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Nigeria pledges stronger ties with Sierra Leone as High Commissioner presents credentials
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with Sierra Leone following the formal presentation of Letters of Credence by Nigeria鈥檚 High Commissioner, Mrs. Ayo Luther-Ogbomode, to President Julius Maada Bio in Freetown. The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the High Commissioner conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu and reiterated Nigeria鈥檚 commitment to strengthening the enduring relationship between both countries. The High Commissioner also congratulated President Bio on his assumption of the Chairmanship of ECOWAS. Nigeria and Sierra Leone have maintained close diplomatic ties for decades, based on shared membership in ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Commonwealth, collaborating on regional peacekeeping, democratic governance, security, trade, and economic development. Nigeria played a pivotal role in restoring peace to Sierra Leone during its civil war through the ECOWAS Monitoring Group. This diplomatic engagement aligns with Nigeria's foreign policy focus on regional stability, economic diplomacy, and deeper cooperation among ECOWAS member states.
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Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, has presented his education blueprint for the 2027 general election, promising free education at all levels in Nigeria. The plan, shared on his verified X handle, includes the abolition of fees for public examinations such as the West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examination Council examination. Sowore stated that under a "Sowore2027 administration," education would be free, emphasizing that knowledge is a right. His proposed policy guarantees free, high-quality education from early childhood through university, supported by modern classrooms, virtual learning, well-paid teachers, student grants, and equal opportunities. The 20-point manifesto covers access, infrastructure, funding, curriculum, technology, research, and student welfare. Key proposals include a new educational structure of 5 years primary, 5 years secondary, and 4 years university, with community colleges offering two-year associate degree programs in every local government area. The plan also details expanded early childhood education, integration of high-speed internet and digital learning tools in schools, and a focus on AI and digital education from primary school. Technical and vocational education would be reformed, with all polytechnics and monotechnics becoming universities. Teachers are prioritized with better salaries, housing, and research opportunities, alongside the establish
The Nigeria Cricket Federation has been awarded the ICC/Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award for its Criiio Cricket Festival in Zamfara State. This global recognition celebrates innovation and impact in grassroots cricket development. The festival, themed "Breaking Barriers," introduced cricket to a region where access to sport and education for girls has been traditionally limited. It aimed to promote inclusion, empowerment, and social change by combining sport, culture, and community engagement, laying the foundation for the growth of women's cricket in Northwest Nigeria. Other nominees included the Bahrain Cricket Federation, Qatar Cricket Association, Emirates Cricket Board, Persatuan Cricket Indonesia, and the Confedera莽茫o Brasileira de Cricket. Uyi Akpata, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, stated that the award is a victory for everyone committed to the sport's development and dedicated it to the young girls impacted by cricket. International Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah also praised the award recipients, highlighting how cricket can inspire participation, create opportunities, strengthen communities, and deliver performances that capture global attention.
National Sports Commission Director General Bukola Olopade has reassured that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle remains committed to Nigeria, despite ongoing speculation about his future. Chelle, a Franco-Malian, has been linked with the Algeria national team job and clubs in North Africa. Doubts arose after it was revealed he had not yet signed an improved contract extension offered by the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation. Olopade stated that the delay is purely procedural and that Chelle is not distracted by the rumors, emphasizing that an agreement has been reached for a renewed contract. Chelle's current contract expires at the end of the year, and the new deal is expected to include improved financial terms and enhanced technical support. Chelle had requested a monthly salary of $130,000, with the NSC reportedly willing to offer $100,000 and cover his assistants' salaries separately. The 48-year-old coach is also slated to lead Nigeria鈥檚 U-23 men鈥檚 team for the 2028 Olympic Games. Chelle himself expressed his desire to remain with the Super Eagles, stating his commitment to the national team.