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’Signature’ Debuts On Billboard US Afrobeats Chart

‘Signature’, an Afrobeat song by Ghanaian artiste KiDi featuring Lasmid, has entered the Billboard US Afrobeats chart this week.

The track currently sits at No. 39 on the chart, further highlighting its growing dominance in the music space.

Last week, it peaked at No. 30 after debuting at No. 40. This marks its 11th week on the chart.

‘Signature’, released on April 29, 2026, is a massive hit collaboration between Afrobeats stars KiDi and Lasmid.

Produced by Ugly and Tough, the smooth Afropop-meets-Highlife record topped the Apple Music charts in Ghana for over a week.

The song has taken over the Ghanaian music scene, resonating heavily with fans across Accra and beyond.

Budget Minister reaffirms FG’s commitment to Agri-food system transformation

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agrifood system through stronger collaboration, institutional reforms, science-driven agriculture and increased private-sector investment to achieve national food security and reduce poverty.

Speaking during the second biannual meeting of the Agrifood Systems Working Group (ASWG), convened by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Abuja, Bagudu commended the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, for leading the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) 2026-2035.

He noted that the continental framework aligned with Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to building a resilient and inclusive food system.

The Minister of Budget stressed that although the African Union’s agricultural agenda runs from 2026 to 2035, food security remains central to Nigeria’s development agenda and is enshrined in the Constitution, which describes agriculture as a shared responsibility of the Federal, State and Local Governments within the country’s cooperative federal system.

Bagudu highlighted the scale of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, disclosing that the country has more than 42 million agricultural households, predominantly smallholder family farms, which he described as the backbone of the nation’s food system.

He said supporting these households to become more productive and profitable remained critical to ensuring food security, generating surplus production, reducing poverty and stimulating economic growth.

‘The success of Nigeria’s food system depends on empowering our millions of farming households with the support, technology, financing and market opportunities they need to produce more efficiently and improve their incomes,’ he said.

According to a statement by the minister’s media team, Bagudu reiterated the strategic importance of agriculture and cited key institutional reforms, including the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the integration of fisheries into the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, to strengthen specialised interventions across the agricultural value chain.

He also highlighted ongoing government initiatives to de-risk agriculture, including increased support for the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), to expand agricultural financing, improve land development and promote climate-resilient farming practices.

Bagudu emphasised that agriculture must no longer be seen solely as the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, describing it as a sector that requires coordinated contributions from science, technology, finance, women, youth, research institutions and the private sector.

He underscored the need to modernise agricultural production through innovation and scientific research, noting that improved technology would increase productivity and profitability while attracting greater investment into the sector.

Describing Nigeria’s agricultural sector as predominantly private-sector-driven, the minister said government policies were focused on creating an enabling environment that allowed farmers and agribusinesses to thrive, while ensuring coordinated support across all levels of government.

Bagudu further called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address domestic and global challenges affecting food systems, including rising fertiliser and energy costs driven by international conflicts, as well as trade distortions that threaten local agricultural production through subsidised imports.

While acknowledging that security challenges had affected agricultural productivity in parts of the country, he said significant progress had been made in restoring farming activities in previously affected communities, particularly in the North-East, where improved harvests demonstrated the resilience of Nigerian farmers.

Osun guber: Ekiti Accord candidate mobilises support for Adeleke

The Accord Party governorship candidate in the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Hon. Opeyemi David Falegan (ODF), has called on the people of Osun to re-elect Governor Ademola Adeleke in the August 15, 2026 governorship election, describing the governor’s first-term performance as worthy of continuity.

Falegan said Governor Adeleke had demonstrated purposeful leadership by ensuring the equitable distribution of infrastructural projects across the state and improving the welfare of workers and pensioners.

In a statement made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, the Accord Party chieftain warned Osun residents against ‘gambling with another golden opportunity’ to move the state to greater heights.

According to him, the state must not be allowed to return to the era of irregular and half payment of workers’ salaries, stressing that the current administration has restored confidence in governance through prompt salary payments and improved workers’ welfare.

Falegan noted that Governor Adeleke’s administration has recorded remarkable achievements in infrastructure, including the construction and rehabilitation of hundreds of kilometres of roads across the state.

He also highlighted the construction of major flyovers and the dualisation of roads in Osogbo, Ile-Ife, Iwo, Ikirun and other towns, as well as the rehabilitation of bridges and expansion of urban road networks.

On workers’ welfare, Falegan commended the governor for maintaining regular payment of salaries, settling inherited salary arrears and pension liabilities, and implementing an improved minimum wage for state workers.

He described the initiatives as evidence of a people-oriented administration committed to improving the living conditions of citizens.

The former governorship candidate particularly appealed to Ekiti indigene and indigene of other states residing in Osun State to come out in large numbers and vote for Governor Adeleke, saying continuity would consolidate the developmental strides already recorded.

‘Governor Adeleke has laid a solid foundation for sustainable development. The people should protect these gains by voting massively for continuity on August 15,’ Falegan said.

He expressed confidence that another four-year term would enable the governor to complete ongoing projects and accelerate the socio-economic development of Osun.

New Tune For Double Track System

All is not well with government’s management of the educational system as the elapsing days are beginning to show.

Having condemned the initiatives of the previous government in the educational sector, especially the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy and the double track system intended to address the surge in senior high school admissions, many thought there was a game-changer up the sleeves of the grandmasters of propaganda when they shouted their voices hoarse on the campaign trail about something new in the horizon – hot air it has turned out.

Time has proven that there is absolutely nothing to write home about the high pitched noise.

Just when the countdown for the scrapping of the double track system is on the verge of commencing, a bombshell is announced – the promised date is shifted to a period when the current government would have exited Jubilee House.

Information reaching the public yesterday was that the much-trumpeted scrapping of the double track system, a campaign entry of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2024 polls, has witnessed a metamorphosis from 2027 to 2029.

In order words, the current political administration will live with the system for the rest of their tenure.

There must be something wrong which without doubt government is hiding from Ghanaians. Is that what scamming means?

It would be better to tell Ghanaians about the realities on the ground for which reason the campaign message cannot be implemented. For now, all other stuff transmitted to us by minders of government information will be taken with a pinch of salt.

Governance is about sincerity not propaganda. The double track scrap shift date made headlines as soon as it was released because of the confidence with which government assured Ghanaians they were going to scrap the system when they condemned the novelty.

It would be in order to simply announce that the double track system is going nowhere for the lifetime of the government and just shut up, period.

The reality of governance has soon dawned on the NDC having landed power through subterfuge and outright lies about their predecessors.

Within a year and a half at the helm, the unfeasibility of promised sugar-coated policies are becoming glaring and Ghanaians are learning the art of sieving the chaff from the grains, the hard way of course.

One thing for sure is that no apologies will be rendered to Ghanaians for the failed promises.

Whatever happened to the announced cabinet approved GHS3 billion educational expansion programme sourced from government revenues and newly secured international loans including a $300 million World Bank facility as a major intervention to scrap the double track system?

What informed the rushed announcement about a timeline? Of course it was part of their stock-in-trade propaganda to present themselves as better managers of government and earn a political leverage.

We have been injured once and are twice shy, the Community Day Schools easily coming to mind. Built in nearby bushes without proper thinking about accessibility for the target groups, they remain verifiable testimonies to irresponsible governance and unthoughtful management of the state kitty.

Where are we today with the Community Day Schools?

Oyo agency impounds 19 cows in Iseyin over illegal grazing

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has impounded 19 cows in Iseyin Local Government Area following a petition from a farmer over repeated destruction of farmlands by grazing cattle.

Acting on the petition, OYRLEA’s enforcement team carried out an early morning anti-open grazing operation to intercept the herders and their cattle before they exited the affected farms.

A total of 19 cows were apprehended and taken into the custody of the Authority

The agency said efforts were ongoing to identify the owners for legal action.

Reaffirming the Authority’s mandate, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Justice Aderonke Aderemi, said the operation was part of efforts to protect farmers, safeguard food production, and ensure strict compliance with the laws of Oyo.

She warned herders to desist from grazing on farm settlements and cultivated lands, noting that violators would face the law.

Justice Aderemi also assured residents and farmers of OYRLEA’s commitment to prompt response to petitions.

She urged the public to continue reporting cases of illegal grazing and other acts that threaten public peace and farmers’ livelihoods, assuring OYRLEA will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour.

’Shun divisive, polarising politics’

A non-denominational group, The Christian Conscience, has called on political stakeholders across Nigeria to refrain from polarising or sectionalising the country.

It urged them instead to foster unity, mutual respect, and equal opportunity for all Nigerians regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or region.

The group expressed this position in a statement issued following its monthly meeting in Lagos. The statement, signed by National Chairman Mrs. Yetunde Akinluyi and National Secretary Rev. Kolawole Verrals, was released through the National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Tunji Oguntuase.

‘Politicians should see our diversity as a weapon of strength, not a source of division,’ the statement read.

According to the group, the appeal has become imperative as political parties begin mobilizing ahead of the 2027 general elections. It warned against the politics of bitterness, stressing that democratic principles thrive on unity and that a healthy nation remains united in its diversity.

Furthermore, The Christian Conscience commended security agencies, the Nigerian military, and intelligence operatives for their bravery in securing the release of abducted school children and teachers from Orire town in Oyo State. While commiserating with the families of those who lost their lives, the group urged security forces to apply the same intelligence-driven approach to rescue remaining captives across the country.

It also praised the Federal Government for exhibiting the political will necessary to execute the rescue operation, urging leaders to maintain that momentum.

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.

Police arrest 5 after foiling bandits’ attack in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command has foiled a bandits’ attack in Tangaza Local Government Area of the state, during which five suspects were arrested and 11 rustled cows recovered.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, disclosed this in a statement, saying the operations were carried out by officers of the Tangaza Division, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Village Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and the Strike Force as part of ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other crimes in the state.

According to the statement, suspected Lakurawa bandits attacked Ayawa village in Tangaza LGA at about 6:45pm on Monday, firing sporadically before rustling 11 cattle.

It said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), in collaboration with operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the VCRU, swiftly mobilised to the area and blocked all exit routes, leading to a fierce gun battle with the attackers.

‘The bandits were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and tactical positioning of the operatives, forcing them to abandon the stolen cattle and flee into a nearby forest,’ the statement said.

The police said all 11 recovered cattle had been returned to their rightful owners.

In another operation, the command said one Marwanu Akibu reported to the Strike Force on July 19 that unknown persons had broken into his shop in the Guiwa Low Cost area of Sokoto metropolis on July 10 and stole 53 pieces of women’s wrapper materials.

Following the complaint, operatives on patrol in the Old Market area arrested Mustapha Danbaba of Kofar Marke, who allegedly confessed to breaking into the shop and stealing the wrappers.

Police said the suspect further confessed to selling the stolen items to Abubakar Usman, while Bashar Abubakar and Sa’adu Shehu allegedly assisted in disposing of the stolen property.

The command said investigations into the case were ongoing.

FULL LIST: Top 10 African footballers at 2026 World Cup

Africa’s record 10 representatives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup produced several standout performances, with players from across the continent leaving a lasting impression on football’s biggest stage.

From prolific goalscorers to commanding midfielders and inspirational goalkeepers, African stars played key roles for their respective nations throughout the tournament.

Based on performances recognised by FIFA and other football rankings, here are the top 10 African performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

1. Ismaila Sarr (Senegal)

Senegal winger Ismaila Sarr finished as Africa’s leading scorer at the tournament after an outstanding campaign. The Crystal Palace forward netted four goals and consistently troubled defenders with his pace, direct running and attacking intelligence.

2. Yoane Wissa (DR Congo)

Yoane Wissa played a pivotal role in DR Congo’s historic World Cup campaign. The Newcastle United forward returned from injury to score three goals, including a decisive brace that helped the Leopards reach the knockout stage for the first time.

3. Yan Diomande (Côte d’Ivoire)

Teenage winger Yan Diomande emerged as one of the tournament’s brightest young talents. The RB Leipzig star impressed with his pace, dribbling ability and creativity as Côte d’Ivoire advanced to the knockout rounds.

4. Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco)

Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi once again showcased his quality on the biggest stage. His creativity, goals and overall influence were instrumental in the Atlas Lions’ deep run in the competition.

5. Vozinha (Cape Verde)

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became one of the tournament’s biggest revelations. The 40-year-old produced a series of outstanding performances, including a memorable display against Spain, earning global acclaim.

6. Ismael Saibari (Morocco)

Morocco’s Ismael Saibari enjoyed a breakthrough World Cup, becoming one of Africa’s leading scorers and making history by scoring in all three group-stage matches.

7. Amad Diallo (Côte d’Ivoire)

Amad Diallo lived up to expectations with several influential displays for Côte d’Ivoire, contributing important goals while providing creativity and attacking energy.

8. Pape Gueye (Senegal)

Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye impressed with his all-action performances, combining defensive discipline with attacking contributions to establish himself among the tournament’s standout midfielders.

9. Emam Ashour (Egypt)

Egypt midfielder Emam Ashour emerged as one of the Pharaohs’ key performers, scoring crucial goals and playing a central role in the team’s impressive run to the Round of 16.

10. Ibrahim Maza (Algeria)

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza announced himself on the world stage with a string of eye-catching performances. The 20-year-old’s dribbling ability, composure and creativity stood out despite Algeria’s early exit.

Gov’t budget deficit widens to P264.3B in June

The Marcos administration’s budget deficit widened by 9.4 percent to P264.3 billion in June as government spending outpaced revenue collections, according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).

Latest data showed expenditures rose 5.5 percent to P578.7 billion, driven by higher National Tax Allotment shares for local government units, increased subsidies to state-run firms, and payments to suppliers and contractors for transportation infrastructure projects.

This outpaced the 2.46-percent increase in revenues, which reached P314.5 billion in June. Of the total, tax collections contributed P299.3 billion, while non-tax revenues amounted to P15.1 billion.

In the first half of the year, the fiscal deficit widened by 2.79 percent to P786.8 billion. This was 0.17 percent below the government’s P788.2-billion deficit program for the period.