LIVE
Home Blog Page 203

When All Seemed Lost: Manchester United’s Legendary Escape Against Lyon

Tosin Onisuuru
-
0
When All Seemed Lost: Manchester United’s Legendary Escape Against Lyon

In a breathtaking encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester United overcame Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 on aggregate after extra time. United initially led 2-0 through goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot, but Lyon responded with strikes from Corentin Tolisso and Nicolás Tagliafico, sending the match into extra time.

Lyon then surged ahead with goals from Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette, making it 4-2 on the night and 6-4 on aggregate. However, United mounted a dramatic comeback: Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, Kobbie Mainoo equalized in the 120th minute, and Harry Maguire headed in the decisive goal moments later, sealing a 7-6 aggregate victory.

Key Moments:

– Early Lead: Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot scored in the first half, giving United a 2–0 lead.

– Lyon’s Response: Corentin Tolisso and Nicolás Tagliafico equalized for Lyon, making it 2–2.

– Lyon surged ahead with goals from Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette, leading 4–2 on the night and 6–4 on aggregate.

– United’s Comeback: Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, Kobbie Mainoo equalized in the 120th minute, and Harry Maguire headed in the decisive goal moments later, completing a stunning turnaround.

FK Bodø/Glimt vs Lazio (Aggregate: 2–2; Bodø/Glimt win on penalties) – Stadio Olimpico

FK Bodø/Glimt made history by becoming the first Norwegian club to reach a European semi-final. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, the second leg against Lazio ended in a 2-2 draw, leading to a penalty shootout. Bodø/Glimt held their nerve to win the shootout, securing their place in the semi-finals

Key Moments:

– First Leg Advantage: Ulrik Saltnes scored twice in the first leg, giving Bodø/Glimt a 2–0 lead.

– Lazio’s Fightback: Lazio leveled the aggregate score in the second leg, forcing extra time.

– Penalty Shootout Heroics: Goalkeeper Nikita Haikin saved two penalties in the shootout, securing Bodø/Glimt’s place in the semi-finals.

Athletic Bilbao vs Rangers (Aggregate: 3–2) – San Mamés

Athletic Bilbao secured their semi-final spot with a 3-1 victory over Rangers in the second leg, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit. Nico Williams was instrumental, scoring twice to lead the Spanish side to a 3-2 aggregate win.

Key Moments:

– Sancet’s Penalty: Oihan Sancet converted a penalty late in the first half to level the aggregate score.

– Defensive Resilience: Athletic’s defense, led by Vivian and Yeray, withstood Rangers’ pressure, including a shot that hit the post.

– Williams’ Decisive Goal: Nico Williams headed in a late goal from a De Marcos cross, sealing the victory.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Tottenham Hotspur (Aggregate: 1–2) – Deutsche Bank Park

Tottenham Hotspur advanced to the semi-finals after a 3-2 aggregate win over Eintracht Frankfurt. Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Spurs clinched the tie with a 2-1 victory in the second leg, thanks to goals from Wilson Odobert and Son Heung-min

Key Moments:

– First Leg Draw: The first leg ended 1–1, with goals from Hugo Ekitike for Frankfurt and Pedro Porro for Spurs.

– Solanke’s Penalty: Dominic Solanke converted a penalty just before halftime in the second leg, giving Spurs the lead.

– Defensive Solidity: Tottenham’s defense held firm in the second half, with goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario making crucial saves to preserve the lead.

Semi-Final Fixtures (First Legs: May 1, 2025)

– Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao

– FK Bodø/Glimt vs Tottenham Hotspur

The semi-finals promise to deliver more thrilling action as teams vie for a spot in the Europa League final.

Lagos State Revives Historic Fanti Carnival

Tosin Onisuuru
-
20
Lagos State Revives Historic Fanti Carnival

The Lagos State Government has officially announced the return of the Fanti Carnival, a vibrant cultural festival rooted in 19th-century Afro-Brazilian heritage. The event is scheduled to hold on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.

Unveiling the official parade route via the event’s Instagram page, organizers shared that the carnival will begin at the Remembrance Arcade and proceed through Old Defence Road, JK Randle, Military Street, Catholic Mission Street, and other key locations—signifying what they call a “takeover of the streets of Lagos Island.”

The revival was announced by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, during a press briefing at the Brazilian Consulate in Lagos. She emphasized that the Fanti Carnival is a celebration of the blending of Yoruba traditions, Catholic influence, samba rhythms, and street performances—elements brought together by Afro-Brazilian returnees to create what evolved into the Fancy Carnival.

“The Lagos Fanti Carnival is more than a spectacle—it is a vibrant, living expression of our collective history and cultural identity,” she stated.

Benson-Awoyinka credited Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support in reviving the carnival, noting that his leadership has helped position Lagos as a global cultural destination.

The Brazilian Consul General in Lagos, Ambassador Manuel Innocencio del Lacerda Santos Jr., also spoke at the event, highlighting the deep cultural ties between Brazil and Nigeria.

“The Fanti Carnival serves as a powerful reminder that our shared history offers a rich foundation for future collaborations—in trade, education, technology, and beyond,” he said.

During the ceremony, Mr. Peter Richie of IconGeo presented ceremonial maps of Lagos from 1924 and emphasized the importance of community-driven urban renewal.

Also present were Dr. Kola Peregrino, President of the Brazilian Descendants Association, and Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, both of whom expressed optimism about the carnival’s educational and cultural impact.

The Fanti Carnival 2025 promises a colorful celebration of music, fashion, food, parades, and storytelling, aligning with the state’s vision of building a year-round cultural tourism calendar to boost local and international engagement.

Asian Markets Climb On Japan-US Trade Deal

Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
-
3
Asian Markets Climb On Japan-US Trade Deal

Asian stock markets posted solid gains on Thursday, led by Tokyo, amid rising optimism over the progress of Japan-US trade negotiations. This positive momentum came despite U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s caution that tariffs imposed by President Trump could force policymakers to choose between controlling inflation and maintaining employment.

Investors are closely monitoring developments in Washington over the next three months as global leaders work to prevent the implementation of sweeping tariffs announced by Trump on April 2nd — dubbed “Liberation Day.” Originally set to take immediate effect, the tariffs were delayed for 90 days, giving room for negotiations.

Japan’s talks are especially significant, given that Japanese firms are the largest investors in the United States. Some analysts see Japan’s role as a “canary in the coal mine” for broader trade dynamics. Encouraging signals have already emerged: President Trump took to social media claiming “Big Progress!” while Japan’s envoy Ryosei Akazawa confirmed the U.S. aim to strike a deal within the deadline.

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba acknowledged the complexity of the talks but emphasized that the U.S. President is prioritizing the negotiations.

The possibility of easing tariffs has helped calm investor nerves following a sharp early-month sell-off driven by fears of a global recession and disrupted trade patterns.

Adding to the global trade landscape, Bloomberg reported that China may consider returning to negotiations—if the U.S. tones down anti-China rhetoric.

Asian markets responded positively:

  • Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 rose 1.4% to 34,377.60
  • Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 1.6% to 21,395.14
  • Shanghai Composite edged up 0.1% to 3,280.34
  • Other markets including Singapore, Mumbai, Seoul, Wellington, Bangkok, and Jakarta also recorded gains, while Taipei, London, Paris, and Frankfurt dipped slightly.

Despite regional gains, volatility remains a concern. Wall Street ended lower, and gold soared to a record $3,357, reflecting ongoing market unease. Powell reiterated that tariffs are likely to cause a temporary—if not persistent—inflation spike, potentially placing the Fed in a difficult balancing act.

“You’ll probably see continued volatility,” Powell warned during an address at the Economic Club of Chicago.

Some investors were disappointed that Powell didn’t hint at a possible interest rate cut in June, despite market indicators pricing in an 80% chance of such a move.

Meanwhile, the World Trade Organization (WTO) issued a stern warning on Wednesday, citing potential long-term damage from the ongoing trade conflict. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala noted that China-US trade volumes could drop by as much as 81% if the dispute continues.

Oil prices also climbed, following U.S. sanctions on a second Chinese “teapot” refinery—Shandong Shengxing Chemical—for importing Iranian crude oil. This move aligns with Washington’s continued “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran.

– Key Market Data at 0810 GMT –

  • Tokyo (Nikkei 225): +1.4% at 34,377.60
  • Hong Kong (Hang Seng): +1.6% at 21,395.14
  • Shanghai (Composite): +0.1% at 3,280.34
  • London (FTSE 100): -0.4% at 8,240.16
  • Dollar/Yen: 142.79 (up from 142.12)
  • Euro/Dollar: $1.1378 (down from $1.1395)
  • WTI Crude: +0.9% at $63.03/barrel
  • Brent Crude: +0.8% at $66.35/barrel
  • Dow Jones (New York): -1.7% at 39,669.39

Asian markets are now bracing for further developments, with investors hoping that diplomatic momentum will translate into lasting economic stability.

Why Is Nigeria In The News?

Tosin Onisuuru
-
0
Why Is Nigeria In The News?

Nigeria, a nation constantly brimming with political intensity, social discourse is in the news.

On Thursday 17 April, headlines are dominated by stern political warnings, welcome economic shifts, and the cheerful anticipation of the Easter season.

But what’s really capturing the nation”s attention about Nigeria? Here is what we found.

Atiku Declares a ‘State of Emergency’ Over Nigeria’s Security Collapse

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has stirred intense political conversation after describing Nigeria as being in a “full-blown state of emergency.”

In a statement released on April 16, he condemned President Bola Tinubu’s prolonged stay in France while insecurity escalates across the country.

Atiku highlighted brutal killings in Plateau State’s Zike community, with over 100 lives lost, as well as renewed violence in Benue and a resurgence of Boko Haram attacks in the North-East.

He accused Tinubu of abandoning his constitutional responsibilities, stating that his 59-day cumulative stay in France since assuming office amounts to “dereliction of duty on a catastrophic scale.”

He challenged the justification of Tinubu’s visit as a “working trip,” insisting that any tasks being done abroad could be more appropriately handled at home, especially in light of the current crises.

While critics argue this may be part of Atiku’s political strategy ahead of 2027, many Nigerians see his concerns as a wake-up call to the government’s handling of national security.

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, reinforced the statement by stressing the constitutional obligation to ensure citizens’ security and welfare.

Nigerians Speak

Online platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have exploded with reactions, many of which echo Atiku’s sentiment that Nigeria is facing a leadership vacuum during its darkest hour.

Peter Obi Pressures Tinubu to Return and Confront Insecurity

Labour Party leader and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi has added his voice to the growing demands for accountability.

Through a post on X, Obi urged President Tinubu to cut short his France trip and return to deal with Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, which has claimed more than 150 lives in recent weeks across Plateau, Zamfara, and Borno states.

Obi questioned the opacity surrounding the President’s travels, criticizing its poor timing amid national crisis.

Unlike Atiku, Obi stopped short of calling it a state of emergency but emphasized the urgent need for on-ground leadership.

Obi’s stance has resonated strongly with Nigerians frustrated by rising violence and economic hardship.

Observers say Obi’s measured tone still delivered a powerful message, that leadership must be seen and felt, not just spoken of from abroad.

Meanwhile, the Presidency has offered limited details about the France visit, vaguely labeling it a move to attract foreign investment.

Dangote Refinery Eases Burden With Petrol Price Cut

Amid the political unrest, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery announcement of a reduction in petrol ex-depot price — from ₦865 to ₦835 per litre, also makes Nigeria trend

The slash in price is effective April 16.

This 3.5% cut, the second in just under a week, comes in response to falling crude oil prices globally (now at $64 per barrel).

With a refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the Dangote refinery is quickly becoming a powerful influence in Nigeria’s downstream oil market.

Consumers are hopeful this development will translate into lower pump prices and reduced transport costs. However, there’s growing pressure on independent marketers to reflect the drop, with IPMAN advocating for direct refinery purchases to bypass NNPC bottlenecks.

FG declares public holidays for Easter

The Easter season is also making Nigeria tick at the moment, especially the Federal Government news declaring April 18 (Good Friday) and April 21 (Easter Monday) as public holidays.

This announcement has sparked joy nationwide, offering families and communities a moment to pause and celebrate.

Churches, markets, and parks are gearing up for the festivities, and social media is already flooded with posts of Easter programs and shopping hauls.

Despite excitement, authorities have been urged to strengthen security nationwide, especially in areas recently affected by violence.

EFCC, SEC Step Up Fight Against Ponzi Schemes in Nigeria

Tosin Onisuuru
-
0
EFCC, SEC Step Up Fight Against Ponzi Schemes in Nigeria

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has heightened its crackdown on illegal investment platforms proliferating across Nigeria. These joint efforts aim to dismantle a wave of fraudulent schemes—many operating as Ponzi scams—that have been deceiving Nigerians with promises of unrealistically high returns.

According to the EFCC, 58 companies are currently under investigation for running unlicensed financial operations without approval from either the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) or the SEC. These firms are believed to be involved in high-risk ventures that violate financial laws and put investor funds at risk. So far, legal proceedings have led to the conviction of five individuals, while another five have entered guilty pleas and await sentencing. Additional cases are pending arraignment.

One high-profile arrest involves radio personality Favour Ekoh of Urban Radio 94.5FM in Enugu, who was taken into custody for allegedly masterminding a ₦700 million Ponzi scheme. Operating under the company name Leverage Index Limited—marketed as “Life Trading”—the platform promised investors a 10 percent monthly return. The scheme reportedly duped over 50 people before it collapsed, leaving investors empty-handed. EFCC agents attempting to arrest Ekoh at the radio station were initially blocked by staff and management, who allegedly locked the gates in an effort to prevent the operation. The standoff ended only after backup was called in. Ekoh, along with the station’s managing director and two security guards, was eventually arrested for obstructing law enforcement.

In response to the surge in fraudulent schemes, both the EFCC and SEC have renewed their warnings to the public, urging Nigerians to avoid unregulated platforms and only invest through entities registered with the CBN or SEC. The agencies reaffirmed their dedication to prosecuting offenders and recovering stolen funds. As part of these efforts, the EFCC is expanding its public education campaigns to help citizens recognize and avoid fraudulent investments, while ongoing investigations into the 58 suspected firms continue.

Police Reform: NSA, Police Affairs Ministry, and PSC to Create Blueprint for Sustainable Policing in Nigeria

Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
-
0
Police Reform: NSA, Police Affairs Ministry, and PSC to Create Blueprint for Sustainable Policing in Nigeria

The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has charged the Management Staff of the Ministry and Agencies to commit wholeheartedly to actualizing the mandates of the current administration on policing in the country.

Gaidam gave the charge during the second phase of the 2024 Management Retreat with the theme “Enhancing Strategic Leadership and Policy Implementation in the Ministry of Police Affairs.” in Abuja.

The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Anuma Ogbonnaya Nlia, stated that the ministry focus must remain aligned with global best practices, built on principles of trust, transparency, and public confidence—pillars that are essential for effective policing in the country.

He said the retreat provides a crucial platform for collaboration, where the ministry can deliberate on strategic approaches to improving workforce quality and professionalism at all levels.

In his words, “This initiative reflects the current administration’s recognition of the urgent need for transformation within our policing system. It is a step towards reshaping the narrative around police reforms in Nigeria, moving beyond the rhetoric that has often characterized previous efforts”.

Gaidam reiterated his unwavering commitment to the full implementation of Mr. President’s 8-Point Agenda as it relates to the police ecosystem adding that a key focus of his tenure is addressing the needs of the rank and file within the police force, empowering them to deliver timely, professional, and citizen-focused services, while upholding national security.

According to him, “Security remains our topmost priority, alongside the welfare of our staff. I am committed to driving transformative improvements within the Ministry. Police reform remains a pivotal agenda of this administration”.

The Minister pointed out that a joint responsibility now lies with the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Police Affairs, and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission to develop a comprehensive blueprint for sustainable reform of the Nigeria Police Force.

In his goodwill message, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun represented by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Research & Planning), DIG Basil Idegwu stated that the theme of the retreat ” Enhancing Strategic Leadership and Policy Implementation in the Ministry of Police Affairs ” speaks to the heart of what is urgently required to reposition the internal security architecture of our dear nation for greater, effectiveness and sustainability.

He added that it is a strategic move to foster a shared understanding of the ministry’s mission, vision, and expectations in driving the internal security reforms and institutional excellence.

“In an era marked by increasingly complex security challenges, the ability of leadership within the ministry to craft, harmonize, and implement progressive policies cannot be overstated”. Egbetokun stressed.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu expressed gratitude to the President for his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda which is hinged on improving security of life and property, poverty eradication, food security, economic growth, access to health, job creation, fight against corruption and rule of law.

Public Administration Expert, Dr. Magbadelo Sola, in his presentation said Police reform is the process of changing the attitude of the police in the discharge of their mandate, as it affects public safety and security, and reorienting them towards accountability, transparency, and openness in their operations.

He added that the police are central to the maintenance of internal security and are key to the criminal justice system.

Easter: FG Announces Public Holidays for Friday and Monday

Mary Oluwabamise
-
0
Easter: FG Announces Public Holidays for Friday and Monday

The Federal Government has announced Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21, as public holidays in observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday.

This was made known by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement released on Tuesday by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Magdalene Ajani.

“Announcing this on behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo extended heartfelt congratulations to Christians across the country on this joyous occasion,” the statement read.

The minister emphasized the need to reflect on the values of sacrifice and love demonstrated by Jesus Christ, who gave His life for the redemption of mankind.

He “also called on Nigerians to use the holiday period to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the nation. He reassured citizens of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to foster national growth and development.”

Tunji-Ojo further encouraged citizens to show love and kindness to those around them through generous actions.

He concluded by wishing all Christians a joyful Easter celebration and sending his best holiday wishes to all Nigerians.

Peter Obi Urges Tinubu to Suspend France Trip And Address Killings in Nigeria

Tosin Onisuuru
-
1
Peter Obi Urges Tinubu to Suspend France Trip And Address Killings in Nigeria

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, on Wednesday urged President Bola Tinubu to put his retreat in France on hold and return to Nigeria to tackle the ongoing communal clashes and escalating violence across the country.

He made this known in a statement shared on his official X account.

This comes four days after the Presidency denied claims that Tinubu travelled to France for medical reasons, maintaining that it was a working visit.

The clarification was given by Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, during his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

Bwala was responding to allegations made by activist and politician Omoyele Sowore, who said the President’s trip was for medical treatment.

Although Tinubu’s aide, Bayo Onanuga, stated that the President, who departed on April 2, is expected to return in “about a fortnight,” Sowore insisted in a Facebook post that the journey was health-related.

Obi, however, cautioned that the President’s prolonged absence could worsen the already alarming state of insecurity in the country.

He said, “I am compelled at this time in our lives as a nation to call on our retreating President’s attention to the security challenges at home, which entails that he immediately suspend his ongoing retreat in a foreign land and come home to address the overwhelming security situation across the country.

“In the 2 weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity across Nigeria, especially in Plateau and Zamfara states. The repeated pipeline explosions in the Niger Delta, further reflect a nation in distress.

“In the North East, Borno State leaders are bemoaning the return of insurgency, with troops and civilians being killed randomly. In the Southeast, the story is the same: killings and abductions. Amid all these, the CEO of the troubled company called Nigeria, is retreating to a faraway land in France from the company’s headquarters.

“I, therefore, like to urge Mr President to quickly suspend whatever he is doing in France and rush home to take responsibility by addressing these disturbing issues. That is the new Nigeria that the nation seeks.”

Gabon Striker Boupendza Dies After Tragic Fall

Mary Oluwabamise
-
0
Gabon Striker Boupendza Dies After Tragic Fall

Gabonese striker Aaron Boupendza passed away on Wednesday at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, as confirmed by the national football federation (Fegafoot).

“The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China, where he was playing for Zhejiang FC,” the federation said in a statement on X.

“Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the CAN (Africa Cup of Nations) in Cameroon.”

In 2022, Gabon exited the Africa Cup of Nations in the round of 16 after a defeat by Burkina Faso.

“Fegafoot and the entire Gabonese football family offer their sincere condolences to his biological family,” the federation added.

Gabon’s president-elect Brice Oligui Nguema also shared his sympathy on X.

“It is with immense sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football,” he posted.

According to Gabon 24, “the exact circumstances of this tragedy are still unclear,” but an investigation is ongoing to determine the details.

Boupendza, who was born in Moanda, began his professional journey with French club Bordeaux in 2016, spending much of his time on loan with other French teams.

In 2020, he joined Turkish club Hatayspor, becoming the top scorer in the Super Lig for the 2020–21 season. He later played for Al Arabi—where he lifted the Qatar FA Cup—and Saudi side Al Shabab.

His career also included stints in the United States with FC Cincinnati and in Romania with Rapid Bucharest, before making a move to China in January.

JAMB Warns 2025 UTME Candidates To Watch Out For Scam Messages

Tosin Onisuuru
-
2
JAMB Warns 2025 UTME Candidates To Watch Out For Scam Messages

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has distanced itself from the spread of false, misleading, and criminal messages targeting candidates who registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, JAMB spokesperson Dr. Fabian Benjamin said the messages are being spread by suspected fraudsters attempting to deceive unsuspecting individuals.

Benjamin explained that the perpetrators had manipulated the numerical variant of UTME, 8863, and combined it with the Board’s official short code, 55019, to create a fake code that resembles JAMB’s legitimate messaging system.

According to him, these fraudsters have been using this fake code to send deceptive messages to candidates, falsely claiming to have detected issues with their JAMB records and urging them to contact certain individuals who would “assist” in fixing these made-up problems.

“We want to emphasise that these messages are not from JAMB. Security agencies have been notified and are actively tracking the perpetrators behind this scam.

“Candidates are strongly advised to ignore such messages. This is a common tactic employed by fraudsters who seek to exploit the examination period to deceive and defraud innocent candidates.”

He urged the public to stay alert and carefully scrutinize any messages they receive. He added that any communication that doesn’t follow JAMB’s official channels or contains unusual language or instructions should be considered fraudulent.

1...202203204...2,559Page 203 of 2,559
Kingschat

© 2025 LN247. All Rights Reserved