Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared his intention to spearhead President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in Rivers State for the 2027 presidential election. This announcement underscores Wike’s continued political influence and his commitment to ensuring the South retains the presidency. During a media chat in Abuja on June 2, 2025, Wike addressed questions regarding his role in the upcoming election. He emphasized his dedication to President Tinubu’s success, stating, “I have told you this before, is it because I am in Asiwaju’s presidency? Are you not aware I will lead his campaign in Rivers State? You want me to say no?” Wike also highlighted President Tinubu’s previous performance in the FCT, noting that he secured less than 10% of the votes in the 2023 election. He expressed confidence in a significant improvement, asserting that Tinubu would win in the FCT in the upcoming election. Addressing his political affiliations, Wike reaffirmed his membership in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite his collaboration with the APC-led federal government. He stated, “No one will take me from the party. I’m a member. In fact, I’ll lead the PDP campaign in Rivers by 2027.” Wike’s dual roles have sparked discussions about his political stance. He has been vocal about internal challenges within the PDP and has criticized certain party leaders. Despite these tensions, he maintains that his loyalty to the PDP remains steadfast. In his remarks, Wike also addressed criticisms from former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, who had accused him of seeking power. Wike dismissed these claims, emphasizing his commitment to delivering electoral success for President Tinubu.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Many today have been conditioned to expect certain ailments or health challenges when they get to a certain age in life. They’ve been told that between ages 45 and 50 their bodies will begin to slow down, certain pains will set in, and at age 60, heart problems may arise. These conclusions have been drawn from mere human wisdom and experience, not divine truth. As a child of God, your life is different; you’re not an ordinary person. You’re not subject to the limitations and corrupting influences of this world. Never accept the verdict from man’s limited knowledge stemming from the wisdom of this world with respect to your health. Your body is not subject to the elements of this world and the vagaries of nature. You’re in Christ and from Christ where divinity rules. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” This means no inherited sickness or weakness, because you’re born of God, inundated with eternal life. Your identity is not in your earthly lineage. It doesn’t matter what ran in your biological family—heart problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.—those things have no hold on you! You’re a new creation in Christ, born into a new family—the family of God. If sickness tries to attach itself to your body, you say, “In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I rebuke this sickness. I remove it from my body!” Your words have power; use them to establish your divine health. Take charge of your body. Speak in tongues and charge your spirit and then give the Word concerning your health. Your body will respond to the Word of God. You belong to the divine class, full of the life of God! Even now, say, “I refuse to be sick. I live above age-related or environment-related conditions. My blood pressure is normal, my heart is perfect, and all my organs function perfectly. I walk in divine health and strength all my days, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.” PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the reality of my divine nature in Christ. I refuse to accept the limitations, sicknesses, and conditions that the world prescribes. My body is full of life, health and strength. No infirmity can thrive in me because the Spirit of God quickens my body. I live victoriously, walking in divine health and supernatural vitality, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 8:11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Mark 16:17-18And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Proverbs 4:20-22My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22 For they [are] life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 17:1-26 & 1 Chronicles 9-10 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:43-52 & Numbers 36 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I enjoy life to the full always, to the glory of God the Father. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. I am making progress with giant strides as I fulfill the ministry and destiny that God has for me. I unleash health, prosperity, and victory in my life. I walk in victory and dominion over Satan, as well as the world and its systems. Whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world. I am born of God; therefore, I have overcome the world. It makes no difference the difficulties that may come my way, I am victorious in all things. I am a victor, not a victim. God’s Word is producing what it talks about in my life. My life is the expression of all that Christ is. His divine life is manifested through me. I live in the consciousness of my divine life and origin in Christ, knowing that the life I live is superior to sickness, disease, and defeat. The life of God in me has supplanted the human life that was susceptible to sickness and disease. I am identified with the Lord and branded by Him. I am a different kind of being, one that doesn’t fail, suffer, perish, or get ill. My life is fashioned by God for excellence. I am a partaker of God’s glory, grace, and righteousness. I have power over all the abilities and strategies of the devil. No matter how he tries or through which means he attempts to attack my body, the Name of Jesus gives me authority, dominion, and triumph always. I don’t envy Godless men or desire to be in their company. I walk as a child of light, for I am light in the Lord. My delight is in pleasing the Lord Jesus, and I seek to honour Him always. I’m guided by the Spirit of God who lives in me and guides me in the path of righteousness, to produce fruits and works of righteousness. My faith is strong and never wavers because it’s founded on God’s Word. I don’t give room to doubt and fear. My thoughts, words and actions are in sync with God’s eternal Word, bringing glory to Him, irrespective of circumstances. Everything in my life is working out for my good because I am in God’s plan, at the
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has urged the club to prioritize signing an experienced striker during the ongoing transfer window. In a direct message to his former club, Ferdinand emphasized the need for swift action in bolstering the squad. His remarks came after United secured the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Ferdinand stressed that the Red Devils should aim to bring in a seasoned forward, along with reinforcements in midfield and at right-back. According to TBR Football, the ex-England international refrained from naming specific strikers, stating: “If I were on the recruitment team now, or advising them in any way, I would urge them not to overlook the need for a proven number nine. I’m not going to name names—I’ve already done that repeatedly. I’d also target a midfielder. Someone who can control possession, distribute accurately, and orchestrate the play… So the next two additions should be a central striker and a central midfielder—plus a right back.” Manchester United are reportedly paying £62.5 million to Wolverhampton for Cunha, who was also previously linked with a move to Arsenal. Interestingly, Cunha was a long-time fan of Manchester United during his childhood, making the transfer a personal dream fulfilled.
Malik Ado-Ibrahim, the Young Progressives Party (YPP) presidential flagbearer in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, has expressed concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s current cabinet composition. He urged the president to carry out a significant reshuffle of his ministerial team. During an appearance on Channels Television’s political affairs program, Sunday Politics, Ado-Ibrahim shared his thoughts about the effectiveness of those currently surrounding the Nigerian president. According to Ado-Ibrahim, President Tinubu’s inability to bring his strategic vision to life is directly tied to the team of individuals he has appointed into positions of authority. “From my perspective, most members of the current cabinet have reached their limit and should be replaced,” he remarked. He further stated that no individual holds a monopoly on wisdom, suggesting that more capable individuals could be brought in to drive national objectives more efficiently. “No matter how much one knows, it’s unrealistic to believe others don’t know better. There are smarter individuals out there. What I’m offering is an opinion—and that opinion is clear: the president should revamp the cabinet to restore public confidence,” he added. Ado-Ibrahim emphasized the importance of having ministers who are not just nominally appointed but are well-suited for administration and execution of policies. “The president needs a proper strategy, and more importantly, he should assign roles to those who can execute those strategies—not just hand someone a ministerial title and expect them to perform without guidance. You can’t just appoint someone as Minister of Health and expect things to magically improve. You need a competent administrator,” he concluded.
The President General of the Okauigo Nkwoegwu Improvement Union, Uzomba Ekwuruibe, has voiced concern over the extensive damage inflicted upon the Okauiga Nkwoegwu Community Secondary School, located in the Ohuhu region of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Abia State. In a statement issued to the press, Ekwuruibe reported that the culprits allegedly infiltrated the community from the neighboring Amachara community in Umuahia South LGA. He claimed that the assailants launched attacks on Umunenweze and other nearby villages within the Okauiga Nkwoegwu community. Armed with dane guns, cutlasses, and hammers, they proceeded to wreak havoc on the school premises, leaving significant damage behind. According to the community leader, after the destructive rampage, the perpetrators were reportedly overheard expressing confidence, suggesting that they were acting under the backing of certain influential figures and high-ranking officials in government. Ekwuruibe made an urgent plea to the Abia State Government and security authorities, urging them to investigate the incident thoroughly, apprehend the offenders, and bring them to justice. He also encouraged members of his community to stay calm and law-abiding while waiting for the appropriate legal actions to be taken against those involved. However, in response to these claims, the leadership of the Amachara Welfare Association—specifically President Amarachukwu Uchendu and Secretary Ekeledo Obioma—categorically denied all allegations. They maintained that the Amachara community is composed of peace-loving residents and insisted that their people had no hand in any plan or action that led to the vandalism of the school. According to them, the Okauiga Nkwoegwu Community Secondary School had long fallen into disrepair, especially since it was relocated to the Nkwoegwu Central School years ago. The Amachara leadership called on the Abia State Government and the wider public to disregard any association of their community with the destruction of the facility.
As the rainy season unfolds across Nigeria with frightening episodes of flooding, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) had issued repeated early warnings earlier in the year regarding potential floods in several states, especially Niger. The destructive floods in Niger State reinforce NiMET’s stark prediction that 13 Northern states may experience widespread flooding in 2025. “We expect a normal to below-normal annual rainfall across most regions, compared to historical averages. However, heavy downpours in May and June may result in flash floods, especially in coastal urban centers,” NiMET cautioned. The Federal Government, through the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, also echoed this alert, highlighting that 1,249 towns across 176 local governments in 30 states — including areas in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) — are vulnerable to floods. In 2024, many areas, particularly in the North, were severely impacted by floods. Notably, heavy rain damaged parts of Borno, Maiduguri, and Kano. Jigawa was hit especially hard, as intense rainfall swept through homes and farmlands. For 2025, government forecasts warn that the following states are at risk of flooding: Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the FCT. Data from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) supports these findings, indicating that dam overflow risks are growing. This is of particular concern in Niger State, which is home to the Shiroro and Kainji dams — both known for past downstream flooding. Tragically, more than 151 lives were lost during the Niger flood on Wednesday night. As rescue operations continue, the death toll may rise. Is Government Action Proactive or Reactive? Although both the Federal Government and Niger State authorities acknowledged the flood warnings from NiMET, little has been publicly disclosed regarding preventive strategies to lessen the effects of flooding. In an interview with LMSINT MEDIA, Umar Sale Anka, a council member of the Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria (IEPN), said the recent disaster in Mokwa, Niger State—which claimed over 150 lives and submerged entire villages—highlights the deep-rooted issues plaguing Nigeria’s emergency response systems. He emphasized, “Despite timely alerts from NiMET and NIHSA, the response was delayed due to institutional inefficiency, resource limitations, personnel shortages, and inadequate funding, particularly at the state level.” Anka also blamed deforestation, noting that forests, which previously served as natural flood buffers, have been wiped out, allowing water to surge unimpeded into residential areas. Furthermore, he pointed out that even when relief materials are available, insecurity often hinders access, putting both humanitarian organizations and technical response teams at risk. “Cultural attachments to ancestral homes and spiritual beliefs complicate relocation efforts,” he added. “Even when warned, many families are unwilling to evacuate due to emotional ties to their land, sacred spaces, and family burial grounds. To them, relocation is not just physical — it’s a profound cultural dislocation.” These social dynamics, according to Anka, significantly challenge emergency managers, who must consider logistical and cultural factors when planning flood responses. “In this tragic mix of natural disaster, environmental degradation, social complexity, and delayed governance, the most vulnerable Nigerians continue to suffer the brunt,” he concluded. Still, Anka asserted that early and strategic intervention could have greatly minimized the disaster’s scale. Kano’s Strategic Response In an interview with LMSINT MEDIA, the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) stated it is working alongside National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to prevent severe flooding during the rainy season. The SEMA Executive Secretary, Isyaku Kubarachi, previously confirmed that floods have already occurred in Madobi, Shanono, and Tudun Wada. Meetings have reportedly been scheduled with stakeholders, including NEMA, to strategize. However, during his conversation with LMSINT MEDIA, Kubarachi only mentioned, “We would hold stakeholders meeting to address the issue,” without offering further details. He noted that the media would also be involved in these meetings, which are expected to help mitigate flood risks in Kano State.
₦785.6 Billion Investment at Risk The Federal Government’s initiative to shift Nigeria’s transportation sector from petrol to gas-powered vehicles is encountering significant obstacles. Stakeholders express concerns over supply shortages and a lack of infrastructure, leading to frustration among users and investors. Despite the availability of petrol nationwide, the scarcity of CNG is causing some users to revert their vehicles back to petrol. In many states, the presence of the CNG scheme is minimal or non-existent, with some areas having the necessary equipment but lacking operational activity. The Presidential CNG Initiative acknowledges these challenges but maintains that the program remains on track, with efforts underway to address the issues. Government Incentives To promote the adoption of CNG, the government has implemented several incentives, such as removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on CNG equipment and infrastructure. In May 2024, President Bola Tinubu directed all federal entities to purchase CNG vehicles. Additionally, the government funded the free conversion of one million commercial vehicles to CNG, aiming to reduce public transportation costs. However, delays in approving licenses for new CNG stations contribute to the scarcity of refill stations, particularly in Abuja and other regions. Some users allege sabotage, suggesting that stakeholders benefiting from petrol imports may be hindering the CNG rollout. A truck driver expressed frustration over the lack of accessible CNG stations, questioning why the government isn’t facilitating the establishment of more stations. Similarly, a taxi operator noted that long queues at gas stations are discouraging many from continuing with CNG, leading them to revert to petrol. In Abuja, a truck driver reported spending an average of six days to refill his CNG-powered truck, highlighting the inadequate number of functional stations. The situation is similar for car owners and taxi operators, who also endure long waits. Regional Situations Abuja/Nasarawa: Along the 38-kilometer Abuja-Keffi Road, there are over 49 petrol stations but only one non-functional CNG station in Ado, Karu Local Government Area. The only operational CNG station in Nasarawa is in Lafia. Motorists express frustration over the lack of conversion centers and refill stations, deterring them from adopting CNG. Lagos: Visits to stations in Ikeja, Mushin, and Apapa revealed that CNG was not being dispensed due to stock shortages. Sources indicate that efforts are being made to address the crisis, though challenges like delays at ports and shipment issues persist. Additionally, government-approved outlets report a lack of equipment for CNG conversions. South East: In Enugu State, the government has procured 50 CNG buses, with plans for an additional 50. However, these buses are currently parked and not in operation. Ebonyi State has purchased some CNG luxury buses but has yet to deploy them. Abia State plans to introduce electric buses instead of CNG, while Anambra State’s Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company has embraced CNG technology, though local adoption remains low. South South: Despite being rich in gas resources, states like Delta, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Cross-Rivers have not seen significant implementation of the CNG initiative. Labor leaders and residents report a lack of CNG buses and infrastructure. In Delta State, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed for a CNG conversion center, but progress has been slow. Akwa-Ibom State launched a CNG initiative but has yet to establish the necessary infrastructure.
A recent windstorm has caused significant destruction in Fika Local Government Area of Yobe State, Nigeria, damaging at least 209 homes, including public buildings. This information was disclosed by Dr. Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), during a stakeholders’ engagement on the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Campaign organized by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Damaturu. Dr. Goje highlighted that in 2025, a single windstorm event in Fika affected approximately 209 households, encompassing both private residences and public structures. He emphasized that YOSEMA is actively monitoring the situation to determine appropriate support measures for the impacted communities. Data from YOSEMA reveals that in 2024 alone, 28,977 households, totaling 68,954 individuals, were affected by windstorms and flooding across Yobe State. Additionally, 544 individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries due to building collapses caused by floods. The disasters also resulted in 47 fatalities across 601 communities in all 17 local government areas of the state. During the stakeholders’ engagement, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the North East Zonal Director, Yakubu Suleiman, underscored the importance of engaging states in the region. This initiative follows the release of the 2025 seasonal climate prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the annual flood outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). The engagement aims to implement proactive measures to mitigate disaster impacts in high-risk communities. The campaign is themed “Strengthening resilience, enhancing preparedness and response: Taking disaster risk management to the grassroots to save lives, restore normalcy, and build communal resilience across Nigeria.” National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matthew 12:37). Not realizing their value and power, many misuse words. They don’t speak correctly. Speaking correctly means speaking in consonance with the Word of God; saying what God has said. Hebrews 13:5-6 says, “…for he hath said…So that we may boldly say….” Words are “things”; they’re living; they’re powerful; they’re creative. Words shape destinies, define realities, and determine outcomes. If you want to understand why your life is the way it is, review your words; listen to yourself. The words you speak determine your health, your appearance, and even your future. Your thoughts and words shape not just your life but even your physical appearance. That’s because words are thoughts clothed in vocabulary, and every person is a reflection of their thoughts. Therefore, if words are an expression of thoughts, then your words reveal your character. No one can live beyond the character of their words; your words define you. Have you seen people who constantly look worried, even when they’re not frowning? Their faces carry the imprint of their thoughts and words. Their health, their emotions, and even their physical features are affected by what they’ve been saying and thinking. That’s because your words are the forces that mould your life. When you speak words of faith, victory, power, success and divine health, your life will align with those words. Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life….” Proverbs 18:21 declares, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” 1 Peter 3:10 takes it to a climax; it says, “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.” Speak the right words, for you’re what you say. What you say is what you get (Mark 11:23). Praise God! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the power of words and the ability to speak and shape my future in line with your perfect will. My words are filled with faith, strength and divine wisdom, bringing health to my body, joy to my spirit and success to my path. I walk in victory always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYProverbs 18:21 AMPCDeath and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. James 3:5-6Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. Mark 11:23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 16:17-33 & 1 Chronicles 7-8 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:32-42 & Numbers 35 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: 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. I’m living in health 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. My body is the temple of the Holy Ghost; therefore, every organ, tissue and cell in my body complies with the Word of God. My body is not sustained by blood, but by the vitalizing power of the Holy Spirit in me. I declare that the Holy Spirit is at work in me. Good health, success, and prosperity are the hallmarks of my daily life. I enjoy life to the full always, to the glory of God the Father. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. I am making progress with giant strides as I fulfill the ministry and destiny that God has for me. I unleash health, prosperity, and victory in my life. I walk in victory and dominion over Satan, as well as the world and its systems. Whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world. I am born of God; therefore, I have overcome the world. It makes no difference the difficulties that may come my way, I am victorious in all things. Christ lives in me! I’m the expression of His reality, His grace, glory, kingdom, power, and personality! I’m the expression of His fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there’s a force – an empowerment – at work in me to blaze through the barriers. Everything and anything I could ever need is inside the greater One that lives in me. Hallelujah! Speak in tongues.
Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand has described Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League final display against Inter Milan as a performance that completely “suffocated” their Italian opponents. Speaking after the clash held at Allianz Arena in Munich, Ferdinand praised PSG for their high-intensity press, stating that the French champions effectively “pressed the life out” of Inter Milan from the opening whistle to the final minute. The one-sided affair saw PSG deliver a masterclass, with Desire Doue netting a brace, while Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Senny Mayulu also got on the scoresheet to secure a resounding 5-0 victory. “PSG dominated the game. They suffocated Inter Milan and pressed them hard,” Ferdinand told TNT Sports. “From the very beginning, PSG had them pinned and didn’t let go. Their players were in absolute killer mode today,” he added. Ferdinand went further to say that it was one of the most dominant displays he had ever witnessed in a UEFA Champions League final. “It’s an astonishing performance in a game of this level. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such dominance in a final,” Ferdinand said. With this result, PSG completed a historic treble under manager Luis Enrique, capping off a sensational season for the Ligue 1 side.
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has expressed his belief that Ousmane Dembélé deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or, following PSG’s emphatic 5–0 win against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday. Speaking during a post-match interview with TNT Sports, Enrique praised Dembélé’s outstanding contribution despite the winger not registering a goal during the final. The French international’s performance, particularly his defensive efforts, drew high commendation from the manager. “If I could award the Ballon d’Or, it would go to Ousmane Dembélé,” Enrique said. “His defensive work tonight was simply extraordinary — that alone justifies a Ballon d’Or recognition. “This is true leadership. Goals, titles, commitment, pressing — the full package. “He’s my Ballon d’Or without a doubt.” Though Dembélé didn’t find the net in the final match, Enrique emphasized his all-around impact, including his work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to lead from the front. Dembélé is now regarded as one of the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or, joining the likes of Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in the conversation for football’s most prestigious individual award. During PSG’s phenomenal season — where they achieved a historic Treble — Dembélé contributed significantly, scoring 33 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions.
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has proclaimed Monday, June 2, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the 22 athletes from Kano who tragically lost their lives in an accident while returning from Ogun State. The announcement was made during the governor’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, where he instructed that the day be set aside for mourning, prayers, and solidarity with the bereaved families. A statement released late at night by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, conveyed the governor’s deep sorrow and commitment to supporting the affected families. “It is with a profoundly sorrowful heart that I received the heartbreaking news of this unfortunate tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 22 innocent individuals and caused injuries to several others,” the governor said. “On behalf of the Kano State Government and its people, I extend our sincerest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We grieve with you and stand with you in this painful time,” he added. The state government further urged Muslim clerics and worshippers, both within and beyond the borders of Kano, to offer prayers for the souls of the deceased athletes and for divine strength to their families during this difficult period.
Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of 22 Kano State athletes who tragically lost their lives while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. According to official reports, the unfortunate incident occurred when the team’s vehicle plunged off a bridge at Dakatsalle, near Kura Local Government Area in Kano State. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the tragedy as an enormous loss—not just to the victims’ families and Kano State but to the entire Nigerian nation. “This is a deeply sorrowful moment. These young athletes travelled with a spirit of unity and national pride to represent their state. Losing them so suddenly and tragically is a huge blow to the country,” he said. Ganduje praised the athletes for their dedication, describing them as symbols of hope and the bright future of Nigerian sports. He acknowledged their commitment and the honor they brought to Kano State. The former governor extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sports community. He also offered prayers for the souls of the departed and strength for their grieving loved ones. Furthermore, he urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of the accident. He also called for the establishment of stricter safety measures to safeguard the welfare of Nigerian athletes during future national events. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) comfort the bereaved families and grant the deceased eternal peace,” Ganduje added.

