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Manchester City and Premier League discuss fixture changes impacting title race
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Manchester City is in discussions with the Premier League to reschedule two matches due to their FA Cup Final involvement, which has created a scheduling conflict during a crucial part of the season. The away game against AFC Bournemouth, originally set for May 17, is expected to be moved as the cup final is on that day. The home fixture against Crystal Palace, previously postponed from March, still needs a confirmed date. One proposal suggests Crystal Palace visit the Etihad Stadium on May 13, followed by the Bournemouth trip on May 19, potentially leading to three matches in seven days around the FA Cup final. City is also exploring other arrangements, such as playing Bournemouth on May 12 and Crystal Palace on May 19, which would provide more recovery time before the cup final and ensure both final league games are at home. However, UEFA competition scheduling constraints limit flexibility. Arsenal is closely monitoring the situation, as any advantage in rest or fixture timing could be crucial in the tight Premier League title race with City. An official confirmation from the Premier League is anticipated soon as discussions continue to balance competitive fairness with scheduling demands.
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The National Emergency Management Agency NEMA Lagos Operations Office, in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, has received 181 Nigerian returnees from Tripoli, Libya. The returnees arrived on April 27, 2026, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, aboard an Air Buraq Airline flight. This repatriation was part of the ongoing Assisted Voluntary Return programme, facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration IOM in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria. The group included 159 adults 64 males, 95 females, 12 children 5 males, 7 females, and 10 infants 6 males, 4 females. Upon arrival, the Nigeria Immigration Service conducted biometric registration and documentation. The returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, water, medical care, ambulance services, luggage handling, logistics support, counseling, and coordination services, in line with the Federal Government's commitment to safe and dignified returns.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission FCCPC has reminded airlines that passengers are entitled to care, including refreshments, communication support, and in some cases, accommodation, during flight delays or cancellations. Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, stated on Channels Tv that these provisions are part of consumer protection obligations for airlines. He explained that refreshments are due for delayed flights, and after further delays, airtime should be provided. The level of care increases with the duration and severity of the disruption, with airlines expected to reasonably support stranded travelers. Abrupt cancellations after long waiting periods may require additional support, such as transport and accommodation, especially if the airport is far from the city. Ijagwu emphasized that each case is assessed based on specific circumstances, including delay duration and airline actions. This FCCPC stance follows increasing passenger complaints about delays, rescheduling, and cancellations at Nigerian airports. Recent incidents at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport left passengers stranded due to rescheduled flights without transport or overnight accommodation. This situation is linked to the rising cost and scarcity of Jet A1 aviation fuel, which has significantly impacted airline operations. The Airline Operators of Nigeria had previously warned of a potential shutdown due to the surge in aviation fuel prices. The Minister
Must ReadThe National Bureau of Statistics NBS reported that the average retail price of petrol in Nigeria increased by 22.55 percent from N1,051.47 in February to N1,288.54 in March. On a year-on-year basis, the price rose by 2.13 percent from N1,261.65 in March 2025 to N1,288.54 in March 2026. Anambra state recorded the highest average retail price at N1,441.22 per litre, while Lagos had the lowest at N1,162.71. The North-East zone experienced the highest average price at N1,336.50, and the South-West recorded the lowest at N1,232.46. Similarly, the average retail price of diesel increased by 16.05 percent month-on-month, from N1,420.17 per litre in February to N1,648.08 in March. Year-on-year, diesel prices rose by 3.05 percent from N1,599.30 in March 2025 to N1,648.08 in March 2026. Ebonyi state registered the highest average diesel price at N2,262.29 per litre, while Kogi had the lowest at N1,383.40. The South-East zone had the highest diesel price at N1,730.14, and the North-Central zone recorded the lowest at N1,593.11. Economist Mr. Opeyemi Alabi attributed these increases to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically mentioning the US-Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which have disrupted global energy supply chains and driven up Brent crude oil prices. He noted that these rising fuel costs are increasing transportation expenses and putting pressure on individuals and businesses, potentially leading to higher inflation across Nigeria.
Xiaomi has officially launched the REDMI A7 Pro in Nigeria, setting a new standard for the REDMI A series. This new smartphone features a 6.9-inch immersive display and a 6000mAh battery designed for long-term durability. It also marks the debut of Xiaomi Hyper OS 3 on the REDMI A Series. The REDMI A7 Pro aims to combine essential functions with responsive performance for all-day connectivity and entertainment at an entry-level price. As an exclusive offer in Nigeria, the device comes with a premium bundle valued at up to ₦75,000, which includes MTN data, Spotify Premium, an extended warranty, screen protection, and everyday essentials like cooking oil. The 6.9-inch display offers an enhanced viewing experience with a peak brightness of up to 800 nits and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, ensuring clear visuals and seamless operation. Wet Touch Technology 2.0 allows for precise control even with damp fingers. The device also has triple TÜV Rheinland eye-comfort certifications and DC dimming for comfortable viewing. The 6000mAh battery provides over two days of usage on a single charge, supporting up to 49 hours of calls, 35 hours of video playback, or 77 hours of music. Built for durability, the battery retains over 80% of its capacity after 1,000 charges. The REDMI A7 Pro is powered by an octa-core processor and UFS 2.2 high-speed storage, with support for up to 8GB RAM expansion. Xiaomi Hyper OS 3 introduces features like intelligent assistance and intuitive search interaction