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NFF Names German Bruno Labbadia Next Super Eagles Coach

By
Emenike Agu
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The Nigerian Football Federationon Tuesday the appointment of German coach Bruno Labbadia as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, sparking mixed reactions from fans and analysts. However, analysts believe Labbadia has the potential to lead the Super Eagles to success, thanks to his coaching philosophy and experience.

One of the key reasons Labbadia is expected to succeed is his strong adherence to the German football philosophy, which emphasizes teamwork over individual talent. The current Super Eagles squad lacks cohesion, and Labbadia’s approach could bring the much-needed balance. German football has long been associated with work rate and efficiency, qualities that have remained consistent despite various tactical changes over the years. Labbadia’s teams are known for being well-organized, disciplined, and results-focused, making him a perfect fit for the Super Eagles.

Labbadia’s coaching style is also characterized by his adaptability. He is known for his ability to adjust his tactics based on the opponents, a feature that could be crucial for Nigeria’s diverse challenges in international football. His tactical versatility is one of his strongest assets, and it could help the Super Eagles navigate the complexities of African and global football.

Why Bruno Labbadia should succeed as Super Eagles coach
Why Bruno Labbadia should succeed as Super Eagles coach

Moreover, Labbadia’s familiarity with Nigerian star striker Victor Osimhen is another significant advantage. The German coach has followed Osimhen’s career closely, especially during his time at VfL Wolfsburg. Labbadia has often praised Osimhen’s abilities, describing him as a “classic centre-forward” and a player who excels in one-on-one situations. His admiration for Osimhen and understanding of the striker’s strengths could help him maximize Osimhen’s potential in the Super Eagles setup.

In addition to these factors, Labbadia’s career has shown a willingness to trust and develop emerging talent. At VfL Wolfsburg, he played a key role in nurturing players like Josip Brekalo and John Brooks, demonstrating his ability to bring out the best in young players. This could be particularly beneficial for the Super Eagles, who boast a number of young and promising talents.

Despite facing setbacks in his career, including multiple sackings, Labbadia has consistently bounced back, securing roles at top clubs. This resilience speaks to the respect he commands within the football community and his ability to overcome challenges—traits that will serve him well as he takes on the Super Eagles role.

One of the hallmarks of Labbadia’s teams is their strong defensive organization. He has always prioritized a solid defensive structure as the foundation for success, which could address one of the Super Eagles’ longstanding issues. While this approach may not always produce the most exciting football, it is effective in securing results.

Labbadia’s first challenge as Super Eagles coach will be against Benin rEPUBLIC ON sEPTEMBER 7 in the qualifying campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This match will be particularly interesting as the Benin Republic team is managed by his compatriot and former Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rhor

Genot Rohr
Genot Rohr will be Labbadia’s first challenge

Given the right support, Bruno Labbadia has the potential to have a successful tenure with the Super Eagles, bringing a new era of discipline, organization, and tactical acumen to the Nigerian national team.

FG’s Under-18 Ban for WASSCE: ASUU, NUT Voice Strong Reactions

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has condemned the Federal Government’s recent decision to ban under-18 candidates from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examination Council (NECO) exams. In contrast, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has backed the policy, emphasizing its alignment with educational standards.

On Sunday, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced the new age policy, setting the minimum age for secondary school leaving examinations, including WASSCE and SSCE, at 18. This move bars underage candidates from these critical exams required for advancing to tertiary education in Nigeria.

The directive also extends to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO), which oversee the WASSCE and SSCE exams, respectively. Furthermore, Prof. Mamman confirmed that the minimum age requirement for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), will also be 18.

Prof. Mamman clarified that this policy is not new but a reinforcement of existing laws. He provided a detailed breakdown of the expected educational timeline, starting from early care at age six to senior secondary school graduation at age 18.

However, the policy has sparked criticism, particularly from university stakeholders. Concerns have been raised about students aged 16 and 17, who had already passed the UTME and were seeking university admission, being affected by this sudden change. Following the backlash, the minister temporarily reversed the directive, allowing under-18 candidates to be admitted into universities until 2025. Despite this, Prof. Mamman reiterated on Sunday that the age policy would be strictly enforced from next year.

Dr. Mike Ene, Secretary-General of NUT, argued that societal changes, such as early enrollment in crèches due to economic pressures, make the age restriction unrealistic. He noted that exceptional students, who may be younger but academically advanced, are not considered in this policy. He also warned that the policy could lead to legal challenges, urging the government to rethink its decision.

In contrast, ASUP National President, Mr. Shammah Kpanja, suggested that the decision to allow students under 18 to sit for exams should depend on their abilities. He advised the government to focus on more pressing issues like providing functional equipment in schools, addressing infrastructure deficits, and improving teachers’ welfare, rather than enforcing age restrictions for exams. Kpanja also pointed out the inconsistency of government policies, such as allowing child marriages in the North while restricting younger students from taking WAEC.

 “Did their children sit for WASSCE at 18 years? You allow young girls to marry at 12 in the North, but they can’t take WAEC at 16? What are the government’s priorities?”

The debate over the age policy continues to generate significant discourse among educators and stakeholders, reflecting broader concerns about Nigeria’s education system and its alignment with the country’s socio-economic realities.

Who is Adeola Ajayi? 5 Key Facts About Nigeria’s New DSS Director-General

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Nigeria’s security landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the appointment of Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Ajayi takes over from Yusuf Bichi, who was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. The presidency emphasized that Ajayi’s appointment marks a crucial moment for the DSS, a critical entity in national security and intelligence gathering.

As the new DSS chief, Ajayi is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies, particularly in enhancing internal security and tackling current and emerging threats in Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu expressed his confidence in Ajayi’s ability to reposition the DSS for improved performance, stating, “ I expect the new security chief to work professionally and bring his experience to bear in tackling the security challenges bedevilling the country through enhanced collaboration with sister agencies.”

Here are five key things to know about Adeola Ajayi, the new DSS boss:

1. Experienced Intelligence Officer

With over three decades of experience in intelligence gathering and security management, Adeola Ajayi brings substantial expertise to his new role. His long tenure in the DSS, beginning as a cadet officer in 1990, has seen him rise through the ranks due to his dedication and keen insight into national security matters.

2. Proven Leadership

Prior to his appointment, Ajayi held several key positions within the DSS, including Director of Operations. His leadership has been characterized by strategic reforms aimed at enhancing the agency’s effectiveness in addressing contemporary security challenges. Ajayi has served as a state director in several states, including Enugu, Rivers, Bauchi, Kogi, and Bayelsa.

3. International Intelligence Experience

Known for his diligent and analytical approach, Ajayi has undergone extensive training both in Nigeria and abroad, equipping him with the necessary skills for his new role. DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya described him as “diligent, resilient, sophisticated, proactive, and analytical,” highlighting Ajayi’s capacity and goodwill as he steps into his new position.

4. Focus on Inter-Agency Collaboration

Ajayi has been a strong advocate for better cooperation between the DSS and other security agencies. His efforts in fostering inter-agency collaboration are evident from his previous assignments in various states, where he emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

5. Visionary Approach to Security

Ajayi is committed to strengthening the DSS’s capacity to anticipate and counter threats. He has been tasked with embracing technology and intelligence-driven strategies to ensure national security and stability.

Understanding the DSS’s Role in Nigeria’s Security

The DSS’s primary responsibilities within Nigeria include counter-intelligence, medical intelligence, economic intelligence, internal security, counter-terrorism, and surveillance. The agency also investigates serious crimes against the state and is charged with protecting senior government officials, including the president, vice president, state governors, and visiting heads of state and government, along with their families.

NMA Anambra Chapter Calls off indefinite Strike

By
Olasunbo Okoromi
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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra Branch, has called off the indefinite strike it embarked upon to protest the kidnapping of Dr. Stephen Ezeh, a private practitioner based in Ihiala.

In a statement signed by Dr. Princeston Okam and Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, the Chairman and Secretary of the NMA Anambra Branch, respectively, the association announced on Sunday that the decision followed the release of Dr. Ezeh from his captors.

Recall that Dr. Ezeh was kidnapped in Ihiala on August 15, leading the NMA to direct its members to down tools on August 22, after issuing a prior 48-hour ultimatum.

“The total and indefinite strike action called by the NMA Anambra Branch to protest the kidnapping of our member, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, is hereby called off following his release.

Tinubu Appoints New Heads for NIA and DSS

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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President Bola Tinubu has made significant changes in Nigeria’s security apparatus by appointing Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi and Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed as the new Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), respectively.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, announced these critical appointments in a statement on Monday. The appointments come in the wake of the recent resignation of the previous heads of the DSS and NIA, marking a new chapter for Nigeria’s intelligence community.

Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi succeeds Yusuf Magaji Bichi, who has served as DSS Director-General since his appointment by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed replaces Rufai-Abubakar, who recently stepped down as the NIA Director-General.

Amb. Mohammed Mohammed brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having had an illustrious career in Nigeria’s foreign service since joining the NIA in 1995. His extensive diplomatic background includes service in North Korea, Pakistan, Sudan, and at the State House in Abuja. Mohammed, a 1990 graduate of Bayero University, Kano, was most recently the head of the Nigerian mission to Libya, following his promotion to the rank of Director.

Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, on the other hand, has risen through the ranks within the DSS, reaching the position of Assistant Director-General before his recent appointment. Ajayi’s career includes significant leadership roles as State Director in Bauchi, Enugu, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Kogi, showcasing his extensive field experience.

“Ajayi is the new DG of DSS, while Mohammed is the new DG of NIA,” Ngelale confirmed in the statement. “These appointments are part of President Tinubu’s strategic move to enhance the effectiveness of Nigeria’s intelligence agencies.”

President Tinubu has expressed his confidence in the capabilities of the newly appointed security chiefs, urging them to leverage their vast experience to tackle the nation’s security challenges. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with sister agencies and alignment with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to achieve better results.

In his statement, the President also extended his gratitude to the outgoing Directors-General for their dedicated service to the nation and wished them success in their future endeavors.

This transition marks a significant step in President Tinubu’s administration, aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s intelligence framework and addressing the country’s evolving security needs.

Governor Oyebanji Pledges to Enhance Educational Curriculum, Partners with UNDP

By
Precious Obazee
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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has praised Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his remarkable efforts in advancing the state’s development. The organization expressed its intention to promote Ekiti’s innovative and digital achievements to other states in the southwest and across Nigeria.

During a working visit to the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti, Dr. William Tsuma, UNDP’s Country Senior Innovation Adviser, highlighted the state’s progress in agriculture, education, arts and culture, and the digital economy. He noted that these initiatives have positioned Ekiti as a leading state in its pursuit of rapid development.

This visit followed Governor Oyebanji’s recent inauguration of the first Innovation Hub (Startup Garage) in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. Dr. Tsuma emphasized the importance of innovating within the public sector to create an integrated portfolio that maximizes the sector’s deliverables. He affirmed UNDP’s commitment to collaborating with the state to advance its human development agenda, particularly by enhancing youth employability.

Dr. Tsuma also lauded the Governor for launching a Maker Space alongside the Innovation Hub, noting that UNDP would support the realization of these initiatives. He praised Oyebanji’s efforts to create an environment that offers practical public sector experience, particularly for the youth, facilitating their transition into the workforce with enhanced skills and knowledge.

Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, stated that the establishment of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone has created a robust platform for lifting the state out of poverty by fostering ecosystems that drive innovation, technology, and improve employability. He highlighted the necessity of collaboration between the state’s Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy to address curriculum gaps from elementary to university level, underscoring his administration’s commitment to producing globally competitive citizens.

The Governor stressed the need for government efforts to convert citizens’ knowledge into economic prosperity, aiming to position Ekiti as a national economic hub. Acknowledging that youth make up over 75 percent of the population, Oyebanji emphasized the importance of building supportive platforms to help them achieve success in their careers and aspirations.

Governor Oyebanji also announced plans to replicate the innovation hub (Startup Garage) across all 16 local government areas in the state. He thanked UNDP for its interest and pledged to continue leveraging the capabilities of Ekiti’s citizens to provide strong leadership in education, innovation, and the digital economy.

In his remarks, Seun Fakuade, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, expressed the state’s readiness to partner with UNDP in innovation and capacity development initiatives. He reiterated the ministry’s focus on fostering development through innovation, with youth playing a central role in this vision.

EPL: Noni Madueke bags hat-trick as Chelsea thrash Wolves

By
Emenike Agu
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Noni Madueke scored a hat-trick as Chelsea secured a dominant 2-6 victory over Wolves at Molineux on Sunday, bouncing back from their earlier defeat to Manchester City.

Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, showed their attacking prowess with Noni Madueke leading the charge.

The match started with Chelsea taking an early lead through Nicolas Jackson, who scored within two minutes. Wolves managed to equalize after half an hour with a goal from Matheus Cunha. However, Chelsea regained their lead just before halftime, thanks to Cole Palmer’s brilliant lob.

Wolves quickly responded with another equalizer from Strand Larsen, making it 2-2. But Chelsea came out strong in the second half, with Madueke scoring twice in quick succession to give Chelsea a 4-2 lead. Madueke completed his hat-trick an hour into the match, putting the game beyond Wolves’ reach.

Joao Felix, who was making his second debut for Chelsea, came off the bench to add a sixth goal, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Blues. Despite Wolves’ efforts, they were unable to match Chelsea’s intensity and were left to ponder their defensive struggles.

This win gives Chelsea a boost as they prepare for their upcoming Europa Conference League qualifier against Servette and their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace next weekend.

EPL: Haaland Shines, Iwobi Nets His 23rd As Arsenal Gain Ground

By
Emenike Agu
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There were 20 goals in eight matches on Saturday, with City’s hitman Haaland grabbing his first hattrick of the season and Iwobi’s first goal giving Fulham their first win

Saturday’s matchday 2 in the 2024/25 EPL season delivered a flurry of goals as last season’s top two teams made strong statements, showing they are once again serious title contenders. From the Etihad, where champions Manchester City showcased their dominance, to Villa Park, where Arsenal avenged last season’s defeats that cost them the EPL title.

Erling Haaland, the EPL’s top scorer for the past two seasons, has hit the ground running, already netting four goals in the first two weeks of the 2024/25 season. The extraordinary Norwegian recorded his 23rd career hat-trick, bringing his tally to 67 goals in 68 EPL appearances.

Ipswich’s first visit to the Etihad started brightly, with Sammie Szmodics opening the scoring in the seventh minute, but the defending champions quickly responded with three goals in four minutes, aided by a mistake from Ipswich goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.

Earlier in the day, Brighton secured their second win of the season thanks to a late goal from João Pedro. Former United striker Danny Welbeck opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, marking his 100th EPL goal, but United equalised through Amad Diallo on the hour. United thought they had taken the lead with a goal from Alejandro Garnacho 10 minutes later, but it was disallowed due to Joshua Zirkzee’s interference. Zirkzee was offside.

Pedro’s free header in the 95th minute sealed the three points, keeping Brighton joint-top with City.

On the banks of the Thames, Alex Iwobi scored his first goal of the season, leading Fulham to a 2-1 victory over a struggling Leicester City side featuring Wilfred Ndidi. New signing Emile Smith Rowe marked his official debut with an 18th-minute goal, but Leicester equalised just before halftime with a header from Wout Faes. Fulham secured the win with a counter-attacking goal from Iwobi in the 70th minute, earning their first season victory.

Iwobi, who now has 23 EPL goals in his 254th league appearance, will aim to surpass last season’s five goals. His Super Eagles teammate Calvin Bassey also played the full 90 minutes.

Joe Aribo’s Southampton continue to struggle after their promotion, falling 1-0 at home to Nottingham Forest. Aribo lost possession on the edge of the box, leading to Morgan Gibbs-White’s goal after a clearance fell to him. The Saints have lost two games despite playing well but have yet to earn any points. For Forest, Ola Aina started as the left-back, while Taiwo Awoniyi replaced Chris Wood in the 76th minute.

Arsenal’s title credentials were rigorously tested at Villa Park, but they emerged with all three points. Mikel Arteta will be grateful for both luck and goalkeeper David Raya.

Ollie Watkins missed two golden opportunities to give Villa the lead—first in the first half when he side-footed wide in a one-on-one with Raya, and then in the second half when Raya made an incredible save to keep the scoreline level.

Substitute Leandro Trossard broke the deadlock, and Thomas Partey added a second in the 77th minute, securing some revenge against the only team to defeat the Gunners twice in the league last season.

Elsewhere, Everton, another relegation candidate, suffered a 4-0 defeat at Tottenham, with Son Heung-Min scoring twice, bringing Everton’s total to seven goals conceded in their first two games. West Ham, meanwhile, earned their first points of the season with a 2-0 away win over Crystal Palace.

Why Ahmed Rufai Abubakar Resigned as NIA Director General

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, the former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), recently addressed the media following his resignation from this key position in Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaking to the press, Abubakar clarified his reasons for stepping down, stating that his decision was primarily driven by personal and family considerations. He emphasized that his resignation was not due to any significant issues, and there was no controversy surrounding his departure as NIA DG.

Abubakar had previously briefed President Bola Tinubu before tendering his resignation, which was “graciously approved and accepted” by the president. He reassured that his relationship with President Tinubu remains strong, even after leaving the role.

Expressing his gratitude, Abubakar thanked President Tinubu for allowing him to serve during the first 15 months of the new administration. He initially assumed the position in 2018, appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who extended his tenure in December 2021.

NIA DG Tenders Resignation. (Video Source: NTA)

Abubakar, a seasoned 71-year-old retired foreign service officer from Katsina State, joined the Nigerian Foreign Service’s security department in 1993. His career highlights include serving as the Senior Special Assistant to the President (SSAP) on International Relations and Foreign Affairs in 2015. A graduate of Bayero University in Kano, Abubakar holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in French and is fluent in English and Arabic.

DG, National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar Resigns

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, has officially tendered his resignation to President Bola Tinubu.

Abubakar, who was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, has stepped down from his role after several years of service.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to bring you updates as more information becomes available.

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