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Liverpool suffered their second successive defeat as Galatasaray inflicted a Champions League loss on a thunderous night in Istanbul.

Head coach Arne Slot left talisman Mohamed Salah on the bench after Liverpool lost at Crystal Palace, but the Premier League champions failed to fire amid a constant cacophony of noise at RAMS Park.

And, to add to Liverpool’s misery, goalkeeper Alisson went off injured in the second half after pulling off a superb save from Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen.

Osimhen gave Galatasaray the lead after 16 minutes when French referee Clement Turpin adjudged that Dominik Szoboszlai had fouled Baris Alper Yilmaz.

The goal came just 17 seconds after former Tottenham Hotspur defender Davinson Sanchez had cleared off the line from Cody Gakpo.

Slot introduced Salah and Alexander Isak just after the hour in an attempt to salvage something but it was to no avail.

Liverpool thought they would get the chance to rescue a point when referee Turpin pointed to the spot after Ibrahima Konate went down, but the decision was overturned following a video assistant referee review.

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) has announced that Nigeria will not be submitting any film for the International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards.

Although six films were submitted for consideration, the committee ruled that none met the standards required for global competition.

In a statement, NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus cited a lack of creative and technical intentionality in Nigerian films as the reason for the decision.

She, however, acknowledged the progress made so far and the growing awareness of international standards, while stressing the need for further development in the industry.

‘While Nigerian films have no doubt shown significant improvement and growing awareness of IFF standards, there is still a deficit in creative and technical intentionality that will improve their competitive potential for global awards,’ she said.

The committee plans to take proactive steps to encourage filmmakers to create with the Oscars in mind.

‘This is why the NOSC will be taking more proactive steps to encourage filmmakers to create with the Oscars in mind,’ Linus stated.

Linus encouraged Nigerian filmmakers to study previous International Feature Film-nominated works to deepen their understanding of the category’s expectations and strengthen future submissions.

The NOSC has formally communicated its decision to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, expressing regret that no Nigerian film was deemed suitable for the category this year.

The International Feature Film award is presented annually by the Academy to a feature-length motion picture produced outside the United States that contains at least 50 per cent non-English dialogue.

The Kaduna State Council of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has commended Governor Uba Sani for implementing the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for health workers in the state.

The commendation was contained in a letter jointly signed by the state chairman, Comrade Ishaku Yakubu, and the state secretary, Comrade Christiana Bawa, and addressed to the governor.

According to the association, the decision to effect the salary structures was an act of fairness and magnanimity that has rekindled the hope of many dedicated nurses in the governor’s administration and in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

NANNM stated that Governor Sani had not only demonstrated genuine commitment to the welfare of nurses and other health workers but had also reaffirmed his passion for strengthening healthcare delivery in Kaduna State.

It noted that the implementation of both CONHESS and CONMESS came at a time of competing demands on the state’s resources, yet the governor placed a premium on the well-being of health professionals.

‘This visionary leadership has boosted morale, improved productivity, and positioned Kaduna State as a model of labour-friendly governance,’ the council declared.

The body maintained that such interventions would go a long way in improving healthcare outcomes in the state, as motivated workers are better positioned to deliver quality service to citizens.

The nurses and midwives, while applauding the governor’s action, pledged continuous loyalty, dedication, and professional excellence in service of Kaduna State as their contribution to his transformative agenda in the health sector.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and the former PDP National Chairman, Iyorcha Ayu, on Tuesday visited the Bodija residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

The delegation, which arrived around 12:20 p.m., was warmly received by the monarch, who personally led them into his inner chamber.

Their visit came days after they were absent from the coronation ceremony of the Olubadan, held last Friday.

They said they were at the palace to formally congratulate the new monarch.

Elders from the Niger South Senatorial District, under the auspices of Niger-South Senior Stakeholders’ Forum (NSSF), have called for the completion of the Baro port and the exploration of hydrocarbon potential in the Bida Basin, along with other federal government infrastructure projects in the zone.

The elders claimed that completing these projects would unlock economic opportunities, boost trade competitiveness, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, thereby addressing unemployment and stimulating regional development.

At an expanded meeting where the forum engaged with experts and political officeholders from the zone, the lawmaker representing Bida-Katcha-Gbako Federal Constituency, Saidu Musa Abdul, identified a lack of political will from past administrations, an inadequate funding framework, and insufficient cooperation among critical stakeholders as factors impeding the revitalization of Baro port.

Abdul, who is the chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalisation of Baro Port, expressed disappointment that six years after its inauguration, the port remained non-operational.

Abdul said, ‘We are still where we are; nothing is happening at the level of the port. The access roads have not been provided. The rail corridor is not working. The capital region has not been done.

‘For a journey that is not supposed to last more than 30 minutes, we spent close to four hours.’

The lawmaker said his committee has devised ways to bring all critical stakeholders and sectors related to the Baro port together to work in harmony, ensuring its full operationalization.

‘Our major challenge was that in the past, people were not working together. But as we are progressing as a committee, even before we do our final report, we already have the buy-in of critical stakeholders. We are working with the Ministry of Blue Economy, the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Transport, the National Inland Waterways (NIWA), and the National Hydrographic Agency.

‘So we were moving at the same pace with all critical stakeholders. This is what you didn’t get in the past. NIWA and, by implication, the Ministry of Transport were then busy doing the procurement and installation of equipment without carrying along all the critical stakeholders.

‘But what we have today is different. We have virtually everybody under the same umbrella today. And we are sure this is what will propel Baro port into reality.

‘On the issue of capital, we are putting all things together. We are coming up with a funding framework that will not be too burdensome for the government.

The lawmaker described the meeting with members of the NSSF as a welcome development, which provided a platform for him to engage with constituents and elders, and receive valuable guidance, information, and advice.

In his presentation, a consultant on Baro Inland Port, Prof. Mustafa Zubairu, noted that the port has, at present had a capital asset of N66 billion and is capable of creating 800,000 jobs and 300,000 smart homes.

He highlighted business opportunities at Baro port, including ferry services, barge operations for bulk commodities and containers, aggregation centers for agricultural produce and solid minerals, commodity processing facilities, tank farms, modular refineries for PMS and biodiesel, and boat courses.

NIWA Area Manager (Niger-Kwara), Akapo Adeboye, noted that Baro port should be viewed as a business opportunity, and encouraged indigenes of the area to start investing in the various opportunities available, even before full operationalization.

He identified areas such as the sand business, which he said would help harness the water resources and generate income for investors.

Earlier in their remarks, the Chairman of NSSF, Alhaji Ibrahim Liman, and the Secretary-General, Dr. Mohammed Santuraki, stated that the organization was formed to protect and advance the developmental and political interests of the Niger-South Senatorial District, highlighting the challenges faced by the zone.

They noted that the meeting was convened to synergize with professionals on the issues surrounding Baro Inland Port and Bida Hydrocarbon exploration, to ensure they become a reality soon.

On the Bida Inland Oil Basin, the Forum acknowledged the various investments made by the Niger State Government, especially the current government, but fears that all this will come to nothing if the state does not fully secure the interest and commitment of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), its frontier service division, and the federal government.

This, according to the forum, is because all matters relating to oil exploration and development are exclusive to the Federal government.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Arise Television anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was killed during an armed robbery at her Katampe residence in Abuja on Monday, September 29, 2025.

In a condolence message signed by its Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ described Maduagwu as a brilliant and dedicated journalist whose professionalism and poise left a lasting impression on colleagues and viewers.

The Council extended condolences to her family, friends, and Arise Television, stressing that her untimely death highlights Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

It also urged the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to conduct a thorough forensic investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.

In honour of her memory, the NUJ urged members of the media community to reflect on the values Somtochukwu upheld: integrity, excellence, and service to society, while offering prayers and support to her grieving family.

‘Though her life was brief, her impact was profound. May her legacy continue to inspire courage and truth in journalism.’

The NUJ FCT Council prayed for strength and comfort for her loved ones, and called on journalists across the country to remain united, vigilant, and supportive of one another during this period of collective mourning.

The Chairman Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, has felicitated President Bola Tinubu, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians as the nation marks her 65 years of in independence.

Asadu, the traditional ruler of Edem Ani Ogugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, also felicitated with Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and the good people of Enugu State.

The traditional ruler conveyed his felicitations in a statement to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.

Asadu, also known as the Ogadagidi of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, extolled the unwavering spirit of Nigerians whose sacrifices and dedication continue to sustain the nation’s unity and progress.

He also hailed the courage of Nigeria’s founding fathers and celebrated the resilience and diversity that characterised the strength of the nation.

Asadu, who is the immediate past Chairman of South East Traditional Rulers, commended the ongoing efforts to reposition the economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster national renewal.

He urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain steadfast in love for the country, united in purpose, and committed to the shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Asadu, who is member Board of Trustee Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (Nigeria Chapter), prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and protection for President Tinubu, Governor Mbah and others at the corridors of power, as they steer the affairs of the nation and called for continued peace, equity, and development across all parts of Nigeria.

‘On behalf of Enugu State Traditional Rulers and the good people of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to His Excellencies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Peter Mbah, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our beloved country attained the priceless gift of sovereignty, setting us on a journey of unity, peace, and progress.

‘Today, as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we pay tribute to the resilience, industry, and enduring spirit of the Nigerian people whose sacrifices and hopes continue to drive our nation forward.

‘I commend the dedication to national renewal, economic transformation, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. These efforts reflect a commitment to the Nigeria of our dreams, one where equity, justice, and prosperity are shared by all.”

According to him, the anniversary is a solemn reminder that the task of nation-building belongs to every Nigerian.

‘Let us therefore remain steadfast in love for our country, united in purpose, and unwavering in our collective resolve to overcome current challenges and secure a brighter future for generations yet unborn.

‘May the Almighty God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, guide our leaders, and grant us lasting unity and prosperity.

‘Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!’ Asadu said.

A former Edo Speaker Hon Frank Okiye has been appointed pioneer Chairman of the Edo State Lottery Regulatory Commission.

The appointment of Okiye was contained in a statement by Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Okhilor, following establishment of the Commission.

Ikhilor said the Commission was conceived as the central regulatory body for all lottery, gaming, and related activities within the State.

He said the Commission was to provide legal and institutional framework for regulating lottery and gaming operations as well as ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity in the conduct of lottery activities.

The SSG explained that the Commission would safeguard interests of participants as well as generate revenue for the state through well-structured licensing and regulation of gaming operators.

Other members of the Commission are Dandy Imoukhuede Oserei, Elvis Uadiale, Ndidi Aghimien and Hon. Habibat Yakubu as Secretary.

Okhilor said the names of the nominees would be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation.

The Edo State Executive Council has approved a supplementary budget of N125 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, representing 18 percent of the N675.2 billion budget earlier signed into law.

Governor Monday Okpebholo presided over the emergency executive meeting, where the supplementary spending plan was adopted.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Finance Emmanuel Okoebor said the supplementary budget includes about N12 billion (5 percent) for recurrent expenditure and N113 billion (25 percent) for capital expenditure.

He noted that the adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, with the revised 2025 budget now allocating 70 percent to capital projects.

According to him, ‘It clearly shows that the government is concerned about infrastructural development, making Edo people happy. We have done about 254KM of road across the state, and many more construction works are ongoing.

‘Recurrent expenditure has about a 5 percent increment as the increase in minimum wage necessitated that increment, including a lot of employment that the present administration did in the hospital management board for over 1000, and it needs to be captured.

‘The budget has been increased by N125 billion, which is about 18 percent, and capital expenditure by about 25 percent, from N450 billion to N563 billion.’

Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohombamu, said the supplementary budget would be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will tomorrow (Wednesday) deliver a nationwide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

According to a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the broadcast will go live by 7:00 am on October 1, 2025.

All television and radio stations as well as other electronic media platforms, have been directed to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) for the presidential address.

‘President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will broadcast to the nation on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 7 a.m., in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

‘All television, radio stations, and other electronic media outlets are urged to join the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria for the broadcast,’ the statement reads.