Is Nigeria’s education sector truly underfunded, or are the resources simply being mismanaged? From budget allocations to the realities in overcrowded classrooms, the debate has been ongoing. While the UNESCO benchmark advises nations to commit 15–20% of their annual budget to education, Nigeria consistently falls short, allocating only about 5–8%.
This funding gap raises concerns about the government’s commitment to education. Yet, even when funds are available, inefficiency, corruption, and poor planning often reduce their impact leading to abandoned projects, inflated contracts, and delayed disbursements.
The discussion goes beyond the figures on budget sheets; education funding is an investment in Nigeria’s future. The real challenge is not only about increasing allocations but ensuring that the money spent translates into meaningful results for students, teachers, and learning environments. Accountability, efficient spending, and targeted reforms must go hand in hand if Nigeria is to break the cycle of poor educational outcomes. After all, in education, both the “how much” and the “how well” matter equally.
Popular Nigerian gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo, and her husband, Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa, have welcomed their second child.
The couple announced the joyful news on Instagram on Friday, expressing deep gratitude to God for blessing their family with another child, which they described as a “precious gift.”
In their joint statement, they wrote: “The Lord has done it again! He has added to our joy, multiplied our laughter, and blessed us with the precious gift of a second baby. We declare that His name will be lifted in our lineage forever, and through us, many will be blessed.”
Mercy also celebrated her husband, calling him “an amazing father of two” while thanking God for His continued goodness in their lives.
The singer and Pastor Blessed married in August 2022 and welcomed their first child in October 2023.
Since the announcement, fans and fellow gospel artists have flooded their social media pages with prayers and congratulatory messages, describing the new addition as another testament to God’s faithfulness in their marriage and ministry.
In a sharply worded declaration, the faction of the Labour Party under the leadership of Julius Abure took aim at Peter Obi, the party’s flag bearer in the 2023 presidential race, branding him an “Uber” politician.
Abure made these remarks through a statement he signed himself on Friday.
He launched a scathing critique of Obi’s recent political maneuvers, accusing him of being skilled in deception and alleging that his recent claims of political sabotage were baseless.
According to Abure, Obi’s actions have become so erratic that he deserves recognition for juggling multiple political affiliations in a relentless bid to secure Nigeria’s top office.
“It is unfortunate that Obi has turned himself to an irony and a paradox in the Nigeria political space.
“He has turned himself into “Uber” politician, not willing to take a position and stand by his decision,” he said.
This criticism follows Obi’s recent advisory urging his followers to throw their weight behind African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidates in the upcoming by-elections scheduled for August 16 in several Nigerian states.
The stage is set, the squads are refreshed, and the anticipation is electric, the 2025–26 Premier League season kicks off on Friday, 15 August 2025.
Football’s biggest domestic show is back, promising drama, rivalries, and the unpredictability that makes the English top flight the most watched league in the world.
Opening night will see Liverpool welcome Bournemouth to Anfield, a poignant fixture for the champions, who will honor the late Diogo Jota throughout the season with a “Forever 20” tribute on their kits.
The atmosphere promises to be a mixture of celebration and remembrance, with Liverpool aiming to launch their title defense in style.
The weekend’s fixture list doesn’t hold back on heavyweight clashes. Manchester United face Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, a match that could set the tone for both sides’ campaigns. Elsewhere, Chelsea host Crystal Palace, Tottenham meet Burnley in their first big test under new manager Thomas Frank, and Aston Villa battle Newcastle, two clubs with European ambitions.
Meanwhile, Manchester City travel to Wolves, and newly promoted sides, Leeds and Sunderland begin their fight for survival.
The Big Six: Powerhouses Preparing For Battle
Liverpool– Champions Rebuilt
Liverpool’s summer was anything but quiet. Determined not to stand still after winning the title, they invested heavily in talent.
Florian Wirtz (£100m) headlines the arrivals, bringing creativity and goal threat from midfield. Jeremie Frimpong adds pace and attacking width from right-back, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili provides competition between the sticks. Forward Hugo Ekitike joins to add depth in attack, alongside Milos Kerkez to strengthen the left side.
Despite losing key forwards Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, the squad looks deeper and more versatile. The challenge will be integrating so many new players quickly—a task that could determine whether Liverpool defend their crown or stumble early.
Arsenal – Fine-Tuning For Glory
After finishing just short of the title last season, Arsenal have approached this summer with precision rather than wholesale change. Viktor Gyökeres adds a reliable goal-scoring outlet, Martin Zubimendi brings midfield control, and Noni Madueke offers creativity and pace.
These signings appear designed to give Mikel Arteta more options in breaking down stubborn defenses, an area that cost them points last term.
With stability in the squad and no major departures, Arsenal look poised to be Liverpool’s closest challengers provided they handle the pressure in crunch moments.
Manchester City– Reloading The Machine
For Manchester City, evolution is the strategy. Their squad remains stacked, but additions like Tijjani Reijnders in midfield, Rayan Cherki in attack, and Rayan Aït-Nouri at left-back ensure Pep Guardiola has fresh weapons. Young goalkeeper James Trafford returns as a potential long-term No. 1.
City’s success often comes down to peaking at the right time, and their depth still makes them one of the most feared sides in the league.
Manchester United– Ambition On The Rise
United’s summer recruitment signals intent. Bryan Mbeumo brings Premier League experience and creativity, Matheus Cunha offers versatility in attack, and Benjamin Sesko adds physical presence up front. The club is also pushing to finalize a deal for midfielder Carlos Baleba in a player-plus-cash arrangement.
After a turbulent last season, Ruben Amorim will be judged on whether he can turn this improved squad into genuine top-four contenders or better.
Chelsea– Youth Revolution
Chelsea have doubled down on their long-term strategy of acquiring top young talent. João Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato, Kendry Páez, Liam Delap, and wonderkid Estêvão join an already youthful squad. The upside is enormous, but the question remains whether these players can deliver immediately in the unforgiving pace of the Premier League.
If the pieces click early, Chelsea could surprise everyone and push much higher up the table.
Tottenham Hotspur – New Era Under Thomas Frank
With Son Heung-min departing, Spurs are entering a transition phase. New signings Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel bring flair and directness to the attack, while Kevin Danso and Luka Vuskovic bolster the defense. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs may play with more structure, but patience will be needed as the squad adjusts to a fresh approach.
Who Could Shine Beyond The Big Six?
Newcastle United: Strong depth and European experience could see them push the top four again. Aston Villa: Unai Emery’s side continues to build smartly, and their aggressive style makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone. Brighton & Hove Albion: Known for unearthing gems, they’ve strengthened quietly and could challenge for a European spot.
Among the newly promoted sides, Burnley have the most Premier League-ready squad, while Leeds and Sunderland face a tough survival battle despite bringing in reinforcements.
The Road Ahead
With each club armed with new players, refined tactics, and a point to prove, the 2025–26 Premier League season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Liverpool may start as favorites, but Arsenal’s hunger, City’s consistency, Chelsea’s youthful ambition, United’s resurgence, and Tottenham’s fresh direction ensure the race for the title and the fight for survival will be unpredictable until the very last whistle in May 2026.
The United Nations has reported a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence in 2024, with cases increasing by 25 per cent compared to 2023.
In a report released by the UN this week, according to Dujarric, the highest cases were in the Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Somalia, and South Sudan.
According to the UN report, the rise in conflict-related sexual violence in 2024 is linked to intensifying armed conflicts, widespread displacement, and the growing presence of non-state armed groups, which often use sexual violence as a tactic of war and control in areas with weak law enforcement and limited access to justice.
The majority of affected individuals are women and girls, accounting for over 95% of the verified cases in 2024.
The report also highlights that men and boys are victims too, especially in detention centers and conflict zones, though their cases are often underreported due to stigma and fear.
Additionally, the UN identifies children born of rape and persons with disabilities as particularly vulnerable, often facing rejection, discrimination, or limited access to support services after the violence.
UN Calls for Stronger Protection and Survivor Support
Despite ongoing efforts, many survivors face barriers in reporting abuse due to fear, stigma, and lack of trust in authorities. In conflict zones, weak institutions and ongoing violence make protection and justice difficult.
The UN urges all armed actors to issue clear commands against sexual violence and allow full access to UN teams for monitoring, investigation, and survivor assistance in affected areas.
The report calls on governments and donors to increase funding through the UN’s Multi‑Partner Trust Fund. This fund supports survivor care, legal access, prevention, and community response programs in conflict zones.
It also recommends the deployment of more Women’s Protection Advisers. These experts help monitor abuses, advise missions, and strengthen national efforts to prevent sexual violence and support victims.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the Federal Government a seven-day ultimatum to return allegedly diverted workers’ funds from the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and to immediately set up the Governing Board of the National Pension Commission (PenCom). The union warned that failure to act would trigger a nationwide strike.
The ultimatum was part of resolutions from the NLC’s Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in Abuja, presided over by its president, Joe Ajaero.
NSITF Funds Dispute
The CWC accused the Federal Government of diverting 40% of workers’ NSITF contributions into government coffers as “revenue,” describing the action as illegal and a direct violation of the fund’s establishing laws. It also condemned alleged moves to amend the NSITF Act to grant the government full control over the funds, warning that such steps undermine workers’ rights and international labour standards.
PenCom Board Vacancy
The NLC criticised the continued absence of a PenCom Governing Board, saying it breaches the commission’s Act and exposes pension funds to possible mismanagement and political interference. It stressed that pension funds are “deferred wages” and must be protected from government overreach.
Edo Council Dissolution
The CWC ratified the dissolution of the NLC Edo State Council over allegations of unethical conduct and anti-union activities. A caretaker committee will oversee its affairs until fresh elections are conducted.
Economic Concerns
The union also decried worsening economic hardship in the country, citing inflation, unemployment, hunger, insecurity, and the collapse of public services. It blamed these issues on “anti-people neoliberal policies” and called for a people-centred development model.
Ultimatum Conditions
The NLC demanded that the Federal Government:
Refund all allegedly diverted NSITF funds.
Constitute the PenCom Board in full compliance with the law.
Provide a detailed report on the status of pension funds.
It warned that if these demands are not met within seven days, it would no longer guarantee industrial peace in the country.
Two-time CHAN champions Morocco reignited their Group A campaign with a decisive 3–1 victory over Zambia at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The Atlas Lions, who suffered a setback against hosts Kenya earlier in the tournament, took control just before half-time when captain Mohamed Hrimat rose above his marker to nod home Youssef Mehri’s pinpoint corner. The goal shifted the momentum firmly in Morocco’s favour heading into the break.
Zambia thought they had levelled the score in the 65th minute through Happy Nsiku, but the effort was ruled out by VAR for an infringement in the build-up. The disallowed goal proved costly, as Morocco immediately doubled their lead through Oussama Lamlaoui. Although Andrew Phiri pulled one back for Zambia in the 70th minute, any hopes of a comeback were dashed in stoppage time when Sabir Bougrine fired in a third for Morocco. The result lifts the North Africans to six points, keeping their quarter-final hopes alive.
DR Congo Edge Angola In Vital Win
In the other Group A fixture, DR Congo kept their own qualification chances alive with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Angola. After a goalless first half, the Leopards stepped up the intensity and found their breakthrough when Jephté Kitambala powered home a header. Mokonzi Katumbwe then added a second, also from the air, sealing a win that eliminated Angola from the competition.
The result moves DR Congo level on points with Morocco, setting up a high-stakes clash between the two former champions in the final group game. Both sides know that victory will guarantee a spot in the quarter-finals, while a draw could complicate the qualification picture depending on Kenya’s result.
Group A Showdown Looms
With Kenya currently leading the group, the final round of fixtures promises to deliver drama. Morocco’s confidence will be buoyed by their commanding win over Zambia, while DR Congo will take heart from their solid performance against Angola. For both teams, Sunday’s meeting is more than just a battle for bragging rights, it’s a direct ticket to the knockout stage, and potentially the beginning of another title run.
The revelation that ₦6.9 trillion was allocated for constituency projects in Nigeria’s 2025 budget has reignited concerns about transparency and accountability in public finance. BudgIT, a civic tech organization dedicated to promoting fiscal openness, uncovered over 11,000 projects inserted into the budget, many without justification, some far outside the mandates of the agencies tasked with executing them, and most shrouded in secrecy.
While the report initially sparked outrage among well-meaning Nigerians and stakeholders, months later, public attention has waned, leaving citizens uncertain about the next steps. The questions remain: how did we get here, who truly benefits, and how can this entrenched practice be dismantled?
At its core, budget padding undermines fiscal responsibility and distorts national development priorities. Public institutions risk becoming “project warehouses” for political patronage, leading to inefficiency, waste, and a cycle of incomplete or abandoned initiatives.
On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, just six days after her graduation from Auchi Polytechnic, Ruth Otabor, sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna, suffered a life-altering accident near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State. A heavy-duty truck linked to the Dangote Group crushed her leg before a bystander managed to stop it. The severity of her injuries forced the amputation of her leg, an outcome that triggered nationwide shock and sympathy.
Phyna, known for her bold presence and outspoken nature since winning BBNaija’s “Level Up” edition in 2022, immediately turned her platform toward demanding justice, condemning what she described as negligence, and pledging not to let the tragedy fade into obscurity.
Dangote Pledges Support For Victim
Following the accident, Dangote Group issued an official statement:
“Following the recent road accident in Auchi, Edo State, involving one of our trucks, which sadly resulted in injury to Mrs. Ruth Otabor, senior officials from Dangote Cement Plc, together with our insurance team, promptly visited the scene, engaged with law enforcement authorities, and visited the victim and her family at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State.
This action reflects our unwavering commitment to the well-being of those affected. We are ensuring full support for Mrs. Otabor, including comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation, in line with Dangote Group’s welfare policy.
Our thoughts remain with Mrs. Ruth Otabor and her loved ones, and we wish her a full and speedy recovery.”
Five Major Incidents Involving Dangote Trucks
Nyanya Bridge Inferno, Abuja – March 19, 2025
A heavily loaded Dangote cement trailer lost control near Nyanya Bridge, crashing into stationary vehicles, igniting a devastating fire that engulfed 14 vehicles and claimed the lives of six victims.
Brake-Failure Crash, Epe – November 2024
A Dangote truck suffered brake failure while descending from Ita-Opo, colliding with a tricycle and a Toyota Camry at Ayetoro Junction. The crash killed three individuals, including two students from Manpower Technical School.
Alleged 20 Deaths, Imo State
A heavy-duty truck reportedly owned by Dangote rammed into three mini-buses at the Imo State University junction, killing at least 20 people.
Kugbo–Nyanya Incident, FCT – May 2025
A Dangote-linked truck (registration KPF 305 XA) reportedly had brake failure, colliding with a dispatch rider and a J5 bus along Kugbo–Nyanya expressway. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported—only three people sustained serious injuries.
Multiple Fatalities, Ibese–Itori Road, Ogun State – August 2022
A Dangote cement truck travelling along the Ibese–Itori road lost control and rammed into several vehicles and motorcycles. The impact killed seven people instantly and left many others injured, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety measures for heavy-duty vehicles.
Sanctions And Accountability Measures
Despite repeated tragedies linked to Dangote trucks, there is no public record of formal sanctions, such as government fines or regulatory penalties, specifically imposed on Dangote Group over these accidents.
In some cases, the company has denied ownership of trucks involved in fatal crashes, clarifying that they only carried Dangote-branded products. In other situations, police investigations have absolved the company of fault, attributing the accidents to mechanical failures or other factors.
Dangote has, however, partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to establish an articulated truck driving school aimed at improving driver training, as part of efforts to reduce road accidents involving its fleet.
Authorities in Mali have arrested several people, including two army generals and a French national, for allegedly planning to destabilise the country and remove the current military government from power.
Security Minister General Daoud Aly Mohammedine made the announcement on national television, saying the suspects were involved in criminal actions against the state and that the situation is now completely under control.
The arrests follow several days of rumours about high-ranking officers being detained, which raised concerns about possible unrest within Mali’s armed forces.
The minister said the government had stopped the group’s plan, describing the suspects as a small number of “marginal elements” from both the military and civilian sectors.
He added that the plot began on August 1, and that the group had received help from foreign governments, aiming to weaken the institutions of the republic and disrupt the transition process.
French Spy Suspected; Generals Had Clashed With Leadership
A French national, identified as Yann Christian Bernard Vezilier, was among those arrested and is suspected of working with French intelligence services to support the alleged coup attempt in Mali.
The government claims the French man helped bring together political figures, civil society groups, and members of the military to support efforts to destabilise the country’s leadership.
One of the generals arrested, Abass Dembele, was previously the governor of Mali’s Mopti region and had clashed with the army leadership earlier this year.
He was removed from his position in May after calling for an investigation into reports that the Malian army killed civilians in the village of Diafarabe.
The second general, Nema Sagara, is a well-known military figure who was praised in the past for her role in fighting rebel groups during the 2012 crisis.
Tensions Grow as Mali Extends Military Rule
Mali has faced ongoing security problems since 2012, with violence from armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, along with attacks by local criminal gangs across the country.
Since taking power through a coup in 2020, President Assimi Goita and his military government have moved away from Western allies, especially France, in favour of closer ties with Russia.
The government says this shift is part of a plan to strengthen national independence and end foreign interference in Mali’s affairs.
In June, Mali’s transitional council voted to extend Goita’s time in power for another five years, breaking an earlier promise to return to civilian rule by March 2024.
This decision has caused concern both inside Mali and among international observers, who worry that the country is moving further away from democratic rule.
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