
The Nigeria Football Federation has announced the Super Falcons squad for the 2026 Women鈥檚 Africa Cup of Nations, where the 10-time champions will defend their title in Morocco. Head coach Justine Madugu selected a 25-player squad, combining experienced internationals and new talents. Key players include Al Hilal forward and Super Falcons captain Asisat Oshoala, Paris Saint-Germain鈥檚 Rasheedat Ajibade, and Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The squad also features Michelle Alozie and veteran forward Francisca Ordega. Defender Ashleigh Plumptre is a notable absentee. Nigeria, with previous wins in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2024, enters the tournament as favorites. WAFCON 2026 is scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, 2026.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadApple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the artificial intelligence company of stealing trade secrets to develop its own consumer hardware device. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in San Jose, California, alleges that OpenAI aggressively poached Apple employees and extracted confidential information. This legal action marks an escalation in tensions between the two companies, which had previously partnered in 2024 to integrate ChatGPT into Apple's products. Apple claims that OpenAI, through its employees and business partners, has been stealing its trade secrets and confidential information. The complaint specifically names OpenAI, its hardware subsidiary io Products, and two former Apple employees, Tang Yew Tan, now OpenAI's chief hardware officer, and engineer Chang Liu. Apple is seeking damages and an injunction to prevent OpenAI from using its confidential information. The company stated that this lawsuit was necessary after OpenAI failed to address concerns raised in February. Apple alleges that Tan, who spent 24 years at Apple, used confidential project code names during OpenAI job interviews to inquire about unreleased Apple products and instructed Apple employees to bring physical components to interviews for "show and tell" sessions. Apple claims that approximately 400 OpenAI employees are former Apple staff and that OpenAI's hardware business is built on misappropriated trade secrets.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, to the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa. This decision, announced by the President鈥檚 Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to strengthen technical education and boost Nigeria鈥檚 solid minerals sector. The upgrade aligns with the administration鈥檚 commitment to developing human capital and unlocking the nation's solid minerals potential. The approval follows a proposal from Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, who advocated for a specialized institution to leverage Nasarawa State's advantages in the solid minerals sector and support Nigeria's industrialization. The new university will offer specialized education and research in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing, and emerging technologies, producing a skilled workforce for value addition and technological advancement. This move reflects President Tinubu鈥檚 determination to align tertiary education with national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The President has directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission, and other relevant agencies to initiate the conversion process, reaffirming his administration's commitment to investing in education as a strategic driver for economic growth, innovation, job creation, and national prosperity.
Must ReadOgun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Governor Abiodun stated that the operation demonstrates the President's commitment to eliminating criminal elements and sends a clear message that Nigeria is becoming hostile to kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminals. He praised the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and local intelligence operatives for their gallantry and professionalism. Governor Abiodun also acknowledged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies, highlighting that this seamless cooperation contributed significantly to the successful outcome. He urged Nigerians to trust security institutions and provide timely intelligence. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the rescue, noting that no concessions were made to the terrorists. The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools, resulting in the death of two teachers. The kidnappers had reportedly made demands including the release of detained commanders, ransom, vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related law, but the Oyo State Government maintained a no-ransom policy. The incident led to public anguish and a teachers' strike.