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COMMENTARY

THE ADELEKE DYNASTY: A HERITAGE OF AWKETE, THE LINEAGE OF ESTHER NNENNA ADELEKE IN EDE BY OGELE OBINGWA

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Akwete Ndoki is not just a town. It is a living museum of Igbo ingenuity, a bridge of cultures, and a pride of Abia State and Igbo land.

For centuries, Akwete has stood at the crossroads of commerce, craft, and community, where the Akwete cloth was woven not just with thread, but with identity. It is a cloth that speaks volumes of data about the people so blessed by God himself. A cloth that traveled from the creeks of Ndoki to the palaces of kings, from the markets of Aba to the precincts of numerous destinations in the diaspora and across West Africa.

That heritage of excellence did not end at the border of Abia. It has traveled miles far away and has multiplied into a prosperous lineage in the natural soils of Ede where it has bloomed and blossomed into a dynasty.

Today as Akwete is remembered by providence the world looks not just to see the loom, nor the fabric, but for the values it represents: diligence, industry, unity, determination and excellence. At various historical moments when it is imperative to stand out in dignity Akwete has always answered the call from the lush grounds of Ohuru – Mkporobe to water land of Azumini there’s a feeling of gratitude for Akwete in the whole of NDOKI that Ignites as sense of pride. Akwete has produced great sons and daughters who stand among the best in various human endeavours in Nigeria and the world at large, illustrious their chosen field of profession whether in governance, academia, law, medicine, engineering, business, the arts, and public service their names shine in boardrooms, universities, court rooms, and on the global stages. They are the living proof that Akwete does not just weave cloth alone but that Akwete weaves leaders and great men and women of repute.

At the heart of this story is Mrs. Esther Nnenna Adeleke (Akparah), a daughter of Akwete, Ukwa East LGA, whose life became the elixir to the glory of her people far from home.

She was the second and best-known wife of the late Senator Ayoola Adeleke a prominent politician from Ede, Osun State, who served as a Senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic. Their union was more than marriage. It was a national statement. Mrs. Esther Adeleke carried the three signature gifts of Akwete to Ede, her industry, integrity, and inter-ethnic grace, a symbol of the unity Nigeria desires. While in Ede, she did not abandon her roots. She became a bridge. She took the Akwete spirit of hardwork and hospitality to Yoruba land, building a home where Igbo resilience met Yoruba royalty. Her marriage dissolved ethnic lines and became a model of national unity in a most remarkable way. She became in her husband’s land not just a dutiful wife but the Mother of a perpetual Dynasty, from her womb came leaders who have shaped Nigeria and her immediate society. From Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke the first elected civilian Governor of Osun State to Senator Ademola Adeleke, the current Governor of Osun State and of course the sage and doyen of enterprise Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, billionaire businessman, founder of Adeleke University, and father of global music icon Davido, the Adeleke family name continues to echo nationally and internationally in politics, governance, education, philanthropy, business and entertainment a living proof that the Akwete DNA of excellence is exportable and thrives anywhere.

Mrs. Esther Nnenna Adeleke with her marriage which resonated with the character of the Akwete cloth, to connect people, has today successfully woven Abia into Osun and the Igbo into the Yoruba.

Like the Igbos which have a saying: “Uzọdimma a ga ya ugboro abuọ” – If a road is good, you will go through it again and again. That road of peace which started with the bold decision of Senator Ayoola Adeleke to take his heartthrob, the delectable Mrs. Esther Nnenna Adeleke as wife has continued with her children, Governor Ademola Adeleke took a wife from the Southeast and Davido her grandson, who also took a wife, Chioma, from the Southeast because the first experiment from Akwete worked, that it is power of the yarn 🧶 which is seen as a mere thread 🧵 but weaves royalty and grace as exemplified by the regal Akwete fabric.

The ready lesson that successful people don’t do tribalism is once again re-enforced by the Adeleke family experiment which teaches us to marry from anywhere in the world so long as you find love and peace there. That is the Akwete spirit, that is the Abia spirit that is urgently needed in Nigeria for us to remain united.

Notwithstanding her demise a new chapter of Akwete beyond the threads continues. On Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at the Akwete Central School in Ndoki, Ukwa East LGA another great daughter of the Niger Delta and wife of the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Nigeria His Excellency Senator Dr. Remi Tinubu will visit Akwete. She will walk the lands of our heritage among our people, sit with the women of the loom, and get first-hand knowledge of their crafts at the Akwete weaving Centre.

Her mission which is two-fold will be to explore the prospects of commercializing Akwete Fabric beyond the weaving of the cloth for patronage at the national and global markets and to renew the ties that bind us as one people from the Niger Delta to the Southeast, from Abia to Aso Rock. It will be a great elixir into the potentials of NDOKI land as an economic belt for Abia State and Nigeria not just for the expansion of the indigenous textile but also for roads, schools, and other social amenities that will enhance the growth and development of Ukwa East LGA under the amiable leadership of Pastor Chibunna Akara, the metropolitan mayor of modern Ndoki land.

It will be another homecoming of purpose for a great daughter of the Niger Delta, our sister and mother Distinguished Senator Oluremi Tinubu and a beautiful reminder that the hands that weave Akwete also can weave the nation together.

The legacy of Mrs Esther Nnenna and her impact in the Adeleke Dynasty is a story of Akwete’s greatest export of people of character

Akwete have not only Nigeria a craft in the weaving the world-renowned Akwete fabric, a UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage in the making but also a Culture of trade, diplomacy, and inter-ethnic marriage that has built peace with a talent pool of men and women like Esther Nnenna Adeleke who raised governors, senators, billionaires, and global stars. Akwete embodies the History of a people who have never been confined by geography, plus an avalanche of sons and daughters who continue to lift the name of Ndoki land high across the world.

As we relish the benefits of this native bequest Abia State and Igbo land will continue to celebrate the peculiar ingenuity of Akwete women, we will continue to celebrate those who have carried Akwete cloth to destinations outside our territory and planted it there.

The Adeleke Dynasty is not just a family. It is the evidence that Akwete’s endowment is a national heritage and that one day beyond today’s limitation the looms of Akwete will move from the villa to the Senate chambers, to the Government Houses across Nigeria and to the world stage with style. Akwete will not only be a symbol of our national pride but will become the official native wear for the corridors of power in Abuja and capitals in Nigeria, the thread will never be broken.

Just like the yarn that weaves the glory of the cloth into ambiance, providence has remembered Akwete again.

“Ugbu a bu oge Akwete – Sitee na ngozi chineke Nyerere ala anyi Ka anyi ga eji akpa nganga”

This is the time for Akwete, it is from the blessings of God upon our land, that we be proud.

Ogele Obingwa

HEALTH

Abia Moves to Protect Lives as Emetu Receives PSN Roadmap to End Fake Drugs, Reform Pharmaceutical Sector

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The Abia State Government has renewed its commitment to protecting citizens from the dangers of fake and substandard medicines, with the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, assuring that the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, will deploy every necessary measure to sanitise the pharmaceutical sector and strengthen healthcare delivery.

Engr. Emetu gave the assurance when he received the leadership of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Abia State Branch, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Umuahia.

The visit provided an opportunity for the professional body to present a comprehensive memorandum containing proposals aimed at reforming pharmaceutical practice, improving drug distribution, and addressing challenges confronting the sector in the state.

One of the major highlights of the engagement was the PSN’s proposal for the establishment of a Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC), an initiative the Deputy Governor described as a strategic solution to the persistent challenge of fake and unregulated medicines.

According to Engr. Emetu, the centre would create a structured drug distribution system where only licensed and verified pharmaceutical operators would participate, thereby reducing the activities of illegal drug vendors and protecting residents from harmful medicines.

“The proposal is an eye-opener. Rather than chasing the problem endlessly, we must adopt a strategic approach that will effectively eliminate the menace of fake drugs and quack medicine vendors. A Coordinated Wholesale Centre will enable us regulate drug distribution more effectively and identify genuine operators in the pharmaceutical sector.”

The Deputy Governor disclosed that the memorandum would be presented before the next Abia State Security Council meeting, noting that tackling counterfeit medicines requires a coordinated effort involving government, security agencies, regulatory institutions, and professional associations.

He expressed concern over the growing health complications associated with fake and improperly dispensed medicines, including cases requiring dialysis and other critical medical interventions.

Engr. Emetu maintained that the Alex Otti administration remains determined to enforce stronger regulatory measures and professional standards to ensure that residents have access to safe and quality medicines.

Strengthening Pharmaceutical Education and Workforce

The Deputy Governor also highlighted the importance of strengthening pharmaceutical education in the state, particularly the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu.

He described the faculty as critical to producing the skilled manpower required to support a modern healthcare system, assuring the PSN delegation that he would engage Governor Alex Otti on issues surrounding its accreditation.

He further promised to discuss increased recruitment of pharmacists into public health facilities and the implementation of the Pharmacist Consultancy Cadre to improve professional pharmaceutical services across the state.

Describing pharmacists as critical partners in healthcare delivery, Engr. Emetu said quality medicines and professional pharmaceutical care remain essential components of effective treatment.

“A surgeon cannot successfully carry out an operation without pharmaceutical products. If the pharmaceutical component of healthcare is neglected, the patient’s condition could become worse than when they came to the hospital. That is why this administration will continue to strengthen pharmaceutical services and ensure that only qualified professionals are entrusted with the sale and distribution of medicines in Abia State.”

PSN Commends Otti Administration’s Healthcare Reforms

Earlier, the Secretary of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Abia State Branch, Pharm. Chinedu Urukwem, presented the society’s memorandum, which contained recommendations for improving pharmaceutical practice and healthcare delivery.

He commended Governor Otti’s administration for increased investment in health and education, recruitment of healthcare workers, and ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning critical sectors.

Among the requests presented by the society were support for the accreditation of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at ABSU, recruitment of more pharmacists, implementation of the Pharmacist Consultancy Cadre, inclusion of pharmacists in healthcare management boards, operationalisation of the Abia State Drug Management Agency, establishment of a Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) Board, support for the Coordinated Wholesale Centre, provision of a permanent secretariat for PSN, and incentives to attract pharmaceutical manufacturing companies to Aba.

The Vice Chairman of PSN, Abia State Branch, Pharm. Nnamdi Amechi, also praised the government’s reforms and urged continued collaboration between the state and pharmacists to eliminate fake drugs and improve healthcare outcomes.

He expressed optimism that sustained partnership between the Abia State Government and PSN would position the state as a leading destination for pharmaceutical excellence in Nigeria.

METRO

Calabar Court Sentences Pastor to Death for Killing Teenage Daughter Branded a ‘Witch’

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A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced 51-year-old Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, in a judgment that has reignited concerns over the continued persecution of vulnerable children through witchcraft accusations.

Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11 delivered the verdict in Suit No. HC/54C/2025 (State v. Ubong Bassey Etim) after finding the cleric guilty of murdering his daughter on February 15, 2025.

According to reports, Deborah, who lived with Down syndrome, was falsely accused of being a witch before she was killed. Her death sparked widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and organizations campaigning against harmful traditional practices.

Court Sends Strong Message Against Witchcraft Branding

Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, described the conviction as a landmark victory for child protection and justice.

Speaking after the ruling, the organization’s Principal Counsel, James Ibor, said the judgment affirms that every child, regardless of disability or circumstance, has the right to life, dignity, and protection under the law.

“Today’s judgment sends a strong message that such acts are criminal and that perpetrators will be held fully accountable under the law,” Ibor said.

He noted that Deborah’s tragic death highlights the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations, particularly against children living with disabilities, who are often subjected to rejection, abuse, torture, abandonment, and even death.

Renewed Call to End Child Abuse

The BRCI pledged to intensify its campaign against witchcraft branding and all forms of child abuse across Cross River State, stressing that no child should suffer violence because of harmful cultural or religious beliefs.

The organization also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, led by Attorney General Etubom Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring justice was served.

Special recognition was given to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Okoi Ukam, prosecuting counsel Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, as well as Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for their contributions to the successful prosecution.

A Landmark Judgment

The conviction adds to a growing number of court decisions in Cross River State aimed at combating violence linked to witchcraft accusations.

Child rights advocates say the ruling reinforces the urgent need for stronger enforcement of child protection laws, increased public awareness, and sustained efforts to end the stigmatization of children, particularly those living with disabilities.

The case serves as a reminder that accusations rooted in superstition can have devastating consequences, and that the law will hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed under such beliefs.

NEWS

Tinubu Reshuffles Key Federal Agencies, Appoints Fayose, Bindawa, Others in Major Leadership Shake-Up

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a fresh round of appointments into key Federal Government agencies and commissions, naming 26 individuals to strategic leadership positions across 10 institutions in a move aimed at strengthening governance and public service delivery.

The appointments, which take immediate effect, were announced in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Fayose Takes Charge of Rural Electrification Agency Board

Among the high-profile appointments is former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, who has been named Chairman of the Board of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

Joining him on the board are Alhaji Ahmadu Abubakar and Engineer Ilyasu Ibrahim Makinta as members and non-executive directors. The board also includes the agency’s Director-General, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, alongside its serving executive directors.

Major General Bindawa Heads Wages Commission

President Tinubu also appointed Major General Junaid Bindawa (Rtd.) as Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.

Former Lagos lawmaker Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas was named Secretary of the Commission, while several commissioners and members representing different states were also appointed. They include:

  • Dr. Ogbole Ene Lilian (Benue)
  • Oladele Olatubosun (Oyo)
  • Yakubu Umar Barde (Kaduna)
  • Dr. Mai Adamu Yau (Borno)
  • Ginika Florence Tor (Enugu)
  • Engineer Lawrence Okoh (Edo)
  • Bello Morenike Iyabode (Kogi)

Changes Across Key Government Agencies

In another notable development, Tosin Johnson Adeyanju, who previously served as Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), has been redeployed as Secretary of the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

Other major appointments include:

  • Dr. Abuh Mohammed – Director-General, National Population Commission (NPC).
  • Dr. Akinola Odeyemi – Managing Director, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET).
  • Dr. Anthony Inalegwu Godwin – Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission.
  • Engineer Julius Oloro – Chief Executive Officer, National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM), succeeding the late Dr. A.R. Kamal.
  • Shuni Muhammad Dahiru – Executive Secretary, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education.
  • Gisaor Vincent Iorja – Executive Director (Finance), Federal Housing Authority (FHA), replacing Mathias Byuan, who resigned to pursue the Benue governorship.

Fiscal Responsibility Commission Reconstituted

The President also inaugurated a new board for the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, appointing Dr. Abdullahi Maikano Saidu as Chairman.

Other members of the board are Mohammed Asmau, Mohammed Aliyu Makama, Dr. Suleiman Gidado, Louis O. Ndukwe, Amaechi Ugwele, and Olaniyi Idowu Onikola.

What the Appointments Mean

The latest appointments reflect the Tinubu administration’s ongoing efforts to reposition critical government institutions through leadership changes and strategic redeployments. With agencies responsible for electricity, wages, fiscal discipline, population management, agriculture, housing, and literacy receiving new leadership, attention will now shift to how the appointees deliver on the administration’s reform agenda.

According to the Presidency, all appointments take immediate effect.

Education

Abia Honours Excellence: Governor Otti Rewards 367-Scoring JAMB Star, Promises Full Academic Support

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Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rewarding excellence as he officially received and honoured Master Michael Offorkaile, the Abia-born student who scored 367 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), emerging as the fifth-highest scorer nationwide.

The reception, held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the Governor’s Office in Umuahia, brought together the outstanding student, his parents, and the management of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Oba, Anambra State, where he completed his secondary education.

Describing the achievement as a source of pride for Abia State, Governor Otti said his administration is firmly rooted in meritocracy and will continue to celebrate individuals whose excellence projects the state positively.

“We don’t take this for granted. The whole idea is to celebrate our own when they do well. As a government founded on meritocracy, we will continue to celebrate people who excel,” the Governor said.

He added that celebrating outstanding performers would inspire younger generations to pursue academic excellence with the assurance that hard work and achievement will always receive recognition.

Governor Orders Scholarship Support

Beyond the commendation, Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme Uche, to immediately work out the details of government support for the brilliant student as he prepares to begin his university education.

He also instructed the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Dodoh Okafor, to liaise with the student’s family to facilitate the implementation of the support package.

The Governor encouraged Master Offorkaile not to see his exceptional UTME performance as the final destination but as the foundation for even greater academic accomplishments.

According to him, the real challenge begins at the university, where sustained excellence will define the young scholar’s future.

Search for the Top Scorer

Speaking during the presentation, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme Uche, revealed that Governor Otti had personally directed her ministry to locate the exceptional student and bring him to Abia for official recognition.

She noted that identifying and reaching him was not an easy task because Grundtvig International Secondary School maintains strict privacy and administrative protocols. She commended the institution for its discipline and congratulated both the school and the student on the remarkable accomplishment.

“We Expected Nothing Less”

The Principal of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Mr. Ige Bello, alongside the student’s father, Mr. Odinaka Offorkaile from Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, said Michael’s outstanding UTME performance did not come as a surprise.

They described him as an exceptionally brilliant student with an impressive academic record and thanked Governor Otti for recognising academic excellence and for prioritising quality education in Abia State.

“Governor Otti Is My Role Model”

An emotional Master Michael Offorkaile expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for the honour extended to him, his family, and his school.

Describing the Governor as his role model, the young scholar pledged to remain focused on his academic journey while inspiring other students across Abia State and Nigeria to pursue excellence.

“I will continue to perform, keep inspiring and encouraging students from Abia and Nigeria,” he said.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the school’s official yearbook to Governor Otti by the school principal, while members of the Abia State Executive Council witnessed the ceremony.

A Strong Message on Merit

Governor Otti’s recognition of Master Michael Offorkaile sends a clear message that excellence remains a cornerstone of his administration. By celebrating exceptional young talents and backing them with practical support, the Abia State Government is reinforcing a culture where hard work, discipline, and academic achievement are not only acknowledged but also rewarded.

Such initiatives are expected to motivate thousands of young Abians to strive for excellence, knowing that exceptional performance will always find recognition at home.

Education

ASCETA SHINES: Two Female Lecturers Honoured at 2026 AFFiT National Women in Education Awards

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The Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu (ASCETA) is in a celebratory mood following the outstanding national recognition of two of its brilliant female academics at the 2026 African Forum for Innovative Teachers (AFFiT) National Women in Education Awards.

A Triumph of Excellence and Dedication

Out of five exceptional women nominated by ASCETA, two stars — Dr. Angela Ifeanacho and Dr. Onuoha-Oju, Joy Chinazamiheniile — successfully passed the rigorous national screening and interview conducted by the Director-General of AFFiT, Dr. Ogah Emmanuel.

Their brilliance earned them a coveted invitation to the grand finale held on 11th July, 2026 at the Federal College of Education, Zuba, Abuja.

What is AFFiT?

The African Forum for Innovative Teachers (AFFiT) is a flagship initiative of the Standtall Africa Initiative, recognized by the Federal Ministry of Education. It is dedicated to building outstanding African teachers through leadership, research, innovation, and professional development. To date, AFFiT has trained over 55,000 educators, awarded 100 PhD scholarships, and supported over 2,000 teachers to launch educational initiatives across the continent.

Historic Honours for ASCETA Lecturers

At the Abuja ceremony, both ASCETA lecturers were decorated with two prestigious titles:
They were appointed as Pioneer Members of the African Women in Research, Education and Leadership Advancement Project (AWIRELAP) Implementation Committee and inducted as AFFiT Research Fellows.

As AFFiT Ambassadors in ASCETA, they will champion research, innovation, leadership, and professional development among lecturers, researchers, and student-teachers.

More Glory: Dr. Onuoha Clinches National Prize

Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, Dr. Onuoha-Oju, Joy Chinazamiheniile emerged as one of the Third Prize Winners of the 2026 AFFiT National Women in Education Award.

She walked away with a ₦100,000 cash prize, automatic appointment into the AWIRELAP Committee, priority consideration for AFFiT research grants, and exclusive opportunities for international conferences, collaborations, mentorship, and leadership programmes.

Why This Matters

This double victory is a powerful reflection of ASCETA’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research, and gender-inclusive innovation. It proves that the College is not just training teachers, but raising national leaders in education.

A big congratulations to Dr. Angela Ifeanacho and Dr. Onuoha-Oju, Joy Chinazamiheniile for making ASCETA and Abia State proud!

CRIME

Lagos Police Arrest 147 Suspected Criminals in Major Crackdown, Recover Weapons and Drug Exhibits

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The Lagos State Police Command has intensified its campaign against crime with the arrest of 147 suspected criminals during a coordinated operation targeting notorious criminal hideouts across parts of the state.

The operation, carried out under the ongoing Operation KO S’AYE III, focused on identified black spots in the Boolar, Super and Ile Epo areas following persistent complaints from residents about hoodlums allegedly terrorising motorists, commuters and other road users, particularly at night.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, described the exercise as one of the significant achievements recorded over the weekend. According to her, the operation was intelligence-driven and involved a joint team of officers drawn from various formations of the Lagos State Police Command.

The raid commenced in the early hours of Sunday, July 19, 2026, at about 5:30 a.m., with security operatives moving simultaneously into identified criminal hideouts to flush out suspected offenders and restore public confidence in the affected communities.

Weapons, Charms and Suspected Drugs Recovered

During the operation, police recovered several items believed to have been used in criminal activities. The exhibits include:
250 spent cartridge cases
Two live cartridges
22 machetes
Five battle axes
Two knives
One pair of scissors
Assorted charms
One lighter
Substances suspected to be Indian hemp

The police said all 147 suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine each individual’s level of involvement in criminal activities. Authorities assured that anyone found culpable would be charged to court in accordance with the law.

Police Vow to Sustain Operation

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, commended officers who participated in the operation for their professionalism and commitment to duty.

He reaffirmed that Operation KO S’AYE would continue across Lagos State as part of the Command’s strategy to dismantle criminal networks, eliminate safe havens for hoodlums and strengthen public security.

The Commissioner also appealed to residents to support law enforcement by providing timely and credible information that can assist in identifying criminal hideouts and preventing crime before it occurs.

SPORTS

Mbappé Makes World Cup History! France Star Wins Second Consecutive Golden Boot, Becomes Tournament’s All-Time Leading Scorer

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French superstar Kylian Mbappé has written another remarkable chapter in football history after becoming the first player ever to win the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot twice, finishing as the top scorer at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 27-year-old forward scored an incredible 10 goals in eight matches, edging Argentina captain Lionel Messi in one of the most competitive Golden Boot races in World Cup history.

Having also claimed the Golden Boot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar with eight goals, Mbappé is now the first player to win the prestigious award in consecutive World Cups.

A New World Cup Goal King

Mbappé’s goalscoring exploits have also seen him become the highest goalscorer in the history of the FIFA Men’s World Cup, taking his career tally to 22 goals, one more than Lionel Messi.

His tally of 10 goals at the 2026 tournament also made him the first player since Gerd Müller in 1970 to reach double figures in a single World Cup.

Only two players have scored more goals in one edition of the tournament:

  • Just Fontaine (France) – 13 goals in 1958.
  • Sándor Kocsis (Hungary) – 11 goals in 1954.

Mbappé now stands alongside these legendary names as one of the greatest World Cup goalscorers the game has ever seen.

Personal Glory Amid Team Disappointment

Despite his outstanding individual performances, Mbappé was unable to lead France to the final.

He scored twice in the third-place playoff against England, but France suffered a dramatic 6-4 defeat, finishing fourth in the tournament.

Reflecting on his achievement after the match, Mbappé admitted that individual accolades could not make up for missing out on the World Cup final.

“When you score that many goals in the World Cup, it certainly takes you to a whole new level,” Mbappé said.

“But I would have preferred not to be the top scorer and to have played in the final. It’s good for my legacy once I’ve retired, but right now, that’s not what’s on my mind.”

Mbappé’s Road to the Golden Boot

The Real Madrid forward delivered consistently throughout the competition, scoring against some of the tournament’s toughest opponents.

His goals came against:

  • Senegal (Group Stage)
  • Iraq (Group Stage)
  • Sweden (Round of 32)
  • Paraguay (Round of 16)
  • Morocco (Quarter-finals)
  • England (Third-place playoff – two goals)

His clinical finishing and relentless attacking displays made him the standout striker of the tournament.

Messi Falls Short as Spain Rules the World

Lionel Messi entered the World Cup final with eight goals and still had a chance to overtake Mbappé if he produced a hat-trick against Spain.

However, the Argentine legend failed to score as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.

Spain also dominated the tournament’s individual honours, with captain Rodri winning the Golden Ball as the competition’s best player.

Behind Mbappé and Messi in the scoring charts were:

  • Jude Bellingham (England) – 7 goals
  • Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7 goals
  • Ousmane Dembélé (France) – 6 goals
  • Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals

While France fell short of World Cup glory, Mbappé’s record-breaking achievements have further cemented his place among football’s all-time greats. At just 27, he now stands alone as the only player to have won two FIFA World Cup Golden Boots and the tournament’s all-time leading scorer—a legacy that could grow even further in the years ahead.

SPORTS

History Made! Spain Becomes First Nation to Hold Both FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cup Titles Simultaneously

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Spain has etched its name into football history by becoming the first nation ever to simultaneously hold both the FIFA Men’s World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup titles, cementing its status as the dominant force in world football.

The historic milestone was confirmed by FIFA on Sunday after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup final in New York to lift the coveted trophy.

Celebrating the remarkable achievement, FIFA wrote on its official X account:

“History-makers Spain have become the first nation to hold both the @FIFAWorldCup and @FIFAWWC simultaneously!”

A Historic Football Double

Spain’s latest triumph comes three years after the country’s women’s national team captured its maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup title in 2023, defeating England 1-0 in the final held in Sydney, Australia. Defender Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal that secured Spain’s first women’s world crown.

With the men’s team now crowned world champions while the women remain reigning champions, Spain has accomplished an unprecedented feat that no other football nation has achieved since the establishment of both FIFA World Cup competitions.

Spain’s Second Men’s World Cup Title

The victory also marked Spain’s second FIFA Men’s World Cup title, adding to the nation’s first triumph at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where La Roja defeated the Netherlands to become world champions for the first time.

The 2026 success reinforces Spain’s resurgence on the global stage and underlines the country’s remarkable consistency in producing world-class talent across both men’s and women’s football.

An Era of Spanish Football Dominance

Spain’s historic double is the latest chapter in an extraordinary period of success for the country’s national teams.

The men’s side also claimed the UEFA European Championship in 2024, while the women’s team has continued to establish itself among football’s elite following its breakthrough World Cup triumph in Australia and New Zealand.

By holding both the men’s and women’s World Cup trophies at the same time, Spain has set a new benchmark in international football and reinforced its reputation as one of the sport’s greatest modern powerhouses.

With success spanning both the men’s and women’s game, Spain’s golden era shows no signs of slowing down, as the nation continues to redefine excellence on football’s biggest stage.

WORLD NEWS

Trump Suggests Tariffs Over Canadian Wildfire Smoke, Presses Carney for Stronger Fire Control

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U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed pressure on Canada over the massive Ontario wildfires, suggesting that the country could face additional tariffs if it fails to better control the fires whose smoke has blanketed several American states.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday after attending the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey, Trump revealed that he discussed the issue directly with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, whom he met during the sporting event.

While describing his relationship with Carney as positive, Trump insisted that Canada needed to take stronger action to contain the devastating wildfires.

“I have a good relationship with Mark Carney, but we’ve got to stop the fires up there,” Trump said. “Maybe they should pay us some damages or something, or we should do some tariffs.”

The comments came just a day after Trump threatened to impose fresh tariffs on Canadian goods, arguing that smoke from the Ontario wildfires has negatively affected air quality across parts of the United States.

Wildfire Smoke Spreads Across the U.S.

Smoke from hundreds of active wildfires in Ontario has drifted across a broad stretch of the United States, affecting communities from the Midwest to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Beginning last Thursday, health authorities in several states issued air quality alerts, urging residents—particularly children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions—to remain indoors whenever possible as hazardous smoke reduced air quality.

Canada Intensifies Firefighting Efforts

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office did not immediately respond to Trump’s latest remarks.

However, in a post on X a day earlier, Carney highlighted Canada’s ongoing efforts to combat the wildfire crisis. He said more than 5,300 firefighters have been deployed nationwide, with authorities also using advanced thermal imaging technology and real-time data to improve wildfire detection and suppression.

According to official Canadian government figures, approximately 5.9 million acres (2.4 million hectares) have already burned during this year’s wildfire season, making it one of the country’s most severe fire outbreaks in recent years.

Climate Change Driving More Extreme Wildfires

Climate scientists continue to warn that rising global temperatures are increasing both the frequency and intensity of wildfires worldwide. Hotter weather, prolonged droughts, and changing weather patterns have created conditions that allow fires to spread faster, burn longer, and produce smoke capable of traveling thousands of miles across international borders.

Trump’s remarks add a new political dimension to an already serious environmental crisis, raising the prospect that cross-border air pollution could become another point of tension in U.S.-Canada relations if wildfire conditions continue to worsen.