Category: Auto Guid

From AI-assisted high-complexity cardiovascular interventions, where digital algorithms pre-simulate intricate surgical workflows, accurately predict intraoperative risks, and tailor personalized treatment plans to significantly boost procedural efficiency, to AI-powered FFRangio systems that slash measurement time from 20 minutes to just four… As China, the world’s second-largest pharmaceutical market, is rapidly transcending its traditional role from a low-cost manufacturing base to a co-developer of cutting-edge therapies and a vital node in global R and D networks, an increasing number of multinational pharmaceutical companies are reshaping their investment and partnership strategies on the ground.

According to Ms. Cao Shan, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications for Greater China at Medtronic, China is rapidly emerging as a major global source of medical technology innovation.

‘Medtronic’s China strategy is evolving from being a traditional importer of advanced technologies to becoming a co-builder of the local innovation ecosystem,’ she said.

In late 2025, the company opened its first global digital innovation center in Beijing’s Yizhuang Economic Development Zone. Cao noted that healthcare systems worldwide face a longstanding ‘impossible triangle’: delivering high-quality care at low cost while maintaining broad accessibility. AI, she argued, has the potential to help resolve this challenge.

China’s AI healthcare sector is expanding rapidly. According to Huafu Securities, the sector exceeded RMB 100 billion in 2025 and is expected to surpass RMB 150 billion in 2026, maintaining annual growth of more than 30 percent. Policy support and capital investment are driving growth across a complete industrial ecosystem spanning algorithms, hardware manufacturing, and healthcare applications. Medical imaging, telemedicine, and chronic disease management are among the most commercially advanced segments.

As a result, international healthcare companies are no longer viewing China solely as a sales market. Increasingly, they are embedding themselves within the country’s innovation chain.

Medtronic now works with nearly 7,000 supply-chain partners across China. In fiscal year 2026, its procurement spending in China reached approximately RMB 5.7 billion, with local suppliers accounting for 90 percent of indirect procurement. In direct procurement-including key components, raw materials, and contract manufacturing-around 90 percent of locally sourced products are supplied to Medtronic facilities worldwide, creating a deeply integrated and globally connected manufacturing ecosystem. Products from its four manufacturing bases in China are exported to markets around the world.

Another U.S. medical giant, GE HealthCare, is also elevating the strategic importance of its China-based operations. Its manufacturing base in Tianjin has grown into the only facility outside the U.S. capable of producing both MRI magnets and complete MRI systems, gaining RMB 500 million in investment within 5 years from 2024. In Shanghai, it has set up one of its largest diagnostic imaging contrast media production sites, and in Wuxi, it has placed its largest global ultrasound R and D and manufacturing center.

‘Annual procurement in China now exceeds RMB 10 billion, supported by nearly 160 specialized high-tech local suppliers. This footprint has been enabled by China’s comprehensive industrial ecosystem, mature supporting industries, and favorable business environment,’ Wang Yi, Vice President of GE HealthCare Greater China, said.

According to the China National Intellectual Property Administration, as biomedicine becomes one of the most important frontiers in global drug development, Chinese biotech patent filings tripled from around 5,000 in 2015 to 15,000 in 2024, increasing their share of global filings to more than 30 percent. In biomanufacturing, China’s share of global patent applications exceeded two-thirds of the global total by 2025. In genetic testing, Chinese applicants contributed the majority of global growth, with their share rising to approximately 80 percent in 2025.

For U.S. pharma companies operating in China, this means lower cost, higher profit margin, and a competitive edge being reshaped. A report by Wellington Management attributed China’s edge to cost, speed, and capital efficiency. Clinical trial costs in China are about 70% of those in the United States, and per capita R and D expenditure is only a quarter of that in the U.S. Additionally, the development cycle from candidate drug nomination to approval is 30% to 40% faster than in the U.S., saving approximately four years in time to market.

For U.S. consumers, these partnerships can translate into broader access to innovative medicines at lower cost. Last month, China’s Biotech Pharmaceuticals and U.S.-based Accord BioPharma announced that their jointly developed golimumab biosimilar had received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As the world’s first approved biosimilar to golimumab, the drug is expected to provide a more affordable treatment option for millions of Americans living with chronic autoimmune diseases.

The need is significant. According to the latest Annual Drug Shortages Report released by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) earlier this month, the average duration of a drug shortage in the United States has exceeded five years, up from roughly two years in 2019.

Against this backdrop, U.S. pharmaceutical companies are placing increasingly large bets on China. Eli Lilly, which recorded 18% growth in revenue in China last year, has just entered a partnership with a Shanghai-based biotech firm to jointly develop innovative drug candidates targeting multiple diseases with global commercial potential, following its first innovation incubation platform outside the U.S., launched last year. In May, Pfizer signed a $10.5 billion oncology drug development agreement with Innovent Bio, and Bristol Myers Squibb reached a global strategic partnership with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals, with the potential value of the deal exceeding $15 billion.

China is also increasingly becoming an important source of high-value research data. In 2025, Chinese pharmaceutical companies completed 157 outbound licensing agreements with a total disclosed value of US$135.7 billion, most involving major European and American pharmaceutical firms. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, outbound licensing transactions by Chinese biotech companies exceeded US$60 billion-nearly half of the previous year’s total.

China Research Institute Puhua forecasts that China’s AI drug-discovery industry will maintain annual growth of more than 15 percent between 2025 and 2030. Measures are being continuously introduced aimed at improving the operating environment for foreign-invested healthcare companies.

On Monday, the Chinese government released a new action plan to stabilize and improve foreign investment. The measures include expanding pilot programs for cross-border segmented production of pharmaceuticals, broadening the scope of biotechnology and wholly foreign-owned hospital pilot projects, supporting the inclusion of more innovative drugs and medical devices in commercial insurance programs, and facilitating market access for medicines produced by foreign-invested enterprises.

According to Lin Honghong, Vice Chairperson of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), the technological revolution is fundamentally reshaping healthcare innovation.

‘In the past, it typically took around 15 years for a new drug to move from the laboratory to the market,’ she said. ‘Today, artificial intelligence can reduce that timeline to as little as 18 months to three years, while dramatically improving clinical trial efficiency. As a result, international cooperation in healthcare is increasingly moving beyond trade and investment toward ecosystem co-development, underscoring the growing importance of open cooperation as a driver of medical and industrial progress.’

In April, a one Christopher Okello Oyum was charged with four counts of murder when he was alleged to have killed, with malice aforethought, four infants at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre. He did not deny killing the children but stated that he did not act intentionally or deliberately, as he was suffering from a mental disease that was undetected when he was subjected to a mental health examination. During the trial, Okello stated that he was under the control of some people, whom he did not identify to court. This was the essence of his defence of insanity.

The defence of insanity seeks to do away with an essential requirement of malice aforethought, which is an ingredient of murder that must be proved beyond reasonable doubt. The insanity defence seeks to prove that the accused person did not have the intention to cause death or did not have the knowledge that such an act or omission would cause death. The onus was, therefore, on court to establish whether or not Okello was suffering from the disease of the mind when he killed the four infants, and whether or not he knew what he was doing was wrong by reason of that disease of the mind.

To court, Okello was the only person who testified that he had a mental illness when he killed the children. He did not, however, say the illness he was suffering from apart from the claim that he was under immense stress between January and March. To court, Okello seemed to be withholding information, especially when it came to disclosing the identities of the people who put him under stress. Apart from this claim, in court, there was no other evidence adduced to prove that Okello had a disease of the mind that would have availed him the defence of insanity.

Okello’s lawyers vehemently argued that the prosecution had failed to prove that when the offences were committed, Okello was of sound mind. To court this argument was not legally backed and was misguided, as it was Okello and his lawyers who raised the insanity as a defence and as such, the burden shifted to him in light of the presumption of sanity under the law.

Okello’s lawyers further insisted that there was evidence on record of Okello’s mental illness, and this came from the police psychiatrist, who examined him on April 7. The evidence indicated that Okello had a previous admission to Butabika National Mental Referral Hospital. However, on the day the psychiatrist examined him, Okello had normal behaviour, was calm and cooperative, and his speech was coherent. The doctor noted that his memory was intact and he exhibited good judgment. His thought process and content were normal, although he believed in obtaining wealth through human sacrifice. He was able to explain to the doctor that he got the idea when he recalled childhood folktales of getting wealth by sacrificing people.

The doctor also noted that Okello had a history of past mental illness and that between 2016 and 2025, he was treated for schizophrenia, which was associated with both auditory and visual hallucinations. Okello had apparently killed a younger brother some 10 years earlier, apparently to save him from the troubles of this world. He had also attempted suicide in 2023. To the doctor, the findings were suggestive of a mental condition with psychotic episodes. The doctor recommended that further mental assessment was necessary as there were no independent medical records to back Okello’s narrative; Okello was the sole source of this information.

Court observed that in the records of the psychiatrist, Butabika was not mentioned anywhere. When giving his defence, Okello never mentioned ever being admitted in Butabika. The only witness in the entire trial who made mention of the mental hospital was his elder brother, who testified that in 2020, he was made to understand that Okello was at the mental hospital. He told court that when he inquired why his brother was in Butabika, he was told by the officer-in-charge at the hospital that his brother’s case was very sensitive and declined to provide any further information. He further stated he left without knowing why his brother was admitted.

The prosecution alleged that Okello had murdered his younger half-brother called Freeman, and to escape criminal culpability, he was taken to the mental hospital to make it appear that the killing had been a result of a mental illness. It was from here that Okello was whisked to the US, where he stayed until 2025 when he returned to Uganda. Court found this argument persuasive and a likely explanation for concealing Okello’s illness from his brother. And to the court, there was no reason or justification as to why Okello did not mention his admission to Butabika to the police doctor or to any other person.

Okello’s elder brother told court that although they were siblings, they did not relate closely, and that he had not seen Okello in the past five years, but only saw him upon his arrest at the police station. He, further, did not confirm to the court that Okello had a known mental illness. In the absence of any medical records to show that Okello truly had a mental illness, court expected at least a family member of Okello to speak about his mental illness.

Kampala’s dining scene has evolved considerably over the past decade, with themed restaurants and specialty dining experiences becoming increasingly common. Among the establishments that have carved out a niche for themselves is Shisa Nyama Village in Bugolobi, Kampala, a venue inspired by South Africa’s famous braai culture.

For those unfamiliar with the term, ‘Shisa Nyama’ is a South African phrase that roughly translates to ‘burn meat’ and refers to the communal tradition of gathering around open flames to grill meat while enjoying drinks, conversation and music. It is less about fine dining and more about creating a social experience centred around food.

Ambience

Shisa Nyama Village embraces this philosophy from the moment one walks in. The restaurant’s layout is refreshingly uncomplicated. An open-plan design creates an informal atmosphere, while floor-to-ceiling shades provide protection from the afternoon sun without sacrificing the airy feel of the space.

One side of the venue is dominated by large high tables paired with cocktail bar stools capable of accommodating larger groups. These communal-style seating arrangements encourage interaction and make the venue particularly suitable for after-work gatherings, weekend meet-ups and celebrations. The opposite side features more traditional dining tables, offering a slightly more conventional restaurant experience for smaller groups and families.

A notable feature is a secluded section known as ‘The Cellar.’ While its original intention may have been as a whisky lounge, it now serves as a quieter retreat from the bustle of the main dining area and offers potential for private functions or intimate gatherings. The bar is a major focal point. A cocktail station occupies one side of the restaurant, while a traditional bar anchors the far end. Together they reinforce the establishment’s identity as both a dining destination and a social venue.

The menu

The menu follows the expected Shisa Nyama formula. Grilled meats take centre stage, accompanied by the familiar assortment of sides and comfort dishes one would expect from a braai-inspired restaurant. While the offering may not be particularly adventurous, it succeeds in delivering what patrons visit for; generous portions of well-prepared grilled meat in a lively atmosphere. The venue’s meat platters remain among the most popular choices for groups, complemented by a broad selection of cocktails and beverages.

The service

Service is generally attentive and professional. Staff members are friendly and willing to engage with guests, contributing positively to the overall experience. However, like many popular establishments in Kampala, service can become stretched during peak periods. On especially busy evenings, longer waiting times are to be expected.

The restrooms deserve mention. Located at the rear of the property, they are spacious, clean and well-maintained; a detail often overlooked in restaurant reviews but one that significantly contributes to customer comfort. Pricing sits toward the higher end of Kampala’s casual dining market.

Diners looking for budget-friendly meals may find the cost difficult to justify, particularly when compared to traditional nyama choma joints. However, those paying for the complete experience; ambience, location, cocktails and social atmosphere, are likely to view the premium more favourably.

Ultimately, Shisa Nyama Village is not attempting to be a fine-dining destination. Instead, it succeeds as a contemporary social venue that blends South African braai culture with Kampala’s vibrant nightlife. It is a place where food, drinks and conversation share equal importance.

Ratings

Food: 7.5/10

Service: 7/10

Ambience: 8/10

Value for Money: 6.5/10

Overall: 7.5/10

By Ayorinde Oluokun

Operatives of Oyo Police Command have arrested four suspected armed robbers who are also alleged to be members of Eiye Supremo Confraternity secret cult gang at their hideout in Ibadan, the state capital.

One locally made pistol was also recovered from the suspects identified as Salawu Sarafa alias Folori, Yusuf Tajudeen alias Blacky, Farouq Ariyo and Adebayo Awosemo alias Naira in a statement by the spokesperson for the Oyo Police Command, Ayanlade Olayinka on Friday.

According to the statement, the suspects were arrested 10th June 2026 by operatives of the Command Violent Crime Response Unit.

He said the operatives acted on credible intelligence that members of a notorious criminal syndicate, known for terrorizing residents at various locations within the Ibadan metropolis, had converged at their hideout in the Soka area of Ibadan.

According to him, intelligence further indicated that the suspects were planning to embark on another criminal operation within the community.

Olayinka said acting swiftly on the actionable intelligence, the operatives mobilized to the location and successfully apprehended four suspected members of the gang, namely:

“A thorough search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of one locally made pistol from the suspects,” the spokesperson said.

He also revealed that during preliminary interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Eiye Supremo Confraternity and admitted their involvement in a series of violent criminal activities within the Ibadan metropolis and its environs.

The Oyo Police spokesperson added the Command has commenced discreet and intensive efforts aimed at apprehending the fleeing suspect and dismantling the criminal network.

“Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the gang’s activities and identify other accomplices.

“The Oyo State Police Command reiterates its unwavering resolve to rid the State of cultism, armed robbery, and all forms of violent crime. Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting the Police by providing timely and credible information that will aid crime prevention and criminal apprehension.

“The Command assures residents that all suspects found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Olayinka said.

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Elon Musk has become the world’s first trillionaire following the blockbuster stock market debut of SpaceX, whose shares surged after the aerospace and artificial intelligence company began trading on the Nasdaq on Friday.

The historic milestone was achieved as investors rushed to buy shares in what has been described as the largest initial public offering (IPO) since Saudi Aramco’s market debut in 2019.

SpaceX shares opened at $150, significantly above the company’s estimated listing price of $135, before climbing as high as $176 during trading. The stock eventually closed at $160.95 per share, cementing a valuation that pushed Musk’s personal fortune beyond the $1 trillion mark.

The listing marked a remarkable moment for Musk, who founded SpaceX more than two decades ago and once admitted he gave the company less than a 10 per cent chance of survival.

Speaking from the company’s headquarters in Texas before trading commenced, Musk reflected on the journey from a small startup to one of the world’s most valuable companies.

“It is certainly hard to believe a little company that started in a warehouse in El Segundo is now going public with the largest IPO ever,” he said.

The successful flotation is expected to create more than 4,000 millionaires among current and former SpaceX employees, many of whom hold stock in the company.

Investor enthusiasm was driven not only by SpaceX’s dominance in the commercial space sector but also by growing interest in artificial intelligence-related companies. Analysts described the listing as a major test of investor appetite for high-growth AI businesses ahead of expected public offerings by other technology giants.

The company’s stock market debut attracted widespread attention in New York’s Times Square, where crowds gathered to watch the launch ceremony and the start of trading on Nasdaq.

Despite the excitement, some analysts urged caution, pointing out that SpaceX remains unprofitable and has acknowledged that profitability is not guaranteed in the future. Others warned that soaring valuations across the AI sector could raise concerns about a potential market bubble.

Nevertheless, investor demand remained strong throughout the day, helping SpaceX secure one of the most successful stock market debuts in corporate history.

The listing further strengthens Musk’s position as the world’s richest person and represents another landmark achievement for the entrepreneur whose business interests span electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, space exploration and social media.

By Jethro Ibileke

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and committed to strengthening democratic institutions as the country confronts insecurity, economic challenges and threats to public trust.

The Governor in a message to mark this year’s Democracy Day, urged Nigerians to see June 12 not only as a remembrance of the sacrifices made by heroes of democracy, but also as a call to action for citizens and leaders to safeguard the nation’s democratic gains.

Reflecting on the significance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the struggle led by Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, Okpebholo said the lessons of that era remain relevant as Nigeria navigates contemporary challenges.

“June 12 reminds us that democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey. The sacrifices of our democratic heroes secured our freedom to choose our leaders, but the responsibility of protecting and strengthening our institutions rests on all of us,” he said.

He further noted that insecurity remains one of the greatest threats to national development, citing kidnapping, cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other criminal activities that have disrupted lives and livelihoods across parts of the country.

According to him, no democracy can thrive where citizens live in fear, stressing that security remains the foundation upon which economic growth, social stability, and national progress are built.

“Democracy means little to a family that cannot sleep peacefully at night or to a community living under the threat of criminal elements. Security, justice, and the protection of lives and property are essential dividends of democracy,” he stated.

Governor Okpebholo said his administration has intensified efforts to combat insecurity in Edo State through enhanced collaboration with security agencies, community-based intelligence gathering, deployment of security resources, and sustained action against kidnapping and cultism

He highlighted ongoing initiatives under the SHINE Agenda, including improvements in healthcare delivery through the Edo Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, investments in education, youth empowerment programmes and economic development projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.

The Governor expressed confidence that Nigeria possesses the strength and resilience to overcome its current security and economic challenges, noting that the country’s history is filled with examples of citizens rising above adversity through unity, determination and collective action.

“Nigeria has overcome difficult periods before, and we will overcome these challenges again. With strong institutions, responsible leadership, active citizen participation, and unwavering faith in our nation, we can build a safer, more prosperous, and more united country,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo also urged political leaders, public office holders and citizens to uphold the principles of accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law, warning against divisive politics, misinformation and actions capable of undermining democratic institutions.

As the nation prepares for future electoral contests, he called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful political engagement and issue-based campaigns, emphasizing that democracy flourishes when citizens participate responsibly and leaders remain accountable to the people.

“Democracy survives through participation, integrity, and respect for institutions. Let us remain committed to building a Nigeria where justice prevails, opportunities abound, and every citizen can live in peace, dignity, and hope,” the governor said.

He congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance, security, and sustainable development across Edo State.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has congratulated the people of Oyo Central Senatorial District, residents of Oyo State and Nigerians at large on the occasion of the 2026 Democracy Day, urging citizens to remain steadfast in their commitment to democratic ideals and national unity.

In a goodwill message issued on Friday to commemorate the annual celebration, Ajadi described June 12 as a significant date in Nigeria’s political history, noting that the day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and patriots who fought for the restoration and sustenance of democratic governance in the country.

He said Democracy Day offers an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey and renew their faith in the principles of justice, equity, accountability and peaceful coexistence.

“On this special occasion of Democracy Day, I heartily congratulate the good people of Oyo Central Senatorial District, the entire people of Oyo State and all Nigerians. June 12 remains a symbol of hope, sacrifice and the triumph of the will of the people over oppression,” Ajadi stated.

According to him, democracy remains the most acceptable form of government because it guarantees citizens the freedom to participate in governance and shape the future of their country.

“Democracy is not merely about elections; it is about good governance, respect for the rule of law, protection of human rights and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every citizen. As Nigerians, we must continue to strengthen our democratic institutions and uphold the values that unite us as one people,” he said.

The senatorial candidate urged political leaders at all levels to place the welfare of the people above personal interests and work towards addressing the economic and security challenges confronting the nation.

Ajadi also called on the youth to remain peaceful, productive and actively involved in the democratic process, stressing that the future of Nigeria lies in the hands of the younger generation.

“Our democracy can only flourish when leaders are accountable and citizens are actively involved in nation-building. I urge our youths to remain hopeful and continue to contribute positively to the development of our communities and our nation,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to quality representation and people-oriented leadership, Ajadi assured the people of Oyo Central of his determination to champion policies and programmes that would promote economic growth, youth empowerment, educational development and improved living standards.

“Together, we can build a prosperous Oyo Central, a greater Oyo State and a stronger Nigeria. I wish all Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration,” he said.

Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, was officially instituted to honour the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and other heroes of democracy following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history.

This year’s celebration marks 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria and comes amid renewed calls for stronger institutions, inclusive governance and accelerated national development.

By Ibrahim Bello

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare, strengthening security, and promoting democratic values across the state.

The governor made the pledge on Friday in a Democracy Day message issued in Birnin Kebbi by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Yahaya Sarki.

Idris congratulated the people of Kebbi and all Nigerians on the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, describing democracy as a collective journey that requires sacrifice, patience, understanding, and active participation by all citizens.

He stressed the need for continued prayers for peace, stability, and progress in the country, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of government policies aimed at achieving sustainable development.

The andgtovernor also called on residents to uphold the rule of law, respect constituted authority, and refrain from actions capable of disrupting public peace and social harmony.

“A peaceful and law-abiding society is the foundation upon which democracy thrives. I call on all Kebbi citizens to continue to live in harmony with one another and to promptly report any security threat through the appropriate channels,” he said.

Idris reiterated his administration’s resolve to improve living conditions through strategic investments in key sectors of the economy.

According to him, ongoing projects in road infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, water supply, and social welfare are designed to enhance the well-being of residents and mitigate prevailing economic challenges.

“Our focus remains on putting the people first. We are committed to policies and projects that will directly improve the standard of living of every Kebbi citizen,” the governor stated.

On security, Idris said his administration would sustain efforts to consolidate the gains recorded in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities across the state.

He attributed the successes achieved so far to collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, and local communities, pledging continued support for security operations and community policing initiatives.

The governor said the measures were aimed at ensuring that residents live and conduct their lawful activities without fear.

He further urged Nigerians to demonstrate greater patriotism by placing national interest above personal and sectional considerations.

“Democracy gives us the power to choose our leaders and shape our future. We must use that power responsibly and work together to build a Kebbi and a Nigeria we can all be proud of,” he said.

Idris thanked the people of Kebbi for their continued support and cooperation with his administration, and wished Nigerians a peaceful, reflective, and fulfilling Democracy Day celebration

Ghana’s preparations for their opening World Cup fixture have suffered a setback after midfielder Thomas Parteya was unable to secure entry into Canada for the match against Panama in Toronto.

The 32-year-old Villarreal player had been named in Ghana’s squad and was expected to join his teammates from their training camp in Boston. However, Canadian authorities declined his visa application, preventing him from travelling for the Group stage encounter.

The development was confirmed by FIFA, which stressed that immigration decisions remain the sole responsibility of host governments.

“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the governing body said.

“The host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”

Partey’s absence removes one of Ghana’s most experienced midfielders ahead of a crucial opening match. The former Premier League star has been a key figure for the Black Stars and was expected to play a leading role in the tournament.

The player is currently facing legal proceedings in England. He has denied seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault linked to allegations made by four women between 2020 and 2022. He is due to stand trial next year.

With Partey unavailable, Ghana’s coaching staff are expected to revise their plans in midfield as they finalise preparations for the clash with Panama. Further adjustments to the squad could be made before kick-off.

By Joy Mbachi

Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra says more personnel of the Nigerian Army will be deployed in the state soon to beef up the fight against insecurity.

Soludo made the disclosure in Awka on Friday during the third anniversary celebration of the Eighth Anambra House of Assembly.

He said that a delegation of Nigeria Army had visited the state to assess plans to establish barracks in the state to assist in the fight against criminality.

Soludo said the state was already winning the war against crime, as peace had returned to all the communities, with the support of President Bola Tinubu.

He noted that the Tinubu administration was doing a lot in the fight against insecurity across the country.

The governor commended the lawmakers for making laws that had helped the executive arm in providing dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

He also praised those who, he said, set the foundation for the present democratic governance in the country, noting that democracy remains the best form of government in the overall interest of the people.

Earlier in his address, the Speaker, Dr Somtochukwu Udeze, said the lawmakers would continue to make laws and resolutions that would have positive impacts on the lives of the people.

Udeze said irrespective of the divergent political affiliations of the members of the assembly, the progress and development of the state remained paramount.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a thanksgiving mass was also organised to mark the Eighth Assembly’s third anniversary.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr Law Mefor, commended the healthy relationship between the legislature and the executive arms of government, saying it had in the delivery of governance.

Mefor praised what he called the ‘specialised style’ of leadership of the speaker which helped his harmonious relationship with members of other political parties.

The House Committee Chairman on Information, Mr Ejiofor Egwuatu, described the quality of the laws made by the lawmakers as a proof of the maturity of Anambra politicians.

Egwuatu urged the lawmakers to put the citizens first in all their proceedings and diplomatically handle opposing issues anytime they arose.(NAN)