news and current affairs.
Sean Dampte calls for empathy on Regina Nwoko's issues
Afrobeats musician Sean Dampte has urged the public to exercise greater sensitivity when discussing the marital difficulties involving entertainer Regina and Senator Ned Nwoko. The artist emphasized that personal struggles should not become fodder for online entertainment, noting that complex relationship dynamics contain unseen layers beyond public perception. Dampte criticized contemporary digital culture for prioritizing viral content over compassion, warning that real people face genuine emotional consequences from such exposure. He specifically called on entertainers and influencers to demonstrate emotional intelligence when addressing delicate matters, suggesting that some situations demand private resolution rather than public...
Salah, Hakimi, Osimhen in the CAF awards shortlist
The Confederation of African Football has announced the final shortlists across seven men's categories ahead of its annual awards ceremony in Rabat, Morocco. Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Liverpool, Achraf Hakimi of Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain, and Victor Osimhen of Nigeria and Galatasaray will compete for the continent's most prestigious individual honor of Player of the Year. The awards recognize achievements from early January through mid-October and include categories for Goalkeeper of the Year, featuring Morocco's Munir Mohamedi and Yassine Bonou alongside South Africa's Ronwen Williams. Morocco dominates multiple categories with nominations for Coach of the Year through Walid Regragui and the under-20 team coach, Mohamed Ouahbi...
Jalal Jayed to officiate Nigeria vs DR Congo final
Moroccan official Jalal Jayed has been appointed to referee the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final between Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo at a neutral venue in Rabat. The 38-year-old previously oversaw the Super Eagles' victory against Rwanda at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, where Victor Osimhen netted twice in a commanding performance. Jayed will be supported by fellow Moroccans Mustapha Akarkad and Zakaria Bernissi as first and second assistant referees. Mahrez El Malki from Tunisia will fulfill fourth official responsibilities, while video assistant referee operations will be managed by Algeria's Lahlou Benbraham and Tunisia's Haitham Guirat for the decisive continental qualification match.
Wahid Oshodi re-elected ITTF executive vice president
Nigeria's Wahid Enitan Oshodi has secured another term as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation following elections held during the organization's virtual Annual General Meeting. The sports administrator, who also leads the African Table Tennis Federation, won his position among seven successful candidates from a field of 15 contenders representing various continents. Oshodi and China's Liu Guoliang are the sole returning members on the executive board, which will include six newcomers for the 2025 to 2029 cycle. Olabanji Oladapo, formerly with the Nigeria Olympic Committee as Secretary General, gained confirmation as an ITTF Council member through the ratification process. The accomplished...
Troost-Ekong glad Wilfred Ndidi cleared for DR Congo
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed satisfaction after the Confederation of African Football cleared midfielder Wilfred Ndidi to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs final against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat. The Besiktas defender acknowledged the relief felt throughout the squad regarding the decision, noting that losing any player to suspension carries significant weight. The 29-year-old Leicester City midfielder had faced a potential absence from the clash with the Leopards after picking up his second caution during the qualifying series against Gabon. Ndidi delivered a strong performance in that victory, setting up Victor Osimhen for the third goal in the triumph.
Eberechi Eze backs strong Arsenal season
Eberechi Eze has expressed strong optimism about Arsenal's prospects this season as the club leads the Premier League standings by four points over Manchester City after 11 matches. The midfielder, who recently scored for England against Serbia, noted his confidence stems from daily efforts at both club and international level while Arsenal pursues its first league title since 2004. The Gunners have also conceded just five goals domestically, demonstrating defensive solidity that Eze credited to structured play and strong backline organization. The England international highlighted how playing for defensively secure teams allows attacking players more freedom and chances going forward. Arsenal's summer additions, including Eze, Noni...
Ekong says Nigeria is ready for the Congo playoff final
Nigeria captain William Ekong acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Democratic Republic of Congo ahead of their World Cup playoff final at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan in Morocco. The defender recognized the Leopards as determined opponents seeking World Cup qualification but expressed confidence in the Super Eagles' ability to secure victory. Ekong emphasized the motivational advantage of having 20 squad members without prior World Cup experience, noting their intense desire to reach the global tournament. Among the 24-player roster, only Ekong himself, alongside Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Chidozie Awaziem, participated in the 2018 Russia competition. The winner will advance to the intercontinental...
Nwabali doubtful for Nigeria’s playoff vs DR Congo
Nigeria manager Eric Chelle awaits medical clearance before determining whether Stanley Nwabali can feature against DR Congo in the World Cup qualifying playoff final taking place in Morocco. The Chippa United goalkeeper sustained an injury during the closing moments of the Super Eagles' victory over Gabon but refused a substitution despite Maduka Okoye preparing to enter the match. Nwabali completed only limited training activities while his teammates, Okoye and Amas Obasogie, participated fully in preparation sessions. The medical staff will provide a comprehensive assessment regarding the South Africa-based shot-stopper's fitness ahead of the decisive continental matchup.
Munenzva bus overturns near Rutenga with fatalities feared
A passenger bus traveling from South Africa to Harare overturned near Rutenga in Masvingo Province, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. The vehicle veered off the Beitbridge-Harare highway and landed on its side against a roadside barrier, sustaining severe front damage and shattered windows. Community members and fellow travelers provided immediate assistance to survivors before emergency services arrived at the crash site. Light rain had fallen in the area, potentially contributing to slippery road conditions that may have caused the driver to lose control. Luggage and personal belongings were scattered across the scene as rescuers worked to extract passengers from the wreckage. Authorities were investigating the...
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