhammad Salem Al-Shahoubi called the route’s restoration “an important step” in strengthening bilateral ties and accessing European airspace.

The resumption follows an October announcement by Italy during Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Tripoli, where both nations signed various cooperation agreements spanning development, investment and infrastructure.

Most international carriers suspended Libya operations following the 2014 civil war, which split the country between rival eastern and western administrations after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that overthrew Muammar Gaddafi. The European Union maintains a ban on Libyan civil aviation in its airspace.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) currently advises against flights in Libyan airspace through April 2025, citing security risks from terrorist organizations and military operations. EASA permits operations only to coastal airports under strict conditions including sea approaches and local coordination.

Italy, Libya’s primary trading partner and former colonial power, maintains significant economic interests in the North African nation.

Ghana’s New President Scraps 7 Ministries to Cut Costs

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 12, 2025

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President John Mahama has axed seven government ministries as part of efforts to rein in public spending under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) austerity programme.

The move, announced in a gazette dated 9 January, reduces the number of ministries from 30 to 23, aligning with Mahama’s pledge to streamline government operations for greater efficiency.

The retained ministries include finance, health, interior, defence, education, energy and green transition, roads and highways, and transport.

The president’s office confirmed the decision in an emailed statement.

John Mahama Ghana Elections

Returning to power after a previous stint as president between 2012 and 2017, Mahama defeated former Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia in a closely fought election.

Mahama secured 56.55 per cent of the vote, while Bawumia, who conceded defeat before the final count, garnered 41.6 per cent.

Mahama’s cost-cutting agenda seems contrast to Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who expanded the number of ministries to 48 in 2023 from 44 under his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

Venezuela’s Maduro Sworn in For Third Term Amid Outrages

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 12, 2025

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Venezuela’s authoritarian president, Nicolás Maduro, has been accused of a shameless and fraudulent power-grab after swearing himself in for a third term, despite domestic outrage and international condemnation at his alleged theft of last year’s election.

“This is a great victory for Venezuelan democracy,” the 62-year-old autocrat boasted during a sparsely attended oath-taking ceremony in Caracas that was boycotted by the leaders of democratic nations.

As Maduro extended his 12-year rule, the US announced a $65m bounty for his arrest and those of two close allies on international drug-trafficking charges and rejected Maduro’s claim to the presidency.

Maduro, who has led Venezuela in an increasingly repressive direction since being democratically elected in 2013, has failed to produce any proof that he won the 28 July vote. His opponents have published detailed evidence that their candidate, Edmundo González, was the actual winner thanks to widespread public anger at Venezuela’s economic collapse.

But on Friday morning, it was Maduro, who has refused to relinquish power and been backed by military and security chiefs, who had Venezuela’s yellow, blue and red presidential sash draped over his shoulders at the national assembly.

Among those who skipped the event in protest were the leftwing presidents of Brazil and Colombia, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Gustavo Petro, longstanding regional allies who have refused to recognize Maduro’s claim to victory.

However, the presidents of Cuba and Nicaragua, Miguel Díaz-Canel and Daniel Ortega, occupied front row seats, leaders of China and Russia, Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, also sent envoys.

In a rambling but defiant 90-minute speech, Maduro claimed he was spearheading “a democratizing revolution” in Venezuela and cast himself as the fearless anti-imperialist leader of an “eminently democratic project” inspired by Latin America’s independence heroes.

He lambasted his political foes as violent and “putrid” fascists and oligarchs, calling Argentina’s rightwing president, Javier Milei, a far-right “Zionist Nazi” and “social sadist”.

“I wasn’t made president by the US government or the pro-imperialist governments of the Latin American right,” Maduro declared. “I come from the people. I am of the people – and my power emanates from history and from the people!”

Maduro’s swearing-in prompted a fresh outburst of international condemnation, including from members of the political left, which the Venezuelan strongman purports to represent.

Meanwhile, the US announced it was increasing its reward for information leading to the arrest of Maduro and his interior minister, Diosdado Cabello, for alleged drug trafficking offences, to $25m, and created a reward of $15m for information leading to the capture of Maduro’s longstanding defense minister, Vladimir Padrino López.