Category: Daily Trust

A former Nigerian international, Sunday Mba, has revealed that transfer disputes between Warri Wolves and Enugu Rangers played a major role in derailing his opportunity to secure a move to top clubs in Europe.

Speaking in an interview with AY Sugar on YouTube, the attacking midfielder – who became one of the standout stars of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa – recounted how a transfer tussle between the two Nigerian clubs halted his progress after the tournament.

Mba, who famously scored the winning goal against Burkina Faso in the final to hand Nigeria its third AFCON title under coach Stephen Keshi, explained that both Warri Wolves and Enugu Rangers claimed ownership of his contract following his breakout performance.

The midfielder described the situation as one of the most frustrating moments of his career, noting that the lack of clarity over his contract rights ‘stalled [his] career at its peak.’ He added that by the time the issue was resolved, the opportunity to make a high-profile move abroad had already slipped away.

‘Nigeria happened, you know, after the AFCON. There was this issue about the transfer – Wolves, Rangers. See, there’s nothing like Wolves loan to Rangers. If you play here, you’re done. You want to move, you move. There was nothing like contract that year. So, if you play and you’re done where you are, you can switch to another club.

‘So I left Warri Wolves back to Rangers. But then, because the league had not started – you know those days when they used to postpone or abridge the league – we didn’t start at the original August. We started late, like December or January. That period now dragged till the Nations Cup where nobody expected we’d be that hot.

‘Now I came back from AFCON and both clubs began to drag me saying ‘I was their boy’. It messed me up because that thing lingered for like six to eight months. Nobody wanted a player that was having issues with two clubs.

‘I went to France after everything. And then NFF came to a conclusion like, ‘Okay, he’s now a free player, let him go,’ you know, stuff like that. But most of those clubs that wanted me before had already chosen someone else. That was how I went to France,’ he said.

A 29-year-old woman, Blessing Abiodun, was docked in an Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, for allegedly assaulting her landlady.

The police charged Abiodun with assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

She pleaded not guilty.

The prosecution counsel, Insp. Elisha Tellang, told the court that the defendant committed the offence on October 22, at about 8:50 pm, at the Akaka area of Ibadan.

Tellang alleged that the defendant hit Mrs. Oluranti Akintobi, her landlady, on her right hand. (NAN)

He said the defendant conducted herself in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace by engaging in such acts.

The prosecutor added that the offence contravened the provisions of Sections 351 and 249(d) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

Magistrate Moyosore Atanda admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.

She adjourned the case until November 12, for hearing. (NAN)

The 9th edition of the Africa Women Conference (AWC) 2025 will take place from 19th to 21st November 2025 in Accra, Ghana.

AWC Convener, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, told journalists in Abuja that this year’s conference will be co-hosted by Dr Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, an AWC member, and the Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), Ghana, and National Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

She said the theme for this year’s conference is ‘Legacy Meets Innovation: Women Forming New Pathways for Africa’s Sustainable Development.’

The annual continental gathering of AWC, Dr Ahmadu said, now in its ninth year, and jointly convened by the Helpline Social Support Initiative (Nigeria) and Save Humanity Africa International (USA), has established itself as a premier platform for dialogue, policy exchange, and partnership among women leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across Africa and the diaspora.

Dr Bisiw-Kotei’s appointment as co-host, she said, reflects AWC’s commitment to celebrating visionary African women whose leadership continues to redefine governance, community empowerment, and innovation across the continent.

‘Dr Bisiw-Kotei’s passion for inclusive development, gender equity, and youth empowerment resonates strongly with the AWC’s mission of amplifying women’s voices and strengthening their participation in leadership and decision-making.

‘Furthermore, her involvement underscores Ghana’s growing influence as a hub for African women’s leadership and social transformation,’ she said.

The 2025 Ghana AWC edition promises dynamic plenary sessions, exhibitions, and the Africa Women in Leadership Awards Gala, with special focus on innovation, economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and sustainable growth.

Delegates, she said, will include First Ladies, Ministers, Parliamentarians, CEOs, development partners, and grassroots women leaders from more than 25 countries.

Chairman of the African Region of the (ICF), Nura Sani Kangiwa who confirmed this, stated that Nigeria is set to host the maiden African regional championship, a milestone event expected to attract teams from across the continent and spotlight the country’s equestrian sports capabilities.

Kangiwa who is the Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation (ICF) disclosed that African countries like Egypt, Morocco, South Africa and Ghana would be leading countries expected to vie for honours during the four days African festival in Nigeria.

He also stated that the choice of Nigeria as first ever African host of the glamorous event, follows on the country’s sterling performance at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan last year, where Nigeria finished ahead of other countries across the world.

‘Hosting this championship will not only boost Nigeria’s image internationally but also stimulate interest and investment in equestrian sports across the country.

‘Countries like Kenya, and several others have already expressed readiness to participate.’

‘We are working with private and public stakeholders to ensure a seamless hosting experience.’

‘This is a legacy project that could redefine equestrian sports in Nigeria and indeed Africa,’ said Kangiwa.

The proprietor of NSK Polo Ranch also pointed out that the championship will bring together the finest riders and teams from across the continent and beyond, showcasing the pinnacle of equestrian excellence.

NSC Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Dikko pledged the commission’s support, noting that hosting such an event aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the country’s sporting portfolio beyond mainstream athletics.

Chovken is an equestrian team sport with historical roots and striking resemblance to the popular Polo sport. The game is played by two teams of four horse riders who drive a small leather ball into an opponent’s goal using curved wooden mallets.

It is a fast-paced, strategic equestrian team sport with ancient roots -and a legacy that predates and inspired modern Polo.

The Senate on Tuesday deferred debate on the raging controversies surrounding allegations of genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

President Donald Trump had declared Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern and accused the Federal Government of allowing killing of Christians.

Following Trump’s statement, the U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, confirmed in a post on X that his department was ‘preparing for action.’

In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rejected Trump’s remarks, insisting that Nigeria remained a democracy founded on constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.

The matter came up briefly towards the close of Tuesday’s plenary, when Senate President Godswill Akpabio remarked that Nigerians were eager to hear the Senate’s position on the issue.

However, he said the upper chamber would not take a stance until it had been properly briefed on the federal government’s response.

Akpabio said, ‘Nigerians want us to take a position. But we won’t take a position on that until we know what the government is doing about it.’ During plenary, Akpabio said social media users had been calling on him to respond personally to Trump’s comments.

‘Who am I to reply Trump?’ Akpabio asked, explaining that the Senate could only deliberate on matters formally brought before it.

‘This issue has not been discussed in the chambers here, but I know we shall discuss it,’ he said.

He then put the question to a voice vote, asking senators whether the matter should be slated for future debate.

After the majority responded in favour, he ruled that ‘the ‘ayes’ have it.’

However, his comment that ‘Who am I to reply Trump?’ drew a sharp response from Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), who insisted that Nigeria is a sovereign nation, and that Akpabio shouldn’t be scared to speak on the issue.

‘We ‘re not afraid. Don’t be scared. I am a Nigerian. I am a parliamentarian. Nigeria is a sovereign nation,’ Barau said firmly.

Akpabio, however, maintained that Trump’s statement did not reflect the current realities in Nigeria, stressing that the country remains united despite its challenges.

‘All we need is peace,’ he said, cautioning individuals and groups who take internal matters abroad to create the false impression that Christians and Muslims are at war in Nigeria.

The Senate President also warned against the spread of misinformation through social media, urging security agencies to monitor online platforms closely.

‘This is necessary so that their breaking news doesn’t break Nigeria,’ Akpabio added.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Commissioner, Miller G. Dantawaye, has ordered a massive crackdown on criminal elements across the territory following the deployment of special forces.

These forces comprise the tactical teams, the surveillance unit under the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) of the command, and the Police Mobile Force, all aimed at sustaining the operation.

CP Dantawaye, who disclosed this over the weekend, said the deployment was to intensify efforts to rid the FCT of criminal elements and sustain the relative peace currently being enjoyed by residents across the territory.

According to him, the special operation, which commenced in November, 2025, will run through January 2026.

He said the operation was aimed at identifying, dislodging, and apprehending all criminal elements hibernating within the nooks and crannies of the territory.

He emphasised that the exercise will be conducted with intensity and consistency, stating that the operatives have been directed to dominate identified black spots, criminal hideouts, and vulnerable communities in order to ensure the safety and security of the residents at all times.

CP Dantawaye, however, warned all officers and men involved in the operation to take the assignment seriously and discharge their duties professionally, stressing that no lapse, misconduct, or act of unprofessionalism will be tolerated under any guise.

As this year’s edition of the annual First Bank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship gathers momentum, top amateur golfers and aspiring golf professionals have taken to golf courses across the country to hone their skills in preparations for this year’s championship, just as the tournament sponsor, First Bank of Nigeria Limited promises an exciting week for participants.

Played over 54-holes, the Lagos Open Golf Championship, a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) event, administered by the R and A and USGA, attracts top amateur golfers from Nigeria and around the world.

Over the years, golfers from far flung South Africa, West Africa sub-region and Kenya have participated in competition.

The championship; which is the longest running amateur golf tournament in Nigeria, has turned out to be a nursery of some sort for aspiring golf professionals and has produced successful professional golfers.

In 2018, visiting Kenya amateur golfer; Samuel Njoroge stole the show in Ikoyi winning the 57th edition of the championship and has gone on to become a successful professional golfer competing on the European Tour.

Others like Andrew Odoh, Willy Gift, Ikoyi Club based Monday Eze are all former winners doing well in the professional elite class. Others like Port Harcourt based Sam Amadi, Peter Eben-spiff, Muyideen Olaitan are renowned top amateurs doing well in their businesses.

Over the years, First Bank has remained the biggest promoter of golf in Nigeria, transforming the Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship into a globally recognized event on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).

According to First Bank, the sponsorship reflects the bank’s enduring commitment to building communities, supporting sports development, and enhancing customer engagement through its First@Sports platform.

The Peoples Republic of China has kicked against interference with Nigeria’s affair, expressing support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Mao Ning, spokesperson of China’s Foreign Ministry, said this while reacting to the threat President Donald Trump issued against Nigeria recently.

Trump, who alleged that there is an ongoing genocide against Christians in Nigeria, had labelled Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’.

He had also accused the Federal Government of turning a blind eye to the alleged persecution of Christians, a claim that President Tinubu countered, explaining that such has no place in Nigeria.

Rather than listen to the Nigerian leader’s explanation, Trump asked the US Department of War to prepare for action in Nigeria.

He later said many options were on ground, including ‘boots on ground’, airstrikes, amongst others.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, Ning was asked to respond to the development.

‘It’s reported that U.S. President Donald Trump said he named Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ because Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said that the allegations do not reflect the true situation in Nigeria. Trump said the U.S. will immediately cut off all assistance to Nigeria if the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians and will very likely launch military operations. What’s China’s comment?’ the Chinese government spokesperson was asked.

Responding, she said, ‘As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on the development path suited to its national conditions. China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force.’

Some analysts had traced the US threat to the growing influence of China in Nigeria.

The relationship between The West and smaller countries has reportedly been threatened by China, Russia and other emerging World Powers.

A farmer identified as Bitrus Dakwan has been killed during an attack in Kubon community, Kombun District of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Sources, who confirmed the attack, told journalists in Jos that the attack occurred on Sunday.

The gunmen reportedly invaded the community and started shooting sporadically.

A community leader, John Maikwudi, who also confirmed the incident, called for urgent action to stop the attacks.

According to Maikwudi, the attackers stormed Dakwan’s house and killed him instantly. The community leader said, ‘Yes, there was an attack in our community yesterday, and a young man, a farmer, was killed .His name is Bitrus Dakwan . He was killed last night, Sunday, October 2, 2025, following the attack in the Kubon community in Kombun District of Mangu Local Government.

‘The young man was in his house when the attackers came and killed him. He was still mourning his elder brother, who died last month after he fell sick,’ Maikwudi said.

He attributed the quick response of villagers and security agents to having prevented further casualties.

Spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, DSP Alabo Alfred, could not be reached on his mobile phone at as press time.

Accusation unfounded – herding community

Chairman of Gan Allah Fulani Development Association (GAFDAN) in Mangu LGA, Ibrahim Isa, denied the accusation against herders, explaining that the said Kubon community in Kombun District has no boundary with Fulani settlement.

‘I am just hearing this from you. The are where they said the man was attacked is not close to where we live. A Fulani cannot either in the day or night cross or move around the community because it is a farming community,’ the Chairman said.

Vigilantes have arrested two young men, identified as Isiyaku Musa and Yohana Danjuma, for allegedly attempting to burgle a provision shop in Kwaita village in the Kwali Area Council of the FCT.

Yahaya Shuaibu, a member of the vigilante group in the area, said the incident occurred on Saturday, around 11:12 pm.

He said the suspects were arrested during a vigilante patrol when they invaded a newly opened provision shop located along Kwaku road in the community.

He explained that the suspects were caught with a sledgehammer and a cutter while trying to destroy the shop’s keys when the vigilantes suddenly arrived.

‘It was upon hearing the strange sound that one of the vigilantes flashed a torchlight. They tried to escape but were immediately apprehended,’ he said.

A police source at the Kwali division, who preferred anonymity, also confirmed the arrest of the two suspects for attempting to burgle the shop, saying the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.