A minimum of five Nigerian football stars are expected to participate in the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup taking place in the United States. This upcoming edition of the tournament will feature an expanded lineup of 32 teams, an increase that will allow at least three African clubs to compete against the best football clubs across the globe. Among those African teams, Esperance of Tunisia has Onuche Ogbelu in their squad. The 22-year-old forward will be aiming to contribute vital goals for the North African side during the tournament. Additionally, Saudi Pro League giants, Al Ain, are expected to make a strong impression, with three Nigerian players among their ranks. These include Rilwanu Haliru Sarki (a dynamic left winger), Joshua Udoh (a sharp forward), and Hassan Sani Mohammed (an experienced goalkeeper). Representing Nigeria on the European stage, Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi will also be competing in the tournament with Portuguese powerhouse FC Porto. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 14 and conclude on July 15, marking a month-long celebration of international club football featuring top-tier talents, including these promising Nigerian representatives.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chesnut tree; and pilled white strakes in them, and made the white appear which was in the rods (Genesis 30:37) Jacob’s story in Genesis 30 and 31 is a fascinating demonstration of the power of vision and imagination. When Jacob agreed to work for Laban, he was promised cattle as wages. However, Laban repeatedly changed the terms and cheated Jacob. But Jacob, through divine wisdom and creative strategy, turned the situation around. Jacob took rods from green poplar, hazel, and chestnut trees, and peeled white streaks on them to make the white appear. He placed these rods in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink. As the animals mated in front of the rods, they produced offspring that were exactly what Jacob desired. Later, Jacob no longer needed the rods. He separated the young, spotted, and speckled animals and set them before the stronger cattle. By doing this, he created a vision for the flocks and they produced according to what they saw. Jacob’s method was a demonstration of the creative power of vision. He used his imaginative ability to influence the outcome. When the stronger cattle conceived, Jacob placed the rods before their eyes, ensuring they produced strong, desirable offspring. When the cattle were feeble,he did not use the rods, so the weaker ones belonged to Laban. Over time, Jacob’s flocks grew stronger and more abundant, while Laban’s remained feeble. Jacob’s success was by divine revelation. In a dream, he saw the rams leaping on the cattle as ringstraked, speckled, and grisled. An angel confirmed this vision, saying, “‘…Lift your eyes now and see, all the rams which leap on the flocks are streaked, speckled, and gray spotted…” (Genesis 31:12 NKJV). How important this is! You have the ability to create the future you desire by focusing on what you want to see. Create the vision that you want with your mind. Through the Word and power of the Holy Spirit at work in you, you can create or shape your physical reality. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for giving me the ability to see and create my desired future through the power of vision and by your Word. As I use my imaginative ability, inspired by your Spirit, I construct my life in alignment with your divine purpose, with victories and expansion in every area. I’m empowered to impact my world and fulfil my destiny, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:Genesis 13:14-17And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: 15 For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. 16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered. 17 Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee. Habakkuk 2:2And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. Ephesians 3:20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 1 Year Bible Reading Plan :Acts 4:32-5:1-11 & 2 Chronicles 20-22 2 Year Bible Reading Plan :Luke 1:39-56 & Deuteronomy 12 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live a life of faith. I’m not moved by what I feel, see, or hear. I am only moved by God’s Word. The presence of the Holy Ghost in my life gives strength to my spirit, soul, and body. I am replenished and built up by the Word. I walk in the full benefits of the salvation that Jesus Christ wrought for me, including health, peace, prosperity, and all-round success. I fear no adversary, for Christ has already obtained the victory over every adversary, and my faith in the Word of God is the victory that overcomes the world. I dwell in the victory that Christ wrought for me; thus, I’m no longer subject to any form of fear, limitation, or bondage, for Christ has set me free from sickness, disease, and death. I have the life of God in me. I am born of God. I walk in the fullness of the blessings of Christ. I am propelled, by the sheer force of eternal life. My ever-expanding peace and reign have no end. I am present, constant, and relevant. I am the seed of Abraham. Everything about me expands and extends even unto eternity. I am a tree planted by the rivers of water. I bring forth my fruits and my leaves shall never run dry. I am furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation. Everything required for life and godliness is present in me. There’s order and grace in my life. I will never go down. When men are cast down, I will always be lifted. I am a child of the Most High God — Christ in me, the hope of glory. Christ in me is the manifestation of glory. Lands I didn’t buy, houses I didn’t build, and wells I didn’t dig, are delivered to me for the sake of the Gospel. Christ is my peace, rest, oasis, joy, and life. I am the manifestation of the glory of God, of His grace, His abundance, His wealth, His wisdom, His strength, and His life. In Him I have rest. I am at rest in Christ. I have overcome the world and its limitations. My spirit is open to infinite possibilities, as far as my eyes can see, as much as my heart can contain. The Lord has set
Kindly Share:
Federal Government, Governors, Nobel Laureate Soyinka, and Media Giants Honour Iconic At a grand celebration hosted at the Eko Hotel and Suites Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria’s political and media elite paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary founder of Vanguard Newspapers, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu—popularly known as Uncle Sam—on the occasion of his 90th birthday. The ceremony drew dignitaries such as President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, former governors James Ibori, Donald Duke, Aremo Segun Osoba, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, and other iconic figures in the media landscape. FG Hails Sam Amuka-Pemu as Guardian of Democracy Representing President Tinubu and the Federal Government, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described Amuka-Pemu’s legacy as eternal. According to him, Uncle Sam’s name is embedded in Nigeria’s conscience and symbolizes unwavering commitment to truth and national unity. “We are gathered to honour a true titan—a man who stood as the moral compass of Nigeria during turbulent times. Uncle Sam’s voice has guided Nigeria’s democracy from dictatorship to liberation,” said the Minister. Minister Idris continued by portraying Amuka-Pemu as a walking monument of Nigerian journalism whose influence spans major publications like Daily Times, Sunday Punch, The Punch, and Vanguard. He emphasized that Uncle Sam co-founded The Punch in 1971 with the late Olu Aboderin and founded Vanguard in 1983, both established during politically sensitive times. “He is more than a journalist—he’s a custodian of Nigeria’s democratic journey and an unwavering advocate of press freedom,” Idris added. The Minister concluded by celebrating Uncle Sam as the oldest active journalist in Nigeria, urging current and future journalists to uphold his legacy of fearless and principled reporting. Delta State Governor Oborevwori Calls Him a National Treasure Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Monday Onyeme, echoed similar sentiments, declaring Amuka-Pemu a symbol of national excellence and integrity. According to Oborevwori: “Your contributions as founder of Vanguard and co-founder of The Punch have shaped Nigerian journalism. Through your Sad Sam column, you brought courage and wit that influenced millions.” He hailed Uncle Sam’s adherence to ethical journalism, saying his work has deeply influenced Nigeria’s civic consciousness. Osun Governor Adeleke Prays for Longevity Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, visibly delighted at the event, led celebratory Yoruba praise songs and offered heartfelt prayers for Uncle Sam’s continued life and health. “We celebrated together last year. And today, we celebrate again at 90. By God’s grace, we shall continue to celebrate you at 91, 92, even 100,” Adeleke said. Osoba: “Uncle Sam Is Complex but Extraordinary” Chairman of the event’s organizing committee and former Ogun State governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, described the celebrant as a “complex and difficult” individual but deeply principled. Recalling their long friendship and professional journey, Osoba shared anecdotes of trying to convince Amuka-Pemu to accept the birthday celebration. “We argued fiercely, but he finally agreed—on the condition that the event be informal and filled with music. That’s Uncle Sam—calm outside but intensely strong-willed,” Osoba revealed. He also praised Amuka’s courage in the military era, highlighting his satirical writing that often criticized military excesses without fear. “He once described the military as the most privileged class in Nigeria—getting everything free, including the company of ‘attack trade’ girls. Yet, he was never arrested. That’s the fearless Sad Sam we all knew,” Osoba recalled. Soyinka: “He’s the Master of Ambush” Professor Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, described Uncle Sam as deceptively calm but incredibly cunning in journalistic tactics. “Sam is the real master of ambush—soft on the surface but relentless in his storytelling. I can only toast to his health and thank him for the brilliance he brought to Nigerian journalism,” Soyinka said. Reflecting on their early days in media, Soyinka recalled a vibrant group of journalists like Peter Pan and Sad Sam, who shaped Nigeria’s intellectual and democratic space. Aigbogun: “I Never Saw That Complex Side” Frank Aigbogun, a former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, gave a touching account of his first encounter with Uncle Sam in 1984. He recalled how he was asked a single interview question about a book he was reading. “After that, he simply said, ‘If what I heard about you is true, we want you here.’ I started in August, and worked with him for 14 years. I never encountered the complex side people speak of,” Aigbogun said. He concluded by lauding Uncle Sam as perhaps the finest journalist still active in Nigeria. A Lesson in Leadership and Generosity – Aigbogun’s Recollection Frank Aigbogun, former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, shared a deeply personal story about Uncle Sam’s unmatched generosity and leadership. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his early career, he recalled how Amuka-Pemu sent him to the UK to cover the elections of Margaret Thatcher—his very first international assignment. “It was my first time visiting the United Kingdom,” Aigbogun said. “Uncle Sam handed me the key to his personal apartment.” Soon after, Aigbogun found himself thrust into the editor’s chair at a very young age. He said Uncle Sam showed unwavering belief in his capabilities. “Every day, he would tell me, ‘Frank, have you ever seen a day when newspapers don’t have front page stories?’ I replied, ‘No.’ Then he told me, ‘The best editor is the one who knows what not to publish.’ That line echoes in my head to this day.” According to Aigbogun, this philosophy shaped his entire career. Uncle Sam often emphasized that while many people can publish stories, the real strength lies in deciding what not to run with—an editorial discipline only the best possess. Amuka-Pemu’s Humility and Originality Stand Out – Adetiba Veteran journalist and pioneer editor of Vanguard, Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba, emphasized that humility and uniqueness define Uncle Sam’s character. “I’ve known Uncle Sam for nearly five decades. Generosity is one of his most remarkable traits. Back in the Punch days, if you complimented his shirt, he would literally take it off and give it to you,” Adetiba said. He added that his admiration goes beyond
Kindly Share:
Chelsea icon John Terry has voiced his frustration over the current state of the club, outlining three Premier League powerhouses he believes the Blues must overtake to rejoin the title race. The former Chelsea and England captain, known for his passionate connection to the west London club, expressed his deep desire to see Chelsea return to winning major honors. Terry stated that, while he maintains hope, the club still has significant progress to make under new manager Enzo Maresca before realistically challenging for the Premier League crown. “I feel frustrated because I want to see Chelsea lifting the biggest trophies again,” Terry said during an interview with The Mirror. He continued by acknowledging the gap between Chelsea and three leading English clubs. “Are we close? Not yet. I think it will take a few more years before we’re ready to fight for the Premier League title again. Right now, we must catch up with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal before we can seriously compete.” Terry also emphasized the importance of experience and success when it comes to signing elite players: “Winning brings experience. If top talents — a world-class striker or goalkeeper — are being pursued, I know exactly which club I would choose. That’s what Chelsea needs to aim for.” His comments arrive just days before the kickoff of the FIFA Club World Cup, where Chelsea are placed in Group D, facing teams like ES Tunis, Flamengo, and Club León. Fans will be hoping for a solid performance from the Blues on the international stage.
Kindly Share:
Two individuals have lost their lives following a series of missile strikes launched by Iran, which reportedly hit Tel Aviv in four separate waves. According to the Jerusalem Post, one Israeli woman succumbed to injuries sustained during the Iranian attacks on Saturday. Another fatality occurred during the fourth wave of the missile barrage. Reports indicate that multiple residential structures in Tel Aviv suffered extensive damage from what were described as Iranian ballistic missiles. Emergency response teams were seen combing through the wreckage, searching for any survivors trapped beneath the rubble. As previously covered by LMSINT MEDIA, Iran initiated coordinated missile strikes across various regions in Israel from Friday night into the early hours of Saturday. Images circulating on social media platforms depicted homes either completely obliterated or suffering partial structural collapse due to the attack. Israel’s national emergency medical services confirmed that 21 people were being treated and evacuated after one of the rockets hit Israel’s central coastal plain. It is important to recall that, prior to this latest assault, Israel’s military had conducted numerous airstrikes targeting Iranian facilities in what appears to be an ongoing escalation between the two nations.
Kindly Share:
Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu has firmly dismissed any suggestion that lawmakers’ salaries should be affected by economic cost-cutting measures, particularly proposals for a part-time legislative system in Nigeria. In a recent appearance on Channels Television, Adaramodu stated unequivocally that adopting a part-time National Assembly would be detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that legislative operations play a vital role in sustaining democratic governance and warned that part-time service would translate to “part-time democracy.” “If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time. There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives,” he said. Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District under the ruling party, Adaramodu emphasized that the 109 senators and 360 House of Representatives members carry the burden of both lawmaking and public representation. Beyond legislative duties, they are also expected to provide oversight and serve as accessible representatives of their constituencies. He highlighted the frequent interaction between lawmakers and the citizens, stating that parliamentarians are often called upon for assistance in community and personal matters. “We go home almost every time, and we are the ones they call when a baby is born for naming ceremony support. When someone is building a house, they look to us for help,” Adaramodu explained. He questioned the logic behind paying part-time lawmakers the same as full-time ones if the structure of the parliament were to be changed, implying such a move would not truly lead to financial savings. “If we are on part-time, can’t the same amount of money be paid to part-time legislators?” he asked, further underlining that the legislature remains the most accessible arm of government to Nigerians. Adaramodu concluded that any attempt to weaken the legislature through part-time engagement is a direct threat to democratic stability in Nigeria.
Kindly Share:
The Lagos State Government has announced that the city endures financial losses of roughly ₦4 trillion annually as a result of severe traffic congestion. This disclosure was made by the Special Adviser on Transportation to the Governor, Mr. Sola Giwa, during an exclusive interview broadcasted on TVC News. Giwa pinpointed uncontrolled parking habits and the disruptive presence of tankers and articulated lorries on major logistics routes as the primary drivers of this recurring challenge. Government Introduces E-Call-Up System for Tanker Regulation In response, the state administration has introduced a new Electronic Call-Up (E-Call-Up) system, set to be fully enforced from Monday, June 16, 2025. This digital platform is targeted at managing the operations of tankers and heavy-duty vehicles using the Lekki-Epe logistics corridor. According to Giwa, truck operators transporting goods into Lagos will now be mandated to register and schedule their movement through this E-Call-Up system. The platform aims to systematically coordinate the flow of these vehicles, eliminate haphazard roadside parking, and minimize traffic bottlenecks across the affected areas. Pre-Booking and Tracking Features to Streamline Traffic Operators of tankers must upload their Authority to Load (ATL) documents and pre-reserve parking spaces before entry into the city. The E-Call-Up system will also capture essential data regarding cargo movements and trip schedules, offering vital support for logistics management and regulatory enforcement. To accommodate this new policy, the Lagos State Government has approved seven dedicated truck terminals along the Lekki-Epe route. These parks will feature restrooms, cooking areas, electricity, and other essential amenities to enhance driver comfort and improve productivity. Giwa emphasized that this regulatory shift is the result of over two years of consultations with stakeholders. The measure aligns with the government’s larger objective of transforming the transportation network and fostering a sustainable urban mobility framework in Lagos.
Kindly Share:
Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Ondo State, has formally requested the State House of Assembly to approve a list of twelve individuals nominated for commissioner roles. This request arrives four months after Governor Aiyedatiwa took the oath of office on February 24, 2025. In a formal statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor submitted the names to the Speaker of the House, Olamide Oladiji, emphasizing the need to strengthen the state cabinet, which currently has only two confirmed commissioners alongside several special advisers. Governor Aiyedatiwa made the nominations in line with the authority granted under Section 192 (1 & 2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). He expressed confidence in the Assembly’s prompt review, stating: “I respectfully submit the underlisted commissioner-nominees for your valued assessment and endorsement by the Honourable House. Swift confirmation of this request would serve the best interests of our beloved state.” The nominated individuals include respected technocrats and professionals from diverse sectors. The full list comprises: Earlier this year, on January 15, 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa dissolved the existing cabinet in preparation for his administration’s formal inauguration. Notably, two key officials were retained: Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac.
Kindly Share:
A significant fire outbreak was successfully averted in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, thanks to the prompt intervention of the Kwara State Fire Service on Thursday night. The fire incident was reported at Alfa Olorunkemi compound, situated behind the Kwara State House of Assembly, within the Asa Dam area. A critical transmission line carrying 33kVA current collapsed and came in contact with a plastic overhead water tank, triggering a fire within a compound housing three units of 3-bedroom apartments. According to Hassan Adekunle, the Public Relations Officer of the Fire Service, the emergency occurred around 9:12 PM. In a statement released on Friday in Ilorin, he explained that the fire crew quickly responded to the scene. “Upon arrival, the team found the fire had originated from a residential building consisting of multiple three-bedroom apartments. The cause was identified as a fallen 33kVA transmission line that landed on a plastic water tank, leading to a sudden fire outbreak,” he stated. The firefighting team commenced operations immediately, attempting to control the blaze and minimize property damage. However, their efforts were initially hampered by the active electrical supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), which posed a serious hazard. Recognizing the danger, Hassan Adekunle promptly contacted the IBEDC control room, requesting a shutdown of the affected power feeder. Once power was disconnected, the firefighters managed to fully extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading to other areas of the compound. The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, praised the quick and coordinated response by the firefighting crew. He emphasized the importance of safety awareness, advising residents and builders to avoid constructing buildings too close to high-voltage power lines, due to the risk it poses to both lives and infrastructure.
Kindly Share:
Anthony Ebuka Victor, professionally known as Victony, has opened up about how a tragic car accident in 2021 led to a significant change in his parents’ stance regarding his pursuit of a music career. The Nigerian artist, best known for his breakout hit “Soweto”, shared in an interview on the Behind The Prestige podcast that his parents initially didn’t endorse his ambitions in the music industry. Their main priority was for him to complete his education and establish a stable career in engineering. Victony recounted that this changed dramatically following the accident in April 2021, which sadly claimed one life and left three others injured. The overwhelming support he received from the public during his recovery played a pivotal role in altering his parents’ view. “My parents weren’t fully on board with me doing music from the beginning. They didn’t outright say I should stop, but they didn’t give their full support either,” he explained. “They wanted me to focus on school and become an engineer. But after the accident and seeing how much love and concern people showed for me—like the outpouring on social media with messages such as ‘Pray for Victony’—they finally understood how much music meant to me. That’s when they let me follow my path.” Victony’s rise to prominence began after collaborating with Mayorkun on the track “Holy Father”, which significantly expanded his audience. He is currently signed under the Mainland Block Party record label, led by Nigerian music entrepreneur Tobi Mohammed. In a separate 2023 interview, Victony described the near-fatal accident as a “blessing in disguise”, reflecting on how it strengthened his resolve and altered his life trajectory. He also revealed that he has undergone four surgeries since the incident due to complications resulting from the crash.
Kindly Share:
Popular Nollywood star Mary Njoku has candidly spoken about her current emotional struggles, marked by self-doubt and uncertainty. In a heartfelt Instagram post shared early Friday morning, the actress disclosed that she feels emotionally paralyzed and uncertain about her next direction in life. She described a deep sense of being stuck, revealing that these emotions often rob her of sleep and peace of mind. “I’m at a phase in my life where I genuinely don’t know which path to take. It seems like I’m stranded at a junction, confused and without clarity. “Sometimes the people you thought you knew suddenly appear like strangers—and that realization is unsettling. I’m normally decisive and clear-headed. But right now, I feel lost. My thoughts are overwhelming. I’m sleepless,” Njoku expressed. This emotional revelation comes just a month after she commented on the significance of Nigeria’s Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in helping students gain entry into higher institutions—a topic that also sparked public interest.
Kindly Share:
Popular Nigerian artist Victony, born Anthony Ebuka Victor, has openly shared a personal detail about his live performances. The ‘Soweto’ crooner disclosed that he typically relies on alcohol to boost his performance energy before going on stage. Speaking during a session with Behind The Prestige, Victony admitted that he has never performed live without consuming alcohol. However, he is now determined to shift this pattern during his ongoing ‘Stubborn’ tour, emphasizing a desire to connect more deeply and genuinely with his audience. “This tour is a major turning point for me,” the artist noted. “It’s a tough challenge. I’ve never been on stage sober, but now I want to truly see my fans and create a real connection with them. I just want to try.” This revelation marks a significant personal growth milestone for Victony, as he pushes himself toward more authentic interactions during performances—an approach many artists have found transformative.
Kindly Share:
Former Big Brother Naija housemate and Nollywood actor, Elozonam Ogbolu, has addressed toxic masculinity and common myths surrounding masculinity in a revealing podcast discussion. In a recent episode of the In The Company Of Men podcast hosted by Ikhane Akhigbe, Elozonam challenged the outdated perception that tasks such as cooking, grocery shopping, or giving oral sex to a woman are unmanly. He insisted that these actions do not diminish a man’s masculinity. He encouraged men to develop empathy, adaptability, and emotional intelligence when dealing with their partners and the women in their lives. “When it comes to specific tasks—especially those many men typically avoid—I think it highlights toxic masculinity,” Elozonam stated. “There are guys who genuinely believe that pleasuring a woman orally is not manly. It’s strange. Serving a woman, helping her out, running errands like buying groceries—many rigidly masculine men in Nigeria don’t consider that to be manly behavior.” He further explained with examples:“If your wife asks you to buy sanitary pads, some men would feel deeply uncomfortable with that. But why? Why can’t you help your partner, your mother, or your wife by buying a sanitary pad? Why can’t you cook for her? Why does doing what’s traditionally seen as ‘women’s duties’ make you feel any less masculine? It doesn’t.” Elozonam also touched on how toxic masculinity is sometimes perpetuated by women who associate toxicity with love. He noted, “Toxic masculinity is often reinforced by the opposite gender. Some men grow up watching toxic behaviors modeled by their fathers, and they carry that into adulthood. Then they meet women who expect the same toxicity. These women often see it as a sign of love or strength. To them, if you’re not toxic, you don’t care enough.” He added that some women even romanticize abusive behaviors.“I’ve seen posts online where women say things like, ‘If he doesn’t beat you, he doesn’t love you.’ How? Why should abuse ever be a measure of affection?”
