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Senegal Coach Thiaw Leaves Press Conference After Jeers

Omolara Blessing
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Senegal Coach Thiaw Leaves Press Conference After Jeers

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was roundly jeered and then walked out of his scheduled post-match press conference, as the drama of Sunday’s contentious Africa Cup of Nations final continued well after the final whistle.

Thiaw ordered his players off the field in protest at a penalty awarded against them before they returned to beat hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time and win the trophy.

The penalty was awarded following a VAR check by Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala after Brahim Diaz had been tugged to the ground by Senegal full back El Hadji Malick Diouf while defending a corner five minutes into stoppage time.

But Senegal reacted angrily to the decision and walked off, some players going down the tunnel and into their changing room. It took 14 minutes before they returned and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Diaz’s poorly taken Panenka-style chipped spot kick.

Thiaw had been expected to explain his decision at the post-match press conference but when he entered the room the coach was jeered by Moroccan journalists while their Senegalese counterparts clapped.

Failure by officials to quieten a rowdy room then saw Thiaw leave.

The Senegal coach was central to the scenes that clouded the final and could face heavy sanction from the Confederation of African Football.

President Tinubu Celebrates Customs CG Adeniyi At 60

Mosunmola Ore
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President Tinubu Celebrates Customs CG Adeniyi At 60

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Dr. Adewale Adeniyi, on his 60th birthday, describing him as a committed public servant whose reforms have strengthened the nation’s trade and revenue architecture.

In a congratulatory message issued on Sunday by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President rejoiced with Adeniyi on the milestone.

He noted that his years of dedicated service, hard work and pursuit of excellence have repositioned the Customs Service for more efficient service delivery.

President Tinubu said under Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS has recorded landmark reforms, improved community relations, boosted revenue generation and enhanced Nigeria’s trade engagements with other countries.

The President also highlighted Adeniyi’s role in transforming the Service into a globally competitive institution, an effort that culminated in his election as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in June 2025.

President Tinubu also commended the Customs Comptroller-General for continually positively projecting Nigeria and Africa on the global stage through inclusive, practical and charismatic leadership at the WCO.

As Adeniyi marks his 60th birthday on January 19, President Tinubu prayed for renewed strength, good health and wisdom for him to continue serving the nation.

 

VP Shettima Arrives in Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum

Mosunmola Ore
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VP Shettima Arrives in Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in the alpine town of Davos, Switzerland, to lead the Nigerian delegation at the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), scheduled to be held from January 19 to 23, 2026.

The Vice President arrived on Sunday evening from Conakry, Guinea, where he represented President Bola Tinubu at the presidential inauguration of President Mamadi Doumbouya on Saturday.

He was received on arrival by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Yussuf Tuggar, and Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and officials of the Nigerian mission in Switzerland.

The 2026 WEF marks a milestone in Nigeria’s global economic diplomacy with the official debut of “Nigeria House Davos.”

For the first time, the Federal Government has established a dedicated sovereign pavilion on the Davos Promenade.

This facility, a product of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP), will serve as a permanent hub for high-level ministerial engagements, investment roundtables, and cultural diplomacy throughout the week.

Vice President Shettima will present Nigeria’s 2026 economic outlook to the world’s most influential political and business leaders, as he participates in key plenary sessions focusing on the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology.

Throughout the week, the Vice President will hold bilateral meetings with heads of state, top executives from multinational corporations, and leaders of international development finance institutions to deepen partnerships that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

In an interview with journalists shortly after the VP’s arrival, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole said Nigeria would make a robust presentation of investment opportunities in the country at the launch of the Nigeria House in Davos which will focus on President Tinubu’s efforts in revamping the economy.

 

 

NLNG Unveils 2026 Digital Journalism Cohort

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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NLNG Unveils 2026 Digital Journalism Cohort

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has unveiled participants for the first cohort of its Change Your Story (CYS) Digital Journalism Training for 2026, scheduled to hold from January 19 to 21 in Abuja.

The 2026 edition is themed “Re-calibrate, Create, Connect” will have renowned media project leader and trainer, Mr Dan Mason, who has worked extensively with journalists and communicators across Africa and beyond, as the lead trainer and the founder of the Journalism Clinic Mr Taiwo Obe as Coordinator.

The Manager, Corporate Communication and Public Affairs Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku
says The #NLNGChangeYourStory (CYS) initiative was designed “to build the professional capacity of journalists by equipping them with the skills, tools, and confidence required to deliver compelling, accurate, and impactful journalism in a fast-paced, digital-first and technology-driven media environment.”

The programme aligns with NLNG’s Corporate Social Responsibility objectives
focusing on strengthening competencies in artificial intelligence, digital communication, real-time reporting, audience engagement, verification, and modern storytelling

The initiative which started in 2015, through multiple editions, has trained more than 180 journalists and continually reflecting NLNG’s sustained commitment to media capacity development.

The 2026 cohort features over 27 journalists drawn from major media organisations nationwide including Glory Ohagwu of Voice of Nigeria (VON)

Over the years, the NLNG Change Your Story programme has trained hundreds of journalists from print, online, television and radio platforms across Nigeria, contributing significantly to the advancement of media excellence.

The organisers have welcomed the 2026 cohort, with a charge to buckle in for an immersive, hands-on intensive training which will transform digital storytelling.

Senegal Talisman Mane Cements Legacy With AFCON MVP Award

Chidi Uduma Nwoke
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Senegal Talisman Mane Cements Legacy With AFCON MVP Award

Following Senegal’s hard-fought victory over hosts Morocco in the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday night, the Teranga Lions’ captain Sadio Mane was officially crowned the 2025 CAF Player of the Competition.

In a tournament defined by grit, tactical warfare, and high-stakes drama, Mané has once again cemented his legacy as the king of African football.

This marks the second time Mané has received the “Golden Ball” accolade, having previously won it during Senegal’s maiden title run in 2022.

Senegal’s Sadio Mane.

Though Pape Gueye scored the decisive 94th-minute goal in the 1–0 extra-time win, it was Mané’s tireless work rate and his pre-assist pass that carved open the Moroccan defense.

The closing ceremony in Rabat saw several other stars recognised for their contributions to an unforgettable tournament:

Morocco’s attacking star Brahim Díaz was crowned the Golden Boot winner of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, following a sensational scoring campaign that placed him at the summit of African football.

Reigning CAF Goalkeeper of the Year, Yassine Bounou was awarded the Golden Glove as the Best Goalkeeper of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, capping off a stellar individual campaign in goal for the Atlas Lions.

Senegal Conquers Morocco To Claim AFCON Title

Chidi Uduma Nwoke
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Senegal Conquers Morocco To Claim AFCON Title

The Teranga Lions of Senegal were crowned champions of Africa for the second time in their history, beating hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a gripping Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finale, at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.

The match had been finely balanced from the opening whistle. Morocco were chasing a first continental crown in over five decades, while Senegal sought to reclaim the title they first lifted in 2021.

Senegal started the brighter side, controlling the tempo and creating the clearer chances in the first half. Moments later, Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou reacted sharply to keep out Gueye’s header, before producing a brilliant one-on-one save to deny Iliman Ndiaye.

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou (L) saves effort from Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye (13).

At the other end, the hosts’ best opportunity of the half came five minutes before the break, when Nayef Aguerd narrowly failed to connect with Abdessamad Ezzalzouli’s teasing cross that flashed across the face of goal.

The Atlas Lions emerged with renewed purpose after the interval. Ayoub El Kaabi was presented with a golden chance when Bilal El Khannouss threaded a defence-splitting pass through the Senegal back line, but the forward could not keep his effort on target.

Morocco pressed relentlessly, yet couldn’t find their cutting edge in the final third. Senegal, dangerous on the counter, almost struck late in normal time. In the 89th minute, substitute Ibrahim Mbaye curled an effort towards the far corner, but Bounou saved brilliantly.

The hosts had come agonisingly close to settling the contest at the end of regulation time. Awarded a late penalty following a VAR review, the hosts were denied when Edward Mendy stopped Brahim Diaz’s attempt forcing the final beyond the 90 minutes.

With no breakthrough after 90 minutes, extra time beckoned, and Senegal needed little time to strike. A turnover in midfield saw Sadio Mané cleverly back-heel the ball into the path of Idrissa Gana Gueye, who released Pape Gueye.

Showing strength and composure, the midfielder drove to the edge of the box before firing an unstoppable shot beyond Bounou. The goal sent the Senegalese bench into raptures and silencing a packed stadium desperate for a long-awaited home triumph.

Morocco pushed desperately for an equaliser. Diaz nearly redeemed his earlier penalty miss with a close-range effort saved by Mendy, while Youssef En-Nesyri came inches away with a diving header that drifted narrowly wide.

Senegal could even have doubled their lead late on, but Bounou again denied Pape Cherif Ndiaye from close range, with the substitute also failing to convert the rebound.

In the end, Senegal held firm, defending with resilience and maturity to see out a historic victory, sealing their second AFCON title and once again affirming their place among the continent’s elite.

In front of a passionate home crowd, the Lions of Teranga showed composure, resilience and champion mentality, withstanding relentless Moroccan pressure before delivering the decisive moment that settled a final worthy of African football’s biggest stage.

For Senegal, this triumph confirms a golden era— at the summit of African football and another chapter of history written with discipline, belief and collective strength.

Morocco pushed until the very end, but Senegal’s defensive resolve and big-game experience proved decisive as the trophy heads to Dakar once more. Africa has a champion again—and Senegal stand tall at the summit of the continent.

Kogi: Traditional Leader Lauds Army’s Fight Against Insecurity

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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Kogi: Traditional Leader Lauds Army’s Fight Against Insecurity

A traditional ruler in Kogi state, the Attah Igala and Chairman of the Traditional Council of Chiefs, Mathew Alaji Ogwuche-Akpa II, has commended the Nigerian Army for its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.

He made the remarks while speaking at the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 of the Nigerian Army, held at the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army in Lokoja.

Represented by the Obaje-adaka Attah Igala, His Royal Highness Chief Shaibu Musa Okolilo, the Attah Igala expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Army and other security agencies in combating insecurity. He noted that many soldiers have laid down their lives for the nation’s survival, urging Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of nationalism exemplified by the Army.

The Attah Igala emphasised the importance of the annual WASA programme as a social event for the Army to unwind, noting that “work and no play affects morale.”

Also Read: South-West Leaders Back Indigenous Solutions to Curb Insecurity

He commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for boosting the morale of the Nigerian Army in its fight against insurgency, observing that the renewed efforts to tackle insecurity are yielding positive results.

He also praised the service chiefs, brigade commanders, and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for their contributions in addressing insecurity in the state. Additionally, he commended members of the Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, including the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, the Obaro of Kabba, and the Ohimege Igu of Kotonkarfe, for maintaining peace in their communities.

In a welcome address, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, said the annual West African Social Activities, known as WASA, is a unique social event that unites officers and men of the Nigerian Army, as well as their families and host communities, to promote cohesion, unity, and cultural exchange

“The Nigerian Army draws its strength from the diversity of its people. Within our barracks community, we have an extraordinary blend of cultures, languages, and traditions, all coexisting in unity and mutual respect.

“WASA provides us with the opportunity to showcase this diversity, strengthen our bonds, and remind ourselves that beyond our uniforms, we remain one family united by service to our nation. This occasion also allows us to reflect on the year gone by,” General Sidi noted.

The Governor of Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, Ahmed Usman Ododo, who was the special guest of honour, commended the Army for protecting the nation against insurgency and banditry in the face of daunting security challenges, emphasising that military personnel deserve recreational activities such as the West African Social Activities.

“It is therefore essential that troops are given the opportunity to unwind, share in the joy of the season, and celebrate the achievements of the year with their loved ones. The WASA celebration remains the perfect avenue to achieve this, marking a befitting conclusion to the year’s activities.

“The WASA, an enduring cultural legacy that dates back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, fosters a sense of belonging among officers, soldiers, and their dependents, and also strengthens the relationship between the barracks community and its host environment.”

The event featured cultural performances, award presentations, and a call to action for Nigerians to support the Army’s efforts in safeguarding the nation.

The Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in its fight against insecurity, including the rescue of over 1,000 kidnapped victims and the recovery of arms and ammunition.

Africa Minerals Strategy Group Re-elects Alake as Chairman

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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Africa Minerals Strategy Group Re-elects Alake as Chairman

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has been re-elected Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), a continental ministerial forum of African ministers responsible for minerals and mining, committed to coordinated action aimed at maximising value addition and beneficiation from Africa’s vast mineral resources.

Dr. Alake was first unanimously elected as the pioneer Chairman of the AMSG in 2024 on the sidelines of the Future Minerals Forum (FMF). He was re-elected at the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the group, held on the sidelines of the same conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

As part of efforts to strengthen its institutional framework, the AMSG approved the creation of additional leadership positions, including Vice-Chairman, Deputy Secretary-General, and Financial Secretary. The forum further resolved that these positions be equitably distributed across Africa’s sub-regions to promote inclusion and regional balance.

While the positions of Chairman and Vice-Chairman are elective and reserved for serving ministers, other positions are appointed by member states to which they are zoned.

Under the new leadership structure, Nigeria’s Dr. Dele Alake continues as Chairman of the 24-member forum, representing West Africa. The Minister of Mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Hon. Louis Watum Kabamba, was elected Vice-Chairman, representing Central Africa.

The position of Secretary-General remains with Uganda (East Africa), Mauritania was appointed Deputy Secretary-General (North Africa), while South Africa was zoned the position of Financial Secretary.

Also Read: President Tinubu Approves Pre-Shipment Inspection Agency for Solid Minerals

The AGM also ratified a two-year tenure for the newly elected executive committee and agreed that zoned positions belong to member countries, such that when a serving minister is replaced, the successor automatically assumes the role.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Alake expressed gratitude to his colleagues for the renewed confidence reposed in him, stressing the urgent need for African nations to work collaboratively to unlock the continent’s economic potential through solid minerals development. He called on member states to agree on minimum financial contributions and to refine the group’s budgeting framework to strengthen its operational effectiveness.

“Once member states contribute, accountability will naturally follow. This will enhance transparency and strengthen the credibility of the AMSG before the global community,” the Minister stated.

The AGM further resolved to hold quarterly ministerial meetings and ratified the establishment of standing committees, including Legal, Institutional Affairs & Human Resources; Sustainability and Responsible Mining; and Finance, Budget & Resource Mobilisation, among others. It was also agreed that steps be taken towards hosting a global minerals conference in Africa, similar to the FMF.

Speaking earlier at a Leadership Roundtable themed “Africa: Unlocking Infrastructure Funding for Copper-Belt Production” held on the sidelines of the FMF and attended by African ministers of minerals, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders, Dr. Alake emphasised that mineral production alone cannot deliver lasting economic transformation without reliable infrastructure, coordinated policies, and deliberate value-addition strategies.

He cited the Lobito Corridor as a model of what is achievable when rail, ports, energy systems, and policy alignment work in synergy. He noted that similar opportunities exist across the continent, including the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor linking Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire; the Walvis Bay Corridor connecting Southern Africa’s mining regions to global markets; and the Dar es Salaam and Central Corridors serving East and Central Africa, among others.

According to the Minister: “The real question is not whether Africa has corridors, but whether these corridors are being financed, governed, and structured to support industrial growth, regional integration, and long-term stability. What matters is how financing is designed to reduce risk, attract private capital, and sustain commercial viability while advancing national and regional development objectives.”

Dr. Alake emphasised that unlocking capital at scale requires addressing issues such as bankable and enforceable offtake arrangements; predictable and harmonised cross-border regulatory frameworks; alignment of rail, port, power, and industrial planning; and clear pathways for processing, smelting, logistics services, and industrial clusters along these corridors.

He added that the broader vision of the AMSG is to ensure that Africa’s mineral infrastructure is strategically designed, responsibly financed, and efficiently managed in a rapidly evolving global environment, not to discourage investment, but to ensure it aligns with long-term stability, transparency, and shared economic prosperity.

Para Badminton: Bolaji Wins Gold At Egypt International Championship

Chidi Uduma Nwoke
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Para Badminton: Bolaji Wins Gold At Egypt International Championship

Africa’s number one para badminton player, Eniola Bolaji of Nigeria, emerged champion of the 2026 Egypt International Championship after defeating Halime Yildiz of Turkey 2–0 (21–10, 21–4), at the New Capital Indoor Hall in Cairo on Sunday.

The Paralympic bronze medallist began her campaign with a commanding 2–0 (21–9, 21–10) victory over Yildiz in the opening round, before overcoming India’s Tulika Jadgave 2–0 (21–10, 21–7) in the second round.

Bolaji continued her dominant run by beating India’s Manasi Girishchandra Joshi 2–0 (21–11, 21–13) to set up a semifinal clash against India’s Shivam Yadav Neeraj, which she won convincingly 2–0 (21–10, 21–11).

An elated President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised the consistency of Bolaji for continuing to put the country on the global map.

Orbih said the African champion has repeatedly shown that Nigeria can compete and dominate on the world stage through her impressive performances.

Eniola Bolaji of Nigeria.

“I am excited that Eniola Bolaji was able to compete at the Egypt Para Badminton International and win gold once again,” Orbih said.

“In 2025, she began her journey to greatness with a victory in North Africa and went on to win all the available gold medals except one.”

“I strongly believe Bolaji will have an exciting year ahead and will continue to bring pride to Nigeria and the Federation” he added.

Orbih also commended the team’s sponsors and the National Sports Commission for their continued support in the development of para badminton.

“I want to thank GIG Logistics and the National Sports Commission for their unwavering support. I assure you that Eniola Bolaji will continue to give her best in subsequent tournaments,” he said.

Nigeria Expresses Solidarity With Flood-Hit Southern African Nations

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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Nigeria Expresses Solidarity With Flood-Hit Southern African Nations

The Nigerian Government has expressed deep sympathy and condolences to the governments and people of South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe following devastating floods that have claimed more than 100 lives and displaced thousands across Southern Africa.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government said that the floods, triggered by weeks of torrential rainfall, resulted in extensive human and material losses, including damaged roads and bridges, displaced communities, disrupted agricultural activities, and affected essential services.

Nigeria also expressed concern over the secondary humanitarian impacts of the disaster, such as food insecurity, potential disease outbreaks, and the increased vulnerability of women, children, and other at-risk groups.

Also Read: Nigeria Expresses Concern Over Israeli Airstrike in Qatar

The government expressed its solidarity with the ongoing rescue, evacuation, and relief efforts being carried out by national authorities, regional bodies, and international humanitarian partners, while commending the resilience of the affected countries as they begin their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Highlighting the growing threat of climate-related extreme weather events across Africa, Nigeria underscored the need for stronger regional cooperation, improved early-warning systems, effective climate adaptation strategies, and sustained international support to reduce the humanitarian and developmental consequences of such disasters.

The Nigerian Government reaffirmed its commitment to bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation in promoting disaster preparedness, humanitarian response, and climate resilience, assuring the affected countries of its continued goodwill and support.

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