Author: user user

CENTCOM: US targets Iranian missile sites, drones and air defenses

The United States military has concluded its 12th consecutive night of strikes against Iran, according to a statement released by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), AzerNEWS reports.

CENTCOM said the latest wave of attacks targeted Iran’s maritime capabilities, facilities used to store missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), coastal surveillance sites, and air defense systems.

The command also stated that throughout this month, U.S. forces have carried out strikes against dozens of Iranian military installations on land while simultaneously re-establishing a naval blockade against Iran.

As of today, CENTCOM said it has redirected the routes of nine commercial vessels and disabled one ship as part of efforts to prevent maritime traffic from entering or departing Iranian ports.

Questions over N30bn for palaces, places of worship

Questions have trailed the allocation of N30.15 billion in the 2026 budget for the construction, renovation and furnishing of palaces and execution of some religious-related projects across the country.

A document released by a public accountability organisation, Tracka – an initiative of the BudgIT Foundation – revealed that a total of N22.15 billion was earmarked for renovation and furnishing of 106 palaces nationwide while N8 billion was budgeted for projects related to construction, renovation and other related support to churches and mosques across the country in the 2026 budget.

The huge allocations for maintenance and construction of palaces and religious institutions at a time when critical sectors such as health and education are begging for attention have raised concerns over government spending amid a N31.45 trillion budget deficit and rising debt obligations.

Tracka said its review showed that N1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while N6.14 billion was set aside for 52 mosque projects in different parts of the country.

The organisation explained that the allocations covered projects such as the construction and rehabilitation of worship centres, solar power installations, boreholes, musical equipment for churches, carpets, imam residences and facilities for Islamiyya schools.

Among the identified projects were a N1 billion allocation for musical and cultural equipment for churches in Abia State and another N1 billion for solar power installations at mosques in Zamfara State.

Findings by Daily Trust in previous related reports have shown that in most cases, lawmakers insert these projects into the budget lines of MDAs that lack the statutory mandate to execute them.

No locations for 11 palace projects worth N5.85bn

An extensive review of the budget document released by Tracka on Wednesday exposed widespread accountability loopholes, showing that 11 palace projects worth N5.85 billion have no identified physical locations, making public tracking and oversight impossible.

Also, none of the 45 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) saddled with executing these multi-billion-naira palace projects possesses the legal or statutory mandate to construct royal structures.

Instead, the federal government routed billions of naira meant for palaces through completely unrelated research institutes, agricultural colleges, and specialised health facilities, bypassing standard procurement scrutiny.

Among the allocations, the Federal Cooperative College, Ibadan in Oyo State was tasked with executing a N2.661 billion project for the ‘renovation of community halls and palaces in selected central communities in FNRP Lagos’ under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, alongside a N350 million project across six local government areas in Ekiti South, and a N210 million allocation in Ondo South.

The Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Abuja, was earmarked N1.54 billion under the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation for the ‘modernisation and furnishing of some selected national heritage palaces in communities across Nigeria.’

The Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), Lagos, was allocated projects totalling N3.92 billion, including N1 billion for pavilions and solar power at Oluyin Palace in Iyin Ekiti; N525 million for a palace hall at Ojo, Lagos; N337.13 million at Itire Ikate; N315 million for the Agbana of Isanlu palace in Kogi State; N315 million for the Ologidi Central Palace in Ogidi; N175 million for Ootunja Palace in Ikole LGA, Ekiti State; and N140 million for Otosho of Agbashi Palace in Nasarawa State.

The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria was designated to handle N750 million for the completion and furnishing of the Olu-Adde Palace of Ekinrin Adde, Akinrin Palace in Ekinrin Adde, Obaro Kabba Palace, and Olujumu Palace in Iyara, Kogi State. The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOURS) was allocated N700 million for palaces and offices in Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, Plateau State.

The National Horticultural Research Institute, Ibadan, was slotted for N560 million for Emirs’ palaces in Zone B, Niger State; N350 million for the Etsu Nupe Palace in Bida; and N175 million in Obokun/Oriade, Osun State.

The Nigeria Stored Products Research Institute, Ilorin, captured N595 million for palace houses in the Niger Delta, and N210 million for the Olu Gbede Central Palace in Ijumu LGA, Kogi State.

The Federal Cooperative College, Oji River in Enugu State, was assigned N500 million for palaces in Ondo South; N200 million for the Obi Palace pavilion in Aniocha/Oshimili, Delta State; and N175 million for the Emir Palace in Shonga. The National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi in Niger State, was allocated N400 million to construct traditional rulers’ palaces in Oruk Anam LGA, Akwa Ibom State.

The Industrial Arbitration Panel was assigned N369.46 million for an internal access road and palace road in Oyun LGA, Kwara State. The Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) was earmarked N350 million for the palace of the District Head of Paiko. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Headquarters captured N350 million and N140 million for palaces in Kwara South.

The Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Kuru, Jos, was allocated N350 million for the palace of the Okumagbe of Iuleha in Edo State. The Cocoa Research Institute, Ibadan, was assigned N280 million for a mosque and palace in Oyo State; N210 million for Okeluse Oba Palace in Ondo State; and N210 million in Obokun/Oriade, Osun State.

The Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin-Kowa, Gombe, was allocated N280 million for VIP guest palaces in Gombe State; N200 million for district heads’ palaces in Yalmaltu-Deba; and N140 million in Balanga/Billiri. The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) was tasked with constructing palaces for Eze Odani, Eze Odu, and Odolukwu of Elelenwo in Rivers State for N280 million.

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Headquarters was allocated N280 million for palaces in Kuje Amuwo, Lagos State, and Ilawe Ekiti. The Energy Commission of Nigeria was assigned N250 million for a palace hall at Awo, Osun State.

The National Productivity Centre captured N224 million and N140 million for Obas’ palaces in Ogun State; N210 million for Mopa Central Palace, Kogi State; N210 million for palaces in Epinmi Akoko and Ibaka, Ondo State; N200 million in Akungba Akoko, Ondo; and N140 million for Malabu District Head Palace in Adamawa State.

The Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO), Oshodi, was tasked with N217 million for Obas’ palaces in Ogun State. The National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Jos, was earmarked N210 million for the Okumagbe of Iuleha Palace in Edo State. The Chad Basin River Basin Development Authority was assigned N200 million for solar street lights at Mai Gudi Palace, Yobe State.

The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) was allocated N200 million under the Ministry of Health to renovate district heads’ palaces in Gudu/Tangaza, Sokoto State. The Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research received N175 million for solar modules for palaces in Ijumu and Kabba Bunu, Kogi State.

The Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority was earmarked N175 million to complete the Ogoga Palace Hall in Ikere Ekiti. The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) was assigned N150 million for a palace in Oba Akoko, Ondo State. The National Centre for Technology Management, Ile-Ife, Osun State, was tasked with N150 million for the Ataoja of Osogbo Palace. The Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority was earmarked N150 million to complete Eze Elelenwo Palace.

The Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom, was allocated N140 million for Emir palaces and a mosque in Birnin Gwari/Giwa, Kaduna State. The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) was tasked with N140 million for an Obi Palace pavilion in Delta State. The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Dawanau, was listed among implementing agencies executed to construct and renovate palaces to the tune of N42 million.

Kalu explains N1bn church allocation

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu explained that the N1 billion allocation for churches in his Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State was not meant solely for the purchase of musical instruments, as widely reported, but was part of a broader youth reorientation and social support programme.

In a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the Deputy Speaker said the project was designed to support faith-based organisations in promoting moral values, youth mentoring and campaigns against social vices.

He said the programme would focus on tackling issues such as drug abuse, sexual offences and violent crimes through community engagement and outreach activities.

According to the statement, the actual amount available for the programme after deductions, including Value Added Tax (VAT), is about N780 million.

‘The intervention is not about instruments alone. It is about leveraging trusted community structures to reorient our youths, promote unity and sustain moral instruction,’ the statement said.

Kalu’s office explained that the reference to ‘musical instruments’ in the budget description did not fully capture the scope of the intervention, which would include evangelical tools, public address systems and other equipment needed for community outreach.

The statement added that Bende Federal Constituency has 13 federal political wards and more than 200 churches, with the first phase of the programme expected to cover 130 churches. Each beneficiary church would receive intervention packages estimated between N5 million and N6 million.

Defending the initiative, Kalu said nation-building required investment beyond physical infrastructure.

‘Nation-building must go beyond roads and physical infrastructure. Government must also invest in building the character and value system of the people who use the infrastructure using various value-delivery platforms,’ he said.

The Deputy Speaker also dismissed claims that churches had already received the funds or equipment, stating that no disbursement had been made because the 2026 budget was yet to be implemented.

He explained that the federal government was still implementing the 2024 and 2025 budgets, making it impossible for any project under the 2026 Appropriation Act to have commenced.

Kalu’s office further disclosed that a letter of corrigendum had been initiated to correct what it described as a technical error in the budget description, allowing the Budget Office and the National Assembly’s Appropriations Committee to amend the wording before implementation.

What N8bn allocations can do for healthcare

A review of current market prices of medical equipment obtained from the websites of Nigerian biomedical equipment suppliers, including Gijuwie Biomedical Electronics Company Limited and Standard Medics Global Limited, shows that the N8.05 billion earmarked for religious projects could have supported the equipping of hundreds of primary healthcare facilities across the country.

The two companies, which supply, install and service medical and laboratory equipment for hospitals and clinics, list prices for critical healthcare tools ranging from diagnostic machines and laboratory equipment to maternity and emergency care devices.

Based on the prevailing prices of equipment sourced from the suppliers, a basic but functional primary healthcare centre would require between N35 million and N50 million for essential medical equipment, depending on the quality, brand and scope of services. Using this estimate, the N8.05 billion allocation could have provided equipment packages for between 160 and 230 primary healthcare centres nationwide.

For instance, a basic portable ultrasound machine currently sells between N2.5 million and N3.5 million, while patient monitoring machines cost between N1 million and N1.5 million.

A standard laboratory unit requires equipment such as haematology analysers for blood tests, which cost between N3.8 million and N4.2 million, and chemistry analysers estimated at between N1.2 million and N3.5 million, according to prices listed by medical equipment suppliers.

The funds could also provide essential maternity and emergency equipment needed in rural health facilities.

A delivery bed costs between N500,000 and N2 million, while fetal Doppler machines used for monitoring unborn babies are estimated at between N150,000 and N300,000.

Other essential items include oxygen concentrators, which cost between N300,000 and N1 million, suction machines estimated between N290,000 and N1 million, and sterilisation equipment such as autoclaves that range from about N1.5 million to N8 million, depending on capacity.

‘Nigeria needs reset over religious spending’

Political analyst Jide Ojo criticised the N8bn allocations for the construction, renovation and equipping of churches and mosques, describing it as an inappropriate use of public funds.

Ojo, who spoke on the controversy surrounding the allocations, said religious activities and projects should largely remain private affairs of citizens, arguing that government resources should be channelled towards sectors that benefit the wider population.

‘I am baffled at the enormous resources that the Nigerian government, both at the federal and state levels, has provided for religious rites, pilgrimage, renovation and building of religious worship centres,’ Ojo said.

He argued that government involvement in funding religious projects was misplaced, especially at a time when critical sectors such as education and infrastructure require urgent attention.

‘You are talking of money to do infrastructure, yet you have provided billions for mosque and church renovations. Does that make sense?’ he asked.

The analyst said politicians often support religious projects because of the influence religious leaders wield over their followers, describing such interventions as a form of political patronage.

‘They want to be seen as pious, to be seen as friends of the church or friends of the mosque. They know that people listen to their religious leaders, whether Christian or Muslim,’ he said.

Ojo said the billions being spent on religious activities could be better deployed to improve the condition of schools across the country.

‘Many of our schools, primary, secondary, even tertiary, are in dilapidated conditions. Why can’t we fix that?’ he queried.

He noted that several countries with strong religious populations do not involve the government in financing religious activities, citing the need for Nigeria to rethink its approach.

‘Have you ever heard of a state government or federal government in the United States sponsoring people on religious trips to either Saudi Arabia or Jerusalem? I think we need a brain reset for our leaders,’ he said.

Ojo also raised concerns about possible demands from adherents of traditional religions if the government continues to fund Christian and Islamic projects.

He cited the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as an example, arguing that traditional worshippers could also demand government support for their religious sites.

‘What about the traditional religious worshippers? They also have a right to demand that the government should come and build or maintain their shrines,’ he said.

The analyst said the government’s role should be limited to promoting religious harmony and ensuring that no group infringes on the rights of another.

Ojo, however, acknowledged that lawmakers often receive requests from constituents and religious groups seeking support, but insisted that such interventions should not become budgetary commitments funded with public resources.

Dambulla Sixers end Galle Gallants’ unbeaten run

A masterful batting display by Reeza Hendricks saw Dambulla Sixers beat Galle Giants by six wickets in the second game played at the Rangiri Dambulla Cricket Stadium yesterday, and end their unbeaten run in the Lanka Premier League tournament.

Galle Gallants was the only team to win their first two games played at the SSC, but a change of venue seems to have deserted their luck.

Coming at the fall of the first wicket at 26, Hendricks ensured that he remained till the end to see Dambulla Sixers home with 23 balls to spare. He paced the chase perfectly to remain unbeaten on a 37-ball 64 that comprised 9 fours and a six.

The key was Hendricks’ stand of 69 off 47 balls with Marques Ackerman (35 off 25). They were allowed to play with minimal risk due to the 29 off 11 balls cameo from Pavan Rathnayake. The finishing touches to the win was put by Gulbadin Naib who slammed 20* off six balls that included three sixes.

However, the key to Dambulla Sixers’ win was done earlier with the ball when they tied down Galle Gallants at the death, picking up four wickets for 28 in the final four overs. Fazalhaq Farooqi was the pick of the bowlers with 3/39 bowling at the death. Galle Gallants finished on 178-8, definitely below what they had been targeting when Chamika Karunaratne (45 off 30 balls, 4 fours, 2 sixes) and Dasun Shanaka (20 off 10, 1 four, 2 sixes) were going strong adding 43 off 25 balls.

Apart from Farooqi, Ackerman also played a key role by getting rid of Charith Asalanka for 25 to break a dangerous stand of 64 off 37 balls with Sam Harper (40 off 22 balls, 3 fours, 3 sixes). He also picked up the wicket of Sahan Arachchige for six in the middle overs that fetched 93 runs.

Hendricks was named Player of the Match.

Scores:

Galle Gallants 178-8 (20) (Sam Harper 40, Charith Asalanka 25, Chamika Karunaratne 45, Dasun Shanaka 20, Fazalhaq Farooqi 3/39, Marques Ackerman 2/27) vs. Dambulla Sixers 180-4 (16.1) (Reeza Hendricks 64*, Pavan Rathnayake 29, Marques Ackerman 35, Gulbadin Naib 20*)

2026 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards gets distinguished panel of judges

The 2026 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards ceremony was held last night at the Sheraton Manila Hotel. For the Inquirer’s second year of recognizing and celebrating remarkable ESG initiatives, six distinguished judges provided their expertise and insights in assessing this year’s submissions through a series of rigorous evaluations.

The judges were divided into two panels that evaluated the participants’ written submissions, where shortlisted qualifiers had the opportunity to present their entries before the panel.

Environment Category

Ann Margret Francisco. With an extensive 17 years of experience in the Philippine power industry, Ann Margret Francisco, Asia-Pacific director and Philippine country manager at the Global Wind Energy Council, brings commercial and regulatory perspective to the panel. Her career spans key roles, starting in the public sector as an energy trader before moving to the private sector, where she spent over a decade managing renewable energy portfolios and business models. Since 2016, she has focused on renewable energy projects and business development. Her experience in both government and private sectors has given her a deep understanding of the energy landscape.

Dr. Mylene Cayetano. Dr. Cayetano is professor and scientist at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, and concurrently serves as assistant vice president in the Office of the Vice President for Development, UP System Administration. She brings to the panel a working scientist’s view of both atmospheric and emerging pollutant issues, with work that spans applying science to policy, collaborating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau on community interventions. As founding head of the Environmental Pollution Studies Laboratory, she aims to provide evidence-based scientific information leading to solutions that address pressing and emerging environmental pollution issues in the Philippines and Asia through teaching, research, extension, and service.

Dr. Neil Aldrin Mallari. The president and chief scientist of the Center for Conservation Innovations Philippines, Dr. Neil Aldrin Mallari is a distinguished conservation scientist and senior leader with more than three decades of experience in biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development. He co-developed the LAWIN Forest and Biodiversity Protection System and the Enhanced Biodiversity Monitoring System, both of which have strengthened the management of protected and conserved areas through improved enforcement and evidence-based decision-making. His contributions to conservation science and practice have been recognized nationally and internationally, including his distinction as a 2025 TOFIL Laureate, Ashoka Fellow, and National Geographic Explorer.

Social, Governance, and Other Categories

Dr. Leland Joseph dela Cruz. With his background and research focusing on corporate social entrepreneurship, Dr. Dela Cruz serves as the assistant vice president for social and environmental engagement for development and sustainability, and Laudato Si coordinator at Ateneo de Manila University. A seasoned associate professor of development studies at the same university where he has taught for more than 30 years, he holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from UP Diliman, as well as a master’s degree in Economics and a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Ateneo.

Dr. Gary Ador Dionisio. A respected political analyst and governance expert, Dr. Gary Ador Dionisio currently serves as the dean of the School of Diplomacy and Governance at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde and vice president of the Philippine Society for Public Administration. He holds a Doctor of Public Administration from UP NCPAG and a Master of Arts in Political Science from De La Salle University-Manila. With his deep-rooted experience in sector leadership and policy formulation, he is a local governance specialist, providing policy and governance advice to provincial governors and local chief executives, alongside providing expert commentary on a wide range of issues, including democratic governance, public administration, local governance issues, and international affairs.

Atty. PoL Sangalang. With more than three decades of legal professional experience, Atty. PoL Sangalang is a seasoned human capital governance strategist and educator. Currently the national chair of the Corporate Governance Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, his career includes serving as executive director of the National Labor Relations Commission-Department of Labor and Employment, chief legislative officer at the Philippine Senate, and university legal counsel of the University of the Philippines System. Today, he continues to share his expertise as a lecturer at the Philippine Law School, the UP School of Labor and Industrial Relations, and the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education program of the Supreme Court, while serving as mentor to business leaders, HR practitioners, and various organizations in the Philippines

Bukidnon IPs celebrate 51st ‘Alrew te Matigsalug’ heritage

As the morning sun rose over Barangay Sinuda in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, the national highway came alive with a sea of vibrant beadwork, handwoven garments, and the rhythmic beat of indigenous music as the Matigsalug people celebrated the 51st Alrew te Matigsalug, a tribute to a heritage that has endured for generations.

Children walked proudly beside elders dressed in traditional Indigenous Peoples (IPs)attire, while community members gathered to honor the customs of the Matigsalug, which means ‘people of the Salug River.’ For many, the celebration was more than a festival-it was a living expression of identity passed from one generation to the next.

The weeklong observance blended community activities with cultural traditions.

Sports competitions, Nutrition Month activities, a drug symposium, and a patronal fiesta with a procession and Holy Mass preceded the highlights of Laha te Matigsalug 2026, a cultural beauty pageant.

The celebration culminated on July 16 with a civic parade, cultural presentations, championship basketball games, an awarding ceremony, and a community concert.

The heart of the celebration, however, belonged to the tribe’s cultural performances.

The haunting chants of Ulagingan, the graceful Bangkakaw dance, indigenous music, and traditional rituals reflected stories, beliefs, and practices preserved long before the arrival of modern influences.

Matigsalug elders and cultural bearers showcase traditional handcrafted tools, weapons, and beadwork during the 51st Aldew te Matigsalug celebration in Barangay Sinuda, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. Community members gathered around the exhibit, highlighting the tribe’s enduring craftsmanship and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage for future generations. (Photo by Kitaotao LGU)

For the Matigsalug, Alrew te Matigsalug is a reminder that culture is not confined to museums or history books.

It is found in the language they speak, the clothes they weave, the songs they sing, and the traditions they continue to teach their children.

Tribal leaders said the annual gathering strengthens unity among Matigsalug communities while encouraging younger generations to value and preserve their ancestral heritage.

The Matigsalugs are among Bukidnon’s recognized indigenous peoples, with communities in Kitaotao and neighboring areas of Davao Region.

Once known as hunter-gatherers living along the Salug River, they continue to adapt to modern life while keeping alive the traditions that define who they are.

Through Alrew te Matigsalug, they reaffirm that their culture remains vibrant, resilient, and deeply rooted in the land of their ancestors.

Araghchi: Our defense principle is ‘eye for eye’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Wednesday that the country’s defense doctrine is “an eye for an eye,” in the wake of United States President Donald Trump’s threats, AzerNEWS reports.

“Any aggression against Iran, including our infrastructure, will compel a powerful and decisive response,” Araghchi wrote in a post on his X account, adding that “those who contribute to such aggression, whatever the kind of support, will also be considered as legitimate targets.”

Earlier in the day, Trump threatened Tehran with attacks on Iranian bridges and power plants, and warned that Iran will “pay a big price” for killing US troops.

On the other hand, Iran threatened to target the region’s energy infrastructure if attacked.

Oyo Assembly approves Makinde’s request to proceed on annual vacation

The Oyo State House of Assembly has approved the request of Governor Seyi Makinde to proceed on Annual vacation with effect from August 10, 2026 with subsequent transmission of power to the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal.

The approval followed the consideration of a formal correspondence from Governor Makinde during plenary, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires a governor to notify the legislature whenever he intends to be away from office.

The governor, as contained in the letter, will officially resume office on September 14, 2026.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi, who presided over the plenary in the absence of the Speaker, Rt Honorable Adebo Ogundoyin, on Thursday, read the governor’s letter before members.

The lawmakers unanimously granted the request while expressing confidence in the seamless continuity of governance in the state under the deputy governor.

In the letter, Governor Makinde informed the Assembly that he would be embarking on his annual leave and requested the House’s approval to enable the Deputy Governor to act on his behalf during his absence.

Following the approval, the House affirmed that Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal would oversee the day-to-day administration of the state, ensuring that government activities continue uninterrupted until Governor Makinde resumes duty.

Speaking after the approval, the Deputy Speaker wished the governor a peaceful and refreshing leave, noting that the legislature remained committed to sustaining cordial relations with the executive arm in the interest of the people of Oyo State.

The Deputy Speaker also expressed confidence in the Deputy Governor’s capacity to provide effective leadership during the period, as evidenced in the past, describing the state’s governance structure as stable and capable of ensuring continuity in policy implementation.

Lawmakers, in separate remarks, commended Governor Makinde for complying with constitutional provisions by formally notifying the House, describing the action as another demonstration of respect for the rule of law and democratic governance.

The Assembly subsequently directed that its resolution approving the governor’s annual leave be communicated to the executive arm for necessary action.

Jaffna Kings pull off thrilling five-run win

The Colombo Kaps, having lost their captain Kusal Mendis, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 with a hamstring injury, and with several of their players under the weather, lost a tight LPL contest to Jaffna Kings by a mere five runs in the first of two matches played at the Rangiri Dambulla Cricket Stadium yesterday.

Mendis sustained a right hamstring injury while attempting a run during the Colombo Kaps’ match against the Kandy Royals on 19 July at the SSC Ground, and will return to the National High Performance Centre to commence his rehabilitation program, stated a media release from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

Jaffna Kings made a steady start, with the opening pair Avishka Fernando and Kamil Mishara putting on 65 off 53 balls before Wanuja Sahan finally broke the stand, removing Mishara for 39. Not long after, Milan Rathnayake cleaned up Fernando for 34 to leave the Kings needing to start afresh.

Chamindu Wickramasinghe, promoted to number three, lifted the scoring rate with a flurry of big hits and crisp boundaries. Just as Jaffna Kings looked set to accelerate, Mujeeb Ur Rahman struck twice in the 16th over to halt their progress and swing the momentum back in Colombo Kaps’ favour.

Colombo Kaps were not at their sharpest in the field, putting down three catches, missing a couple of run-out opportunities, and gifting away extra runs through sloppy misfields even though their bowlers kept a tight leash on the scoring and did not allow the middle order to settle. Wickramasinghe’s entertaining knock of 43 from 22 balls (4 fours, 2 sixes) ended when Shahnawaz Dahani bowled him attempting an audacious reverse ramp. Mujeeb and Dahani took the bowling honours with two wickets each.

The Colombo Kaps began disastrously losing their first two wickets for nine that saw them struggling for momentum at 37-3 after six overs. Kamindu Mendis, leading Colombo Kaps in the absence of his namesake Kusal Mendis, was the lone spark. He looked in total control as he rotated the strike and found the boundaries with ease to bring up his 50 off 34 balls. But Traveen Mathew, who made the initial breakthrough, returned to deliver another massive blow, getting Kamindu Mendis caught at deep cover for 58 (42 balls, 3 fours, 2 sixes). Sharujan Shanmuganathan looking to free his arms was caught out at deep square leg as the Colombo Kaps lost their way, tumbling to 114-7 in the 16th over. Jaffna Kings were exceptional in the field, taking every chance that came their way, and kept a tight leash on the run rate.

Having made five changes to their line-up, the Colombo Kaps looked sloppy; their batting unit failed to gel and their earlier lapses in the field ultimately came back to haunt them. Late fireworks from Rathnayake (15 off 8) and Sahan (35* off 15) only served to reduce the margin of defeat. It was a complete team performance in the field by the defending champions, who seem to have found their feet after losing their first match.

Lizaad Williams with three wickets led the bowling honours, with Mathews and Dilshan Madushanka chipping in with two apiece. Wickramasinghe was made Player of the Match. – [ST]

Scores:

Jaffna Kings 179-6 (20) (Avishka Fernando 34, Kamil Mishara 39, Chamindu Wickramasinghe 43, Mujeeb Ur Rahman 2/33, Shahnawaz Dahani 2/25)

Colombo Kaps 174-9 (20) (Kamindu Mendis 58, Sharujan Shanmuganathan 26, Wanuja Sahan 35*, Dilshan Madushanka 2/12, Traveen Mathew 2/21, Lizaad Williams 3/30)

INEC urges Oyo residents to take advantage of CVR extension date

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged eligible residents of Oyo State to take advantage of the two-week extension of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and avoid waiting until the final days before the registration window closes.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Rahmon Adeniran Tella, who reiterated that the ongoing third and final phase of the CVR exercise will end on Sunday, July 26, 2026, despite the earlier two-week extension granted by the commission.

According to the statement, the extension was approved to enable more eligible Nigerians to register and update their voter records ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The REC said the extension is for citizens who have attained the age of 18, those registering for the first time, voters seeking to transfer their registration, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards, or correct their personal details.

Tella, in the statement, urged prospective registrants not to wait until the closing days of the exercise, warning that doing so could result in unnecessary congestion, long queues and avoidable disappointment at registration centres.

He also announced that the commission had introduced a Self-Service Online Registration Portal for first-time voters through cvr.inecnigeria.org, describing it as a major innovation aimed at making the registration process more accessible and convenient.

According to him, the online platform allows first-time voters to complete their registration without physically visiting INEC offices, thereby reducing crowding and enabling applicants to register at their convenience.

The REC, however, advised all eligible residents of Oyo State to take advantage of the online facility and complete their registration within the stipulated period.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent, inclusive and credible voter registration exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.

’A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone’ launched at Monaragala and Batticaloa Investor Forums

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), together with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) has launched its ‘A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone’ (Samata Kotasak, Samata Ekakayak) initiative at the investor forums in Monaragala and Batticaloa last week as part of an ongoing countrywide initiative to broaden investor participation.

The forums were held in Monaragala on 16 July at the Silanrich Hotel and in Batticaloa on 18 July at the FG Golden River Hotel. The forums attracted over 500 participants across both locations.

The ‘A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone’ concept, developed by the SEC Chairman Senior Prof. D.B.P.H. Dissabandara, aims to promote a shared commitment to creating wealth and value within a fair, efficient, orderly, and transparent capital market by ensuring broad and accessible participation for all.

Under this initiative, the SEC and CSE will conduct investor forums across the country to enhance investor education and awareness, while encouraging greater investor participation beyond the Western Province. Leveraging the CSE’s nationwide presence and growing interest in the equity market, the programme will provide investors with increased access to the Sri Lankan capital market through both stockbroking firms and unit trust management companies.

The initiative will also offer forum participants the opportunity to receive investment coupons sponsored by the SEC and CSE, which can be used to support their equity investments.

The Investor Forums opened with presentations by senior economists from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, including N. B. Janagan and Kasunka Herath, who provided a high-level overview of the country’s macroeconomic landscape.

The session also featured presentations by representatives of leading stockbroking firms, including First Capital Holdings PLC Vice President – Corporate Finance and Advisory Atchuthan Srirangan and HNB Stockbrokers Director – Sales Kapila Pathirage offering participants an overview of the capital market and its investment opportunities

Representatives from the unit trust industry conducted an introductory seminar on the operation and benefits of unit trusts. Speakers included Softlogic Asset Management Ltd., Manager- Business Development Kumudu Kekirideniya and Softlogic Asset Management Business Development Officer Mohamed Ashfer who introduced participants to the fundamentals of unit trust investing.

Both forums concluded with the highlight panel discussion and Q and A segment, which brought the diverse perspectives of the speakers and members of the SEC and CSE together to explore Sri Lankan equities. Panellists included the forums speakers as well as CSE Executive – Vice President Niroshan Wijesundere, as well as SEC Senior Manager of External Relations Sheena Goonaratna and Manager of External Relations Nimal Kumarasinghe.

During the investor forums, prospective investors were able to meet representatives from stockbroker firms and unit trusts to open accounts, with the first four-hundred participants being eligible to receive investment coupons gifted by the SEC and CSE.

The forums were conducted amidst a remarkable six-year growth in the capital market which saw the All-Share Price Index (ASPI) rise from 4,846 points in May 2020 to 22,310.80 points by the end of May 2026. This represents a growth of 360% and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 28.98% – with capital gains remaining tax-free.