Qarabag land in Naples for key Champions League encounter

Qarabag have arrived in Italy ahead of their clash with Napoli
in the main round of the UEFA Champions League.
The Azerbaijani champions are scheduled to hold their final
pre-match training session tomorrow, Azernews
reports….

Qarabag have arrived in Italy ahead of their clash with Napoli
in the main round of the UEFA Champions League.

The Azerbaijani champions are scheduled to hold their final
pre-match training session tomorrow, Azernews
reports.

The Napoli–Qarabag match will take place at the Diego Armando
Maradona Stadium overnight from November 25 to 26, with kick-off
set for 00:00 Baku time.

Polish FIFA referee Szymon Marciniak has been appointed to
officiate the game. He will be assisted by Tomasz Listkiewicz and
Adam Kupsik, while Wojciech Mick will serve as the fourth official.
VAR duties will be handled by Dutch official Paul van Bokel, with
Croatian referee Ivan Bebek acting as AVAR.

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Oyedepo sounds alarm as church attacks rise, orders nationwide midnight prayers

David Oyedepo, presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, has renewed his warning about Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, declari…

David Oyedepo, presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, has renewed his warning about Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, declaring that the latest attacks on worship centres which left several people dead and others kidnapped signal an urgent need for spiritual and national intervention. Speaking during the 4th Pre-Shiloh Encounter Service on Sunday, the cleric warned that the country is edging toward anarchy unless decisive action is taken.

Oyedepo said developments within the last two weeks, particularly attacks on churches, were “worrisome to say the least,” adding that the blood of innocent citizens was “crying out for vengeance.” According to him, “You can’t trade people’s lives for your comfort. All the innocent blood shed is speaking vengeance… all the perpetrators will pay with their lives.”

Read also: Attacks in Nigeria: What’s behind the latest kidnappings, church raid?

He explained that his concern was rooted not just in his role as a religious leader but in his identity as a Nigerian deeply connected to the nation’s destiny. “No one is more Nigerian than myself,” he said. “We all know power passes power, but no power passes the power of God.”

In response to the escalating violence, Oyedepo issued a fresh directive to members of his church nationwide, urging them to engage in one-hour midnight prayers from 12 a.m. to 1 a.m., which he described as a “midnight raid” against the forces of wickedness. He stressed that such prayers were necessary to avert what he described as a descent into chaos.

“You mean a church was invaded during worship, and people were killed and abducted and nothing happened?” he asked, condemning the seeming impunity of attackers. “The God of justice is rising.” He referenced Genesis 12:3 to justify the call for invoking divine curses upon perpetrators of violence.

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The bishop maintained that Nigeria has a spiritual identity that cannot be overridden by the actions of violent groups. He declared that divine intervention would ultimately silence arrogance and confront those responsible for bloodshed. “When God steps in, the pride of men is cut,” he said. “Nigeria will never descend into chaos. I want them to hear these hard things because they are coming from the burning spirit of a prophet.”

Read also: Kwara Church attack, Brig.-Gen.’s killing, others aim to destabilise Nigeria – Northern CAN

Oyedepo added that his warnings were not new. For 15 years, he said, he has repeatedly spoken out about the looming danger if the nation failed to act decisively. Citing Psalm 85:8, he affirmed that God “will surely speak peace” to Nigeria, insisting that the country must not “return to folly.”

The cleric condemned killings, kidnappings, and acts of terrorism, describing them as symptoms of moral decay and national irresponsibility. He called for collective prayers for justice, unity, and divine protection, urging church members to anoint their homes as a symbolic act of spiritual fortification.

“We shall be calling for justice against those responsible for acts of violence,” he stated. “All Winners, anoint your houses. Every attack against the church shall be met with divine justice. Don’t politicise human life; it’s immoral. Let’s join our hands and our hearts together and pray that prayer one hour only, 12 a.m. to 1 a.m.”

Nigeria’s auto market shifts toward hybrid, tech-focused SUVs at Abuja fair

Nigeria’s Auto Market has shown a growing shift towards hybrid and tech-focused SUVs at the 25th c, where automakers showcased new models designed to m…

Nigeria’s Auto Market has shown a growing shift towards hybrid and tech-focused SUVs at the 25th c, where automakers showcased new models designed to meet shifting consumer preferences.

Jetour Nigeria emerged as one of the standouts at the opening of the fair, with visitors examining its lineup of hybrid and AI-equipped SUVs, including the limited edition T2 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (T2 PHEV LED).

The Silver Jubilee edition of the fair opened on Tuesday at Eagle Square, inaugurated by Kashim Shettima, vice-president, who was represented by Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, minister of innovation, science and technology.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including John Owan Enoh, minister of state of industry, trade, and investment, alongside top government officials, industry leaders, and automotive executives.

Jetour Nigeria drew significant foot traffic as visitors flocked to explore its stylish and tech-forward models.

According to Kemi Adeola, Jetour spokesperson, the brand is one of the major revelations of this year’s fair, attracting increased interest from both loyal customers and new prospects.

The models on display, including the Dashing, X50, X90 Plus, X70 Hybrid, and the T2 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, reflected the company’s push toward intelligent mobility.

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Dealer representatives from across the country were stationed at the pavilion, offering in-depth information and engaging with visitors eager to understand the brand’s growing reputation.

Adeola highlighted the brand’s eco-friendly capabilities, including hybrid systems that allow drivers to switch between petrol and electric modes, as well as robust safety features.

The company stated that its latest offerings strike a balance between performance, efficiency, and reduced emissions, tailored for modern families and adventure-seeking drivers.

The models blend advanced technology with comfort and affordability, reinforcing the brand’s appeal in Nigeria’s competitive SUV segment.

The company also emphasised its solid after-sales support, which includes genuine spare parts, expert technical assistance, and a five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty.

Jetour’s participation, the company added, reflects its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction as it deepens its footprint in Nigeria’s SUV and crossover space.

Trump accuses Ukraine of ‘zero gratitude’ over US war support

US President Donald Trump has accused Ukraine of showing “zero gratitude” for American efforts to support the country in its war with Russia.
Speaking …

US President Donald Trump has accused Ukraine of showing “zero gratitude” for American efforts to support the country in its war with Russia.

Speaking on Sunday, Trump criticised Ukrainian officials for what he described as a failure to acknowledge US assistance, including intelligence and military aid, properly. The remarks came as Ukrainian, US and European officials met in Geneva to discuss a draft American plan aimed at ending the conflict.

“Ukraine’s leadership has shown zero gratitude to the US for its efforts, while Europe continues to buy Russian oil,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, referring to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Read Also: Nigeria spent $1.39bn on foreign education, highest in 5yrs — CBN report indicates

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Trump has championed a 28-point draft plan that calls on Ukraine to cede territory, limit its military and abandon ambitions to join NATO. Many Ukrainians have viewed these proposals as excessive concessions to Russia.

During the Geneva talks, Ukrainian officials expressed gratitude to Trump for his support. Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian delegation, and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy himself both thanked the US president before discussions continued with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other American and European officials.

European representatives presented a modified version of the plan that allows Ukraine a larger military and proposes that territorial negotiations begin from the current front line rather than pre-determined boundaries.

The US plan has sparked controversy, with some European allies and US lawmakers questioning its authorship and the extent to which it accommodates Russian demands. Despite the criticism, Trump has insisted the proposal reflects US policy and involvement in efforts to resolve the war.

Jobberman, PEA advocate inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria’s agenda

Project Enable Africa (PEA), and Jobberman Nigeria, are collaborating in advocacy for the inclusion of persons living with disabilities in all of Niger…

Project Enable Africa (PEA), and Jobberman Nigeria, are collaborating in advocacy for the inclusion of persons living with disabilities in all of Nigeria’s developmental plans.

In line with this, the two organisations are putting together first of its kind Disability Inclusion Conference, AbilityX 1.0, in Lagos, as part of activities to mark this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The conference, with the theme, “The Future of Disability Inclusion in Nigeria,” is planned for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Sheraton, Ikeja, Lagos.

Speaking on the significance of the event, Olalekan Owonikoko, executive director of Project Enable Africa, described AbilityX as a bold shift from advocacy to action. “AbilityX is about ensuring persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of inclusion but active architects of Africa’s inclusive future.”

According to him, the conference will explore the intersection of disability, data, technology, and the future of work, showcasing policy innovations, inclusive digital solutions, and emerging assistive technologies.

“AbilityX 1.0 will convene leading voices across sectors to explore thematic areas that are critical to long-term disability inclusion including financial inclusion, employability, entrepreneurship, healthcare, inclusive media, hospitality, and data-driven policy.

Speakers expected include Kola Olugbodi, CEO, Background Check International; Temi Dalley, group executive human capital & corporate services, Sterling Financial Holdings Company; Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, commissioner for youth and sport, Lagos State; Oluseun Onigbinde, CEO, BudgiT; Cosmas Okoli, CEO, Mobility Aid and Appliances Research and Development Centre (MAARDEC); Dipo Adesida, chief operating officer, Verdant Zeal Group, among others.

According to Jobberman Nigeria, the partnership reflects its commitment to promoting inclusive growth and enabling persons with disabilities to thrive in an evolving labour market.

“We are excited to partner with Project Enable Africa in advancing inclusion as we collectively reimagine the future of work for marginalised populations, especially persons with disabilities,” said Olamide Adeyeye, country head of programmes at Jobberman.

The event will also feature the AbilityX Impact Award, recognising organisations and individuals breaking barriers and advancing disability inclusion across sectors.

Insecurity: Kebbi joins Katsina, Plateau shuts down schools indefinitely

Amid rising concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria, the Kebbi State government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools, joining Katsina,…

Amid rising concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria, the Kebbi State government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools, joining Katsina, Plateau and Yobe in taking similar measures to safeguard students and staff.

The Kebbi State government announced the closure of all public and private secondary Schools, as well as all tertiary institutions across the state on Sunday, however, only the College of Nursing Sciences and Midwifery in Birnin Kebbi is allowed to remain opened.

This was contained in a statement jointly issued by Issa Abubakar-Tunga, and Halima Bande, the commissioner for higher education, and the commissioner for basic and secondary education.

Both commissioners emphasied that the closure of both public, private and state-owned tertiary institutions had become necessary following the recent cases of attacks in parts of the state.

Read also: Deliberate closure of schools by government marks new low in Nigeria’s battle with insecurity

The affected tertiary institutions include State Polytechnic Dakingari, Kebbi University of Science and Technology, Aliero, College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, and College of Education, Argungu.

The management of the various institutions affected have been advised to comply with the state government’s directives and to remain calm, as a new resumption date would be communicated in due course.

Kebbi has witnessed many cases of insecurity, including the kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls from a school in the state last week.

Recall that BusinessDay had earlier report that Federal Government Girls College, Gwandu, Federal Government College, Birnin Yauri, and Federal Technical College, Zuru are among the 41 unity colleges shutdown by the federal government in the face of the rampaging insecurity engulfing the country.

Katsina, Plateau and Yobe had also indefinitely shutdown schools due to rising security threats across the region.

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Plateau State government announced its closure of primary and junior secondary schools on Friday.

According to a statement from the Plateau State government, “All government junior model secondary schools will close effective Saturday, November 22, while all primary and day schools will close effective Monday, November 24.”

In Yobe State, the state government, on Sunday, announced the closure of all boarding secondary schools in the state.

Read also: Insecurity: Closure of schools in North raises fresh concerns in Nigeria

As insecurity deepens across parts of the country, many states are shutting down schools to safeguard students and teachers amidst the rising attacks by armed persons on schools, and religious houses.

More disturbing is the fact that most of the attacks have occurred in the northern region of Nigeria.

In one week unknown gunmen invaded the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in the Danko/Wasagu area of Kebbi State, abducting at least 24 schoolgirls and killing the school’s vice principal.

Five days after the attack, in Niger State, gunmen attacked St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School in Papiri on Friday, abducting an unspecified number of students.

Witnesses said that the attackers rode over 60 motorcycles and shot the school’s gatekeeper, who sustained serious injuries.

Charles Ogwo, Head, Education Desk at BusinessDay Media is a seasoned proactive journalist with over a decade of reportage experience.

Toyota showcases evolving mobility needs with broad model lineup

As mobility needs shift across Nigeria, Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL) is showcasing a model range that reflects the country’s growing demand for reliabl…

As mobility needs shift across Nigeria, Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL) is showcasing a model range that reflects the country’s growing demand for reliable, versatile, and adaptable vehicles across both personal and commercial segments.

From compact urban crossovers to rugged off-road SUVs, the company has reinforced its long-standing reputation for reliability, customer-centred service, and market leadership.

Toyota’s pavilion at the Abuja International Motor Fair was turned into a hub for visitors seeking dependable mobility solutions backed by decades of brand trust.

According to the company, Toyota leveraged the event to reconnect with its loyal customer base and guide potential buyers through its proven lineup, from compact urban cruisers to rugged off-road icons.

The all-new Urban Cruiser, a compact crossover SUV with a 1.5-litre engine, is among the standout models, aimed at meeting the demands of urban drivers. Also on display is the Toyota Corolla, equipped with a 1.8-litre engine and available in both leather and fabric interior options.

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Other models drawing interest are the RAV4 two-wheel-drive variant with leather seats, and the Camry luxury edition powered by a 3.5-litre engine. Commercial users are also catered for with the popular 16-seater Hiace bus featuring a 2.7-litre engine.

Also on display at the Fair is the rugged Hilux pickup, available in a 2.7-litre engine, alloy wheels, and both automatic and manual transmission options. The latest addition to the Land Cruiser Prado, newly introduced into the Nigerian market, is available in two trims: the 2.7-litre TX and the 2.4-litre turbocharged VX.

Toyota’s lineup also features the iconic Land Cruiser VX, widely regarded as the “King of the Road,” now equipped with a 3.5-litre twin-turbo engine, sunroof, wireless charging, and reverse sensors. Complementing it is the Land Cruiser 300 GXR, offering rear-seat entertainment, three-row seating with collapsible seats, and a V6 4.0-litre engine.

Bukky Ogunnusi, speaking on TNL’s participation, the company’s unit head, advertisement and public relations, said the stand is strategically positioned to serve both existing and prospective customers with sales and after-sales inquiries.

She added that accredited Toyota dealers are fully represented to provide personalised attention to all visitors.

Tinubu orders withdrawal of police from VIP security duties

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP protection duties as part of efforts to bolster national security and red…

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP protection duties as part of efforts to bolster national security and redirect police resources to core law-enforcement functions.

The directive was issued during a high-level security meeting on Friday attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Tosin Adeola Ajayi.

The meeting followed a spike in abductions and wider security threats across the country.

Read Also: Bandits kill 5 officers in Bauchi ambush as ISWAP abducts 13 female farmers in Borno

Tinubu instructed that police personnel currently attached to politicians, businessmen and other privileged individuals be reassigned to operational policing roles. VIPs requiring protection, he said, must henceforth obtain well-armed escorts from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

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A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, noted that many communities — especially in remote areas — operate with severely understaffed police stations, undermining the force’s ability to protect citizens.

“In view of the current security challenges facing the country, President Tinubu is desirous of boosting police presence in all communities,” the statement read.

Onanuga added that the President has already approved the recruitment of 30,000 additional police officers, while the federal government is working with state governments to upgrade police training facilities nationwide.

The move marks one of the administration’s most significant steps yet to address concerns about inadequate policing and the diversion of officers to non-essential VIP assignments.

Insecurity: Police, DSS arrest gun fixer, food suppliers to bandits in Kwara

Aftermath of the last Tuesday bandit attack on church worshippers in Eruku area of Ekiti local government, Kwara State, security agencies in the state …

Aftermath of the last Tuesday bandit attack on church worshippers in Eruku area of Ekiti local government, Kwara State, security agencies in the state have arrested a man from Makurdi, Benue State alleged of fixing guns for bandits in the state.

They have also arrested many suspects linked to supplying foods, drugs and general sustenance to bandits in their hideouts.

Adekimi Ojo, state Commissioner of Police, disclosed this to journalists Friday, at the state’s police command on the outcome of the earlier state security council meeting at the Government House, Ilorin.

The police chief hinted that the security council meeting noted with dismay the damaging impacts of social media to the country’s fight against insurgence, especially when reporting Security matters.

Read also: Fear, prayers, grief as Kwara Church holds service in blood-stained auditorium after bandit attack

It, however, commended the Military, Police, and the Department of State Security Service (DSS) for new deployments in the state which he said was in line with the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ojo commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, who was few days ago deployed four different tactical teams that included: Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT), Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Special Intervention Squad (SIS), and Special Tactical Squads (STS) to neutralise further threats in Kwara.

Ojo disclosed that the council meeting “harvested insights from the security commanders on recent happenings and field intelligence in the aftermath of the Eruku incident, including efforts of the security agencies to track down the perpetrators and rescue the victims.

“The meeting also commended heightened security deployments, especially air interdictions which have dislodged the kidnappers from their former hideouts, especially in Ifelodun. It calls for continuous air bombardment of areas identified as criminal hideouts.

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“The Police and DSS reported several arrests of food and fuel suppliers linked to the criminals as well as a man from Makurdi who confessed to fixing weapons for the kidnappers.

“The meeting commended the government’s strategic security decision on schools in parts of the state.

“As security agencies work for safe returns of the girls, the council calls for continuous vigilance and early reporting of any suspicious movement in any parts of the state,” he stated.

Ojo hinted further that: “the meeting approved joint patrols of security forces in different parts of the state especially as the Yuletide approaches. It recommended heightened security measures around vulnerable spots.

Read also: Terrorists demand N100 million each for Kwara church abductees, families say

“The meeting observed the damaging impacts of social media in the country’s fight against violent non-state actors. It expresses concern with how security information is disseminated, including demand for ransom and amplification of information that exposes citizens to more danger. For public safety, it calls for caution in the exercise of freedom of expression.

“The meeting urged citizens to avoid night farming and social activities that expose them to any harm. It urged citizens for prompt report of suspicious movements of any kind to the security agencies, government agencies, and traditional rulers.

“The meeting observed a minute of silence for the victims of the Eruku CAC attack and again commiserated with their families and the larger community,” he stressed.

It was revealed that the Security Council meeting discusses different security developments within the state and its borders.

EPL: Eze hat-trick sinks Tottenham, sends Arsenal six points clear

Eberechi Eze bagged a sensational hat-trick as Arsenal moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-1 demolition of north London ri…

Eberechi Eze bagged a sensational hat-trick as Arsenal moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-1 demolition of north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium.

Eze, who came close to joining Spurs before signing for Arsenal in August, delivered a ruthless masterclass in his first north London derby.

After Leandro Trossard opened the scoring, the England midfielder struck three superb goals to punish a shaky Spurs side and strengthen Arsenal’s title charge.

Tottenham briefly hinted at a comeback when Richarlison lobbed David Raya from 35 yards, but Arsenal were already 3-0 up, and Eze’s third, a brilliant curling finish beyond Guglielmo Vicario, killed the game.

The 27-year-old had made a relatively slow start to life at Arsenal following his £60 million move from Crystal Palace, but against the club he rejected, he delivered his best performance yet in red and white.

“That’s a good one, man. Enjoyable day. “Happy to help the team, and to win today was special,” Eze said.

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“I prayed for a hat-trick today. God gave it to me, and that is faith.”

Eze, once rejected by Arsenal as a teenager, has risen to become one of English football’s standout attacking talents. His display provided a major lift to Arsenal’s bid for a first Premier League title since 2004 after three consecutive second-place finishes.

It was the first hat-trick in a north London derby since 1978 and only the fourth in the long history of the rivalry.

Asked to pick his favourite, Eze chose his second goal, a crisp finish just 35 seconds into the second half.

“Maybe the second one. That was my favourite. All of them are good for me.”

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.