
Oladepo Caleb Olugbenga, the overall best graduating engineering student of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology LAUTECH for the 2024/2025 session, recently acknowledged the Nigerian Education Loan Fund NELFUND for enabling his education. Oladepo, who achieved a CGPA of 4.89 out of 5.0 in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, grew up in a village in Osun State without electricity for nine years, where his family struggled daily for basic necessities. He attended public schools due to financial constraints and walked miles to school each morning. After being formally named LAUTECH's best graduating engineering student on January 14, he posted on X, stating, “I’m honoured to let you know that I am the Best Graduating Student of LAUTECH. Your loans made it possible.” This post garnered significant attention, with some praising his achievement and his public gratitude towards the student loan scheme, while others criticized it as politicizing his success. NELFUND responded to his post, congratulating him and expressing pride in their role. Oladepo later clarified his position, explaining his humble background and emphasizing that NELFUND was instrumental, not incidental, to his journey. He stated that acknowledging what helped one's journey is an act of appreciation, not propaganda. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu, cited Oladepo's story as evidence of the administration's policy intent to help students facing financial challenges
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

Arsenal is reportedly preparing a £70m offer for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes to strengthen their midfield for the upcoming season. The Brazil international is a priority target for the Premier League champions, who aim to add quality and experience to their squad. Guimaraes is believed to be open to joining Arsenal, and Newcastle is aware of his preference for the North London club. While talks have intensified, it is uncertain if the £70m bid will be sufficient for Newcastle to release their captain. Arsenal is maintaining a strict approach to transfer valuations, unwilling to exceed their assessment of a player's worth, as seen with their previous interest in Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers, where they refused to match Chelsea’s £117m offer. Arsenal is also prioritizing defensive reinforcements, with Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as their first-choice target, and has made inquiries about his availability. Como defender Jacobo Ramon is also on their shortlist, though contract clause complications could hinder a deal. After failing to sign Rogers, Arsenal is still seeking attacking additions, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez considered a dream target, despite potential cost and his reported preference for Barcelona. The Gunners have also explored a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as manager Mikel Arteta continues to build a competitive squad.

An Enugu Air Embraer regional jet experienced a runway excursion after landing at the Benin Airport on Thursday. The airline confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without any injuries or casualties. The incident involved one of Enugu State-owned carrier’s aircraft, which had recently been introduced into its fleet for commercial operations. Enugu Air has notified the relevant aviation authorities and an assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is underway. The airline stated that the incident might lead to temporary adjustments in some flight schedules, and affected passengers will be contacted directly. The cause of the runway excursion has not yet been determined, and aviation authorities are expected to investigate the incident.

Newcastle United and Liverpool are planning a special tribute for club legend Kevin Keegan before their Premier League opening fixture at St James’ Park. The tribute follows Keegan's death at 75 after battling stage-four cancer. Both clubs are in discussions to honor Keegan's contributions when they meet on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Newcastle confirmed it is working with Liverpool, supporter groups, and the Premier League to ensure a fitting farewell for the former England captain and manager. Keegan had successful spells as a player at Liverpool, winning multiple titles, and later managed Newcastle, guiding them to Premier League promotion and a second-place finish. Newcastle has already announced several tributes, including black armbands for teams, a minute's silence before a friendly, and displaying Keegan's image at St James’ Park. The main tribute will occur in the seventh minute of the match, recognizing his jersey number. The club will also consult Keegan’s family regarding a permanent tribute.