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馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路4 mins ago
Windstorms in Jigawa State kill seven, displace over 5,400 residents
Devastating windstorms have swept through 120 communities across 13 local government areas of Jigawa State, resulting in seven fatalities and affecting over 5,400 residents. Hannafi Yakubu, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Relief Management Agency SEMA, described the incident as the most severe disaster currently confronting the state. The windstorms, which occurred shortly after the start of the rainy season, destroyed residential buildings and damaged public facilities including 50 schools and health facilities, as well as two police stations. While widespread flooding has not yet occurred, the windstorms have caused extensive damage. SEMA is collaborating with the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA to assess the destruction and coordinate relief efforts. Yakubu appealed for support from various stakeholders, including the Federal Government, local governments, development partners, humanitarian organizations, corporate bodies, and individuals. The Jigawa State Government has approved over N800 million for emergency preparedness and the procurement of relief materials. The local government areas most affected include Ringim, Dutse, Babura, Kirikasamma, and Birnin Kudu. An isolated flooding incident in Miga Local Government Area destroyed over 70 hectares of farmland. The state government affirmed its commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and providing assistance to affected communities.
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馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路14 mins ago
Mbappe overtakes Messi in FIFA World Cup power rankings after Round of 16
France captain Kylian Mbappe has surpassed Argentina's Lionel Messi to secure the top position in FIFA's World Cup Power Rankings following the conclusion of the Round of 16. The updated rankings, released by FIFA on Wednesday, show Mbappe in first place with an attacking score of 8.71, while Messi is now second with 8.45. Norway striker Erling Haaland is third with 8.04, and England captain Harry Kane is fourth with 7.41. The FIFA Power Rankings, launched for the 2026 World Cup and powered by Aramco, utilize match data to objectively evaluate player performances throughout the tournament. Outfield players are scored from 0-10 in attacking, creativity, and defending categories, while goalkeepers are assessed for defending and in-possession play. France also leads in two outfield categories, with Michael Olise topping creativity 8.19 and Dayot Upamecano leading defending 7.67. Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa ranks first for goalkeeping with a score of 8.89.
1 min read
馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路28 mins ago
Federal Government condoles China over Gansu landslide
The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended its condolences to the Government and people of China following a devastating landslide in Tanchang County, Gansu Province, which claimed at least 21 lives. In a statement released on Wednesday by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria expressed sadness over the tragedy that occurred on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The statement conveyed thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and those affected by the disaster. Nigeria also commended the swift response of Chinese authorities and rescue teams in their efforts to save lives and provide relief. Reaffirming strong bilateral ties, the ministry noted Nigeria's solidarity with China during this difficult time and expressed confidence in the resilience of the Chinese people and government as they undertake recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
9 min read