The Lagos State Government has urged medical doctors to call off their three-day warning strike set to commence today, stating that discussions and negotiations with the Medical Guild are still in progress.
Medical doctors employed by the Lagos State Government is set to begin a three-day warning strike today in protest against what they termed “illegal and disrespectful” salary deductions by the government.
The Medical Guild, which represents medical and dental practitioners in the state’s public sector, announced that the strike would commence at 8 a.m. and run until the same time on Thursday.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Guild’s secretariat in Lagos, the Chairman, Dr. Japhet Olugbogi, said the decision to embark on the strike followed several unsuccessful efforts to resolve the issue through dialogue.
He explained that the dispute began in April when the state government made unilateral deductions from doctors’ salaries. Although these deductions were later reversed due to what he called “spirited intervention and strategic engagement,” the issue resurfaced in July with new deductions, “this time without prior notice or explanation.”
Among their key demands, the doctors are calling for an immediate reversal of the July deductions and full payment of the 12-month revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) arrears owed to honorary consultants at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
In response to the concerns raised by the Medical Guild leadership, the Ministry of Health stated that the government is already addressing “all grievances of the doctors with utmost sincerity and urgency.”
“Negotiations and engagements with the Medical Guild are ongoing”, a statement by the ministry’s Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, said last night.
The statement reads, “This is the first time the ministry is experiencing such a development in recent years and the government is particularly concerned about the welfare, motivation, and productivity of all healthcare workers across the state.
“A conciliation committee, comprising representatives from both the Medical Guild and the Government was previously constituted to resolve all outstanding issues. Meetings have been held, and documents submitted by the Guild are being carefully reviewed in line with existing policies and fiscal regulations.
“As a responsible Government, we value the critical role our healthcare professionals play in delivering quality and timely health services to the over 20 million residents of Lagos State”.
”We urge the Medical Guild to continue on the path of dialogue while we work to reach a peaceful and just resolution in the interest of all parties, especially the residents who may bear the brunt of any service disruption.”
“The Lagos State Ministry of Health therefore appeals to the Medical Guild to reconsider its decision on the warning strike and allow the ongoing discussions to reach a fruitful conclusion.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu remains committed to promoting the welfare of healthcare workers and ensuring industrial harmony within the health sector”.
“We thank the people of Lagos for their patience and understanding and assure the public that contingency plans are being put in place to minimize any impact on healthcare services during this period.”
Lagos Appeals To Doctors To Cancel Planned Three-Day Warning Strike
EU Accuses Temu Of Failing To Curb Illegal Goods On Its Platform
European Union regulators on Monday accused the Chinese e-commerce platform Temu of failing to adequately prevent the sale of unlawful products to consumers within the bloc.
Officials warned that Temu’s lack of compliance with safety standards could potentially result in financial penalties amounting to as much as 6% of its yearly global revenue.
According to a formal announcement, “Evidence showed that there is a high risk for consumers in the EU to encounter illegal products on the platform.”
Investigators reported that a recent undercover purchasing operation uncovered widespread listings of questionable goods on Temu, including items like “baby toys and small electronics”, which failed to meet legal requirements.
Authorities criticized Temu for relying on generic industry data in its safety assessments, rather than focusing on risks unique to its own operations.
Should these preliminary conclusions be upheld, regulators may determine that the platform has violated the rules outlined in the Digital Services Act.
“Such a decision could entail fines of up to 6% of the total worldwide annual turnover of the provider and order the provider to take measures to address the breach,” the statement explained.
Temu will be given a chance to officially reply to the allegations in the weeks ahead, although no specific deadline has been issued.
In response, a Temu representative stated that the platform intends to “cooperate fully” with regulatory authorities during the process.
Officials emphasized that these concerns are just one part of a wider investigation. Temu is also being scrutinized over other possible rule violations, including the use of “addictive design features,” the lack of transparency in its product recommendation algorithms, and restrictions on “access to data for researchers.”
Esther Okoronkwo, Jennifer Echegini, The Women Behind Nigeria’s WAFCON Triumph
The Super Falcons of Nigeria began their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a statement victory, dispatching their group opponents 3–1 in a match that highlighted both experience and emerging talent. While the team performance was impressive across the board. The sharp instincts of Esther Okoronkwo and Jennifer Echegini turned the game around.
Okoronkwo opened the scoring with a confident finish after a set-piece scramble, giving Nigeria the early momentum. In the second half, Echegini calmly drove home a low shot from outside the box, sealing the victory in style. Together, their goals not only delivered the win but underscored Nigeria’s intent to reclaim continental dominance.
But beyond the goals and highlights, who are these two standout women wearing the green-and-white jersey with such grace and grit?
Esther Okoronkwo: A Born Striker

Born in Abia State but raised in the United States, Esther Okoronkwo represents the blend of Nigerian resilience and global football exposure. Her football journey took root in the U.S. college system, where she developed a sharp eye for scoring goals and an intelligent understanding of movement on the field.
Esther has a habit of showing up when it matters most. She first made headlines after scoring the decisive goal that carried Nigeria past Cameroon in WAFCON 2022, and she continues to be the kind of striker who thrives in high-stakes moments.
Her style of play is defined by composure, intelligent positioning, and her ability to make something out of nothing. She doesn’t just chase goals she calculates her angles, times her runs, and executes with precision.
She now plays professionally in Europe, Esther Okoronkwo remains one of Nigeria’s most reliable attacking options. she once said in an interview, “I don’t talk much, but I let my football do the talking.” Her quiet confidence has served her and Nigeria incredibly well.
Jennifer Echegini: One Of A Kind Midfielder

Raised in London by Nigerian parents, Jennifer Echegini brings both technical brilliance to the midfield. She came through the U.S. college ranks playing for Florida State and later Florida Gators where she was known for her vision and her ability to dictate tempo.
Echegini joined the Nigerian national team in 2022 and has quickly become indispensable. Though she’s primarily a midfielder, she has an eye for goals and isn’t afraid to shoot from a distance. Her goal in the WAFCON opener was a low, driven shot that froze the opposing goalkeeper.
What sets her apart is her versatility. She combines creativity with composure, often operating as the link between defense and attack. She is always a step ahead of her marker.
Off the field, she is equally impactful. Jennifer is vocal about gender equity in sports and often uses her platform to inspire young girls, especially those in the diaspora who aspire to represent their roots on the world stage. Her recent move to Juventus further confirms her status as a rising global star.
Beyond The Goals: What This Moment Represents
The success of players like Okoronkwo and Echegini is proof that Nigerian talent is thriving both at home and abroad.
Even as the tournament ends, the spotlight will surely remain on these two dynamic players not just for their technical contributions, but for the way they represent hope, dedication, and the unbreakable spirit of Nigerian football.
Tanzania And Rwanda Forge Stronger Partnership With Transport And Trade
Tanzania and Rwanda have signed a series of new agreements aimed at boosting trade, transport, and cultural ties as both nations push to deepen bilateral cooperation. The deals were formalized in Kigali during the 16th Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) attended by Tanzania’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo and Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
One of the key agreements establishes a liaison office for the Tanzania Ports Authority in Kigali. The office will help Rwandan traders handle documentation and logistics, improving access to Dar es Salaam port, which currently handles the majority of Rwanda’s imports and exports. Officials say the move will reduce freight costs and streamline cross-border trade.
Both countries reaffirmed the importance of strengthening air transport links. RwandAir already operates daily flights between Kigali and Tanzanian cities, while discussions are underway to have Air Tanzania resume passenger services to Kigali. Plans are also being considered to launch cargo flights to support Rwanda’s growing freight sector.
Tanzania and Rwanda pledged to move forward with the development of a standard gauge railway (SGR) connecting the two countries. Technical teams are working on feasibility studies and routes to create a more efficient transport network for goods and passengers.
The agreements also emphasized cultural integration, with Tanzania supporting Rwanda’s adoption of Kiswahili as one of its official languages. Tanzania has offered to supply learning materials and train teachers to strengthen Kiswahili education in Rwanda, recognizing the language’s growing role across East and Central Africa.
Beyond transport and language, both governments agreed to expand collaboration in security, ICT, agriculture, energy, tourism, health, and investment. The move underscores the two countries’ commitment to integrated development under the East African Community framework.
AfroBasket 2025: D’Tigress Target Quarter-Final Spot With Mozambique Clash
Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will aim to continue their impressive start to the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket when they face Mozambique in their second Group D match today (Monday) in Abidjan.
Scheduled for 4 pm. Nigerian time at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, the encounter offers coach Rena Wakama’s side an opportunity to secure a place in the quarter-finals with a game to spare.
D’Tigress head into the tie on the back of a dominant 92–45 victory over Rwanda on Saturday. The six-time African champions showcased their depth and discipline, winning all four quarters convincingly to extend their unbeaten run in the competition having last suffered defeat in the semi-finals of the 2015 edition.
Elizabeth Balogun led Nigeria’s scoring in the opener with 18 points, while experienced campaigners Victoria Macaulay and Murjanatu Musa added 13 and 12 points respectively.
Mozambique also began their campaign on a winning note, easing past Rwanda 72–55. A strong first-half showing laid the foundation for their victory, setting the stage for a decisive battle for top spot in Group D.
Historically, Nigeria have dominated this fixture, winning eight of their last ten meetings against Mozambique. Their most recent encounter came in the 2023 AfroBasket quarter-finals, where D’Tigress edged a tense contest 59–52. Prior to that, Nigeria registered a 67–50 win in the 2021 group stage, while Mozambique’s last victory came in the 2013 quarter-finals.
Statistically, Nigeria have once again distinguished themselves at this tournament. They average 92 points per game to Mozambique’s 72 and hold slight edges in rebounds (47 to 46), assists (25 to 20), and free-throw shooting (83.3% to 56.5%). Their superior two-point shooting accuracy (58.3%) and relentless defensive play were on full display against Rwanda.
Today’s matchup will test both teams’ credentials, but with key players like Balogun, Macaulay, Amy Okonkwo, and Ifunaya Okoro in strong form, D’Tigress are clear favourites.
Coach Wakama is expected to maintain her balanced tactical approach, blending seasoned stars with emerging talents such as Vera Ojenuwa, who marked her debut with a scoring contribution in the opener.
With sights set on a record-extending seventh AfroBasket title, D’Tigress remain firmly on course if their opening performance is any indication.
Aeroflot Halts Over 50 Flights Amid Claimed Cyberattack
A significant disruption affected Russia’s flagship airline on Monday as more than 50 scheduled flights were grounded due to what is being described as a major cybersecurity breach.
While the airline didn’t disclose specific details about the issue or give a timeline for resolution, screens at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport displayed a series of cancellations during what is traditionally a peak travel period for domestic vacations.
Authorities at the federal level expressed concern over the incident. Investigators have confirmed that the disruptions stem from a cyber intrusion and have launched an official criminal probe.
A digital statement, allegedly from a group identifying itself as Silent Crow and working in coordination with a Belarus-based collective named Cyberpartisans BY, claimed responsibility for the breach. The message tied the action to ongoing hostilities in Ukraine.
“Glory to Ukraine! Long live Belarus!” the statement read, though its authenticity has not been independently verified.
Silent Crow has in the past attributed similar actions to itself, targeting institutions such as a property database, a telecommunications provider, an insurance firm, a major municipal IT office, and even the Russian branch of a foreign automotive brand. Many of those attacks led to the exposure of sensitive internal data.
“The information that we are reading in the public domain is quite alarming. The hacker threat is a threat that remains for all large companies providing services to the population,” a government spokesperson commented.
“We will, of course, clarify the information and wait for appropriate clarifications.”
Aeroflot, along with relevant transport authorities, did not immediately address the hacking allegations directly. However, the airline acknowledged that a technical issue had forced the cancellation of dozens of flights, affecting both domestic destinations and cities such as Minsk and Yerevan. More than ten additional flights experienced delays.
“Specialists are currently working to minimise the impact on the flight schedule and to restore normal service operations,” the company said.
The online statement attributed to Silent Crow described the breach as the culmination of a twelve-month infiltration campaign. It claimed to have dismantled thousands of servers and seized access to computers used by high-ranking staff, although it did not offer any proof of these claims.
El-Rufai Expelled And Banned For 30-Years
The Social Democratic Party’s National Working Committee has officially expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai from the party.
El-Rufai has been banned from engaging with the party in any form for the next 30 years.
The party leadership accused him of misrepresenting himself as a member, interfering with its internal operations, and attempting to disrupt the organisation through unconstitutional means and deceitful political strategies.
This was disclosed in a statement signed and released to our correspondent by the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, in Abuja on Monday.
According to Aiyenigba, the NWC arrived at the decision after a detailed probe into El-Rufai’s disputed membership claims and alleged backdoor political activities, which the party said have caused internal discord and jeopardised its unity and guiding principles.
The statement read, ” El-Rufai never registered with the SDP at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution, yet falsely declared on social media that he had joined the party. He further forged documents claiming membership and took photo opportunities with suspended party leaders to reinforce this falsehood.
“In line with the Constitution of the SDP, the ideology, manifesto, principles and practices thereof, and in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act pertaining to the exclusive right of a political party to determine its membership, the National Working Committee deliberated on the controversial membership status of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai from Kaduna State who has in recent months been parading himself as a member of the SDP despite the assertion of the Kaduna State Executives that he has not joined the SDP but has instead been promoting the activities of other political party in the State.
“At the initial stage, this individual Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai was given the benefit of the doubt given his status as an elderly person, a former Minister and State Governor who should know the implications of false representation and impersonation, especially given the fact that he published on his social media handles that he had joined the SDP which led to congratulatory messages from prominent leaders of our party and a letter of support at his request by the National Publicity Secretary.
“However upon thorough inquiry, it turned out that the Kaduna State SDP was right and this individual had not joined the SDP. The following facts emerged: Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai failed to register at his Ward as required by the law despite falsely publishing on social media that he had joined the SDP.
“El-Rufai devoted so much time to putting up false representation of membership by seeking photo opportunities with the suspended National Chairman Shehu Musa Gabam and some leaders of the SDP who assumed that he had joined the SDP in Kaduna State; El-Rufai was confronted by serious eligibility problems given an unpleasant history of intolerance and persecution of the SDP as an opposition party during his time as the Governor of Kaduna State under the APC.”
The SDP further alleged that the former Kaduna governor had formed ties with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) while seeking to involve the SDP in an unsanctioned political coalition.
SDP said, “Having confirmed that he publicly declared for the ADC and continued to act in a manner contrary to the principles and practices of the SDP, the party has no option but to disassociate and excommunicate him.
“Consequently, El-Rufai has been banished and banned from applying to the membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years, effective immediately”.
The SDP urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other concerned authorities to recognise that El-Rufai is not a member of the party, emphasizing that he has no mandate to represent or speak for the organisation in any capacity.
Reiterating its dedication to internal democracy, national interest, and issue-based opposition, the party encouraged all Nigerians wishing to become members to follow due process and uphold transparency in their engagement.
“Apparently to run away from his past, El-Rufai proposed an elaborate welcome ceremony at the SDP National Secretariat in Abuja but was politely counseled that such a jamboree was not tenable and he should go home to register at his Ward in Kaduna State after passing simple eligibility interview and on boarding process.
“Rather than register lawfully with the Ward Executives, this individual simply forged his own documents and self-registered and arrogated to himself “number 001 in the SDP membership register of Unguwar Sarki Ward, Kaduna North Local Government Area”, as if the Ward had no single member prior to his purported joining. This is contrary to all existing and updated records of the SDP in Kaduna State.”
It will be recalled that El-Rufai recently declared his departure from the ruling All Progressives Congress and claimed to have joined the Social Democratic Party.
He attributed his exit to an increasing disconnect between his personal convictions and the APC’s present course.
Niger Boat Tragedy Claims 13 Lives, 26 Rescued
A boat carrying 39 passengers capsized in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving 13 dead and 26 others rescued.
The vessel, heading to the Kwata Zumba Market, overturned near Guni village at about 11:45 a.m. on Saturday. According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the accident was caused by water turbulence and suspected overloading.
NSEMA’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Malik Baba Suleiman, confirmed the incident on Sunday, stating that search and rescue efforts began immediately, and all 13 bodies were recovered. The deceased have been buried in line with Islamic traditions. Among them were eight women, three men, and two children.
The tragedy has thrown the local community into mourning, as residents expressed grief over the recurring nature of such disasters. In response, the state government has cautioned boat operators to strictly follow safety protocols, especially during the rainy season when water levels become dangerously high.
Saturday’s incident adds to a string of deadly boat accidents in the area. In November 2024, a boat transporting around 200 passengers from Kogi to Niger State capsized, resulting in at least 27 fatalities. The previous month, another serious mishap led to the deaths of dozens. In December 2023, 76 people lost their lives in Anambra State after a boat sank in a swollen river during flooding.
Despite the National Inland Waterways Authority’s efforts to enforce safety regulations—such as banning night travel and outlawing overloading—compliance remains weak across many riverine communities. Due to deteriorating road infrastructure and rising highway insecurity, a large number of Nigerians continue to depend on water transport for trade and daily travel.
Bayern Munich Finalise £65.5m Deal For Liverpool Star Luis Diaz
German giants Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz in a deal worth £65.5 million ($88 million), according to multiple reports on Sunday.
An initial offer of £59 million was turned down by the Premier League champions last week, but Bayern’s improved bid is now set to secure the services of the Colombian international.
Diaz has reportedly been granted permission to leave Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia to undergo a medical in Munich ahead of completing the transfer.
The 28-year-old joined Liverpool from Porto in January 2022 and has since won the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his spell at Anfield.
He enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 campaign, making 50 appearances and scoring 17 goals in all competitions as Arne Slot’s side lifted their first league title in five years.
Diaz was notably absent from Liverpool’s recent 4-2 friendly defeat to AC Milan in Hong Kong, amid growing speculation over his future.
“In Lucho’s [Diaz’s] case, there’s been a lot of speculation lately, and I can’t delve too much into it,” said Liverpool manager Arne Slot after the match. “He’s been training well, but we’ve chosen not to play him for now. I regularly speak with most of my players, but there’s not much more I can say at this stage.”
Diaz’s expected arrival offers Bayern a high-quality replacement for Jamal Musiala, who is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a broken leg and dislocated ankle during the Club World Cup earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have been active in the transfer market, strengthening their squad with the high-profile additions of Bayer Leverkusen playmaker Florian Wirtz and Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.
The club has also reinforced its defence, bringing in Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen and Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, while Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili has also joined the ranks.
Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, who is valued at around £150 million.
Yellow Greens Wrap Up Pearl Of Africa T20 Series With One Win
The Nigeria national men’s cricket team, the Yellow Greens, concluded their campaign at the Pearl of Africa T20 Series in Uganda with a six-wicket loss to Kenya on Sunday, finishing the tournament with just one victory from six outings.
Entering the competition as the lowest-ranked side, Nigeria faced stiff opposition from more experienced teams including Kenya, Uganda, the UAE, and Namibia.
Their sole win came on Friday in a tense match against Namibia. Defending a modest total of 105/9, the Yellow Greens held their nerve to restrict Namibia to 99/8, securing a thrilling six-run victory.
The tournament began on a challenging note for Nigeria, who narrowly lost their opening match to Kenya by 18 runs (DLS method) after being held to 88/9 while chasing 106.
On July 18, hosts Uganda posted a formidable 180/4, and Nigeria could only respond with 85/5, falling to a heavy 77-run defeat. The following day, despite a stronger showing with the bat (111 all out), Nigeria were outplayed by Namibia, who chased down the target with ease to win by eight wickets.
The struggles continued on July 21 against the UAE, where Nigeria collapsed to a lowly 58 all out, handing the Emiratis a comfortable seven-wicket win.
Facing Uganda again on July 22, Nigeria delivered a more disciplined bowling performance, limiting them to 147/6. However, the batting unit fell short once more, resulting in a 38-run loss.
In their penultimate match on Saturday, the Yellow Greens were outclassed again by the UAE, suffering a 53-run defeat. Despite these setbacks, Nigeria closed the tournament with a commendable effort against Kenya, posting 113/9 before their East African rivals chased down the target with six wickets to spare.
Individually, captain Sylvester Okpe led from the front with the bat, finishing as the team’s top scorer with 100 runs. He was closely followed by Prosper Useni (89 runs) and Isaac Danladi (88 runs). On the bowling front, Okpe, Peter Aho, and Taiwo Mohammed each claimed seven wickets, standing out as Nigeria’s top performers with the ball.
Under the guidance of head coach and former Kenyan international Steve Tikolo, the Yellow Greens will look to regroup and improve ahead of the ICC Men’s Africa T20 World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe from September 26 to October 4.