Bello Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, has delivered a strong caution to All Progressives Congress (APC) members in Zamfara State, warning them against any form of defiance or disobedience to party leadership. This warning was given on Sunday during a visit by party executives from Anka, Bakura, Maradun, and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas who came to pay Sallah homage at his residence in Maradun. The former governor of Zamfara emphasized that APC members should remain grateful for having selfless leaders who prioritize the needs and welfare of the people. He also praised fellow former governor Abdul’aziz Yari for his unwavering dedication to the growth of both the APC and Zamfara State as a whole. “As I consistently emphasize, Abdul’aziz Yari, myself, and other APC leaders in Zamfara are committed to enhancing the lives of our members and citizens,” he said. He used the opportunity to urge loyal party members to remain supportive and committed, while warning against any behavior that could undermine the party’s unity and leadership. “I appeal to all of you to remain steadfast in your support for the party. Any form of disobedience or disloyalty must be avoided to safeguard the unity of our party in the state,” he added. Matawalle further encouraged APC members to be patient, assuring them that new employment opportunities would soon be made available. He also extended a call to the people of Zamfara to remain supportive of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He cited key infrastructure developments such as the Mayanchi to Guru and Gusau-Isah-Sabon Birni road projects as part of the major undertakings planned under Tinubu’s leadership.
Napoli’s star forward, Victor Osimhen, has reportedly disclosed his preferred destination amid the ongoing summer transfer discussions. As shared by Turkish football journalist Ertem Şener, Osimhen is currently aiming for a move to the Saudi Pro League in the ongoing transfer window. Şener emphasized that the Nigerian striker is motivated by the prospect of a significantly higher wage package in the Middle East. “From the information I’ve received, Osimhen is targeting a transfer to Saudi Arabia in order to secure a more lucrative salary from the Arab clubs,” Şener stated, according to a report from habersarikirmizi. Currently, Al Hilal, one of the top clubs in the Saudi Pro League, is actively negotiating a deal to acquire Osimhen’s services. The Saudi-based team is eager to finalize the signing as they prepare their squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins later this month. However, Al Hilal isn’t the only contender in this high-profile pursuit. Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray, who had Osimhen on loan last season, are also aiming to secure him on a permanent deal. During his loan spell at Galatasaray, Osimhen made a significant impact, playing a vital role in helping the club win both the Turkish Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us (Romans 8:37). 1 Samuel 17 tells us how the Israelites were embroiled in conflict with the Philistines, a prominent enemy nation. The Philistines had gathered a formidable army and their champion, Goliath, stood defiantly, challenging the Israelites to send out a warrior to face him in single combat. For forty days, Goliath taunted and mocked the Israelite soldiers. The Israelite army found themselves petrified by dread at the thought of confronting Goliath. But in the midst of this dire situation, young David, a stripling, not qualified to be in the army, arrived at the front lines and heard Goliath’s taunts echoing in the valley. Incensed by the giant’s defiance against Israel and its God, David began to inquire about the situation and what would be done for the man who killed the Philistine champion. However, David’s inquiries were met with scepticism from his oldest brother, Eliab, who questioned his motives. “Why did you come down here?” Eliab demanded. His words dripped with contempt, suggesting that David was merely a shepherd and naive for thinking he could challenge Goliath. Undeterred by Eliab’s reproach, David continued to make inquiries until he was brought before King Saul. There, he confidently recounted his experiences as a shepherd: “…I’ve been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I’d go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. If it turned on me, I’d grab it by the throat, wring its neck, and kill it. Lion or bear, it made no difference–I killed it. And I’ll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting the troops of God-Alive” (1 Samuel 17:34-36 MSG). What a response David gave! David didn’t argue with Eliab or try to prove himself. Instead, he calmly shared his testimony of God’s faithfulness. By doing so, he shifted the focus from his brother’s cynicism to God’s power working through him. Of course, David defeated Goliath, decapitated him, and walked through the streets holding the giant’s head. Summarily, no one dared to challenge him anymore. His victory spoke louder than any words ever could. Always remember David’s example when doubters and detractors try to talk you down. Stay focused on your calling and your assignment. Trust in God’s grace and ability at work in you, and your victories will silence your hecklers. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the wisdom and boldness you’ve given me. I refuse to be intimidated by opposition or the voices of doubt and unbelief, for the greater One lives in me. I take on challenges with the assurance of victory, for you have made me more than a conqueror. My success and exploits silence every opposition, and through me, your glory is revealed, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Samuel 17:45-47Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle [is] the LORD’S, and he will give you into our hands. 2 Corinthians 2:14Now 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. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 21:1-25 & 1 Chronicles 26-29 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 15:33-47 & Deuteronomy 6 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: This year, I am making progress and moving forward in my life like never before, irrespective of what’s been happening with me or around me. The Spirit of God leads me to take the necessary actions that will cause me to have evident and unprecedented growth, increase, and prosperity. I have the wisdom of the just, which propels me to function in God’s perfect will. The wisdom of God is in my heart and in my mouth today, and I deal excellently in all my affairs. I am full of God’s might! I function by His power and glory today, full of the Spirit in wisdom. I have a perfect understanding of all things! Victory is my heritage and my life! I was born to be triumphant always and in every place. Regardless of the challenges that I may face, I will always win. It makes no difference what happens, where I find myself or who’s against me; I am more than a conqueror! I can never be disadvantaged. God has given me everything it takes to live victoriously every day. I know who I am: chosen, royal, and peculiar! I experience the supernatural in my body every day by the power of God’s Spirit. I am in Christ! I reign in righteousness; thus, no weapon formed against me shall prosper. I dwell in the secret place of the Most High God, and I function with the ability of the Spirit always. The Lord, my God, is King eternal. His Word lives and abides forever. According to His supreme Word, I affirm that my whole being is saturated with light. I radiate God’s glory with health, success, prosperity, and excellence. My mind is flooded with the light of God’s Word and I only see pictures of life, strength, and health. I know who I am! I exercise my divine right to reign and rule over the circumstances of
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Renowned Nigerian actress and film producer, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, has called for a thorough structural overhaul in Nollywood, Nigeria’s movie industry. In a widely discussed Instagram post shared on Saturday, the screen veteran with a career spanning more than three decades in the Nigerian film scene, emphasized the need for systemic change. Reflecting on her experiences in both Hollywood and Nollywood, Omotola drew attention to a key area of disparity between the two industries: royalty payments. She conveyed her dissatisfaction with how Nigerian actors are treated, especially concerning the non-existence of residual income in Nollywood. Contrasting it with her experience abroad, she noted that in Hollywood, she receives monthly residuals from just two experimental projects completed within a short four-year span. “Only four years in Hollywood. Two pilot projects. Still getting monthly residuals,” she wrote. In the post, she included a photo of a mail envelope from SAG-AFTRA, the American guild for film and media professionals. She then contrasted this with her career in Nigeria. “Meanwhile, 30 years in Nollywood, over 310 film roles – not a single residual. #NollywoodNeedsStructure #UnlearntoRelearn”
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Al Hilal have scheduled travel arrangements and medical tests for Victor Osimhen, following a finalized €75 million transfer agreement with Napoli. However, the move hinges on Osimhen’s final approval before completion, as the Saudi Pro League club awaits confirmation from the striker. This development was revealed by well-known football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who shared the update via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle late Saturday night. “Al Hilal have booked travel and medical for Victor Osimhen, still waiting for his green light to the move. €75m deal in place with Napoli after new proposal revealed yesterday, depending on the player now,” — Fabrizio Romano. As previously reported by LMSINT MEDIA, Osimhen has returned to Nigeria while he considers his next career move. The 26-year-old was reportedly close to finalizing a switch to Chelsea during the previous transfer window but eventually settled for a one-year loan agreement with Galatasaray.
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Portugal national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo has drawn a striking comparison between his son, Cristiano Junior, and Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal. Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated Nations League final between Portugal and Spain, the football legend expressed his admiration for the young Barcelona winger. Ronaldo noted that Yamal and his son share remarkable physical similarities. “Lamine Yamal and my son are very alike — from their skin tone to their hairstyle. They’re just three years apart. I like Lamine Yamal a lot, and my son is also a huge fan of his,” said Ronaldo, as reported by Madrid Zone. Ronaldo and Yamal are set to face off on Sunday night when Portugal meets Spain in the UEFA Nations League final. Both players played critical roles in helping their national teams secure a spot in the final showdown. Portugal triumphed over Germany, while Spain clinched a win against France in the semi-finals. Last season, the two stars shined brightly for their respective clubs. Ronaldo clinched the top scorer award in the Saudi Pro League, continuing his prolific form, while Lamine Yamal contributed to Barcelona’s double-title victory, lifting both the LaLiga trophy and Copa del Rey. The Nations League final between Spain and Portugal is scheduled to be held at Allianz Arena in Munich, drawing massive global attention to the encounter.
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Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has recounted a divine warning he once received from God — that the death of his firstborn would follow if he ever left the church. This profound testimony was shared during the June Holy Ghost Service, themed “Destined for Greatness (Part 2),” which took place in the early hours of Saturday at the Redemption City of God, situated in Ogun State, Nigeria. During his sermon, which focused on spiritual obedience and divine direction, Pastor Adeboye referenced an earlier message delivered by his son, Pastor Leke Adeboye. He voiced concern over the modern trend among young Christians who frequently shift from one church to another, repeatedly presenting themselves as newcomers wherever they go. Reflecting on his own Christian journey, Pastor Adeboye revealed that after his conversion, he observed several popular and growing ministries that could have attracted him. Despite their prominence, he emphasized that God gave him a specific directive to remain in RCCG. “When I gave my life to Christ, there were three major ministries making waves at the time — all vibrant and appealing,” he explained. “I faced temptations to join them, but God clearly told me: ‘My son, I brought you to RCCG. Stay here. The day you leave, your first child will die.’” He went on to explain that during that period, RCCG was largely unknown, headquartered in a humble structure in Ebute-Metta, Lagos. Despite being a university lecturer with academic qualifications, God instructed him to submit to a spiritual leader who had not received any formal education. “I was a lecturer at the university, and my spiritual father hadn’t even attended primary school,” he noted. “Still, God insisted that this is where I must remain.” Pastor Adeboye passionately urged young Christians to seek God’s guidance in their spiritual walk and to remain rooted where God has planted them, instead of following trends or personal desires. “Find out where God wants you to be — and stay there,” he counseled. He further clarified that his statement was not intended to promote RCCG as being superior to other churches or denominations. “I’m not saying RCCG is better than any other church,” he concluded. “That’s not the message.”
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Ibrahim Masari, a notable political associate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has confidently asserted that every Nigerian who cast their vote for the president during the 2023 general elections has no reason to feel remorseful. Masari, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed this view during a conversation with the BBC, as Tinubu’s government marks two years in power. “Anyone who voted for President Tinubu between himself and God has no regrets,” Masari stated. He highlighted that President Tinubu has achieved significant progress, particularly in improving national security and stabilizing the economy, despite the ongoing economic challenges faced by many citizens. One of the bold policy actions taken by the administration, according to Masari, was the elimination of the fuel subsidy. Masari justified the fuel subsidy removal as a courageous and essential measure that enabled the government to conserve national funds and reinvest them into development-focused initiatives. He emphasized that Tinubu showcased uncommon political determination by removing the subsidy, a decision that former presidents were unable to enforce. “Past presidents wanted to do it but couldn’t. He did it because of how much of the country’s money was being wasted,” Masari remarked. He further elaborated that the resources previously allocated to fuel and electricity subsidies are now being rechanneled into vital developmental sectors, ultimately enhancing the operational capacities of both federal and state governments. While acknowledging the economic hardship being endured by many Nigerians, Masari maintained that the steps taken by President Tinubu are designed to construct a more resilient and prosperous nation in the long term.
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The Kwara State Fire Service has retrieved the body of a 43-year-old man, identified only as Kazeem, who was found dead inside a household well in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State. According to a press release issued by the fire service spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, the tragic incident occurred at Ile Alapo, located in the Edun area within the Ilorin metropolis. Adekunle noted that the control room of the fire service received an emergency alert at approximately 10:29 a.m., notifying them that an individual had plunged into a domestic well. In response to the call, firefighters were promptly dispatched to the location. Upon arrival, they successfully retrieved the man’s lifeless body from the well. The victim, Kazeem, allegedly jumped into the well while under the influence of a psychoactive drug known as Colo (Colorado), shortly after observing the Eid prayers on Friday. The official statement added that the remains were handed over to Inspector Babatunde Amos of the ‘C’ Division of the Ilorin Police Command. Authorities are currently awaiting formal identification and claim of the deceased by his next of kin. In reaction to the incident, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, conveyed his heartfelt sorrow and issued a strong warning against substance abuse. He urged residents to avoid drug use, cautioning that such behavior can often result in devastating and irreversible consequences.
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Nigerian music sensation and Grammy Award winner, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, widely recognized as Wizkid, recently shared his thoughts on the path to achieving success. Speaking candidly, the 34-year-old artist emphasized that having a clear vision is a vital step toward reaching one’s goals. During a conversation with NBC 4 at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, where his documentary “Wizkid: Long Live Lagos” premiered, the Starboy Entertainment founder highlighted that envisioning success is a foundational principle. The interviewer asked Wizkid:“Did you always foresee yourself reaching this point? Did the vision exist before the reality?” He responded:“Absolutely, man. You must visualize it before it comes to pass. So yes, I’ve always believed I’d become successful.” Known globally for his smash hit “Essence”, Wizkid used the opportunity to inspire younger generations. He encouraged aspiring individuals to remain authentic, stay diligent, and keep their faith in God unwavering. In a heartwarming moment at the event, Wizkid and his partner Jada Pollock publicly introduced their daughter, Morayo, to the world. The singer lovingly held his child while posing for photos alongside Jada and close members of his crew.
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Popular Nigerian music artist, Bella Shmurda, has opened up about his current stance in the music scene, expressing that he no longer aligns himself with the secular music industry. The singer emphasized a significant change in his musical direction, explaining that he has moved away from producing songs that simply chase trends. Instead, he now focuses on creating conscious music that resonates deeply with listeners. During a recent appearance on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, hosted by renowned music journalist Joey Akan, Bella Shmurda shared personal insights about his evolving purpose as an artist. He stated, “At this point, I feel like I’m not in the [secular music] industry anymore. In that sense that I no longer make music that follows trend. I no longer do songs for trends. I don’t think I’m in that space anymore.” Shmurda further expressed his commitment to making music that uplifts and connects with the soul, rather than following commercial formulas or fleeting popularity. “I just want to make music for the reason I want to do it, which is to uplift people’s souls, making people self-conscious and being aware of who they are. And, helping people go through life with my music. And, I don’t really think any of my colleagues want to do that. I can still do trendy songs once in a while. But I feel like I know my space already now. Even if I want to make trendy music, I do that and quickly return to my purpose. And I feel like that’s the balance.”
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Nigerian Afrobeats icon Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, widely recognized as Wizkid, has voiced his desire for better governance in Nigeria and throughout the African continent. During the Tribeca Film Festival in New York on Friday, where his documentary titled “Wizkid: Long Live Lagos” was showcased, the Starboy Entertainment frontman emphasized the significance of leadership in Africa. He highlighted governance as a core issue he hopes to see transformed across African nations. Wizkid took the opportunity to urge fellow African creatives to speak their truths through storytelling. Despite the ongoing challenges facing the continent, the global music star expressed optimism for a brighter future driven by artistic expression. “I hope every African artist gets the platform to share their journey in this way. I’m not alone in this experience; many of us come from similar backgrounds,” he said. He further added, “I constantly hope for growth across all aspects of our culture — from the music scene to film and sports. My wish is for improved leadership. At the core, I’m an optimist. I truly want the best for everyone creating extraordinary music and inspiring art in Africa.”
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Olakunle Olusegun, the Krasnodar FC striker, has expressed immense joy after donning the Nigerian national team jersey for the first time in his career. The 23-year-old came on as a substitute for Christantus Uche in the 80th minute during Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Russia at Moscow’s iconic Luzhniki Stadium on Friday night. Olusegun, who previously featured for the Golden Eaglets, delivered a commendable performance that contributed to the Super Eagles securing a valuable draw. He shared how thrilled he was by the atmosphere at the stadium and how meaningful it was to play in such a setting. Reflecting on his debut, Olusegun told Championat: “The environment during the game was fantastic. Representing Nigeria in such a lineup isn’t simple—many talented players are eager for that chance.” He continued, “Making my first appearance for Nigeria in a match against Russia holds special meaning. But for me, every match carries its own importance.” Acknowledging the strength of the Russian team, Olusegun admitted, “Debuting against Russia wasn’t an easy task—they’re definitely a strong side.” Olusegun also celebrated his recent domestic success, having lifted the Russian Premier League trophy with Krasnodar in the previous season.
