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Count Your Days- Kojo Junior Tells Kwabenya MP

Content Creator, Kojo Junior, has registered his displeasure over the lack of developmental projects within the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency.

Kojo Junior, in a post on X, revealed that the current Member of Parliament (MP), Faustina Elikplim Akurugu of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has nothing to account for since her election to office.

He also compared the current MP to the former MP of the constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, giving the impression that the previous lawmaker is more effective than the current one.

The post read, ‘To the Kwabenya minister (MP) who won the seat because we were tired of Adwoa Safo, count your mf days!’

He added, ‘It’s not even hard to please Dome-Kwabenya people. Just fix the roads and put street lights on the transitions to Atomic Down roundabout and you’re good to go.

‘There’s a road that connects North Legon to Academic City and Ashongman Estate that’s very close to Musuku roundabout… when fixed, it will reduce the nasty traffic on the Haatso road.’

Time to reset Nigeria’s watch list

On June 1, operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) detained and later released renowned U.S-based Nigerian writer Okey Ndibe at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos. The SSS later denied arresting or detaining him, insisting that they had an interaction with him, as part of a routine process to remove his name from a long-standing watch list.

Ndibe, like many government critics, opposition figures, and journalists, had been on the SSS watch list. For him, it’s been since 2013. His case, according to the secret police, has now been reviewed and downgraded as part of an ongoing exercise to reassess and sanitise old Watch-List Actions (WLAs).

This development should mark a turning point. If the SSS is indeed sanitising its watch list, then the priority must shift from monitoring activists and journalists to populating the list with the names of bandits, terrorists, and other non-state actors who continue to destabilise Nigeria.

That was why it came as a welcome development when, three weeks ago, that Nigeria’s security operatives have arrested seven suspected members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The suspects had returned from the 2026 Hajj through the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina State when they were detained.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who announced this, said the suspects were handed over to the SSS. He attributed the success of the arrests to improvements in Nigeria’s integrated digital identity and border management system, noting that the country’s biometric identity database now communicates with immigration records and international security platforms.

For many Nigerians, the news was both a relief and a source of concern. Relief because the country is safer with the extraction of seven dangerous criminals who, hopefully, will face justice for their atrocities. Again, the deployment of technology, and specifically the use of the National Identity Management Commission’s (NIMC) ID, a system Nigerians have long advocated for in tracking criminals, is now coming to fruition.

But there are also concerns. The question many have asked is how terrorists slipped through the country’s security, departing on an international trip without being flagged by security screening? How many in the real sense departed the country and how many slipped back without detection? Most worrisome is whether these terrorists simply went for Hajj or met with other terrorist cells outside the shores of Nigeria.

There are too many questions and not many answers at the moment. The government is equally yet to disclose the identities of the seven suspects, but their arrest is a reminder that terrorists are not confined to forests. They blend into society, exploit religious and cultural opportunities and move across borders.

Therefore, the lesson from the Katsina arrests is clear: Nigeria’s security agencies must increase vigilance. They must be more proactive and technologically driven. The arrest of the suspects is proof that when deployed intentionally and appropriately, the National Identification Number (NIN) can play a decisive role in identifying and apprehending criminals.

But for this to work, there must be synergy among all government and law enforcement officials, especially state governments, the SSS and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). State governments, particularly in northern Nigeria, must exercise caution in the release of huge sums of money for Hajj sponsorship. While this is not an indictment, there is a possibility that in states ravaged by banditry and where authorities sometimes negotiate with these criminal groups, such sponsorships could inadvertently benefit terrorists or their relatives.

Yes, monitoring of terrorists must extend to their relatives. Again, we do not advocate for the arrest of innocent relatives of criminals, as Nigeria’s law prohibits the arrest or detention of one person in place of another. But security agents must keep a close watch on these relatives, especially since terrorists also have families; they visit them, communicate with them, and in some instances, share vital information with them.

While these surveillances are ongoing, we call for more collaboration among the various state pilgrim agencies, the National Hajj Commission and Nigeria’s security forces in the screening of every intending pilgrim. We also urge the National Assembly to exercise stronger oversight over the management of Nigeria’s watch lists and biometric systems while committees on security and interior affairs must demand regular reports to ensure accountability.

Nigeria must also deepen cooperation with international partners, particularly Saudi Arabian authorities and Interpol, to track extremists who exploit religious pilgrimages or international travel. If Nigeria is to defeat terrorism, it must strengthen inter-agency synergy, legislative oversight, and global collaboration.

2027: Coalition demands urgent resolution of Oyo APC crisis

Coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) members and stakeholders, under the agies of Coalition for Oyo APC Renewal (COAR) has demanded urgent resolution into crisis rocking the party in the state.

The stakeholders, who are worried about the state of the party in the state lamented that the controversy surrounding the party’s recent primary elections has created deep anger, suspicion and division.

COAR urged former Senate Leader and a Chieftain of the party, Senator Teslim Folarin to take in cognisance state of structures within the party, which according to them is currently burning.

In an open letter to Folarin by its Chairman, Hon. Rasak Raji Gbadamosi, and its Secretary, Surveyor Christopher Adewusi, COAR alleged that results of the partys primary election was not transparently declared, while candidates were being presented in circumstances that have left many aspirants and party members feeling cheated, ignored and politically disenfranchised.

According to COAR, instead of urgently resolving the crisis, the national leadership appears more interested in moving ahead as though nothing has happened, describing such move as a dangerous political miscalculation.

‘You cannot demand loyalty from members whose grievances you refuse to hear. You cannot ask aggrieved aspirants to mobilise for candidates they believe were imposed upon them. And you cannot build a presidential campaign on the ruins of a fractured party structure.

‘Let us be clear: if this crisis is not resolved, the consequences will go beyond the disputed primary elections.

‘There may be widespread anti-party activities, voter apathy, silent sabotage, rejection of unpopular candidates, defections, loss of grassroots mobilisation and a general collapse of enthusiasm for the APC.

‘Many aggrieved members may not openly defect or publicly campaign against the party. They may simply withdraw their support, remain at home on election day or quietly vote for alternatives.

‘The President must therefore be told the truth about Oyo State. A few meetings with selected individuals cannot erase the grievances of thousands of party members. The crisis cannot be solved by pretending that the party is united.’

COAR urged Folarin to use his access to President Tinubu Presidto demand urgent intervention in Oyo APC.

‘The way forward is clear: transparency in the declaration of primary election results, fair resolution of genuine grievances, an inclusive reconciliation process, and an end to the imposition of candidates without due process.

‘Senator Folarin, if you genuinely desire the success of President Tinubu in Oyo State, then your first assignment should not merely be to campaign for him. It should be to help save the party structure that is expected to deliver the votes.

‘No campaign machinery can replace angry party members. No slogan can substitute for trust. And no presidential candidate can expect maximum support from a state chapter whose members feel abandoned by their own party.

‘This is not a threat. It is a warning based on the political reality on the ground.

‘If the Oyo APC crisis remains unresolved, the 2027 elections may become a referendum-not only on the candidates presented by the party, but also on the impunity and injustice that party members believe they have suffered.

‘The President may still secure victory in Oyo State. The APC may still win the governorship and legislative elections. But that will only happen if the National Leadership acts decisively and urgently.

‘Ignore Oyo APC at your own political peril. The crisis must be resolved before the campaign begins-not after the party has lost the election.’

FIFA Women’s Football Campaign Empowers Girls In Tumu

The FIFA Women’s Football Campaign has successfully held a community outreach programme in Tumu, using football as a platform to educate and empower young girls.

The initiative brought together girls, community members and key stakeholders for an interactive event that combined football activities with educational sessions focused on personal development and well-being.

One of the major highlights of the programme was a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), where participants received guidance on making informed choices, maintaining good health and accessing reliable information and support services.

Facilitators also led discussions on gender rights and responsibilities, encouraging the girls to embrace equality, mutual respect and shared responsibility in creating safer and more inclusive communities.

The Ghana Football Association was represented by its Women’s Football Development Officer, Jennifer Amankwa Sarpong, who joined the facilitators in engaging participants throughout the programme and reinforcing the campaign’s key messages.

The outreach forms part of ongoing efforts to use football as a tool for social development while equipping young girls with essential life skills beyond the pitch.

Through initiatives like this, the Ghana Football Association continues to promote the growth of women’s football and empower girls with the confidence, knowledge and opportunities needed to achieve their full potential.

BBNaija S11: 10 things to know ahead of Sunday’s premiere

The countdown has officially begun as Big Brother Naija Season 11 gets set to premiere on Sunday, promising another exciting season packed with entertainment, drama, unexpected twists, and fierce competition.

With a record-breaking cash prize, a brand-new set of housemates, and weeks of nonstop entertainment on the horizon, BBNaija Season 11 is shaping up to be one of the biggest reality TV events of the year.

As the doors to the Big Brother house open this Sunday, fans can expect unforgettable moments, emotional stories, strategic gameplay, and plenty of surprises that will keep them glued to their screens until the season finale.

Here are the key things to know ahead of the launch date:

1. Premiere date

BBNaija Season 11 will officially premiere on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with viewers getting their first look at the new housemates who will battle for this season’s grand prize.

2. Launch time

The live launch show is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. (WAT). Fans are advised to tune in early to catch the grand introduction of all the contestants.

3. Where to watch

The show will be available on:

DStv Channel 198 (24/7 live broadcast)

GOtv Channel 49(24/7 live broadcast)

DStv Stream App

GOtv Stream App

Africa Magic Showcase

Africa Magic Family

4. New Housemates

A fresh set of carefully selected contestants from different backgrounds will enter the house to compete for the top prize. Their identities will only be revealed during the live premiere.

5. 24-hour live coverage

Just like previous editions, fans will enjoy 24 hour live access to everything happening inside the Big Brother house from daily conversations and diary sessions to tasks, games, parties, and unexpected drama.

6. Sunday live evictions

Following the premiere, viewers can look forward to weekly live eviction shows every Sunday at 7:00 p.m. (WAT), where at least one housemate will leave the competition based on the outcome of nominations and public votes.

7. Expect new twists

The organisers have hinted that Season 11 will feature fresh twists, new challenges, and surprises designed to keep both housemates and viewers entertained throughout the season.

8. Fans will decide the winner

As always, viewers will play a major role in deciding who stays in the house and who eventually wins the competition through public voting.

9. Social media buzz

From the moment the housemates are unveiled, social media is expected to come alive with trending conversations, fan predictions, memes, and debates as viewers rally behind their favourite contestants.

10. The grand prize

This season’s winner will walk away with a record-breaking N160 million grand prize, making it the biggest prize in the history of Big Brother Naija.

Niger: NSCDC operative killed in clash with miners

An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), ASC II Aminu Eshin, has been confirmed killed in a clash between the Mining Marshal of the Corps, and suspected illegal miners.

The incident happened at a mining site in Korokpa Village, Paikoro LGA of Niger State.

Daily Trust gathered that the incident which occurred on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, around 2pm when operatives of the NSCDC Mining Marshal were conducting a routine patrol at the site.

Residents told our correspondent that some suspected illegal miners, who sustained gunshot injuries, were being admitted at the IBB Specialist Hospital, Minna.

‘The gunshots that happened in our community yesterday, you would think it was a battlefield . Civil Defence Corps personnel seized some mining materials from the artisanal miners and miners blocked the road to stop them from taking the sands away leading to a violent confrontation. One of the officers was stabbed with a knife and the civil Defence Corps personnel shot some miners too,’ one of the residents said.

Confirming the incident, Spokesperson for the Niger State Command of the Corps, DSC Abubakar Rabiu Muti, on behalf of the State Commandant, said the operatives came under a ‘coordinated and unprovoked attack’ after the suspects sighted them and attempted to resist the enforcement operation.

According to him, the patrol team called for reinforcement, but during the response operation, one of the responding officers was shot in the head by the suspected illegal miners.

Muti said that the deceased officer was taken to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment but later succumbed to his injuries despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life.

He said efforts were ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding and provide credible information to security agencies to support the fight against illegal mining and other criminal activities across the state.

Namadi: Research, innovation key to boosting food production in Jigawa

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to using scientific research and innovation to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and drive economic growth.

Speaking during an inspection of the Jigawa State Agricultural Research Institute in Kazaure, the governor said research remains central to the state’s plan to modernise agriculture and increase food production.

He expressed satisfaction with the institute’s work in precision farming, soil testing, the development of heat-tolerant crop varieties and livestock improvement through artificial insemination, describing the initiatives as vital to transforming the sector.

Namadi said the institute’s research aligns with his administration’s vision of building an agriculture-driven economy that will increase food production, create jobs and contribute to national economic growth.

He added that greater investment in agricultural research would help farmers adopt climate-smart practices, improve yields and build resilience against climate change.

During the inspection tour, the governor also visited Kazaure General Hospital, the Specialist Hospital and the State College of Information and Technology to assess ongoing construction and rehabilitation projects.

He directed contractors handling the projects to adhere strictly to approved specifications and ensure timely completion in line with contract terms.

Accompanied by the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Gambo Malam, and other senior government officials, Namadi also inspected road projects across Kazaure.

Malam said the projects were progressing as planned and assured that contractors had been reminded to maintain quality standards and meet delivery deadlines.

The governor said the inspection was part of his administration’s routine monitoring to ensure value for money, quality execution and timely delivery of projects across the state.

He reiterated his commitment to prudent management of public resources and the provision of durable infrastructure to improve residents’ living standards.

Army declares soldier wanted over alleged sale of uniforms to terrorists

The Nigerian Army has declared one of its personnel, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements.

In a statement on Thursday, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Maj. Oluwatope Dorcas Aluko, said Private Amutu was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory before he absconded.

She said preliminary investigations revealed that the soldier deserted his unit on June 3, 2026.

‘Preliminary investigations indicate that the soldier, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026.

‘Consequently, he has been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws,’ Aluko said.

She stressed that the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps has zero tolerance for misconduct, indiscipline or any act capable of compromising the operational effectiveness, integrity and reputation of the Nigerian Army or threatening national security.

‘Any personnel found to have aided terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items will be subjected to the full weight of military and civil laws,’ she said.

Aluko appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in the arrest of the wanted soldier, urging them to report such information to the nearest military formation or any security agency.

She also assured Nigerians of the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets.

‘The Corps will continue to strengthen internal control measures and ensure that every allegation of misconduct is thoroughly investigated, while those found culpable are held fully accountable,’ she said.

ITTF Africa Youth Championships : Atunwon lifts Nigeria as Egypt clear team titles in Accra

Nigeria’s Quadri Atunwon delivered a heroic performance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, securing gold in the boys’ U-19 team event at the 2026 ITTF Africa Youth Championships. His resilience ensured Nigeria retained the crown in Accra, even as Egypt stamped its authority across the tournament by sweeping three of the four team titles on offer.

The boys’ U-19 final against Egypt was a rollercoaster. Nigeria trailed 0-2 after early setbacks, but Sultan Agunbiade sparked hope with a spirited win in the third game, narrowing the score to 2-1. Matthew Kuti, who had earlier lost a tight 2-3 battle to Yassin Gaber, redeemed himself with a 3-1 victory over Abdelmalk Elsayed, levelling the tie at 2-2. That set the stage for a dramatic decider between Atunwon and Gaber.

The final match had all the hallmarks of a classic. Both players traded blows in a contest of power and precision, pushing the tie to 2-2 in games. Atunwon surged ahead 8-2 in the fifth, only for Gaber to mount a stunning comeback, levelling at 8-8 and even reaching match point at 10-8. But Atunwon refused to yield. He clawed back to 10-10, and in a nail-biting finish, clinched the game 16-14 to seal Nigeria’s triumph and preserve their U-19 title.

Elsewhere, Egypt reigned supreme. They swept aside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Algeria to claim the boys’ U-15, girls’ U-15, and girls’ U-19 titles. Nigeria, the defending U-15 champions, struggled through the semifinal against hosts Ghana, edging a 3-2 win, but were dismantled in the final by Egypt’s flawless 3-0 display. Led by talisman Asser Sameh, Egypt dominated: Ahmed Elsabbagh dispatched Marvelous Joseph 3-0, Sameh himself overwhelmed Usman Ayoola 3-0, and Hussein Eyad completed the rout with another straight-sets victory over Samson Joshua.

In the girls’ U-15 division, Egypt reclaimed the crown they had lost to Uganda in 2025, defeating Tunisia 3-1. Their dominance continued in the girls’ U-19 category, where they humbled Algeria with a commanding 3-0 win to retain their title.

With three team trophies secured, Egypt reaffirmed its supremacy in African youth table tennis, while Nigeria found solace in Atunwon’s unforgettable heroics.

Lankan Professor co-edits Scopus Q1 International Finance Volume honouring legendary scholar

Sri Lanka has added another milestone to its global academic achievements with the publication of Review of Finance Literature – Volume 6, an internationally recognised scholarly volume published by Emerald Publishing.

The book is indexed in Scopus (Q1) and SCImago Journal Rank (Q1), with an impressive 2025 CiteScore of 8.4, reflecting its significant scholarly impact and international standing. The publication is believed to be the first-ever finance book edited by a Sri Lankan academic to be indexed in both Scopus (Q1) and the SCImago Journal Rank (Q1), achieving an outstanding 2025 CiteScore of 8.4.

The volume is co-edited by Professor Narayanage Jayantha Dewasiri of the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, together with Professor H. Kent Baker (American University, USA), Professor Jitender Kumar (Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology, India), and Dr. Shubham Singhania (FORE School of Management, India).

As the sixth volume in Emerald Publishing’s prestigious Review of Management Literature series, the book brings together internationally recognised scholars to synthesise contemporary knowledge and identify future research directions in finance.

A tribute to Professor H. Kent Baker

The publication carries profound emotional significance, as it was completed during Professor H. Kent Baker’s passing, an internationally renowned finance scholar whose work transformed the fields of behavioural and corporate finance. Ranked among the world’s top 1% of finance scholars by the Journal of Finance, Professor Baker was celebrated not only for his exceptional research achievements but also for his generosity as a mentor to researchers worldwide.

The editors dedicated the volume to his memory through a special preface titled ‘In Memory of Professor H. Kent Baker.’ The tribute acknowledges Professor Baker’s extraordinary academic legacy, unwavering commitment to research excellence, and his remarkable mentorship that inspired generations of scholars across the globe.

Professor Dewasiri noted that Professor Baker was not only a distinguished co-editor but also an exceptional mentor whose guidance, generosity, and scholarly vision profoundly influenced the development of the Review of Finance Literature series.

A Comprehensive Review of Contemporary Finance

The volume comprises 11 comprehensive review chapters covering some of the most significant and emerging areas in global finance, including:

Asset-based mutual fund performance

Loan portfolio diversification in banking

Financial news and stock market volatility

Microfinance

Sustainability-oriented investor activism

Climate risk and financial stability

Women’s financial literacy

Forensic accounting

Corporate governance in family firms

Non-performing loans

Financial inclusion

Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Union Green Taxonomy

Among these contributions is a chapter co-authored by Professor Dewasiri titled ‘Non-Performing Loans: An Integrative Review of Theoretical Foundations and Empirical Trends Through Bibliometric and Systematic Analysis,’ highlighting Sri Lanka’s growing contribution to international finance scholarship.

Global collaboration with lasting impact

The volume reflects a successful collaboration among researchers from leading universities across Asia and North America. Beyond synthesising existing knowledge, the publication identifies research gaps, proposes future research agendas, and serves as a valuable reference for academics, doctoral researchers, policymakers, and finance professionals worldwide.

According to Professor Dewasiri, the objective of the series is to consolidate fragmented knowledge, provide evidence-based insights into emerging areas of finance, and facilitate the development of impactful future research.

Strengthening Sri Lanka’s global research reputation

Professor Dewasiri’s role as co-editor of this internationally recognised publication further reinforces Sri Lanka’s growing presence within the global research community. His contribution demonstrates the increasing involvement of Sri Lankan academics in leading international publishing initiatives and high-impact scholarly collaborations.

Published by Emerald Publishing, Review of Finance Literature – Volume 6 represents an important addition to the finance literature and is expected to become an essential reference for researchers, postgraduate students, policymakers, and practitioners seeking a comprehensive understanding of contemporary developments in banking and finance. The publication further highlights Sri Lanka’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge creation while showcasing the country’s academic excellence on the international stage. For more information about the publication, readers may visit the official Emerald Publishing page: https://www.emerald.com/books/edited-volume/21518/Review-of-Finance-Literature