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Marcos assures readiness for landmark BARMM polls

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the public that the government is fully prepared to conduct the historic first regular parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) as the official campaign period begins Thursday.

Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo said the Marcos’ assurance comes after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced the completion of the printing of approximately 2.3 million official ballots for the September 14 BARMM parliamentary elections, allowing election preparations to move into the next phase of ballot verification, deployment and logistics.

Lagdameo quoted Comelec reports that said the successful completion of ballot printing reflects the poll body’s adherence to its timetable despite the adjustments brought about by the law resetting the BARMM polls from March to September this year.

The elections were rescheduled following the enactment of Republic Act No. 12317, signed by Marcos in March, to provide sufficient time for the implementation of the new parliamentary district configuration after the exclusion of Sulu from the autonomous region.

As candidates begin campaigning across the region starting today, government agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring peaceful, orderly and credible elections through close coordination among the Comelec, security forces and the Bangsamoro government.

The election is widely regarded as a defining moment in the Bangsamoro peace process as it will allow voters, for the first time, to directly elect members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, replacing the appointed Bangsamoro Transition Authority that has governed the region since its creation in 2019.

Political observers expect the campaign to focus on governance, economic development, peace and security, infrastructure, education and the continued implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, with competing political parties seeking to convince voters that they are best positioned to lead the autonomous region through its next phase of institution-building.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia earlier said the completed ballots will undergo strict verification procedures before they are delivered to the different voting centers to ensure compatibility with the automated election system and minimize technical issues on election day.

Security preparations have also intensified as authorities continue to implement election-related measures aimed at preventing violence and maintaining public order throughout the campaign and election periods.

Government officials have repeatedly emphasized that a successful parliamentary election is essential to strengthening democratic institutions in the Bangsamoro and sustaining the gains achieved under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

The first regular BARMM parliamentary elections are expected to usher in a fully elected regional parliament, a key milestone envisioned under the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the broader peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

With the campaign period now underway and election preparations entering their final stages, authorities expressed confidence that the September polls will demonstrate the country’s commitment to a peaceful, transparent and credible democratic exercise in the Bangsamoro region.

Shangri-La Colombo sets table for ‘Flavourful August’

This August, Shangri-La Colombo invites diners to discover an enticing calendar of culinary experiences spanning the robust flavours of Punjab, Sri Lanka’s treasured tea culture, an elevated land-and-sea dining experience and the traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Presented across the hotel’s signature restaurants and lounges, Flavourful August brings together visiting culinary personalities, imaginative menus and time-honoured flavours, offering something new to discover throughout the month.

Heart of Punjab with Chef Tikka Singh

From 13 to 16 August, Central Restaurant welcomes Chef Tikka Singh, a Punjabi dhaba cuisine expert renowned for his deep understanding of the region’s culinary heritage.

Rooted in authenticity and craftsmanship, Chef Tikka Singh’s exclusive dinner menu draws inspiration from the hearty cuisine of Punjab and the North-West Frontier. Recipes passed down through generations are brought to life with contemporary finesse, showcasing aromatic spices, traditional cooking techniques and the generous spirit that lies at the heart of Punjabi hospitality.

The experience will be available from 6.30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Central Restaurant.

Surf and Turf at Capital Bar and Grill

Throughout August, Capital Bar and Grill will present a refined three-course Surf and Turf menu, bringing together succulent lobster and premium Angus beef in a sophisticated celebration of land and sea.

Available daily from 6.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m., the experience adds another distinctive highlight to Shangri-La Colombo’s August dining calendar

Afternoon steeped in flavour

Every Sunday throughout August, Sapphyr Lounge will present the Wilmar Tea-Infused High Tea Experience from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

This distinctive interpretation of the traditional afternoon ritual features an inspired selection of savoury creations and decadent sweets, each delicately crafted with aromatic tea blends. Balancing flavour, elegance and tradition, the experience offers a leisurely way to discover tea through an imaginative culinary lens.

Wilmar Tea Journey: August Edition

The Wilmar Tea Journey continues throughout August with a collection inspired by the gentle floral character of chamomile.

The Golden Caravan Spritz brings together chamomile tea, gin, honey, lime juice and soda, while the alcohol-free Garden of Calm blends chamomile tea, honey, lime juice and soda water. A specially curated Tea Platter completes the journey, offering another expression of tea through flavour and food.

The August edition will be available during lunch and dinner at Shang Palace and from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Sapphyr Lounge.

Alcoholic beverages are available exclusively to guests of legal drinking age.

Treasures of Mid-Autumn Festival

From 25 August to 25 September, Shangri-La Colombo will celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with an elegant collection of handcrafted mooncakes.

Created in honour of unity, prosperity and good fortune, the collection will feature classic flavours presented with the artistry and refinement synonymous with Shangri-La. Designed for sharing with family, friends and business associates, each mooncake captures the warmth and symbolism of this cherished tradition.

The collection will be available at Shang Palace during lunch and dinner, at Little Gems in Sapphyr Lounge from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and at Central Café from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Summit Bank eyes N50bn Kano digital market

Summit Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and Nigeria’s expanding digital economy through its support for the newly inaugurated Hajaj-Zoec Digital Market in Kano.

The bank joined government officials, industry leaders and project stakeholders at the official commissioning of the market on Saturday. The initiative, designed as a major commercial hub for digital trade, is expected to create more than 100,000 jobs and generate an estimated N50 billion in annual economic activity while strengthening e-commerce across Nigeria and the wider African market.

Among the dignitaries at the event were the Kano State Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude; the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, represented by his Special Assistant (Technical), Kabir Aminu Dutse; former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris; Chairman of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Mansur Muhtah; and the Chief Executive Officer of Hajjaj Real Estate, Alhaji Jamilu Abdussalam.

The Hajaj-Zoec Digital Market was developed through a public-private partnership involving the Kano State Government, Hajjaj ZOEC Real Estate and ZOEC Construction, with Summit Bank serving as a key sponsor. Located in Tudun Wada, Sabon Gari, Kano, the project is expected to strengthen the state’s position as a leading commercial and technology hub.

Speaking at the event, Summit Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sirajo Salisu, said the project represents more than just a modern marketplace, describing it as a platform that combines physical and digital commerce to create new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

According to him, markets have always been central to enterprise, and the Hajaj-Zoec Digital Market reflects the next phase of commercial evolution by providing an ecosystem where businesses can expand, technology can flourish and entrepreneurs can thrive.

Dr. Salisu said Summit Bank, as a non-interest financial institution, remains committed to supporting productive enterprises beyond providing financial services.

‘We believe banking should do more than provide financial services; it should help create the conditions that allow businesses to flourish,’ he said, adding that stronger business ecosystems translate into job creation, improved livelihoods and sustainable community development.

Also speaking, Alhaji Abdussalam said the market has the potential to transform regional trade by providing an alternative sourcing destination for merchants.

‘We believe this market is not only an opportunity for Kano State or Northern Nigeria but for the entire African continent. Instead of travelling all the way to China to purchase goods in bulk, traders will be able to come to Kano and place their orders here,’ he said.

Designed as one of the largest purpose-built business hubs for electronic dealers, technology entrepreneurs, wholesalers, retailers and investors in Nigeria and West Africa, the facility will provide more than 1,500 trading spaces supported by modern amenities and digital infrastructure.

Summit Bank said its support for the project aligns with its broader mission of promoting ethical, transparent and customer-focused banking while fostering sustainable economic development through strategic partnerships.

The bank noted that the commissioning complements its growing engagement with Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises through initiatives such as its Market Storm activations across Kano, Kaduna and Abuja, where it provides financial education and banking services directly to traders and entrepreneurs.

Summit Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, deepen financial inclusion and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy through responsible, partnership-driven banking.

CRICKET-GSL-Scorchers snap Warriors’ winning streak to end GSL on a high

The Perth Scorchers may have been eliminated from the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League T20 tournament, but they bowed out in spectacular fashion on Wednesday night, handing the Guyana Amazon Warriors their first loss with a thrilling 14-run victory in Match 10 at the Guyana National Stadium.

Asked to bat first by the home side, the Scorchers laboured to a modest 135 all out in exactly 20 overs. But their bowlers produced an inspired defensive effort, defending the total by dismissing the table-topping Warriors for 121 in just 16.1 overs.

The Warriors, who had already secured their final berth with three consecutive wins, came out firing.

Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quentin Sampson raced to 47 runs in only 21 balls before Gurbaz was caught by Andre Fletcher at cover off Dian Forrester for a blistering 42 off 16 deliveries, featuring five sixes and two fours.

The wheels came off shortly after. Sampson was dismissed for three, Johnson Charles was bowled by Ashton Turner for 11, and the middle order crumbled as Mohammad Nabi 5, Gudakesh Motie 4, and power-hitter Romario Shepherd 7 fell in quick succession.

All hopes rested on Hetmyer, who fought valiantly for 31 before being bowled by Agar who finished with 2-29 off 2.1 overs.

Scorchers skipper Turner led the bowling attack with excellent figures of 3-20, while Sufyan Moqim chipped in with 2-18.

Earlier, the Scorchers’ batting lineup was torn apart by veteran off-spinner Mohammad Nabi and seamer Matthew Forde, who combined for six wickets.

Nabi returned miserly figures of 3-12 from four overs, while Forde struck early and finished with 3-21 off three.

At 78-8, Perth looked dead and buried. But Brody Couch and Dian Forrester staged a remarkable lower-order rescue act, putting on a 54-run partnership for the ninth wicket.

Couch smashed 43 off 30 balls with three sixes and four fours, while Forrester anchored the innings with an unbeaten 35 from 34 deliveries, dragging the Australian outfit to a defendable total.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors, already through to Saturday’s final, will now await the winner of Friday’s Qualifier between San Francisco Unicorns and Desert Vipers.

JAMAICA-EDUCATION – Jamaica pledges support for students remaining in crisis-hit Cuba

The government says it remains committed to supporting the approximately 270 Jamaican students still pursuing studies in Cuba amid the island’s ongoing energy crisis, with Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith assuring that assistance remains available for those facing challenges.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, Johnson Smith said her ministry continues to monitor the welfare of Jamaican students in Cuba, including 40 students enrolled through Cuban scholarships supported by the Jamaican government.

She said one privately funded student has formally notified authorities of his return to Jamaica, while more than 65 students, including five government scholarship recipients, have completed their medical studies for the 2025-2026 academic year.

‘Three others have indicated that they are in the process of continuing their studies elsewhere through academic transfer,’ Johnson Smith said, adding that the figures may not capture all students who have returned home because some privately funded students have not formally informed the government.

The minister said the government maintains communication channels with students to allow them to report their circumstances and seek assistance if needed.

Johnson Smith said students who wish to return to Jamaica are being offered support, including one-way travel assistance where affordability is a barrier.

‘Our concern remains for their safety, well-being, and academic continuity,’ she said, noting that prolonged electricity outages and limited public transportation in Cuba have created difficulties for students’ daily lives.

She added that the government is working with the Ministries of Education, Finance and Health, as well as medical institutions, to explore options for students who may wish to return and continue their studies in Jamaica.

The situation has been complicated by Cuba’s worsening energy crisis, which has resulted in frequent and extended power outages affecting education, transportation, food supplies and access to medical services.

Earlier this year, Johnson Smith said some Jamaican students reported that universities had temporarily suspended classes, while others shifted to online learning that was affected by unreliable electricity and internet access.

To strengthen communication with students, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs established a WhatsApp group linking approximately 320 students with officials in Kingston and the Jamaican Embassy in Havana. The platform also helped identify privately funded students who had not previously been registered with authorities.

Meanwhile, Johnson Smith said Jamaica has reaffirmed its support for the Cuban people through a US$100,000 humanitarian contribution made through the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

She said Jamaica continues to support a coordinated regional response to Cuba’s humanitarian challenges while encouraging dialogue between Cuba and the United States.

‘Civilian needs must remain the highest priority,’ Johnson Smith said, adding that CARICOM continues to advocate for constructive engagement as the most effective way to ease hardship among the Cuban population.

The minister also provided an update on Cuban medical professionals working in Jamaica following the conclusion of the long-standing health technical cooperation arrangement in March 2026.

She said some Cuban doctors who had previously left Jamaica have since returned and are working under individual contracts with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, while others who remained in Jamaica continue to provide services under similar arrangements.

Johnson Smith said Jamaica continues to recognize the significant contribution Cuban medical professionals have made to the country’s healthcare system over many years.

EU ready to play “active role” on Cyprus issue, Commission spokesperson says

The European Commission, through its spokesperson, appeared ready to play an ‘active role’ in the process of resolving the Cyprus issue ‘with all the means and tools at its disposal,’ stressing that it is also ready to participate in ‘all the relevant meetings,’ in response to questions about its position on the expanded 5+1 meeting that UN Secretary-General António Guterres intends, subject to conditions, to convene following his visit to Cyprus on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Commission spokesperson for Cohesion, Maciej Berezstecki, noted that ‘the EU is firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus on the basis of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, and in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, as well as in line with the principles, values and legislation of the EU.’

Regarding the EU’s position at the table of future negotiations, the spokesperson said on behalf of the Commission that ‘we are ready to play an active role in this process with all the means and tools at our disposal, and we are also ready to participate in all the relevant meetings.’

‘In this context, on 13 July, the European Commission appointed Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as Special Representative for Cyprus,’ the spokesperson added, noting that Fitto ‘will contribute to the settlement process within the UN framework, in close cooperation with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín, and will also engage with all relevant stakeholders and interlocutors in order to prepare the ground for the resumption of negotiations aimed at a comprehensive and lasting solution for all of Cyprus.’

The spokesperson recalled that Fitto will visit Cyprus today and tomorrow, for the first time in his new role as EU Special Representative.

Asked how the EU intends to be constructive so that a solution to the Cyprus issue can be reached soon, the Commission spokesperson repeated that ‘the EU is firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus, you’ve heard it many times from us.’

On the five-party meeting, he reiterated on behalf of the EU that ‘we are ready to play an active role in this process with all the means and tools at our disposal, and we are also ready to participate in all the relevant meetings.’

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, whose term nears its end, announced he would convene another meeting in broader format, after adequate preparation, but gave no timeline. He secured to that end the consensus of both sides and of the guarantor powers. María Angela Holguín, Guterres’ Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked to engage with the parties. Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto acts as the European Commission’s Special Representative for Cyprus, succeeding EU special envoy Johannes Hahn.

Gov Yusuf receives FG team ahead of groundbreaking for N1.05trn light rail project

The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has received a delegation from the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and Mota-Engil Nigeria ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the ?1.05 trillion Kano Light Rail Project recently approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The delegation, led by the Managing Director of MOFI, Dr Armstrong Ume Takang, and the Chairman of Mota-Engil Nigeria, Mr Kola Karim, met with the governor at the Kano State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, to brief him on preparations for the commencement of the project.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the light rail project, valued at ?1.05 trillion, is expected to revolutionise urban transportation in Kano by improving connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, and stimulating economic activities across the state.

Governor Yusuf reaffirmed the Kano State Government’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government and the project contractors to ensure the successful execution of what he described as a landmark infrastructure initiative.

He said the project represents a strategic investment that will reinforce Kano’s position as the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria while providing residents with a modern, safe, and efficient mass transit system.

The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the project, describing it as a significant intervention that would accelerate the state’s socio-economic development.

He also commended the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, for providing the necessary legislative support that helped facilitate the project.

The Kano Light Rail Project is expected to enhance mobility across the state, support business growth, and improve the overall transportation network upon completion.

CIC teams up with Philippines company to deepen micro-cover reach

CIC Insurance Group has partnered with Philippines’ largest microinsurance provider as it ramps up low-cost covers to strengthen a segment it pioneered 26 years ago.

The insurer, which secured a licence for a micro-insurance subsidiary in October last year, has partnered with CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA), becoming the latest underwriter to turn to Asia for expertise in scaling uptake of covers targeting the informal sector.

CIC first introduced a micro-insurance product in 2000 in partnership with Vision Fund Kenya (then known as Kenya Agency for the Development of Enterprise and Technology) and strengthened its offering in 2007 under the ‘Bima ya Jamii’ package. However, the segment lost momentum over time.

The insurer is now seeking to regain ground and challenge rivals such as Britam and APA, which have since established dedicated micro-insurance units.

‘The focus is to develop relevant products that can be afforded by the majority of Kenyans. This reflects our conviction that the future of insurance will not be defined by how we serve those who have access but how we effectively reach those who have been historically left behind,’ said Patrick Nyaga, chief executive at CIC Insurance Group.

CIC Impact, which is the CIC’s micro-insurance subsidiary, is targeting to expand its product lines in bid to capture Kenya’s informal sector which supports the majority of jobs in the economy.

CARD MBA will support CIC in areas such as building and scaling up micro-insurance products, strengthening governance, actuarial sustainability and risk management, as well as enhancing IT and management information systems.

The Philippines firm is the largest mutual micro-insurer in the South East Asia country where it insures more than 25 million individuals, giving it 83 percent market share. The firm currently settles claims within four hours.

‘We have to remember that we are not selling a product, we are strengthening the resilience of communities. We are here to offer expertise in areas such as technology and running a claims management system that can settle claims within hours,’ said Jaime Alip, founder and chairman emeritus at CARD.

Most of Kenya’s insurance products have resonated largely with the formal sector, leaving the insurance penetration in the economy at below three percent.

‘If we are to close this protection gap, we must go beyond conventional models and develop insurance solutions that are simple, affordable, relevant, and accessible to the people. This is the greatest opportunity before us as we partner with the best in class,’ said Nelson Kuria, chairman at CIC Group.

Annie Macaulay Covers 2Baba Tattoo With Butterfly

Nigerian actress, Annie Macaulay, has covered the tattoo of her ex-husband, singer 2Baba’s surname, with a butterfly design, signalling what many fans believe is another step in moving on from their marriage.

The new tattoo was spotted in photos she shared on Instagram on Tuesday night, where the butterfly appeared to cover the ‘Idibia’ tattoo on the left side of her chest.

The development comes about a year and a half after Annie and 2Baba’s widely publicised separation, which attracted significant attention across social media.

Days earlier, the actress had also shared a post about embracing a new chapter in her life, further fuelling speculation that she was putting the past behind her.

Although Annie has not publicly commented on the meaning of the new tattoo, many fans have interpreted the butterfly as a symbol of healing, transformation and new beginnings.

The former couple’s separation remains one of the most talked-about celebrity breakups in Nigeria, with both Annie and 2Baba continuing to make headlines since ending their marriage.

2027: Why Gov Kefas will be re-elected – Taraba APC spokesman

The publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Mr Aaron Artimas, stated on Wednesday that the ongoing township and inter-city projects in the state will persuade voters to re-elect Governor Agbu Kefas and the APC in 2027.

Mr Artimas also announced that a reconciliatory committee has been established to resolve internal party disputes and ensure a united APC ahead of the election.

While speaking with the Nigerian Tribune in Jalingo, he emphasised that the township and inter-city projects currently underway in Taraba reflect Governor Kefas’s genuine commitment to achieving transformative and infrastructural goals for the state.

Additionally, the APC spokesperson noted that Governor Kefas’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu is already having a positive impact, with new infrastructure set to connect Taraba to the wider world.

‘The ongoing projects across Taraba will convince the electorate to vote for Governor Agbu Kefas and APC in 2027 for continuity’. Aaron stated.

He expressed that the ongoing projects were not only changing the physical appearance of the entire Taraba community but also creating a space to attract investors for economic development and the growth of citizens.

Mr. Artimas commended President Bola Tinubu for reactivating the construction of Ibi bridge, the recently approved stretch of road linking Plateau and Taraba, as well as other major infrastructural projects in the state.

‘I think Tarabans are with Governor Agbu Kefas, they are with Tinubu and APC. The alignment of Governor Kefas with government at the centre is already attracting the desired transformation that Tarabans have been craving for.

‘The approval of major projects to be constructed in Taraba by President Tinubu will give the APC an edge over other political parties in the state.

The spokesperson also informed that the party’s state working committee is expected to move round Taraba to conduct a stocktaking to ensure that all grievances within are resolved, as stakeholders were already engaging aggrieved members to withdraw court cases against the party.

‘I want to assure you that the APC in Taraba is fully prepared to go into the 2027 election and win. Yes, we have pockets of internal grievances but our stakeholders are handling them to ensure a united APC family.

‘Our stakeholders are engaging the aggrieved members to withdraw court cases, and soon, the state working committee will start moving round for stocktaking across the 16 local governments to ensure that all grievances within the party are resolved,’ Aaron assured.