Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has listed four standout footballers he believes have strong chances of clinching the 2025 Ballon d’Or title. According to the 47-year-old former midfielder, two players from his current club — Pedri and Lamine Yamal — are in serious contention for this year’s award. In addition to the Barcelona duo, Deco also spotlighted two Paris Saint-Germain stars, namely Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele, as major contenders for the prestigious accolade. “Lamine has a chance, just like Pedri, Dembele or Vitinha,” Deco stated in an interview with La Vanguardia, as reported by Barca Universal. He further expressed excitement about Barcelona being among the top clubs producing talents worthy of such global recognition. “It’s great to see Barcelona back in the conversation for top football awards,” he added. The official announcement of the Ballon d’Or 2025 winner is expected to take place in September. Last year, Manchester City midfielder Rodri secured the Ballon d’Or 2024, triumphing over Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., who also had a strong campaign.
Dr. Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has provided clarity on why he turned down a ₦30 million donation offered by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a recent crusade hosted in the state. During his Sunday sermon at the Dunamis headquarters in Abuja, Pastor Enenche explained that his refusal was grounded in a long-standing personal principle: not to accept government funding or financial support of any kind within his ministry. He made it clear that the rejection was not a direct affront to Governor Idris. Instead, it reflects a firm and consistent position he has maintained for over twenty years. “Some people may be surprised because they don’t know who we are. But for those who do, this is no surprise. This is how we have lived and what we have always stood for,” Pastor Enenche emphasized. To further reinforce his point, the preacher cited several previous situations where he also declined financial rewards, even during national religious engagements. One of the notable instances he mentioned occurred in 2014, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board invited him to Jerusalem alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan and other state governors. He revealed that he personally covered all his expenses and refused to accept any honorarium. “When we returned, the board chairman presented an offering, calling it an honorarium. I turned it down,” he recalled. Pastor Enenche went on to say that even when ex-President Jonathan attended his church multiple times during his tenure, no financial contribution or exchange ever took place. Concerning the massive church headquarters project, he proudly stated: “There is not a single naira of government money in this building.” He also mentioned similar experiences, including an encounter with former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, and another with a childhood friend who later became a federal minister. In both cases, he refused their monetary or material gifts, including an offer of a vehicle. According to him, the motive behind such decisions is rooted in a sincere desire to maintain his prophetic integrity and freedom to speak truth to power without being compromised. “I don’t want to touch a single dime of government money,” he insisted, stating that accepting any form of financial support from public officials could hinder his ability to preach without bias.
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Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, have touched down in Portugal to prepare for a warm-up match ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), according to LMSINT MEDIA. A total of ten players, along with technical and support staff, arrived in Lisbon on Sunday night for the scheduled international friendly. Omorinsola Babajide, the former forward of Spanish club Atletico Madrid, was among those who joined the squad upon their arrival in Lisbon. An additional 13 players are expected to join the Nigerian delegation in Portugal shortly. The much-anticipated fixture will take place tonight at the Estádio José Gomes, situated in the Amadora district of Lisbon. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM Nigerian time, which is equivalent to local Portuguese time. Following this game, the Super Falcons are also set to take on their West African rivals, Ghana’s Black Queens, in another friendly match scheduled for Friday.
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The Rivers State Police Command has accused key officials of Ahoada East Local Government Area of orchestrating an attack on the council’s sole administrator, Goodluck Iheamnacho, on Friday. According to a statement released on Sunday by the spokesperson of the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the LGA, Hector Ekakita, along with the council’s Chief of Staff (COS), allegedly led about 30 individuals in storming the local government secretariat and physically attacking the administrator. The statement revealed that during the incident, the mob reportedly assaulted Iheamnacho, forcefully took his mobile phones, coerced him into signing a resignation letter, and made away with several sensitive items. These included both official and personal documents from his office. The police confirmed that Iheamnacho is currently undergoing medical treatment as a result of the injuries sustained during the assault. His condition has been reported as stable. Condemning the attack, the command assured the public that a thorough investigation had commenced and that necessary enforcement procedures were already in motion. Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju, also visited the scene of the incident alongside heads of other security agencies in the state. He instructed Hector Ekakita, the COS, and every individual identified in connection with the attack to present themselves at the State Police Headquarters for interrogation. The CP cautioned that any failure to comply with this directive would lead to grave repercussions. He reaffirmed the command’s resolve to ensure justice is served and reiterated its commitment to upholding peace and order across Rivers State. Commissioner Adepoju also called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies, stressing the importance of public collaboration in preserving law and order. The controversy took root on Friday after a resignation letter attributed to Iheamnacho went viral on social media platforms. However, the administrator refuted the letter, stating categorically that it was fabricated and did not originate from him. Iheanacho explained that the alleged attackers were youths from the local government area who stormed the secretariat. While some of them justified their actions with allegations of financial misappropriation, others reportedly claimed that the sole administrator was unwilling to share LGA funds with certain individuals who purportedly played a role in his appointment. Currently, all local government areas in Rivers State are being run by administrators appointed by the state government under the supervision of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who acts as the Sole Administrator. This interim arrangement was implemented following the declaration of emergency governance in the state. Reports suggest that many of these LGA administrators are perceived as loyal supporters of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, further fueling political tensions within the state.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty (Exodus 28:2). The Lord is wonderful; everything about Him drips glory, beauty, splendour, excellence, and imperial majesty. Consider the instruction He gave to Moses concerning Aaron’s garments—what the priest should wear to minister to Him—special garments for glory and for beauty. He didn’t want Aaron appearing before Him in tatters or like an ordinary man. He had to be excellently dressed. Even those to make the garments had to be filled with the Spirit of wisdom; they had to be anointed: “And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office” (Exodus 28:3). This tells us something about God: He cares about how you dress and what you wear. He also cares about who the “designers” or tailors of your outfits are. As a Christian, you can’t just wear anything designed by just anyone. You might ask, “Does it really matter?” It sure does! It matters to God. Read again what He said to Moses about those to make the priest’s garment. You’re a priest; Revelation 1:6 says He has “…made us kings and priests unto God and his Father….” So, ensure your tailors or designers aren’t those with antichrist tendencies who hate the Church. This is important if you must continue to patronize them. Read again what God said, “And thou shall make holy garments for Aaron…” (Exodus 28:2). What does He mean by holy garments? It means consecrated garments. And it’ll take only those who are consecrated to produce something that’s consecrated. Take this seriously; always dress decently and excellently, knowing that you represent God and His Kingdom. You may say, “It’s the spirit that matters; I can wear what I like on my body.” Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit; remember that. Yes, it’s the spirit that matters, but the spirit is clothed! Therefore, dress well. Dress neatly. Dressing decently doesn’t mean you must wear expensive things, for it doesn’t have to be expensive to be good, and that’s a fact. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for the excellence and glory you’ve bestowed upon me as your priest and king. I walk in your wisdom, dressing in a manner that reflects your decency. I yield myself to the Holy Spirit, ensuring that every detail of my life, including my appearance, brings honour to you. I manifest your beauty and excellence in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Peter 2:9But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Exodus 28:2-3 NKJVAnd you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty. 3 So you shall speak to all [who are] gifted artisans, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments, to consecrate him, that he may minister to Me as priest. Revelation 1:6 AMPCAnd formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father–to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it). DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 10:1-23 & Ezra 4-6 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 3:1-11 & Deuteronomy 20 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Blessed be the Lord who daily loads me with benefits, even the God of my salvation! Today, there’s an overflow of favor and abundance for me, and I take possession. I’ll never be broke in my life, for the Lord has supplied all that I require for life and godliness according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. I’ve been granted unrestricted access to the unending, boundless, fathomless, incalculable and exhaustless riches of Christ, wealth which no human being could have searched out. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. The Word of God is life and health to my flesh; therefore, no infirmity can thrive in my body. I am the light of the world; there is no darkness or death in my life. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, from sickness to health and from poverty to wealth. I decree peace with prosperity and perfect health in every area of my life. I live above the limitations of the human body and this physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. The Word of God is life to me and medicine to my body. It rejuvenates and refreshes me daily! I’m divinely immunized against all forms of sicknesses, diseases, and infections because God’s Word of life dwells richly. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. I’ve put on the new man, which is created in righteousness and true holiness. I am a member of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. I am an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ. In Him, I live, move, and have my being. Sin and death have no power over me. The Lord has given His angels charge over me; thus, no evil shall befall me. I testify of the goodness of God and the victories He has wrought in my life through Christ Jesus! The infallible power of His Word has brought me into a place of health, strength, power, rest, and dominion in the Name of Jesus Christ.
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More than 50 individuals allegedly masquerading as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have been apprehended at the Makurdi Ultra Modern International Market, which has temporarily been converted into a shelter for victims of the deadly June 13 attack by suspected armed herders on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. This revelation was made public over the weekend by the Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, during a press briefing with journalists at the IDP camp. Kunde, who took personal charge of verifying the identities of the supposed IDPs, noted that the action was taken in response to a sudden and suspicious surge in the camp’s population. According to him, he led a discreet inspection operation at around 4:00 a.m. on Saturday and found that numerous residents from the host community had infiltrated the camp and were accessing resources meant solely for genuine IDPs. “Only 219 individuals displaced from Yelewata are officially registered in this camp, but the current population here is far beyond that,” Kunde explained. He added that investigations conducted over a two-day period revealed that individuals from nearby communities and even IDPs from the larger Mega Camp were relocating to the Makurdi camp, which he stressed was highly inappropriate. The commissioner also reported instances of criminal behavior, including theft and acts of intimidation. He narrated a specific case involving a young man who, while wearing an official IDP identification tag, allegedly led a group to steal mattresses after threatening some of the traumatized women residing in the shelter. Kunde also revealed that some women had been borrowing children from the host community in order to receive additional food rations during aid distributions. He further condemned the actions of individuals with ulterior motives who were instigating unrest and triggering protests, thereby putting the safety and mental wellbeing of authentic IDPs at risk. “We know there are elements trying to destabilize the camp. Host community residents and intruders are stirring trouble, but we’re taking decisive actions to restore peace and order,” Kunde concluded.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has suggested that Rivers and Bayelsa States may soon align politically with the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling potential shifts in the South-South geopolitical zone ahead of the 2027 general elections. Akpabio made this known during a large-scale reception in honor of Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who was officially welcomed into the APC. The event, held in Uyo, was attended by several notable figures within the party, including members of the Progressive Governors Forum. During his speech, Akpabio acknowledged and appreciated the recent political alignment in the region and projected future transitions. “Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive movement and helping steer the South-South in a progressive path,” he remarked. Akpabio further predicted: “Governor Umo Eno has made the leap, and up next will be Rivers State. Following closely behind, Bayelsa State is also expected to come on board. We already secured victory in Edo State through Governor Otu and have successfully presented Monday Okpebholo. Congratulations once more on your win.” Earlier in April, Governor Eno had hinted at exiting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal disputes. Citing unresolved party crises, he disclosed his intentions to defect to APC. The move was formalized on June 6, when he officially announced his defection during a well-attended event in Uyo. The gathering saw attendance from various APC leaders and key stakeholders.
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Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has strongly denounced the recent suicide bombing executed by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in Konduga Local Government Area. In an official statement released to the press by his media aide, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed his deep concern over the latest assault targeting innocent civilians. The tragic incident, which unfolded late yesterday around 10 p.m., occurred at a night fish market in Konduga. The attack resulted in the loss of 12 lives, while 18 other individuals sustained injuries. Governor Zulum described the atrocity as a grave violation of humanity. “These savage actions carried out by the insurgents are not only cruel but represent a direct affront to our collective humanity,” he stated. He further emphasized, “This brutal and cowardly attempt to instill fear in the community will not succeed. The spirit of Borno’s people remains unbroken and will never yield to terrorism.” The governor urged citizens across Borno to stay alert and promptly report any unusual behavior or movement to security operatives, noting that collaboration between the community and law enforcement remains essential in curbing insurgency. Governor Zulum also extended heartfelt sympathies to the affected families, asserting that all compassionate citizens in the state share in their grief and loss. He concluded by assuring residents that the state government continues to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to enhance public safety and thwart further attacks.
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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, took to social media on Saturday to express deep affection and admiration for his wife, Hadiza, describing her as the person who gave his life true purpose. El-Rufai reflected that his journey gained true direction and significance when he married Hadiza nearly four decades ago. In his touching birthday tribute, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader praised Hadiza as a remarkable combination of intelligence and elegance. Sharing the heartfelt message via his official Facebook page, El-Rufai reminisced about their university days when he first met Hadiza, noting that she eventually became not just his partner but also his closest confidant. He described her as the ideal wife, a loving mother, and an exceptional grandmother. “Please join me and members of the El-Rufai Family in celebrating my best friend, university classmate, teenage sweetheart, and beloved wife, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, on her birthday,” he wrote. El-Rufai went on to highlight Hadiza’s intellectual prowess and achievements, calling her a brilliant woman who holds three master’s degrees — in Architecture, Business Administration, and Creative Writing. He also praised her fluency in French and success as a published novelist. “My life began to take shape and meaning when we got married almost 40 years ago,” he added. He described Hadiza as a strong-willed and well-organized woman who diligently manages both their home and family affairs with remarkable discipline. “Happy birthday, Hadiza, and may God continue to bless you eternally,” El-Rufai concluded.
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A fatal explosion involving a military-grade bomb has tragically claimed five lives and injured 15 individuals in Kano State, as confirmed by the Kano State Police Command. Incident Details The devastating event occurred on Saturday at a scrap metal yard situated along the Eastern Bypass in Kano. According to police reports, the explosive device detonated from a vehicle reportedly coming from Yobe State. Official Confirmation While addressing the press, Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, stated that he was alerted to an emergency blast incident in the vicinity. Upon reaching the scene, he confirmed witnessing the aftermath of a military-grade bomb explosion. “It was a military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel-grade bomb. The explosion resulted in 15 injuries. All victims were rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for immediate treatment,” Bakori revealed. He further disclosed that five casualties were confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital, while 10 others remained under medical care. Preliminary Findings Initial investigations revealed that the truck which carried the explosive had originated from Yobe State. Although a full investigation is ongoing, early findings suggest the bomb was inadvertently transported inside the vehicle. Commissioner Bakori emphasized that more details will be released as investigations progress.
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Chef Naira Victor, popularly known for his Guinness World Record attempt titled ‘Cook-a-thon’, was reportedly attacked on Saturday morning by suspected political thugs at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp situated within Makurdi International Market, Benue State. This camp is currently home to displaced residents affected by the Yelewata killings and is operated by the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). Chef Victor explained that he was invited by the Federal lawmaker representing the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency to cook for the displaced individuals for a full week, a humanitarian effort he had already commenced prior to the assault. According to his account, while he was busy preparing meals for the displaced families, a group of thugs reportedly stormed the site. He claimed these individuals were allegedly acting under the instruction of a serving commissioner in the Benue State Government. The assailants allegedly physically assaulted and harassed Chef Victor, demanding that he immediately stop cooking and exit the premises. Their reason? The state government had already appointed another chef to oversee the feeding of the camp’s residents. In his reaction following the incident, Chef Victor said the attack had clear political undertones, stressing that the core issue was not about his service but about the individual backing him. “I was not attacked because of the meals I was preparing,” he stated, “but because the person who sent me does not have a good relationship with the Governor.”
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Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly denounced the recent suicide bombing in Konduga, Borno State, which claimed multiple lives at a local eatery on Friday night. In a statement released on Saturday, Shettima condemned the attack, labelling it a gruesome act of terrorism targeting innocent civilians in the northeastern region. The Vice President urged security and intelligence agencies to deepen investigations into the incident, emphasizing the urgent need to support the victims and the bereaved families affected by the tragedy. Shettima, a former governor of Borno State, extended his heartfelt condolences to both the families of those killed and the broader Borno community. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to apprehending and prosecuting those behind the attack. He stressed that the government would remain steadfast in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice and held accountable. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families mourning the loss of loved ones due to this horrific and senseless act,” Shettima stated. “The government stands firmly by them during this painful period and will extend every necessary support.” He reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to securing long-term peace in the Northeast and other regions of Nigeria. Shettima vowed that the Federal Government would not allow hostile forces to reverse the gains already made in counter-terrorism operations. “We will not permit our adversaries to sabotage the progress we’ve made in reducing their capabilities,” he concluded.
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Afrobeats sensation, Michael Adebayo Olayinka, better known by his stage name Ruger, has opened up about the lack of genuine friendship within the Nigerian music industry. In his recent appearance on The Stanley Agu Show, Ruger shared that artists in the music business can only truly count on one or two real friends—at best. During the conversation, Ruger reflected on his experience and highlighted the transactional nature of relationships in the entertainment scene. He stated: “One thing I wish I had discovered earlier is that genuine friendships in this [music] industry are extremely rare. If you’re lucky, you might have one or two real friends who stay committed to you, support your growth, and stick with you through hard times, making sure you’re doing okay. That’s honestly all there is to it.” He emphasized that the music business is highly commercialized and emotionally detached. “Everything is about business. People don’t really care beyond what you can offer them at a particular moment. When you no longer have anything valuable to offer, many of them will walk away. So, it’s wise to understand from the beginning that this industry operates purely on business terms. You may end up with only one or two friends—or possibly none at all.” Ruger’s revelations shed light on a harsh reality many artists face behind the scenes, reminding upcoming creatives to manage expectations in professional relationships within the entertainment ecosystem.
