ABUJA — Across Nigeria, retired police officers launched coordinated protests yesterday to express deep frustration over poor pension benefits and neglect of their welfare. The demonstration wasn’t limited to Abuja; it simultaneously occurred in states including Edo, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, and Cross River, among others, signaling a national outcry against systemic pension failures. Abuja Protest: Heavy Rain Couldn’t Deter Aggrieved Retirees In the nation’s capital, Abuja, despite persistent rainfall, the retired police officers gathered en masse at the entrance of the National Assembly. Their protest coincided with that of the #RevolutionNow movement, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, further amplifying calls for social justice and reform. Central to the retirees’ grievances was their demand for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to be withdrawn from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they labelled as unfair and exploitative. Responding swiftly, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, clarified that he was not opposed to the police exiting the CPS, affirming that concerns over inadequate retirement benefits affected even active officers. Retirees Decry Meagre Pension Payments At the protest venue, retirees voiced bitter frustrations. They sang solidarity songs and held placards, denouncing the N14,000 to N22,000 monthly pensions, which many ex-officers currently receive — an amount deemed grossly insufficient in today’s harsh economic climate. Manir Lawal, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police, strongly condemned the pension scheme, declaring it unjust. “We demand to be removed from the CPS. At 67, I and many others in our 60s and 70s have served this country diligently. Yet, this pension system has left us impoverished,” he lamented. Other protestors shared similar stories: “They owe me nine months of pension. I get just N14,000 monthly. Others get as low as N10,000.” A newly retired officer expressed his dismay at being offered only N3.6 million gratuity after over 15 years of service, contrasting the more generous gratuities received by counterparts in sister security agencies — sometimes up to N30 million. Protesters’ Firm Stance Undeterred by the elements, the retirees vowed to remain in the rain until the National Assembly leadership addressed their plight. Omoyele Sowore and fellow activists complemented the retirees’ efforts by leading a march to the Force Headquarters and the National Assembly, demanding a living wage and proper pensions for all police personnel. Placards bore bold demands such as: Nationwide Echo of Frustration Elsewhere, protests echoed the same frustrations: IGP Meets Retired Officers, Reassures of Ongoing Efforts At the Force Headquarters in Abuja, IGP Egbetokun empathized with the retirees, acknowledging the severity of their struggles. “We share your concerns. We too will one day retire, and it’s imperative that your welfare is secured,” he stated. He revealed his recent meeting with National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, where the welfare of retired police officers was extensively discussed. While refraining from divulging sensitive details to the press, the IGP assured that tangible steps were being taken to enhance police pension benefits. “I am not against the police exiting CPS. If it resolves the problem, I support it. However, if the exit is infeasible, alternative solutions must be sought,” he emphasized. He reminded the retirees that efforts to exit CPS had spanned over a decade, with all past Inspectors-General of Police attempting — unsuccessfully — to achieve this. “Exiting CPS is beyond the power of any IGP. Regardless, even within CPS, we can seek reforms that ensure retirees live comfortably post-service,” he added. He also cautioned against external agitators: “Don’t let enemies of the police manipulate you. Stay alert to those who pretend to support your cause but might have hidden agendas.” Conclusion The mass protests by retired police officers across Nigeria have reignited national conversations about police pensions, welfare, and post-service dignity. While the Inspector-General of Police has shown support, the ball remains in the Federal Government’s court to implement substantial reforms that address these longstanding grievances.
The Federal High Court in Kano has rejected a lawsuit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), which aimed to halt statutory federal funding to the 44 local government areas (LGAs) in Kano State, currently governed by the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP). This legal battle, initiated in November 2024, was spearheaded by APC’s Kano State Chairman, Prince Abdullahi Abbas. Aminu Aliyu Tiga and other national entities were named as respondents in the case. APC’s primary argument contested the legitimacy of the NNPP-led local council officials. The party claimed these officials were unlawfully appointed and did not emerge through constitutionally mandated democratic elections as stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution. The suit encompassed several key national bodies, including: APC urged the court to nullify the tenure of the 44 local government chairmen, alleging that their positions contravened Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Additionally, they sought a legal restriction preventing federal authorities from allocating funds to these councils. Presiding over the case, Justice Simon Amobeda ruled that the APC’s lawsuit was baseless and, therefore, dismissed the case with finality, leaving no avenue for further pursuit at this level. Although the respondents signaled their readiness to discontinue the case, Justice Amobeda cited Order 50 Rules 3, 4, and 5 of court procedures, stating that any withdrawal should occur within 14 days of service. During earlier proceedings, Mr. Sunday Olowomoran, representing the plaintiffs under the instruction of Abdul Adamu-Fagge, SAN, verbally applied to withdraw the case. Olowomoran informed the court that the appellate court had, on June 30, declared that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction, placing the Kano State High Court as the proper forum for the matter. Despite this move, several co-respondents insisted that the case should not be merely struck out but outrightly dismissed—with costs imposed on the APC. For instance, representatives of the CBN (Mr. B.D. Uche) and RMAFC (S.G. Ahmad) opposed the withdrawal, each demanding ₦1 million in legal costs. Similarly, Tajudeen Abdullahi, lawyer to the Attorney-General of the Federation, requested a dismissal of the case and demanded ₦2.5 million in costs. Bashir Yusuf-Muhammad, representing the Kano State Government, called for the application of legal principles to warrant a ₦2 billion cost against the plaintiffs. The Kano State Attorney-General’s counsel, Sani Mustafa-Dauda, also recommended a ₦5 million cost penalty on the APC. Additionally, Ibrahim Wangida, counsel for the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), highlighted the adverse impact of the lawsuit on the commission, noting that their office remained inaccessible for three months. He requested ₦2 million as compensation. Representing the 44 local government councils, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Eyitayo Fatogun, advocated for the case’s dismissal with an associated ₦2 million cost, citing Order 50 of the court’s rules. Finally, Mustapha Hussaini, lawyer for the 44 LGA chairpersons, concluded the submissions by requesting a ₦44 million compensation in total for his clients.
The Nigerian Presidency has officially denied circulating reports claiming that Muhammed Babangida, son of former military leader General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), rejected his recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA). Earlier this week, a letter attributed to Muhammed was shared publicly by Ovation Magazine publisher, Dele Momodu, suggesting he turned down the prestigious appointment. However, the Presidential Media Aide, Olusegun Dada, promptly addressed the controversy via a post on X (formerly Twitter), debunking the rejection claims as completely false. In his statement, Dada clarified: “Muhammed Babangida has accepted the role of BOA Chairman and has conveyed his sincere appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for this trust.” Babangida also issued an official press release on Monday, where he discredited the purported rejection letter as “false and malicious.” He emphasized that the narratives circulating online were orchestrated to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the Tinubu-led administration. Dada’s statement further stressed: “We categorically confirm that Muhammed Babangida has accepted the appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture, expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by the President.” Furthermore, the Presidency assured Nigerians that the perpetrators behind the misinformation campaign would face thorough investigations and possible prosecution. They reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, accountability, and national unity. The statement concluded by urging citizens to always verify information from credible sources to avoid being misled by politically motivated falsehoods. President Tinubu had earlier approved several strategic appointments across critical sectors, with Babangida’s BOA chairmanship being a significant part of the leadership restructuring aimed at boosting Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Despite the Presidency’s clarification, the controversy was fueled by a letter dated July 21, 2025, allegedly authored by Muhammed Babangida, where he reportedly declined the appointment. The letter, again publicized by Dele Momodu, cited personal and professional reasons for his decision. The controversial letter, titled ‘Declining Appointment as Chairman, Bank of Agriculture’, expressed gratitude to the President but stated: “After careful thought and consultation, I have respectfully decided to decline the appointment. This decision is influenced by a mix of personal and professional factors that would hinder my ability to commit fully to the role’s demands.” Muhammed’s letter further conveyed his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s administration and his willingness to contribute to national development through alternative avenues where his expertise is relevant. Dele Momodu, who recently defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reacted via his Instagram page, praising Muhammed for “rejecting a Greek gift.” Meanwhile, the ADC criticized President Tinubu, accusing him of leveraging appointments to gain political traction in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 General Elections. Muhammed Babangida’s appointment as BOA Chairman was among the recent executive decisions made by President Tinubu, intended to revitalize leadership within key institutions that are vital to Nigeria’s economic and agricultural progress.
The Rivers State Judiciary has formally dismissed circulating claims suggesting that a State High Court ruling prevented the Sole Administrator of the State, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, from proceeding with the inauguration of the newly confirmed Chairman and members of the Rivers State Services Commission. The judiciary clarified that no such judicial restriction exists while a pending lawsuit is yet to be decided. On Monday, July 14, 2025, certain reports alleged that Justice Frank Onyiri of the State High Court directed all involved parties to uphold the existing condition—known legally as maintaining the “status quo”—through an April 2024 order. It was further reported that the case was adjourned, with judgment scheduled for September 29, 2025. The ongoing legal action was initiated by Rev. Goodlife Iduoku Ben, Amadi Christian Echele, Chimenem Wisdom Jerome, and three others. They are challenging what they describe as an unlawful suspension by the Sole Administrator, claiming their removal and replacement bypassed due legal procedure. The plaintiffs argue that their appointments were properly processed and ratified by the Rivers State House of Assembly. Supporting this, they presented records maintained by the Clerk of the House that confirm their formal approval prior to the issuance of their appointment letters by the Governor. In an affidavit sworn by the suspended Chairman, Rev. Ben, the aggrieved parties insist that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas lacks any constitutional authority to suspend or replace them with new appointees in the commission. The case lists several defendants, including the Sole Administrator himself, the Rivers State Accountant General, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, and eleven additional entities. However, the Rivers State Judiciary released a disclaimer dated July 14, 2025, repudiating the accuracy of these circulating reports. The judiciary described the news as both misleading and baseless, asserting that no injunction was issued by Justice Frank Onyiri that would bar the Sole Administrator from proceeding with the commission’s inauguration. This clarification was provided in a statement signed by Menenen Poromon, the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Rivers State Judiciary. The judiciary urged the public to disregard the misinformation being widely shared on social media and other platforms. The official statement partially reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a false news report being circulated on social media alleging that Hon. Justice Frank Onyiri of the Rivers State High Court issued an injunction restraining the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.), from inaugurating the newly confirmed Chairman and Members of the ‘Rivers State Services Commission’ pending the court’s decision on the ongoing suit.” Nevertheless, LMSINT MEDIA emphasizes that the court had indeed instructed all parties to maintain the current state of affairs until the matter is fully adjudicated. This has ignited public discourse on the legal interpretation of “maintaining status quo,” with citizens expressing diverse opinions on the implications of such a court directive within the context of an ongoing legal process.
Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, the former governor of Lagos State and ex-Minister of Works and Housing, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria (RTSL Nigeria), a renowned international public health entity. This announcement was officially made by RTSL Nigeria on Friday. The organization is globally recognized for its unwavering efforts in curbing cardiovascular diseases and mitigating the spread of epidemics across the world. RTSL Nigeria established its Nigerian office in Abuja in 2022. The organization works collaboratively with national governments and local communities to address some of the most lethal health threats facing the world today, reinforcing public health systems and ensuring swift epidemic response. Speaking on this significant appointment, Dr. Tom Frieden, who serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Resolve to Save Lives, expressed immense enthusiasm about Fashola joining the board. He stated, “We are elated to have Mr. Fashola on the Board of Directors of RTSL Nigeria. His over two decades of dedicated public service in Nigeria have clearly showcased his deep-seated commitment to enhancing the wellbeing and livelihoods of Nigerians.” Fashola, who holds the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has a distinguished career in public service. Prior to his tenure as Minister of Power, Works, and Housing under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, Fashola notably served as the Chief of Staff in Lagos State. He was later elected as the Governor of Lagos State, a role he held from 2007 until 2015. His leadership during the 2014 Ebola outbreak in Nigeria remains a standout achievement, earning him both local and international acclaim. His effective handling of the crisis led to his recognition with the esteemed Stephen J. Solarz Award by the International Crisis Group, an honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to global peace and security. Upon his appointment, Fashola expressed his gratitude and eagerness to contribute to the organization’s life-saving mission. He remarked, “It is a great honor to join the board of Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria. I am committed to advancing the organization’s mission to reduce preventable deaths caused by cardiovascular illnesses and infectious disease outbreaks.” Ibrahim Abubakar, another distinguished member of the RTSL Nigeria board and Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences at University College London, also praised the inclusion of Fashola. He emphasized that Fashola’s vast governance experience and his proven leadership during public health emergencies would be invaluable to the board’s strategic initiatives. RTSL Nigeria continues to bolster its impact by drawing on the expertise of seasoned leaders like Fashola, further strengthening its capacity to prevent health crises and promote public health sustainability in Nigeria and beyond.
There has been growing speculation surrounding the health condition of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and ex-Governor of Kano State, following widespread reports alleging that he is critically ill and receiving treatment in a London hospital. However, in an exclusive conversation with LMSINT MEDIA on Monday, Ganduje’s Chief of Staff and the former Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Mohammed Garba, has addressed the rumours. Garba clarified that while the 75-year-old Ganduje is currently in London, his health remains stable, contrary to claims suggesting he is gravely ill. “He is doing well. Naturally, for someone of Ganduje’s age, occasional health issues are expected, but the reports stating he is in critical condition are completely false,” Garba stated during the interview. Garba further revealed that Ganduje has been in London since the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, which explains his absence from Buhari’s funeral events in Nigeria. “We were in contact with him just last night, and there’s absolutely no cause for alarm. Of course, anyone can experience minor ailments, but he is in a stable condition,” Garba assured. The Chief of Staff emphasized that if Ganduje were genuinely battling a severe health condition, there would be no reason to keep such information away from his political supporters and the public, especially for the sake of prayers and support. Additionally, a family insider who spoke with LMSINT MEDIA on the condition of anonymity corroborated Garba’s statement. The family source insisted that there was no credibility to the circulating rumours regarding Ganduje’s health status. “Although I haven’t spoken to him directly, I have communicated with those around him in London. They confirmed that the alarming reports we’re seeing online are baseless. We are also just seeing these rumours without any truth behind them,” the family source disclosed. It is worth recalling that Ganduje stepped down from his role as APC National Chairman in 2023, citing health reasons in his official resignation letter. However, shortly after his resignation, he resumed public duties as the Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). This development sparked debates among political observers, with some questioning the authenticity of his health-related resignation. Others have speculated that Ganduje’s resignation might be a strategic political move to facilitate the inclusion of his longstanding rival, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, another former Kano State Governor, into the APC.
In today’s digital-first world, the demand for Virtual Assistants (VAs) is skyrocketing — offering countless opportunities for individuals to work remotely and earn a stable income from home. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a recent graduate, or someone looking to transition from a traditional job to freelancing, becoming a Virtual Assistant could be your ticket to financial freedom and work-life balance. In this detailed step-by-step guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about starting your journey as a Virtual Assistant, the essential skills to master, where to find high-paying clients, and actionable tips to grow your VA business successfully. What is a Virtual Assistant? A Virtual Assistant (VA) is a skilled professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to businesses, entrepreneurs, or busy individuals remotely. The services VAs offer are diverse and often tailored to the specific needs of clients across various industries. Some of the common tasks VAs handle include: This flexibility allows you to specialize in areas where you’re most skilled or passionate, making the VA career highly customizable. Why Become a Virtual Assistant? Becoming a Virtual Assistant offers numerous benefits, especially for individuals seeking flexibility and autonomy. Here’s why many people are transitioning to virtual assistance as a career: Additionally, the virtual assistant industry is growing, with businesses increasingly opting for remote workers to cut operational costs, making it a future-proof career path. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Become a Virtual Assistant 1. Assess Your Skills and Identify Your Niche Before diving in, assess your current skills and experiences. Common niches for VAs include: Tip: If you’re not sure where you fit, try platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning to explore various skills (source). 2. Take Relevant Training Courses Though formal education isn’t mandatory, taking specialized Virtual Assistant courses can boost your credibility. Consider platforms like: 3. Set Up Your Home Office Having a dedicated workspace improves productivity. Essential tools include: 4. Build an Attractive Service Portfolio Your portfolio should showcase: Even if you’re starting from scratch, you can create mock projects to demonstrate your capabilities. 5. Determine Your Rates Research industry standards to set competitive rates. Beginners might start at $10-$20 per hour, but as your expertise grows, you can charge upwards of $40 per hour or more. 6. Create an Online Presence A professional online presence builds trust. Essential platforms include: Consider creating a personal website to host your services, portfolio, and blog content. A website makes you appear more legitimate and easier to find online. 7. Start Pitching and Apply for VA Jobs Here’s where the real hustle begins. Apply for jobs on: Additionally, cold pitching via LinkedIn or email can land you direct clients. Craft personalized pitches highlighting how your services can solve their problems. 8. Invest in Time Management and Productivity Tools Time is money in freelancing. Master tools like: 9. Upskill Continuously The digital world evolves rapidly, and so should you. Upskill in areas such as: The more skills you acquire, the more valuable and irreplaceable you become. 10. Request Testimonials and Referrals Always ask satisfied clients for testimonials and referrals. Positive reviews build social proof, making it easier to attract higher-paying clients. 11. Manage Your Finances Open a separate business account to manage your earnings. Use tools like: Bonus Tips to Succeed as a Virtual Assistant Final Thoughts Becoming a Virtual Assistant isn’t just a trend — it’s a sustainable career path that offers financial freedom, professional growth, and the liberty to work on your terms. With determination, the right skills, and consistent marketing efforts, you can build a thriving VA business right from your living room. The best time to start is now. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time career, virtual assistance provides endless opportunities in today’s global economy.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4). Your life is your responsibility, and through the Word of God, you have the power to create the circumstances of your life. As a child, your parents were responsible for the situations surrounding your life. For instance, when Jesus was born, He was placed in a manger, not because He chose to be, but because that was where His parents put Him. On another occasion, the angel didn’t instruct Jesus but spoke to Joseph, saying, “…take the young child and his mother and flee into Egypt…” (Matthew 2:13). Jesus didn’t make that decision; He was just carried along as a baby. Even as He grew, He remained subject to Joseph and His mother Mary. However, when He came of age, He began making His own decisions, just like Moses who, when he came to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter (Hebrews 11:24). In the same way, you must come to the point where you decide and determine the circumstances of your life. Choose to live in victory no matter what. Decide you’re going to be a success at every level of your life and in everything you do because that’s the life you’ve been given in Christ. Don’t allow your environment dictate how you live. You’re not a victim of the economy or economics of this world; you’re the seed of Abraham, a victor always. 2 Corinthians 2:14 says, “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.” We read in our opening verse, “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world….” You’re born of God and have overcome the world. You’re victorious in Christ. Therefore, choose to live victoriously every day. Live above the systems of this world. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the power of your Word, and your Spirit that enables me to live victoriously every day above the systems of this world. I’m in charge and in control of my life and circumstances; I live by faith and create my own world of success and prosperity in line with your perfect will, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 8:35-39Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord, 2 Corinthians 2:14 MSGAnd I got it, thank God! In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. John 16:33These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 27:1-26 & Psalms 21-22 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 10:1-9 & Joshua 18 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am a life-giving spirit and everything I touch or connect to receives life. My body is God’s house; the Holy Spirit perambulates every fiber of my being and every cell of my blood. I’m healthy and strong! Only the life and nature of Christ – His beauty and glory – are manifested in my physical body because He perambulates in me. I reign as a king in this life, changing situations and circumstances in my favour. I make decrees and they’re established, for the Word of God on my lips is God talking! I’ll never be discouraged or subject to the crippling principles of this world, because I reign and rule by the Word. Christ has brought perfection and excellence into my life. I am prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I’m continually filled with the Spirit of God. I have the life and nature of God in me; therefore, I’m an overcomer and more than a conqueror. I live in Christ, where divinity reigns. I reign in prosperity with peace, health, and an abundance of wealth. I enjoy the supernatural life that God has given me. I am in union with the One who commands light to shine out of darkness. Like my heavenly Father, I speak forth life and my words are established over my health, finances, and everything that concerns me. I affirm that my gates are opened continually for wealth of the gentile to flow in. Everything I get involved in, works. In Christ, I have received the life of glory, honor, and excellence; a life where there’s no form of death, sickness, disease, or infirmity. My life is excellent and full of glory; I walk in absolute mastery, victory, safety, wellness, wholeness, and divine health because I’m in Christ and Christ is my life! His wisdom, righteousness, peace, glory, and joy are expressed through me, and my faith in the Word is the victory that overcomes the world. Today, I am living the life of victory and dominion that Jesus purchased for me through His vicarious death, burial, and resurrection. God’s Word is truth and everything He said about my health and my life is reality. My faith in the Word and its integrity is unyielding, and the Word produces the health, strength, vitality, and all the blessings and provisions that it talks about in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak
Paul Pogba, currently playing for AS Monaco, has shared his joy over the news of Marcus Rashford’s departure from Manchester United to Spanish giants FC Barcelona. The deal between Manchester United and Barcelona has been finalized, with all necessary documentation completed to secure Rashford’s loan move to the La Liga champions. Rashford has since landed in Spain, where he is undergoing medical examinations with the Blaugrana to complete his transition. As part of his agreement with Barcelona, Rashford agreed to a significant pay reduction, accepting a 15% cut on his wages. Under the new terms, the Catalan club will be covering a gross salary of €14 million, translating to €7 million net after taxes. Moreover, the agreement between both clubs features a buy option clause. Barcelona retains the right to make Rashford’s move permanent by paying €30 million, with this clause set to become actionable by June 2026. Reacting to the move, Pogba conveyed his happiness for his former Manchester United teammate but did not hide his sentiment that the Red Devils are losing an outstanding talent. While speaking during a conversation with popular American YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed, Pogba was quoted by The Touchline expressing: “That’s crazy. I’m happy for him.Manchester United is losing a great player! That’s great for Barcelona.” Both Pogba and Rashford once shared the pitch at Old Trafford as teammates, forming a dynamic partnership during their time together at Manchester United. This latest development marks another chapter in Rashford’s career, where he now looks to make his mark in La Liga with Barcelona. For more on Barcelona’s transfer strategies and player developments, you can read detailed insights on Goal.com — one of the most reputable sources for global football news
In a significant development within the European transfer window, Alvaro Morata is officially leaving Galatasaray following the club’s successful agreement to secure Victor Osimhen from Napoli on a permanent deal. According to renowned football transfer insider, Fabrizio Romano, Morata’s much-anticipated departure had been delayed for over a month due to prolonged negotiations involving Osimhen’s high-profile transfer. Galatasaray Finalizes Transfer for Super Eagles’ Star Victor Osimhen This past weekend, Galatasaray managed to conclude the intricate details of their negotiation with Napoli, sealing the permanent signing of Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen, widely regarded as one of the top strikers in European football. The finalization of Osimhen’s deal has directly paved the way for Morata’s exit. Fabrizio Romano Confirms Morata’s Move to Como In a post on his official X account (formerly Twitter), Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news, stating: “Álvaro Morata, now set to join Como from Galatasaray as soon as all documents for Osimhen’s transfer are signed next week. Morata has been waiting for Como for one month… and now, all set.” The transfer saga sees Morata eagerly awaiting his switch to Como 1907, a club recently on the rise within Italian football, as the paperwork for Osimhen’s acquisition reaches its final stage. Morata’s Return to Serie A Football With personal terms fully agreed between Morata and Como, the Spanish international is now poised to make a return to Serie A, the Italian top-flight league where he had previously showcased his skills with AC Milan. This move is expected to strengthen Como’s attacking options as they aim for a competitive campaign.
Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, has provided a subtle update regarding the club’s pursuit of Sporting CP’s prolific striker, Viktor Gyokeres, suggesting that a potential agreement might be nearing completion. The North London club has been locked in prolonged discussions with Sporting CP over the Swedish international, Gyokeres, who is keen on making a return to English football after his impressive run in Portugal. Sources close to the negotiations reveal that while both clubs have generally settled on a transfer fee of around £63 million, Sporting CP is pushing to structure the add-on clauses in a way that makes them highly achievable. This strategic move ensures the Portuguese side secures maximum financial benefits should the deal materialize. During a press briefing shortly after Arsenal’s arrival in Singapore for their preseason tour, Arteta was queried about the Gyokeres transfer situation. The Spaniard, however, maintained a cautious stance, stating: “I cannot comment on any player who is not part of our group yet,” Arteta responded, adhering to the club’s policy of not discussing ongoing transfer targets publicly. When further asked about the prospects of new arrivals joining the squad during their Asia tour, Arteta acknowledged the club’s need for reinforcements within the current transfer window, emphasizing: “There’s still time in the window. In terms of numbers, we are short.” This signals Arsenal’s active presence in the market, with fans hopeful for more acquisitions before the window closes. For Arsenal supporters, the potential signing of Gyokeres represents a significant boost to the club’s attacking options ahead of the new season, complementing ongoing ambitions to strengthen the squad depth.
Portuguese giants Sporting CP are closing in on the signing of Colombian forward Luis Javier Suárez from Spanish side UD Almería, according to renowned football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. Negotiations between the two clubs have reportedly gained momentum in the last few hours, with a formal agreement nearly finalized. Romano disclosed that only minor formalities remain before the 27-year-old striker officially joins the Primeira Liga outfit. Suárez, who has been instrumental for Almería, is expected to strengthen Sporting CP’s attacking options as the club prepares for both domestic and European campaigns. The final terms of the deal are projected to be ironed out within the week, paving the way for the talented forward’s transition to Portugal’s top-tier league. In a separate development, Premier League champions Manchester City are actively preparing a formal bid worth €60 million, inclusive of add-ons, to secure FC Porto’s highly-rated goalkeeper Diogo Costa. This update was revealed by reputable Portuguese sports outlet Maisfutebol, indicating that City’s interest in the Portuguese international is both serious and imminent. Manchester City’s pursuit of Costa is fueled by growing speculation around the potential departure of their current first-choice goalkeeper Ederson, who has been linked with a move to Turkish side Galatasaray. The Cityzens, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, are eager to fortify their squad depth, especially between the posts, ahead of the new season. However, the English champions face stiff competition from French heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain, who are equally keen on acquiring the services of Costa. The 24-year-old shot-stopper has been on the radar of multiple top European clubs, especially after his impressive performances in both the Primeira Liga and UEFA competitions. With Manchester City having narrowly missed out on the Premier League title to Liverpool last season, Guardiola’s side is intent on revamping their squad to reclaim domestic dominance and sustain their European success. The addition of Diogo Costa would significantly enhance their goalkeeping department, ensuring robust competition and depth.
Renowned Nollywood star Timini Egbuson has shared that he was once shortlisted to represent Nigeria on the widely watched Big Brother Africa reality show but was ultimately not selected. According to the actor, what seemed like a major disappointment at the time eventually opened the door to his acting career, as he secured his first acting role on MTV Shuga Naija the same year. Egbuson made this disclosure during a candid conversation on The Culture League podcast, reflecting on how missed opportunities can sometimes be the hidden pathway to bigger successes and personal growth. “I’ve come to understand that missed opportunities are not always a loss; they can actually be blessings in disguise,” Timini explained. “I have several colleagues who landed roles or gigs I wanted, just as I’ve received offers others desired.” He elaborated that looking back on his career, he now recognizes that certain paths he once pursued could have led him away from his current success. He firmly believes that his present achievements align with God’s divine plan for his life. “There was a time I was slated to appear on Big Brother Africa. There were about five of us from Nigeria who completed all required processes. We were even asked to pack our belongings in anticipation of being called up to join the show. I went as far as hiring a social media manager in preparation,” Egbuson recalled. He added that despite being prepared, he was not picked to participate. He speculated that Tayo Faniran may have been chosen that year, although he wasn’t completely certain. Yet, the twist of fate led him to star in MTV Shuga Naija, a role that catapulted him to fame and established his position in the Nigerian entertainment industry. “If I had entered Big Brother Africa, the hype would probably have faded by now, or I might have struggled to establish myself in entertainment. That’s why when an opportunity slips away, I’ve learned to see it as a setup for something better. You just dust yourself off and move forward,” he concluded.

