Nigeria produced a dominant all-round display to defeat Ghana by 136 runs on Sunday in the ongoing Fifth Women’s Invitational T20I tournament in Lagos.
The tournament is named the Patricia Kambarami Cup, honouring the late ICC Africa Regional Development Manager and Titans Chief Operating Officer.
The match was played at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Cricket Oval, Lagos. Nigeria won the toss and elected to bat, with captain Piety Luck and Victory Igbinedion racing to 44 runs in three overs.
Piety scored 23 off 17 balls before being bowled in the sixth over, leaving Nigeria at 50, as the side reached 56 for one at power play.
The innings maintained steady momentum, with Nigeria progressing to 78 for one midway through the innings. Igbinedion later retired hurt on 18, while Salome Sunday added a quick eight runs before her dismissal.
Christabel Chukwuonye anchored the innings with 43 off 27 balls, guiding Nigeria to 159 for four in 20 overs.
In response, Ghana faltered early, losing five wickets for just 13 runs in 6.5 overs against Nigeria’s disciplined bowling.
The innings failed to recover, as wickets continued to fall, reducing Ghana to 20 for eight in 9.2 overs.
Peace Usen led the bowling with three for nine in four overs, including a maiden, while Mbam Henrietta took three for seven and Favour Effiong claimed two for two
“I am happy to contribute to the team’s victory,”Usen said after being named Player of the Match.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Damilola Ogunbiyi, Chief Executive Officer and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, and Co-Chair of UN-Energy, for becoming the first Nigerian to receive the prestigious TIME Earth Awards.
Applauding her steadfast commitment to service and significant role in elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage, President Tinubu said that the recognition underscores Ms Ogunbiyi’s exceptional accomplishments, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to sustainable development.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Ms Ogunbiyi for her exemplary leadership in advancing the global clean energy transition and driving the decarbonisation of energy systems, particularly across the Global South.
He noted that, under her stewardship, “Sustainable Energy for All has supported over 100 countries worldwide and helped secure commitments totalling more than USD 1.6 trillion in energy finance.”
“Ogunbiyi’s achievement not only reflects personal excellence but also underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and leadership in shaping innovative and impactful solutions to global development challenges.
“I applaud her steadfast commitment to service and her significant role in elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage,” President Tinubu said.
He wished Ms Ogunbiyi continued success in all her future endeavors.
The TIME Earth Awards represent the organisation’s highest honour, celebrating individuals whose actions have made a profound and lasting impact on global efforts to address climate change and accelerate the energy transition.
The Kwara State Government, located in North Central Nigeria, has handed over the newly renovated and upgraded indoor sports hall of the State Stadium Complex to the State Sports Commission.
The handing over followed the completion of rehabilitation work on the indoor sports facility in line with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s determination to repositioning the state for sports development and international engagement.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at the indoor sports hall of the Kwara Stadium in Ilorin, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr Segun Ogunsola, acknowledged the giant stride of the Governor in sports development.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Risikat Abdulazeez, expressed optimism that the new facility would positively impact the state athletes and sports officials now equipped with enabling environment that will position the state for both national and international tournaments.
While urging the Kwara State Sports Commission to maximise the opportunities presented by the new facility to boost the sports profile of the state, the Commissioner pledged the state government’s unflinching support for the sector.
In his speech, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Bolakale Mogaji, praised Governor AbdulRazaq for taking the bold initiative to revamp the dilapidated facility which had been left moribund for decades.
He noted that the Indoor Sports Hall had been neglected by the previous administration and left to deteriorate, stressing that the upgrade is a testament to the passion and commitment of the Governor to improving sports development and management.
While assuring that the Commission would ensure that the facilities delivers desired results that will further unlock sports potentials of the state, Mogaji disclosed that the upgraded complex would project Kwara as a destination of choice for sporting engagements.
The new Indoor Sports Hall now features world class basketball courts, badminton, judo, taekwondo courts, plus modern amenities.
After a tour of the upgraded facilities, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry officially handed over the facility to the Executive Chairman, Kwara State Sport Commission to boost sporting passion among the state youth teeming population.
The Kwara State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched targeted mental health and psychosocial support interventions for residents of Woro and Oke-Ode communities following recent deadly bandit attacks.
The intervention, which combines training with direct community-based services, is aimed at helping survivors—especially women and children—cope with trauma and rebuild their lives.
The two-day event, held in Ilorin, brought together community leaders, volunteers and professionals to strengthen support systems for affected residents.
In her welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, described the training as “timely and critical” in addressing the psychosocial challenges arising from insecurity
The Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam PhD, (5th right) in a group photograph with dignitaries, partners and participants at the training..
She explained that the workshop aimed at “raising awareness of mental health, particularly among women and children, and equipping participants, including teachers, social workers, healthcare professionals and women advocates, with the skills to identify, support and refer individuals experiencing trauma.”
Hajia Imam commended partners, including the Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), for their commitment to strengthening community protection systems, urging participants to engage actively in advocacy, break stigma and foster a culture of care.
In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El Imam, praised the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his unwavering support for the people of Kwara and the affected communities.
She noted that her ministry had provided consumables to mitigate the impact of the attacks and pledged continued collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development to protect vulnerable populations.
Dr El Imam also expressed gratitude to UNICEF and called for further international support for infrastructure and psychosocial services.
The Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Rebecca Bake Olarewaju, highlighted measures to prevent disruption to education.
He noted that “school-in-a-box”kits would be distributed to displaced pupils to ensure continuity of learning.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Child Protection Specialist, Dr Wilfred Mamah, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting Kwara State through integrated services in health, education, WASH, nutrition and child protection.
He emphasised that the Woro tragedy had deeply affected children, many of whom witnessed traumatic events.
He described the inauguration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) as critical to creating safe spaces for healing and community-based support.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation, Dr Christiana Abayomi Oluwole, lamented the hardships faced by the Woro community and highlighted the workshop’s role in cushioning the economic and emotional toll of the tragedy.
She praised UNICEF for its support and expressed optimism that the training would help survivors overcome trauma.
Alhaji Umar Bio Saliu, Community Leader of Woro, recounted that the attack followed a threat letter from suspected bandits, which he promptly reported to security agencies and the Emirate Council.
Alhaji Umar appealed to the state government to intensify efforts to rescue those in captivity, particularly women and children, to restore peace and stability in the community.
Maxillofacial surgeons say many of the challenges faced by patients with cleft lip and palate can be reduced through early intervention, proper care and risk-reduction strategies.
They emphasised that correcting a cleft lip or palate is not just about surgery, but also about restoring confidence, helping affected individuals communicate, and ensuring they can thrive and integrate socially.
The surgeons from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, stated this in a World Oral Health Day message.
The message was written by Dr Fatima Kyari, Dr Adekunle Adegbayi, Dr Adamson Olatunbosun, Ayelomi Oluwanifemi, Prof. James Olutayo, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo and Prof. Mobolanle Ogunlewe.
World Oral Health Day, celebrated annually on March 20, seeks to unite people and help reduce the burden of oral diseases affecting individuals, health systems and economies.
They spoke on the “Challenges and Management of Children with Cleft Lip and Palate.”
Cleft lip and palate (CLP) are congenital birth defects that occur when facial tissues fail to fuse completely in the womb, resulting in openings in the upper lip or the roof of the mouth.
Data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) show that, globally, one in every 700 children is born with the condition.
The health agency said that “no fewer than 19,000 children with cleft conditions are born annually in Africa, of whom 12,000 are in West Africa and 6,000 in Nigeria.”
WHO included CLP in its list of global burden of disease initiatives in 2008.
The surgeons noted that children with cleft lip and palate face numerous challenges, including speech defects, psychosocial difficulties, and abnormalities in the size, shape and position of the teeth.
“More worrisome for parents of children with CLP is feeding difficulties with resultant malnutrition.
“This is due mainly to the anatomical defect in the palate with oronasal communication which prevents the development of the necessary seal and intraoral pressure for suckling, thereby predisposing them to frequent aspirations with subsequent recurrent respiratory tract infections.
“All these factors contribute to failure to thrive and poor nutrition.
“Feeding time is found to be significantly longer and fatigues both baby and mother; considerable stress on the mother ultimately affects the overall nutrition of the child,” they said.
Iran said on Sunday that it would strike the energy and water systems of its Gulf neighbours in retaliation if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through with a threat to hit Iran’s electricity grid in 48 hours, escalating the three-week-old war.
The prospect of tit-for-tat strikes on civilian infrastructure could deepen the regional crisis and rattle global markets when they reopen on Monday morning.
Air raid sirens sounded across Israel from the early hours of Sunday, warning of incoming missiles from Iran, after scores of people were hurt overnight in two separate attacks in the southern Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona.
The Israeli military said hours later that it was striking Tehran in response.
Trump threatened overnight to obliterate Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, barely a day after he talked about winding down the war. He made the new threat as U.S. Marines and heavy landing craft are heading to the region.
But while attacks on electricity could hurt Iran, they would be potentially catastrophic for its Gulf neighbours, which consume around five times as much power per capita. Electricity makes their gleaming desert cities habitable, and most of them produce nearly all of their drinking water by purifying it from the sea.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf wrote on X that critical infrastructure and energy facilities in the Middle East could be irreversibly destroyed should Iranian power plants be attacked.
Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards said it would also mean the shipping lane where a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas normally transits along Iran’s southern coast would remain shut.
“The Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed and will not be opened until our destroyed power plants are rebuilt,” the Guards said in a statement.
More than 2,000 people have been killed during the war the U.S. and Israel launched on February 28, which has upended markets, spiked fuel costs, fuelled global inflation fears and convulsed the postwar Western alliance.
The ancient city of Katsina came alive with pomp and pageantry as Hawan Sallah took center stage during the 2026 Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, drawing thousands of residents, dignitaries, and international visitors.
The historical durbar, held shortly after Eid prayers, reflected the enduring cultural heritage of the Katsina Emirate, showcasing centuries-old traditions marked by royal processions, colourful displays, and expressions of loyalty.
At the forefront of the grand procession was the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, who rode majestically on a richly adorned horse, accompanied by district heads, title holders, and royal guards. The procession moved through the historic streets of Kofar Guga before culminating at the Emir’s palace, where subjects paid homage in a symbolic reaffirmation of allegiance.
The event featured a rich blend of traditional music, synchronised horse-riding displays, and elaborate royal regalia, underscoring the deep historical roots and cultural pride of the people.
Adding international significance to the celebrations, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda hosted a 17-member delegation of foreign diplomats, led by Pieter Leenknegt, who visited the state to witness the Sallah festivities.
The delegation was received at the Umaru Musa Yar’adua Airport before proceeding to Kofar Soro, where they joined other dignitaries to observe the Hawan Sallah procession.
During their two-day visit, the diplomats toured key historical landmarks across Katsina and Daura Emirates, including the iconic Gobarau Minaret and the revered Kusugu Well, both of which hold significant historical and cultural value.
They also attended a cultural night that featured traditional performances and indigenous sporting activities such as Dambe and Kokawa, further highlighting the richness of the region’s heritage.
The cultural showcase extended to Daura, where Governor Radda and the visiting diplomats witnessed the colourful Hawan Magajiya, a key highlight of the Sallah celebrations in the Daura Emirate.
The event featured royal horsemen in an elaborate procession paying homage to the Emir of Daura, alongside traditional title holders and palace guards adorned in full regalia, bringing the emirate’s rich cultural heritage vividly to life.
Governor Radda commended both Katsina and Daura Emirates for preserving their traditions, noting that the sustained practice of such cultural festivals reinforces identity and unity among the people.
He described the presence of foreign diplomats as a clear indication of growing global interest in Katsina’s cultural heritage and tourism potential.
Security agencies maintained a strong presence across major locations to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration, as large crowds thronged the venues to witness the festivities.
Residents who spoke with Voice of Nigeria’s correspondent described the Hawan Sallah as a vital cultural institution that fosters unity, peace, and communal pride while also serving as a platform for promoting the state’s rich traditions to the global community.
The 2026 Eid-ul-Fitr Hawan Sallah in Katsina and Daura not only marked the successful completion of the Ramadan fast but also stood as a powerful testament to the resilience of tradition and cultural identity.
With the participation of international diplomats and dignitaries, the festival further reinforced Katsina State’s position as a leading hub of cultural heritage and tourism in Nigeria.
Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has called for unity among citizens while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to boosting agriculture and strengthening the state’s economy.
The governor made the call during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Dutse after receiving the Emir of Dutse, His Royal Highness Alhaji Hameem Muhammad Sanusi, at the Hawan Bariki Durbar held at the Sir Muhammadu Sanusi Durbar Ground.
Governor Namadi described the visit by the Emir and other traditional leaders as a significant moment for reflection and appreciation, noting that it underscored the collective efforts toward peace, development, and cooperation across the state.
He expressed gratitude for the continued support of traditional institutions, particularly their recognition of ongoing development projects across various emirates, and commended residents for their loyalty to both state and federal governments.
“As a government, we will continue to implement developmental projects for our communities, especially the underprivileged. Our constant focus remains on the poor in Jigawa State,” the governor stated.
Addressing challenges in the agricultural sector, Governor Namadi acknowledged recent losses suffered by farmers but assured that both state and federal authorities are working to address the situation.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. We understand the difficulties farmers face, including rising costs and poor returns. However, this downturn is temporary, and we are putting measures in place to ensure farmers can benefit from their efforts,”he said.
He disclosed plans to roll out support initiatives ahead of the upcoming dry season farming to boost productivity and restore farmers’ confidence.
“Starting this farming season, with God’s grace, we will introduce measures to support small-scale farmers.” He urged patience as we implement these plans.
The governor emphasised the importance of agriculture to food security, warning that neglecting farming could lead to food shortages and increased prices.
“If we fail to farm, there will be no food. And when food is scarce, prices will rise, leading to hardship for everyone,”he cautioned.
On rising fuel prices, Governor Namadi relayed assurances from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that efforts are underway to cushion the impact, attributing the increase to ongoing crises in the Middle East.
He said both federal and state governments are working on measures, including reducing transportation expenses and supporting vulnerable groups.
The governor also urged citizens to participate actively in the voter registration exercise, describing the voter card as a powerful tool for democratic accountability.
“Those who have not registered should do so. If your card is damaged, replace it. If you have relocated, update your details. Your voter card is your power to demand accountability from leaders,” he said.
Governor Namadi reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue policies that promote economic growth, social welfare, and agricultural development across Jigawa State.
Details of the engagement were contained in a press statement by the governor’s chief press secretary, Hamisu Gumel.
British-Nigerian writer, Adenike Ojo has been named a Best Drama Screenplay Award finalist for her emotionally charged drama, In Hiding, at the Winter 2026 edition of the Atlanta Short Film Festival.
The award presentation, scheduled for Monday in Atlanta, Georgia, will see the screenplay compete among top entries recognised for compelling storytelling and emotional depth.
The selection marks a significant international milestone for the culturally rooted story, which explores autism, motherhood, and societal pressure.
Originally developed as a stage play set in Nigerian high society, In Hiding casts a cultural lens on autism within the African community, challenging stigma and promoting empathy while examining themes of maternal love, identity, and tradition.
In Hiding follows Bimpe DaCosta, an ambitious marketing executive navigating the glittering yet demanding world of Lagos high society while raising her 10-year-old autistic son, Olaolu.
Forced out of self-imposed isolation to attend an extravagant Lagos party, Bimpe confronts the tension between ‘cultural expectations, personal ambition, and the quiet struggle of accepting her child’s condition.’
According to report, “the drama delves into parental denial, social pressure, and the courage required to embrace difference, offering a deeply human perspective on the emotional realities faced by families dealing with autism in culturally conservative environments.”
Ojo, born and raised in Hackney, London, gained international recognition after winning Best Playwright at the 2023 Black British Theatre Awards for In Hiding, establishing her as a rising voice in African diaspora storytelling.
The project was also shortlisted for the 2022–2023 VAULT Five mentoring programme, further strengthening its creative development and expanding its global reach.
With its selection by the Atlanta Short Film Festival judges, In Hiding continues to gain international attention, reinforcing Ojo’s reputation as a playwright and screenwriter committed to socially conscious, African-centered storytelling.
The First Lady of Nigeria, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, has praised Nigerian women for assisting their families in various ways by providing water for domestic use.
She gave the commendation in her message to commemorate the 2026 World Water Day.
The First Lady spoke about the theme for this year’s Water Day, “Water and Gender”, under the special campaign slogan, “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.”
She noted that women and girls make many sacrifices for their families, as she advocated for gender equality.
The Nigerian president’s wife said, “Thisyear’s World Water Day’s theme highlights the unique connection between access to water, sanitation, and gender equity.”
Mrs Tinubu said; “Across many communities, women and girls bear the primary responsibility for getting water, often walking long distances to streams at the expense of their education, health, and economic opportunities.“
She used the opportunity to call for adequate, safe, and clean water.
“By providing safe, clean, and accessible water, we not only alleviate thirst but also create opportunities for girls to continue their education, women to pursue livelihoods, and families to lead healthier lives.”
“Let us work together to ensure that where water flows in Nigeria, equity truly grows. Happy World Water Day,” she added.
