Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly delivered a firm message to the club — allow him to secure a transfer to Premier League rivals Chelsea or risk having him sit out competitive football for up to a year. The 20-year-old Argentine is currently one of five players placed in United’s so-called “bomb squad”, a group of stars no longer in the plans of new manager Ruben Amorim. Garnacho’s decision to seek an exit is said to stem from growing frustration over his reduced role in the squad, particularly after being benched during a crucial match. Sources claim that the winger’s discontent began intensifying in May, when Amorim instructed him to find a new club following a disagreement over his starting position in the Europa League final. Garnacho was reportedly unhappy with being named as a substitute, which ultimately pushed him to explore opportunities away from Old Trafford. Initially, Manchester United valued Garnacho at £70 million, but in a bid to accelerate a sale, the club has now lowered their asking price to £50 million. This move appears to open the door for Chelsea, who have shown significant interest in adding the versatile attacker to their roster. According to reliable transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Garnacho has made it clear to United’s management that Chelsea is his preferred destination. Furthermore, he has allegedly warned that if a deal is not struck, he is prepared to remain inactive for the next six to twelve months rather than play for the club. Garnacho’s time at Old Trafford has been productive in terms of personal stats. Since making his senior debut, he has registered 144 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 22 assists across all competitions. Despite these contributions, the breakdown in his relationship with the management has brought his United career to a potential early end. Whether United will allow such a high-profile transfer to a direct league rival remains to be seen, but the situation has now reached a critical point. With the transfer window still open, negotiations could take an unexpected turn — and fans of both clubs are closely watching the unfolding drama.
Manchester United have officially revealed that their latest signing, Benjamin Sesko, will don the No.30 jersey in his first season at Old Trafford. The Premier League giants made the announcement on Monday, just days after Sesko’s arrival in England. The 22-year-old Slovenian striker was unveiled to the club’s supporters over the weekend and greeted the fans ahead of United’s pre-season friendly against Fiorentina on Saturday. Sesko’s transfer marks another major addition to United’s attacking options this summer. The Red Devils reportedly overcame strong interest from Premier League rivals Newcastle United to secure his signature, underlining their determination to strengthen the squad ahead of the new campaign. The talented forward becomes Ruben Amorim’s fourth signing of the summer, following a £74 million agreement with RB Leipzig for his transfer. The deal was finalised after weeks of negotiations, adding to United’s ambition to build a competitive side for the season. Interestingly, fellow summer signing Diego Leon had initially been given the No.30 shirt during pre-season matches. However, Leon has now switched to the No.35 jersey, clearing the way for Sesko to wear his preferred number when the season officially kicks off. With his shirt number confirmed, all eyes will be on Sesko as he prepares to make his competitive debut for Manchester United in the English Premier League.
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Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Tracy, has once again proven her competitive strength by retaining the Head of House (HOH) crown for the third week of the season. After the live eviction show on Sunday night, all 27 remaining housemates took part in the high-stakes HOH game challenge, aiming for the coveted leadership position in Biggie’s house. Tracy showcased remarkable determination and focus, ultimately securing the top spot yet again. As directed by Big Brother (Biggie), the week’s HOH challenge required Tracy to defend her position by competing against a select group of housemates — Dede, Ivatar, Joanna, Thelma, and Kuture. Despite facing stiff competition, Tracy displayed impressive game strategy, skill, and composure to successfully hold onto her title. Her victory comes with two major perks: exclusive access to the luxurious Head of House lounge and full immunity from eviction for the week. In addition to these privileges, Tracy exercised her special right to select a house guest, choosing Kuture to join her in enjoying the HOH lounge experience. In a twist, Isabella had an entirely different fate. She performed the poorest in the HOH challenge and was labelled the “Tail of the House” — a playful yet embarrassing title. As a consequence, Isabella was given a humorous punishment: she must wear a clown costume around the house for the week, serving as a constant reminder of her performance. Big Brother Naija Season 10 continues to deliver thrilling moments, fierce competitions, and unforgettable twists as housemates battle for the ultimate grand prize.
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Bayer Leverkusen’s Nigerian forward, Victor Boniface, has openly described life in Europe as “boring,” revealing that he would rather be in Nigeria if the distance allowed him to combine both worlds. Speaking during the latest episode of The Culture League Podcast — a show he co-created with fellow Super Eagles teammates Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika — Boniface made it clear that Nigeria’s energy and culture far outweigh Europe’s lifestyle in his personal preference. The program, anchored by VJ Adams (Adams Adebola), a renowned TV presenter and video jockey, featured the three players discussing differences in lifestyle between Nigeria and Europe. Boniface explained that if Nigeria were just a short six-hour drive away from Germany, he would choose to live in Nigeria and commute daily to his training sessions in Germany. “If Nigeria is like a six-hour drive to Germany, I would stay here [Nigeria] and drive every morning to train and play in Germany. Europe is boring,” Boniface stated. The 23-year-old striker joined Bayer Leverkusen from Union SG in 2023 and has quickly made an impact on the pitch. However, off the field, it appears he still finds Europe lacking in the vibrant atmosphere and community spirit that he associates with home in Nigeria. Boniface’s comments shed light on the cultural differences professional footballers face when moving abroad, especially those from nations with deeply social and lively cultures. His preference echoes sentiments shared by several African players who often speak about missing the warmth, energy, and communal living of their home countries.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the former governor of Sokoto State and current Senator, into custody in Abuja for questioning over what is alleged to be a massive financial fraud case. According to a report published by The Cable, Tambuwal is being interrogated in connection with cash withdrawals and financial transactions amounting to approximately ₦189 billion during his tenure as governor. Sources indicate that the EFCC is examining bank records, state expenditure documents, and high-value payment authorisations linked to the period he served as the state’s chief executive. This development follows mounting political tensions and accusations of selective anti-corruption investigations in Nigeria. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently alleged that the EFCC’s actions against certain politicians are not impartial but rather targeted at members of opposition parties. In a statement signed by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, the party accused the EFCC of politically motivated moves. According to Abdullahi, several recent EFCC summons issued to high-ranking members of the opposition coalition were influenced by political considerations and party alignments rather than purely legal grounds. The ADC further claimed that some of these corruption probes are not based on fresh evidence but involve reopening old investigation files from several years ago. This, the party says, raises questions about the commission’s commitment to unbiased anti-corruption enforcement and whether its resources are being used for political gain. The case against Tambuwal is still developing, with the EFCC expected to provide official statements as investigations progress. Meanwhile, political analysts believe this incident may fuel further debates over anti-corruption transparency, rule of law, and the political neutrality of federal agencies in Nigeria.
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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have taken legal action against Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) following the reported closure of the Minna-based Badeggi FM radio station. The case highlights growing concerns over press freedom and political interference in Nigeria’s broadcast industry. According to reports, Governor Bago allegedly ordered security forces to seal off the Badeggi FM premises. He further threatened to revoke the station’s operational licence, demolish its building, and accused the radio station of allegedly inciting violence within the state. These accusations have drawn public attention, with media advocates viewing them as attempts to silence critical journalism. The suit, filed on Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos under case number FHC/L/CS/1587/2025, calls on the judiciary to intervene in protecting media independence. SERAP and the NGE are urging the court to declare that the NBC holds a constitutional and statutory responsibility—under the Nigerian Constitution and the NBC Act—to shield Badeggi FM and other broadcasting stations from undue political and administrative interference. The plaintiffs are also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Governor Bago and the NBC from carrying out any form of harassment, closure, or operational disruption of Badeggi FM. They argue that NBC’s inaction in defending the station’s editorial independence constitutes a breach of its statutory obligations. According to SERAP and the NGE, the alleged threats against Badeggi FM are unlawful, a violation of press freedom, and a strategic move to silence dissenting voices in the build-up to the 2027 general elections. They emphasised that the accusations against the station were vague, unsubstantiated, and without credible evidence. The court filing partly reads: “The allegations against Badeggi FM are unproven and lacking in substance. Any attempt to intimidate media organisations undermines the principles of democracy and suppresses open, public discourse on matters of national importance.” SERAP and the NGE further insisted that both Governor Bago and the NBC must guarantee a safe working environment for journalists and broadcasters. They stressed that any restriction on media operations should comply strictly with legal standards, be necessary, and not be based on arbitrary claims of national security. The lawsuit represents a broader debate about media freedom in Nigeria, particularly in politically sensitive periods. Advocacy groups have repeatedly warned that press intimidation could erode democratic accountability, allowing unchecked political power to flourish.
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Prophet Bomadi Serimoedumu, the General Overseer and founder of Mount Zion Divine Gospel Ministry Inc., has predicted that former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will once again occupy Aso Rock as the country’s leader in 2027. Speaking during a prophetic service on Sunday at Paradise City Zion, the headquarters of the church in Bomadi, Delta State, the cleric revealed that his vision showed Jonathan returning to power through a decisive victory in the next presidential election—if he chooses to contest. According to Serimoedumu, during a spiritual revelation, he saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag flying prominently above all other political banners. In that vision, Jonathan was holding the flag high, symbolizing his triumph over political rivals and his emergence as president once again. The prophecy further stated that Jonathan would serve a single four-year term, during which the nation would experience economic recovery, prosperity, and widespread celebrations. “In my vision, I clearly saw President Goodluck Jonathan in Aso Rock, leading this nation again. If he decides to run in 2027, he will win the election and return as president. His administration will usher in a time of prosperity, and the citizens will rejoice,” Serimoedumu proclaimed. The cleric emphasized that the vision was clear and spiritually confirmed, pointing toward a possible political comeback for Jonathan after more than a decade since leaving office.
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In today’s fast-paced digital economy, Canva is more than just a design tool — it’s a gateway to financial independence. Whether you’re a student, freelancer, or a side hustler looking to make extra income, learning how to use Canva effectively can help you create a consistent income stream in Nigeria. If you’ve been wondering, “Can I really make ₦50,000 or more every month just by using Canva?” — the answer is yes, but only if you approach it with the right strategy. In this guide, we’ll break down step-by-step how to get started, the skills you need, the best ways to find clients, and how to scale your earnings. Why Canva Is a Game-Changer for Nigerians Unlike complex design software like Photoshop or Illustrator, Canva is beginner-friendly yet powerful enough for professional designs. You can create: This means you don’t need years of design training or an expensive computer. With a smartphone or a basic laptop and an internet connection, you can start right away. Skills You Need to Succeed with Canva While Canva is easy to use, success comes from combining design skills with business sense. Here’s what you’ll need: 1. Basic Design Principles Understand how to use colors, fonts, and spacing effectively. Canva offers built-in templates, but knowing how to customize them for brand identity makes your work stand out. 2. Branding Knowledge Most clients want designs that reflect their business identity. Learning about brand colors, typography, and tone will help you create more personalized designs. 3. Marketing & Selling Skills Creating designs is one thing, selling them is another. You need to know how to package your services, write convincing offers, and communicate value. 4. Time Management Clients value speed and consistency. Canva allows you to deliver quality work fast, but you must meet deadlines to build trust. Practical Ways to Earn ₦50,000/Month with Canva Now let’s get into the real money-making opportunities. You can combine several of these methods to reach or exceed ₦50,000 monthly. 1. Social Media Management & Content Creation Many Nigerian small businesses need help creating daily Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok content.How to start: 2. Logo & Brand Identity Design Even though Canva is template-based, you can create unique brand kits for small businesses.Tip: Avoid copying templates directly — tweak layouts, fonts, and icons for originality. 3. E-book & Course Material Design Online coaches, pastors, and teachers often need visually appealing PDFs or guides.Earning potential: ₦10,000 – ₦25,000 per project. 4. Flyer & Banner Design for Local Businesses From salons to supermarkets, everyone needs promotional designs.You can charge ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 per flyer and scale with bulk orders. 5. Selling Canva Templates Online Platforms like Etsy and Creative Market allow you to sell editable templates. Once created, templates can be sold repeatedly. 6. YouTube Thumbnails & Social Ads Many Nigerian YouTubers and small business owners don’t have time for design. A good thumbnail can improve their views, so they’ll pay for quality designs. Where to Find Clients in Nigeria Finding clients is often the biggest challenge. Here are proven ways to get started: How to Price Your Services Don’t underprice yourself. Start with rates that match your skill level but allow for growth. Example pricing: Tips to Scale Beyond ₦50,000/Month Once you’ve mastered the basics: Tools & Resources to Boost Your Canva Skills Final Words Making ₦50,000/month with Canva in Nigeria is possible if you treat it like a real business, not a side hustle you do once in a while. Consistency, creativity, and networking are your biggest tools. With dedication, you can go from zero design experience to running a profitable online design business in months — all powered by Canva.
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Freelancing in Nigeria is no longer a side hustle — it’s a full-time route to earning dollars, building a portfolio, and scaling a services business. But not all platforms are created equal. In 2025, some marketplaces give you volume and accessibility; others pay better but require stronger vetting. Below I break down the platforms Nigerians use the most, what each one is best for, the realistic pros and cons, and practical tips for getting paid and building long-term momentum. Quick overview — the shortlist (what I’ll cover) 1) Upwork — best for steady clients and career growth Why Nigerians use it: Upwork has scale. It hosts long-term projects, client reviews that compound your credibility, and categories from writing and virtual assistance to software engineering and product design. Serious freelancers use Upwork to move from one-off jobs to retainer agreements. What works: craft niche proposals, show outcomes (numbers, before/after), and secure a few 5-star reviews early (even if that means a smaller first job to build proof). Real limitations: competition is intense; pricing downward pressure exists; platform fees and withdrawal/setup quirks matter (read the payment rules and approved payout methods). For current Upwork program details and trends, refer to Upwork’s reports. UpworkDemandSage Practical tip: target specialized niches (e.g., e-commerce product listing optimization, email funnel copy for fintech startups) rather than “general VA” to stand out. 2) Fiverr — best for packaged, repeatable services Why it’s popular: Fiverr lets you list clear, repeatable “gigs.” Clients know exactly what they’re buying and how much it costs. This setup is fantastic for services you can turn into a reproducible workflow: logo design packs, SEO site audits, podcast editing, voiceovers, short explainer videos. How to scale: create tiered gig packages, include fast delivery as a premium, and use gig extras for add-ons. Bundling increases average order value. Caveats: visibility needs clever gig SEO and strong thumbnails/descriptions. Fiverr’s buyer-seller dynamics reward quick turnarounds and consistent quality. TechRadar 3) Freelancer.com, PeoplePerHour, and other mass marketplaces These platforms give volume and a broad job variety. For beginners they’re excellent for experience and small earnings that translate into case studies. The trade-offs include more bidding noise, possible lowball offers, and the need for tighter client screening. Tip: filter by client history and verified payment to reduce time wasted on speculative bids. 4) Toptal, Arc, Turing — the “top 3%” route If you’re a senior developer, UX specialist, product manager, or finance expert, these vetted marketplaces pay substantially higher rates — sometimes matching full-time salaries in developed markets. Expect multi-step technical screens and strong portfolio requirements. If you pass, you get clients who value quality and pay accordingly. TechRadar 5) Creative communities — Dribbble, Behance, 99designs For designers and visual artists these platforms are both portfolio and marketplace. Dribbble and Behance are terrific for discovery and client outreach; 99designs is contest-based but can bring good exposure and recurring clients for designers. 6) Non-marketplace channels that matter Getting paid reliably: practical paths in 2025 A major freelancer headache is withdrawing foreign currency in Nigeria. The options most Nigerians use in 2025: Practical payment tip: diversify — have at least two payout rails (e.g., Payoneer + Wise) and a local bank for withdrawals. How to pick the best platform for you Ask these questions: Common challenges Nigerian freelancers face — be honest about this A 90-day action plan to get traction (practical and honest) Week 1–2: pick 2 platforms that match your skill, set up pro profiles, add 6-8 portfolio items (even spec work), and craft 3 reusable proposals/gig descriptions.Week 3–6: apply for 10–20 targeted jobs weekly; refine proposals based on feedback; secure a first paid job even at reduced rate for a strong review.Month 2: raise prices slightly, create at least one repeatable gig/package, and request client testimonials.Month 3: build a simple portfolio site, start outreach on LinkedIn, and set up two payout methods (Payoneer + Wise/crypto). Scale from repeat clients to retainer agreements. Final take Platforms are tools — not magic. In 2025, the most valuable asset is demonstrable value: measurable results, repeatable processes, and client relationships. Use marketplaces to get clients and your personal brand to keep and scale them. Be realistic about fees and cashflow, invest in strong profiles and a portfolio, and learn at least one payment method inside out. References and further reading
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love (1 John 4:8). Some people interpret love according to feelings, emotions or outward appearance. But true love isn’t defined by human emotions or affections because love is the nature of God. Therefore, it’s only when you see through the eyes of God that you can truly recognize and appreciate the true value of others. That was what happened when God gave Jesus for the salvation of humanity. He saw our true value. The Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). He didn’t love the world of things, buildings, or nature; He loved the world of men despite their unbelief, mockery and wickedness. No wonder the Bible says in Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” The Bible says “…God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them…” (2 Corinthians 5:19 NIV). That’s the same life and nature He’s given you; you’re to love others in spite of what they do or how they look. See and appreciate their true value. That’s what Jesus saw, and that’s what He’s raising us to understand and apply. If God would love the sinner so much, how much more should we love those who are in Christ with us? That’s why He says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34 NIV). He didn’t say “Love one another, as long as they’re lovable.” You’re to love even those who don’t reciprocate your love. Their rejection shouldn’t stop your love. This is the God-kind of love; it’s unconditional. It sees and appreciates the true value of others. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for your love that sees beyond outward appearances and actions. I see the true value of people, and I love them the way you do. I walk in this divine love, extending grace and kindness to all, just as you have loved me. Thank you for teaching me to love like you and bring many to the knowledge of your truth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 John 4:7-11 KJVBeloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. John 15:12 KJVThis is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Ephesians 2:4-5 KJVBut God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRomans 12:17-13:1-14 & Psalms 89 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 15:1-10 & Judges 19 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am living in health 24hrs a day, 7 days a week; no weapon formed or fashioned against me shall prosper. My body is invigorated by the Spirit of God who lives in me. Nothing in me or about me dies or succumbs to the corrupting influences of this world. I rule over all the forces of darkness as I manifest the glory of God everywhere I go. I am an associate of the heavenly pantheon. I have eternal life at work in me, which makes me master over all circumstances. I have dominion over the world’s deplorable systems. I have dominion over satan. I am superior to sickness and diseases. I have the very essence of God flowing through my body. I have God’s genetic material, His “DNA” resident in me. I have an excellent life that is sickness-free. I enjoy everything that the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ made available to me. I am indestructible and no sickness can thrive in my body. I walk in victory and dominion over diseases and the forces of this world every day. I walk in the fullness of the grace of God. Everywhere I go, I am accepted! People are falling over themselves to do me good. God’s grace attracts the right people to me. I see myself in excellence. I see myself in peace. I see myself in success and prosperity. I see myself in great and glorious possibilities. The God-kind of life in me is all I require to live above sickness and infirmity of the body or mind. I dwell in health all the days of my life. The Lord has given His angels charge over me to keep me. Nothing can hurt me by any means. I am surrounded on every side by the goodness of God. I am protected from every form of evil and I am impervious to anything that binds, hurts, or kills. I declare, in the name of Jesus Christ that I walk in divine health. I am full of strength and life. Christ purchased a life of glory for me through His death and resurrection, and sickness has no place in that life. Nothing can go wrong with my liver, heart, lungs, or kidneys, every organ and system of my body complies and responds to the word of God, the mighty and matchless name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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House of Representatives Withdraws Compulsory Voting Bill President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a special presidential committee headed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to address and resolve the long-standing internal conflict within the Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to a statement issued on Sunday by Musa Krishi, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, the presidential panel was formed with the mandate to tackle the persistent political disputes that have troubled the Bauchi APC for several years. The committee includes high-profile political figures such as: First Meeting and Strategic Plans The statement disclosed that the Abbas-led panel officially began its work in late July, holding its inaugural session in Abuja. During this meeting, members engaged in detailed discussions and mapped out strategic approaches to resolve the Bauchi APC crisis. Speaker Abbas noted that President Tinubu had selected members for their integrity, proven track record, and capacity to act fairly and objectively. He urged the committee to meet expectations by completing the assignment within one month, ahead of the APC congresses. Tracing the Root of the Dispute After conducting a thorough review, the committee traced the conflict back to the 2015 APC primaries in Bauchi State. To address the issues, members resolved to embark on a fact-finding mission and hold consultations with key stakeholders. A crucial stakeholders’ meeting was subsequently held on July 31 at the Yobe State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, chaired by Governor Buni in the absence of Speaker Abbas. Among the prominent figures present were: Next Steps The panel is expected to submit its recommendations in the coming weeks, paving the way for further presidential intervention aimed at restoring unity and stability within the Bauchi APC.
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For years, the rationing of food — often leading to severe malnutrition — has been a grim routine in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across Nigeria. For over two decades, the country has been engulfed in humanitarian crises of staggering proportions, largely triggered by non-state armed groups. Insurgencies by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), combined with widespread banditry, mass kidnappings, and deadly attacks by armed herdsmen, have uprooted millions. Natural disasters such as flooding have compounded the crisis, displacing even more people. As a result, regions like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States in the North-east — the epicenter of jihadist violence — alongside Benue, Plateau, and Niger States in the North-central, as well as Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kano States in the North-west, have endured devastating humanitarian challenges, leaving communities struggling to survive. The primary burden of supporting these displaced populations has fallen on international agencies such as the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the World Food Programme (WFP), and other global donor organizations. These bodies have provided essential food supplies and primary healthcare services to the displaced. According to the Internally Displaced Monitoring Centre (IDMC), there were 3.7 million internally displaced persons in Nigeria by the end of 2024 — a figure that continues to rise amid renewed violence in states like Benue and Plateau. Donor Funding Decline and Rising Hunger Unfortunately, aid from key donors such as the WFP has dwindled significantly due to global funding shortfalls, worsened by the United States’ withdrawal of support during the Trump administration. This has left humanitarian agencies struggling to sustain life-saving programs. Trust Mlambo, WFP’s Head of Operations in the North-east, told the BBC: “We don’t have any more to give after this month’s cycle. Our warehouses are empty, and we are desperate for any generous donations.” To sustain IDP feeding programs and related emergencies in Nigeria and the Sahel, $620 million is urgently needed, according to WFP estimates. Prior to this funding collapse, food rationing and child malnutrition were already severe. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that 652 malnourished children died in the first half of 2025 — double the number recorded in the same period of 2024. Critical Healthcare Under Threat The North-east alone hosts 1.4 million IDPs and relies on about 150 donor-funded clinics treating malnourished citizens, mostly children. These facilities face imminent closure if funding is not restored. MSF’s Nigeria representative, Ahmed Aldikhari, revealed that this crisis has been looming since 2024, when major donors like the US, UK, and EU either withdrew or drastically reduced their contributions. Historically, the United States has accounted for about 60% of OCHA’s humanitarian funding in Nigeria. The UN’s 2025 humanitarian report warns that 1.8 million children in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe risk acute malnutrition without urgent intervention. Borno’s Local Response — A Model for Others Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has embraced an aggressive resettlement strategy, beginning with the relocation of 5,000 IDPs to five communities — Goniri, BulaKunye, Mayanti, Abaram, and Darajamal — enabling them to resume farming this year. This initiative is supported by the construction of 1,000 housing units and the digging of defense trenches to safeguard residents. Zulum has also approved a six-month allowance for newly recruited Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members to help secure communities. Over four years, Borno State has spent ₦40 billion on food and essential supplies for IDPs. This proactive approach should be replicated across other affected states. Philanthropy and National Responsibility Philanthropists such as Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Femi Otedola, and Tony Elumelu should urgently respond to WFP’s appeal for increased donations. Without intervention, starvation — and the potential radicalization of hungry, vulnerable youths — could become a greater security threat. In 2024, frustrated IDPs in Dikwa and Mafa threatened to “enter the bush,” a euphemism for joining armed insurgent groups. WFP’s Margret Van der Velden, Director for West Africa, has warned: “Food security is national security.”Her call echoes the urgent need for more donor support. Agencies have been visiting state governors to emphasize the seriousness of this crisis. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is particularly encouraged to step in, given its long history of funding humanitarian interventions in Nigeria. Structural Failures and the Way Forward Globally, IDP camps are intended to be temporary, and the Kampala Convention outlines standards for their eventual closure. Yet in Nigeria, prolonged displacement persists due to poor governance, misplaced priorities, and corruption. The 2021 IDP Transition Framework must be fully implemented to ensure displaced persons have access to shelter, education, and livelihoods. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) should strengthen its accountability, as past cases have shown relief materials being diverted. For example, in 2024, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia intercepted a truckload of aid intended for the needy. President Bola Tinubu recently urged governors to prioritize grassroots welfare and enhance food security — a subtle rebuke of inadequate governance. Security First — Humanitarian Support Second While Borno State’s 2025–2027 Strategy for Durable Solutions is commendable, it cannot replace the need to address the root causes of displacement. The Nigerian government must intensify efforts to end insurgency, kidnapping, and rural banditry. A country cannot claim true sovereignty while large parts of its population remain exposed to violence and degradation, relying solely on foreign charities for survival. This represents both a moral failure and a governance crisis. The Tinubu administration must act decisively — not only to improve the living conditions of IDPs but also to eliminate the insecurity that drives displacement in the first place.
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Manchester United right-back Diogo Dalot believes that legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo would be highly impressed with the remarkable improvements currently taking place at Old Trafford. This comes in response to Ronaldo’s well-known 2022 criticism, in which the Portuguese superstar expressed disappointment over the club’s lack of progress since the retirement of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. At the time, Ronaldo, now with Al Nassr, openly stated that Manchester United had failed to evolve, both on and off the pitch. Dalot, who plays alongside Ronaldo for the Portugal national team, said that the current upgrades — particularly the brand-new, state-of-the-art first-team facility at the club’s Carrington training complex — are something his former teammate would greatly admire. According to Dalot, Manchester United’s new co-owners, spearheaded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group, have initiated a wave of significant changes aimed at restoring the club’s prestige. These enhancements come as part of a major investment drive, with an estimated £236 million poured into the club during the 2024–25 season. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Dalot remarked: “I’m sure he [Cristiano Ronaldo] would love it if he could see it.” Dalot also emphasised that Ronaldo’s earlier criticisms were taken seriously by the club’s leadership, serving as a wake-up call that accelerated the decision-making process for much-needed renovations. The newly upgraded facilities are intended to give players world-class training conditions and to signal Manchester United’s determination to compete at the highest level of football once again. With improved infrastructure, better training resources, and modern equipment, the club hopes to attract elite talent and inspire current squad members ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
