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Former Mali PM Faces Investigation Over Alleged Misuse Of Public Funds

Enyosa Favour
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Former Mali PM Faces Investigation Over Alleged Misuse Of Public Funds

Mali’s Supreme Audit Institution (BVG) has accused former Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga of financial misconduct linked to the Universal Access Fund Management Agency (Agefau) during the years 2020 to 2023.

The 113-page audit highlights irregularities, including the approval of a questionable loan of over 20 billion CFA francs (about 30 million euros) to the treasury in April 2020. This occurred before Maiga assumed office in June 2021, raising questions about oversight and responsibility.

The report also points to unauthorized spending: almost 13 million CFA francs (about 20,000 euros) on staff phone subscriptions, 92 million CFA francs (about 140,000 euros) in fees not transferred to the state broadcaster ORTM, and roughly 15 million CFA francs (about 22,800 euros) worth of Wi-Fi and computer equipment missing from schools.

Maiga is specifically named in connection with two official trips in December 2023 to Konobougou and Dalala. These visits reportedly led to improper mission allowances of over 12 million CFA francs (around 18,300 euros) for his delegation, along with about 35 million CFA francs (around 53,300 euros) in what the audit called unjustified “sovereignty expenses.”

Although rumors circulated about a January 2, 2025 summons by Mali’s Supreme Court, Maiga’s legal team said no court date had been scheduled. However, the audit has been sent to the Supreme Audit Division of the Supreme Court, indicating potential legal action.

In his New Year’s address, Maiga rejected the accusations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. He stated that he remained committed to maintaining government stability and had a clear conscience.

Shettima Attends UN Food Systems Summit In Addis Ababa

Olaosun Rebecca
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Shettima Attends UN Food Systems Summit In Addis Ababa

‎Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, over the weekend to represent Nigeria at the second United Nations Food Systems Summit.
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‎In a symbolic diplomatic gesture, he presented Ethiopia with 2,000 cashew seedlings and 100,000 cashew seeds on behalf of Nigeria.
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‎His aircraft touched down at Bole International Airport at exactly 4:26 p.m. local time.
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‎He was received by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Tiruneh, alongside senior Nigerian officials, including the Chargé d’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy in Ethiopia, Ambassador Nasir Aminu.
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‎Also present at the airport to welcome the Vice President were the Finance Attaché, Dr. Suleiman Dauda; Deputy Defence Attaché (Air Force), Wing Commander Gabriel Batubo; Deputy Head of Mission, Ambassador Macy Ogbede; and First Secretary, Mr. Jangado Ishaku.
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‎Shortly after his arrival, Vice President Shettima convened a strategy meeting with members of the Nigerian delegation, including Marion Moon, the Technical Assistant to the President on Agriculture and Executive Secretary of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU).
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‎In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, said Shettima was briefed on Nigeria’s key priorities and planned engagements at the summit.
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‎The Vice President is expected to join world leaders in crucial discussions on transforming the coffee value chain and will take part in roundtables and high-level meetings focused on strengthening Nigeria’s food systems and boosting agricultural sustainability.
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‎The summit, which began yesterday and concludes tomorrow, serves as a global review of progress made since the inaugural 2021 Food Systems Summit and aims to inspire renewed commitments toward building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.
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‎Nigeria’s priorities at the summit, as outlined by the Vice President during a pre-summit briefing in Abuja, revolve around three key goals: establishing Nigeria as a leader in African food systems reform, aligning international partnerships with domestic agricultural objectives, and promoting a private sector-driven approach to achieving food security across the continent.
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‎In a significant move to enhance bilateral agricultural collaboration, Nigeria donated 2,000 cashew seedlings and 100,000 cashew seeds to Ethiopia, enough to cultivate approximately 600 hectares of farmland.
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‎Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr. Efa Muleta Boru, accepted the donation, which follows Ethiopia’s earlier gift to Nigeria in June 2025 of 2,000 Haas avocado seedlings and 2,000 coffee seedlings.
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‎This exchange of seedlings highlights the deepening agricultural ties between the two leading African nations and supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agricultural transformation initiative, described by officials as “Green Revolution Diplomacy” a strategy that leverages agricultural partnerships to strengthen diplomatic relations and jointly address food security challenges.
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‎Vice President Shettima is also slated to take part in ministerial roundtables focused on public finance, trade, and responsible investment, as well as field visits and networking sessions highlighting innovative and scalable solutions for food systems.
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At Least 38 Killed In Eastern DRC Komanda Church Attack

Tosin Onisuuru
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At Least 38 Killed In Eastern DRC Komanda Church Attack

At least 38 worshippers were brutally killed and 15 others wounded when suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels stormed a Catholic church in Komanda, Ituri province, in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The assailants, armed with machetes and guns, struck during an overnight prayer vigil early Sunday, leaving behind scenes of devastation.

Human rights activist Christophe Munyanderu, who was at the scene, said the attackers targeted Christians who had gathered inside the Caritas-run church. “Unfortunately, these people were killed with machetes or bullets,” he said. Witnesses also reported several homes and shops were torched, with many residents still missing.

DRC’s Radio Okapi put the death toll at 43, noting that over 20 of the victims were hacked to death. Charred bodies were also discovered in nearby burnt houses. Civil society coordinator Dieudonne Duranthabo told AP that the search for bodies continues: “We are truly disappointed because it is incredible that such a situation could occur in a town where all the security officials are present.”

Following the attack, panic gripped Komanda as many fled to Bunia town. Duranthabo urged swift military intervention, warning that “the enemy is still near our town.” DRC army spokesperson Jules Ngongo confirmed the assault, stating armed men with machetes had entered the church.

The ADF, which pledged allegiance to ISIL (ISIS) in 2019, has a bloody history in eastern DRC. Originally formed in Uganda in the late 1990s, the group moved its operations to DRC in 2002 after Ugandan military offensives. The militia has since been responsible for thousands of civilian deaths and a recent spike in attacks across Ituri.

The United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) condemned the killings, linking them to a broader resurgence of violence in the region. Earlier this month, the ADF was accused of carrying out what a UN spokesperson called a “bloodbath” in Ituri.

While the DRC army continues to face challenges containing both the ADF and M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, officials are under pressure to restore security in Komanda and surrounding areas. Authorities have not yet released an official updated death toll but vowed to intensify operations against the ADF.

Gunman Opens Fire At Popular Bangkok Market, Leaving Five Dead

Ohiomoje Margaret
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Gunman Opens Fire At Popular Bangkok Market, Leaving Five Dead

Authorities in Thailand have confirmed that five individuals lost their lives during a shooting incident at a well-known market in Bangkok.

The person responsible for the shooting at Or Tor Kor Market has also been confirmed dead, according to statements from police in the capital city.

Some victims are believed to be security personnel, based on initial local reports.

Or Tor Kor Market has a reputation for offering premium produce, including top-grade fruit and seafood.

Thailand has relatively high levels of civilian firearm ownership compared to neighboring countries. While large-scale shootings are uncommon, the country has witnessed several tragic events involving firearms in recent times.

In one such case in 2023, “a 14-year-old boy killed two people and injured five others in a shooting at a luxury shopping mall in the centre of Bangkok.”

Another tragic event occurred in October 2022, when “an ex-policeman killed at least 37 people, most of them children, in a gun and knife attack at a childcare centre in in Nong Bua Lamphu province in north-east Thailand.”

Earlier in 2020, “a soldier killed 29 people and injured dozens more in the city of Nakhon Ratchasima.”

Chloe Kelly Seals England’s Euro 2025 Triumph Over Spain

Kwaghza Asema Cephas
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Chloe Kelly Seals England’s Euro 2025 Triumph Over Spain

Chloe Kelly delivered the decisive penalty as England triumphed 3-1 in a shootout against Spain to win the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 title on Sunday, successfully defending their crown in a dramatic final that ended 1-1 after extra time.

The victory marked another remarkable comeback for Sarina Wiegman’s side, who previously overturned a two-goal deficit against Sweden in the quarterfinals and edged past Italy in the semifinals thanks to an extra-time winner again courtesy of Kelly.

Spain, reigning World and Nations League champions, took the lead in the 25th minute when Ona Batlle’s pinpoint cross caught England’s defence off guard, allowing Mariona Caldentey to head past goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.

With star forward Lauren James sidelined by an ankle injury, England initially struggled. However, the introduction of Chloe Kelly just before halftime turned the tide. Kelly helped shore up the left flank and later provided a perfect cross for Alessia Russo, who headed home the equaliser in the 57th minute.

Spain dominated possession and applied relentless pressure throughout regular and extra time, but England’s defence held firm, keeping the score level at 1-1.

In the penalty shootout, Spain made a strong start as goalkeeper Cata Coll saved Beth Mead’s opening attempt. But Hannah Hampton rose to the occasion, denying Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí to swing momentum back in England’s favour. Though Coll responded with another save from Leah Williamson, substitute Salma Paralluelo squandered her chance by firing wide.

With the stage set, Kelly stepped up and reminiscent of her iconic 2022 winner against Germany delivered with a composed finish. Her signature prancing run-up was followed by a powerful strike into the net, sparking jubilant celebrations with teammates and fans alike.

“I’m so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge, and proud to be English,” said a beaming Kelly. “I stayed cool, stayed composed, and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net.”

The final was the first to be decided by penalties since the inaugural 1984 edition, when England lost to Sweden.

England goalkeeper Hampton praised her team’s resilience:
“Unbelievable, incredible we’ve shown throughout this tournament that we can fight back. We’ve got English blood in us, so we never say die. We just keep going, and we did that today.”

For Spain, the loss was a bitter pill. Bonmatí, who missed her spot-kick, admitted:
“I don’t have much emotion left I’m drained. I have to say sorry; I couldn’t convert my penalty. In my opinion, we were the better side, but sometimes in football, that’s not enough. Congratulations to England.”

NYSC Deploys 2025 Batch B Stream 1 Corps Members

Mary Oluwabamise
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NYSC Deploys 2025 Batch B Stream 1 Corps Members

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially released the 2025 Batch B Stream 1 deployment list for prospective corps members.

The announcement, made via NYSC’s official social media channels, urges all registered graduates to log in to the NYSC portal and check their deployment status.

Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) are advised to print and sign the mandatory addendum document—required for registration at the orientation camp.

NYSC also cautioned PCMs against travelling at night to their designated orientation camps, emphasizing safety protocols for all participants.

Some candidates posted to Lagos State will instead attend camps in Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, or Osun, while those assigned to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are being redirected to camps in Nasarawa or Kaduna States.

The notice marks the official start of mobilization for Batch B Stream 1 and underscores NYSC’s commitment to a safe and organized orientation process.

Super Falcons Triumph Over Morocco, Secures 10th WAFCON Title

Tosin Onisuuru
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Super Falcons Triumph Over Morocco, Secures 10th WAFCON Title

In a breathtaking showdown at the Olympic Stadium, Nigeria’s Super Falcons overcame host nation Morocco with a 3–2 victory, clinching their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.

Match Highlights

  • Venue: Olympic Stadium, Rabat (21,000 capacity)
  • Full-time Score: Nigeria 3, Morocco 2
  • Decisive Goals:
    • Michelle Alozie drilled a stunning long-range strike in the 94th minute, sealing the win for Nigeria

Morocco, creating early pressure and playing with home advantage, saw the match slip away in dramatic fashion as Nigeria held firm and rallied late.

Nigeria: Legacy, Resilience & Mission X Complete

The Super Falcons, led by coach Justine Madugu, lived up to their legacy. This historic win—Mission X—marks a perfect 10-for-10 record in WAFCON finals. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, a tournament standout, has now led her nation to yet another landmark moment.

Morocco: Early Promise, Heartbreak at the End

Under Jorge Vilda, Morocco produced a spirited performance and nearly handed Nigeria a rare defeat—but in the end couldn’t hold onto the momentum. Despite a strong showing, their dream of a first WAFCON title was dashed in the final minutes.

What’s at Stake

TeamTitles Before 2025Result in FinalTitle Count After
Nigeria9Win (3–2)10
Morocco0LossStill 0

This result cements Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football and showcases their ability to deliver under pressure.

Post-Match Reactions

  • Coach Justine Madugu praised his team’s character, calling the win the fulfillment of long-held ambition.
  • Michelle Alozie’s goal: a moment that underscored Nigeria’s grit, her 35-yard strike in stoppage time turned a pulsating game on its head.
  • Captain Rasheedat Ajibade reflected on closing the Mission X journey despite immense pressure.

Final Takeaway

  • Nigeria: Has now claimed their 10th WAFCON crown, showcasing resilience and pedigree.
  • Morocco: Emerges as a rising force, competitive, spirited, and poised for future success.
  • African Women’s Football: This final showcased the growing competitiveness, passion, and dramatic flair shaping the sport across the continent.

Why Ikeja Electric Is Cutting Power In Parts Of Lagos For 25 Days

Enyosa Favour
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Why Ikeja Electric Is Cutting Power In Parts Of Lagos For 25 Days

Ikeja Electric has announced a 25-day blackout in parts of Lagos State.
This was confirmed in a notice posted on its social media accounts on Friday.
The notice revealed that the outage would commence on July 28 and run until August 21, 2025.
On the stipulated dates, there will be blackouts between 8am and 5pm daily.

According to Ikeja Electric, the maintenance work will lead to partial power supply across several parts of the state during the specified period.

Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) also announced that its customers will experience irregular power supply due to the maintenance work being carried out by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) on the Omotosho–Ikeja West 330kV transmission line from July 28 to August 21, 2025.

However, EKEDC did not specify the exact areas that will be affected.
The company’s operations primarily cover Lagos Island, Victoria Island, Lekki, Apapa, Festac, and Surulere.

Why Is The Blackout In Lagos

The Disco explained that the outage is to enable the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, to carry out work on the Omotosho–Ikeja West 330 kV line.

“Please be informed that Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) will carry out scheduled maintenance on the Omotosho-Ikeja West 330kV transmission line from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, August 21, 2005, between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm daily,” the notice read.

“During this period, customers may experience intermittent power supply and load shedding across our network due to the planned TCN outage.”

This is one of the most important power transmission channels in Nigeria’s power grid system.

The line serves as a key conduit between the Omotosho Power Station in Ondo State and Ikeja West, which is a major power transmission hub in Lagos State.

Ikeja Electric and EKEDC have informed residents in the affected areas to anticipate load management measures throughout the maintenance period, which could affect residential, commercial, and industrial zones during working hours.

Lagos residents, especially during peak hours when power supply will be limited, are advised to plan their activities and business operations in line with the expected blackout.

This announcement comes amid rising demand for stable electricity in Lagos during the peak of the dry season. The DisCo has encouraged customers to prepare in advance for the outage and consider alternative power sources if needed.

Residents are advised to:

  • Charge essential devices outside of peak hours
  • Schedule business activities around blackout windows
  • Stay updated via Ikeja Electric’s customer support channels

Atiku Fires At Tinubu And APC To Stay Out Of Opposition Business

Olaosun Rebecca
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Atiku Fires At Tinubu And APC To Stay Out Of Opposition Business

‎Former Vice President and opposition figure Atiku Abubakar has taken aim at President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing them of meddling in opposition party affairs rather than addressing Nigeria’s deepening economic and security crises.
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‎His criticism was made in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in response to President Tinubu’s recent remarks about the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the 14th APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
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‎The statement alleged that President Tinubu is deploying state resources and institutions to undermine opposition parties, calling it a calculated move to turn Nigeria into a one-party system.
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‎It further claimed that Tinubu is preoccupied with plans for his 2027 re-election bid, while neglecting his presidential duties and ignoring the everyday challenges Nigerians face.
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‎The statement read, “President Tinubu should first resolve the visible rift between himself and Vice President Kashim Shettima and fix Nigeria’s broken economy before meddling in the affairs of the ADC.
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‎“It is baffling that the presidency is spending scarce public funds to fuel internal divisions in an attempt to weaken alternative political voices.”
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‎It also claimed that the presidency was responsible for fueling tensions between supporters of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi within the opposition coalition, but noted that the attempt had ultimately failed.
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‎“We are fully aware that the supposed disagreements between supporters of Atiku and Peter Obi within the Coalition were deliberately stirred up by the presidency. Sadly for them, that divisive tactic has failed. The cracks have been mended, and the Coalition is now stronger than ever,” the statement added.
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‎Atiku also slammed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as ineffective and disconnected from the pressing concerns of Nigerians.
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‎He labelled the APC-led government as “rudderless, inept, and entirely out of touch with the hardships faced by ordinary citizens,” citing escalating insecurity, widespread hunger, and deepening poverty as clear indicators of its failure.
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‎“While Nigerians face growing insecurity, hunger and poverty, Tinubu is busy playing petty politics. He has abandoned governance and is instead obsessed with his 2027 re-election ambitions, even though he has nothing to show for the 2023 mandate,” the statement said.
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‎The former Vice President went on to accuse President Tinubu of weaponising anti-corruption agencies and other state institutions to harass and coerce opposition leaders into defecting to the APC.
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‎“Tinubu is now using state institutions, especially anti-corruption agencies, to harass and blackmail opposition leaders into defecting to the APC. But the truth is, Tinubu fears the Coalition. He knows it is this Coalition that will remove him from office, whether it’s back to Bourdillon or Iragbiji,” the statement declared.
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‎Atiku called on the president to end the political games and concentrate on addressing Nigeria’s urgent challenges.
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‎The statement also reiterated the opposition coalition’s resolve to present Nigerians with a viable and credible alternative to the APC-led administration.
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FG Sets to Launch ₦50m Grant for STEMM Students

Mary Oluwabamise
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FG Sets to Launch ₦50m Grant for STEMM Students

The Federal Government is set to unveil the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medical Sciences Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG), also known as the “STEMM Up Grant,” aimed at igniting innovation and entrepreneurship among students in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

The initiative, described as a transformative move to empower student-led, job-creating ventures, will be officially launched in August by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa.

Announced during a stakeholder engagement session in Abuja, the grant programme gathered Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Provosts, student leaders, academic staff, and development partners to discuss strategies for nurturing innovation in higher institutions.

Dr. Alausa said the grant is more than just financial support. “S-VCG is not just a grant. It’s a launchpad for bold, young innovators to lead Nigeria’s industrial and technological transformation,” he stated. “We are giving our students the tools to dream, build, and scale solutions that solve real-world problems — from tech and medicine to agriculture and green energy.”

Targeting full-time undergraduates in STEMM disciplines who are in 300 level and above, the grant will offer up to ₦50 million per student-led project. Beneficiaries will also receive mentorship, incubation services, and business development support to turn their ideas into viable ventures.

The programme will be implemented in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI) to ensure financial transparency, impact measurement, and efficient project delivery.

Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, described the grant as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s knowledge economy. “We’re building a stronger, more competitive future by supporting innovation from the ground up,” she said, noting that the initiative was shaped by consultations with students, faculty, and institutional leaders.

The “STEMM Up Grant” is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive education, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic development.

Participants at the engagement session praised the initiative as timely and impactful, with the potential to tackle graduate unemployment and position Nigeria as a hub for student-driven innovation in Africa.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring inclusive rollout and rigorous monitoring to guarantee lasting and measurable impact across Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

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