According to The Athletic, Rodrygo is expected to have in-depth discussions with new manager Xabi Alonso regarding his future with the club. Earlier this year, rumors circulated that the Brazilian had communicated to Real Madrid that he was prepared to leave for good. The 24-year-old has found himself on the fringes, with Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Jude Bellingham taking precedence in key matches. Under Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure, tactical changes frequently saw Rodrygo relegated to the bench or shifted across the pitch. Despite this, he may reconsider departing if talks with Alonso satisfy his demands. First, Rodrygo wants assurance of a pivotal role in the squad, having felt sidelined following the signings of Bellingham in 2023 and Mbappé in 2024. Second, he expressed a strong preference to play predominantly on the left wing, rather than the right side where he’s largely featured in recent seasons. Meanwhile, Arsenal appears to be closely watching the situation, as Mikel Arteta seeks options to bolster his attacking line before the upcoming campaign.
Nigerian singer-songwriter Bella Shmurda has called on his peers to craft music that carries genuine purpose, while cultivating lifestyles that set positive examples for aspiring youths. He expressed concern that the Nigerian music scene has absorbed many negative trends from the West, now affecting younger audiences in troubling ways. On a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Shmurda appealed to fellow musicians to build enduring legacies instead of chasing flashy displays of wealth through expensive cars and jewelry. He explained, “Many in the music space have lost their uniqueness. It’s become all about shining—imitating American hip-hop culture, flaunting flashy jewelry and exotic vehicles. That spectacle overshadows real goals and causes some young people to lose their direction.” Shmurda highlighted the importance of intent: “Artists should have deeper reasons for making music beyond material rewards. Now, many roll out singles only to show off their new cars or bling, leaving no motivational blueprint for younger talents. What impact are we inspiring? What legacy are we leaving?” He shared his own moment of clarity: “I even stopped wearing jewelry because I felt it distracted from my purpose. That’s when I released ‘Vision 2020’—a song rooted in vision, not vanity.”
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A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, led by Justice D. E. Osiagor, has sentenced nine Chinese individuals to one-year imprisonment after they pleaded guilty to charges of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. Their sentencing took place on June 5, 2025. According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the defendants were arrested in December 2024 during “Eagle Flush Operation,” a major crackdown that netted 792 suspects accused of cryptocurrency investment scams and romance fraud networks The convicted are: They were formally charged in February 2025 under Section 27(1)(b) and Section 18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, for unauthorized access to computer systems intended to destabilize Nigeria’s economy and social structure During the proceedings, EFCC prosecutor Nnaemeka Omewa moved for sentencing, and the defense did not oppose it. Each defendant received a one-year prison term, backdated to their arrest on December 10, 2024, and was fined ₦1,000,000. Additionally, they will be deported within seven days of serving their sentences All confiscated devices—including mobile phones, laptops, computers, and routers—have been forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
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The Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC) has officially been renamed the President Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre. The name change was announced during the facility’s commissioning on Tuesday, following extensive rehabilitation. The governor of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, led the inauguration alongside notable dignitaries including the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Jibril Barau, among others. The centre underwent significant renovation valued at ₦39 billion, and it had been closed for refurbishment since April 8, 2024 Wike was a prominent figure at the ceremony, dancing in celebration of the newly updated multi-purpose venue. The rehabilitation forms part of a broader suite of projects in Abuja, set to be unveiled by President Tinubu ahead of Democracy Day on June 12, 2025. Originally built in 1991 by Julius Berger, the ICC has long served as a venue for high-profile conferences, governmental meetings, and exhibitions. After President Tinubu criticized its deteriorating state during the April 4, 2024 ECOWAS Assembly inauguration—calling it an “eyesore”—he issued directives for a comprehensive overhaul The extensive remodeling reached between 70% and 80% completion by March 2025, with assurances from Wike that the upgrade would restore international standards ahead of Tinubu’s second anniversary in office
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President Bola Tinubu has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to block out distractions and concentrate on his core mission—revitalizing the national capital. Delivering remarks on Tuesday at the reopening of the refurbished International Conference Centre in Abuja, which now bears his name—the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja—the President emphasized the strategic importance of the project. He described the renovation as emblematic of his administration’s pledge “to change the way we do things, to reflect us as people of quality, people of character, people of determination, people of great spirits.” “And I am glad, Nyesom Wike, you are reflecting that. Don’t pay attention to busybodies and bystanders. Keep up your solid work. “You are a transformational leader. You have the vision, foresight and determination to succeed.” Tinubu further underscored that his government recognizes modern infrastructure as fundamental to fostering economic growth. He also pointed out that the upgraded conference centre stands as a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to diplomatic engagement, continental trade, and global cooperation. He reminded political allies, civil servants, and public office holders that the facility will not be available for complimentary use in social or corporate functions.
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A coalition of aquaculture professionals, under the National Aquaculture Professionals Alliance (NAPA), has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s selection of Yazeed Shehu Danfulani as the new Managing Director of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC). But their excitement comes with a clear challenge: this appointment can’t be merely symbolic. In a statement by NAPA President Engr. Ibrahim Ayotola Bamidele, the group welcomed the pick as “strategic” but emphasized that fish farmers have endured years of hardship—battling floods, disease outbreaks, and volatile production costs—with negligible insurance protection. “Mr. Danfulani’s appointment is a moment of renewed hope, but it must lead to action,” Bamidele asserted. The statement underscores that NAIC remains largely disconnected from smallholder aquaculture farmers, who are essential players in Nigeria’s protein supply chain. These farmers have seen little to no tangible support from the agency. Bamidele stressed Danfulani’s strong credentials in finance, agriculture, and enterprise development. But he emphasized that effective change hinges on political will and a national mandate for a farmer-focused insurance model. Aquaculture, if underpinned by robust risk mitigation tools, could boost food security, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Yet NAPA warns that without responsive insurance mechanisms and prompt payouts, many young Nigerians will continue to avoid agriculture. NAPA urged the new NAIC leadership to: The group also appealed to the Federal Government to provide Danfulani with the necessary legal, policy, and budgetary enabling environment to fulfill Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in agriculture. “We don’t need more press releases. We need action. Organise town halls, visit our hatcheries and ponds, show farmers that NAIC is not just a name on paper,” reads the statement. NAPA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to support NAIC’s rollout efforts, urging that this opportunity translate into real benefits for Nigerians across the aquaculture sector.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us (Ephesians 2:14). Angels, as far as we know, will live forever. But the life they have isn’t eternal life. They don’t have the organic and existential attributes of deity. That’s why they can’t have real fellowship with God. Only the new creations in Christ, are called into fellowship with divinity: “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9). Do you see why we’re different from angels? We were brought into fellowship with Jesus Christ. We’ve become associates or sharers of His life, glory and nature. In fact, the Bible tells us He brought us into such a relationship that made us joint heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). What a blessed reality! There’s something about this fellowship that’s extraordinary. It’s deeper than being brought into God’s class or being made friends with God; it’s the most significant aspect of our fellowship with Him and we find it in John 14:10. There, the Lord Jesus was speaking to Philip, one of His disciples, and said, “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.” If you understand this scripture, everything about your life is settled. Who was Jesus referring to when He said, “The Father that dwelleth in me”? He was referring to the Holy Spirit. That’s the same Holy Spirit that lives in you today; He’s the Father that dwells in you. 1 Corinthians 3:16 says, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” Now you can understand why the Bible says, “…truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). Our fellowship, our oneness with divinity is the biggest thing about Christianity. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for your grace, your love, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit that I enjoy. Thank you for making me inseparably one with you and a partaker of the divine nature. I’m completely yielded to the Holy Spirit who dwells in me and orchestrates the circumstances of my life to synchronize with your perfect will. I walk in the consciousness of my oneness with you, today and always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Corinthians 1:9 AMPCGod is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on); by Him you were called into companionship and participation with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. John 14:10 AMPCDo you not believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me? What I am telling you I do not say on My own authority and of My own accord; but the Father Who lives continually in Me does the (His) works (His own miracles, deeds of power). 1 Corinthians 6:17But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 2:1-21 & 2 Chronicles 5-7 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 16:12-20 & Deuteronomy 8 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I have peace all around me! I am never without strength because the Strengthener – the Holy Spirit – is in me. He ministers to my body and energizes me in health, strength, and vigor. Weakness is not an option in my life because the Holy Ghost dwells in me. The Lord is my Shepherd—to feed, guide and shield me; I lack nothing! He makes me lie down in fresh, tender green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. Therefore, I walk in ever-increasing prosperity, possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation. The glory of God is evident in my finances, health, family, business, and ministry. Christ in me is my guarantee of perfect health, prosperity, and success. Eternal life flows into everything I lay my hands on to do, causing endless prosperity. God’s divine power has given unto me all things that pertain to life and godliness. I live in endless prosperity. I display the perfections of Christ in sound health. I refuse to let sickness abide in God’s temple. When people see me, they glorify God. I am living the life of victory and dominion that Jesus purchased for me through His vicarious death, burial, and resurrection. I am preserved from the machinations of evil men. I have peace on every side. I am in the centre of God’s will for my life and I am equipped with all things that pertain to life and godliness. I am filled with the fullness of God! The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yes, I have a goodly heritage. I refuse to struggle for anything or respond in fear because God had not given unto me the spirit of fear. I declare that there is money everywhere, especially around me. Money is coming to me from everywhere. I don’t go after money, money comes to me by free course unhindered. Money comes to me in a continuous stream, never stopping, never-ending. Resources are locating me right now in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. God is supplying me with continuous streams of finances in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Following Portugal’s impressive victory in the UEFA Nations League, Bruno Fernandes has now set his focus on a more prestigious goal—winning the FIFA World Cup. Portugal triumphed over Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout on Sunday, securing their second UEFA Nations League title. Fernandes was instrumental in the team’s success, playing a vital role in Portugal’s thrilling 5-3 win on penalties. The match concluded in a 2-2 draw after both regular time and extra time. Spain took the lead twice through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute and Mikel Oyarzabal just before halftime. However, Portugal responded with goals from Nuno Mendes in the 26th minute and Cristiano Ronaldo in the 61st, leveling the game and setting up the penalty decider. After the game, Bruno Fernandes reflected on the team’s ambition for the future. Speaking through Tribal Football, he stated: “We want to be at the World Cup and try to win another competition. Portugal don’t enter anything to lose. But first, we have qualification ahead of us and we’re going to do everything we can to win.” Portugal’s recent form, capped by their Nations League success, strengthens their position as strong contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Temilade Openiyi, the Grammy Award-winning Nigerian singer widely recognized as Tems, is poised to make history as she takes the stage for the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup Final halftime performance. The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) officially named Tems among the headliners of the Global Citizen-curated halftime show, alongside celebrated American rapper Doja Cat and Colombian music icon J Balvin. The announcement was made on Monday, June 9, 2025. This landmark Club World Cup Final is scheduled to be held at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States, on July 13, 2025. The halftime show is being creatively directed by Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin and will stream free of charge on DAZN.com, offering fans worldwide access to the grand performance. “We’re going to unite the world in a magical moment — celebrating the sport of football, the power of music, and transforming children’s lives through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. I’m excited — see you all at the Club World Cup Final!” Tems stated with enthusiasm. This upcoming FIFA Club World Cup tournament will host 32 elite football clubs from across the globe, competing in one of the largest club-level football competitions ever organized. Matches are slated to unfold in 12 premier stadiums across 11 cities within the United States. The tournament officially kicks off on June 14, 2025.
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A newly surfaced video of Napoli forward Victor Osimhen talking about his future club move is quickly gaining traction across social media platforms. In the video, Osimhen is seen casually enjoying a meal while chatting with friends over a group video call. Among the participants in the clip is Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Jerry Smart Gift, popularly known as Rakon. During the conversation, Rakon praises Osimhen, saying: “VO9, the greatest of all time.A whole Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, said Osimhen performed impressively in Turkey, Lille, and Italy.I told them, ‘No, Osimhen isn’t going to Manchester United because they’re not in the Champions League.’At least Chelsea is playing in the Champions League next season. I don’t understand why they’re reluctant to pay the required fee.I don’t know what Mikel Obi and Drogba are doing — legends who can’t convince Osimhen to join Chelsea.” Earlier this weekend, Osimhen reportedly rejected a massive €30 million per year offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The Nigerian striker, who had a highly productive loan stint with Galatasaray, was among Al-Hilal’s top targets ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup set to begin on June 14.
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Nigerian music star Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, has paid heartfelt tribute to Afrobeats legend D’banj for his foundational impact on the genre’s international rise—especially in the United Kingdom. He commended D’banj’s groundbreaking 2012 single “Oliver Twist,” which became the first Nigerian song to break into the top 10 of the UK Official Singles Chart, a feat that set the tone for other Afrobeats tracks to achieve similar success. During his sold-out performance at the O2 Arena in London on Sunday, Rema invited D’banj on stage and emphasized how vital the veteran artist’s success was to the current global visibility of Nigerian music. He expressed that D’banj’s UK crossover milestone paved the path for artists like himself to thrive in the international music scene. “First of all, I want to appreciate you for opening the doors. We [the new generational artists] do not do it alone,” Rema stated emotionally.“You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all opened that door.I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed.” Rema’s gesture has been widely praised as a powerful acknowledgment of Afrobeats history and the importance of honoring pioneers who laid the groundwork for today’s global recognition.
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A devastating blaze broke out in the early hours yesterday at a mechanic’s workshop in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, completely destroying a Mazda bus. The fire erupted on Monday morning at a repair facility situated directly opposite Alarere Central Mosque in the Sawmill Area of Ibadan. It consumed the Mazda bus bearing registration number KWL 943 ZA (Abuja), but fortunately spared all other vehicles and assets within the premises. According to Maroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, the agency received an emergency call at 08:27 hrs on Monday, 9 June 2025. Firefighters led by ACFS Adesina Olusoji were promptly dispatched to the scene. On arrival, they found the Mazda bus completely engulfed in flames. They acted swiftly to contain the fire and prevented it from spreading to the 48 other buses at the workshop. The fire was successfully extinguished, and no other vehicles were harmed. Valuable assets worth millions of naira were saved. The fire service also advised the workshop’s owner on preventive measures to avert similar incidents in the future.
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Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential contender, has asserted that Nigeria is devoid of genuine democracy under President Bola Tinubu. Obi pointed to the recent Edo State governorship election and the state of emergency in Rivers State as evidence of the country’s democratic decline. Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political tensions between Governor Sim Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, which threatened a security crisis. He suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, appointing a Sole Administrator to oversee the state. Obi condemned this move, arguing it undermined democratic values since the Sole Administrator was not elected by the people. In his interview with Arise Television, Obi stated: “There is no democracy in Nigeria today.” On his aspiration for the 2027 presidency, he said: “We will continue to agitate for true democracy.” He emphasized: “Does the Edo election reflect democracy in Nigeria? Absolutely not. And Rivers State topped it all—the coffin was nailed there.” Obi continued: “In a democratic setting, you can’t resolve a challenge by flouting rules. You must operate within the framework.” Speaking about his qualifications for the presidency, he said: “I’m committed to a better Nigeria. Of all those seeking the presidency today, none has my background—I’ve worked in the corporate world and have experience as a governor.”
