
The Government of Paraguay has publicly condemned Senator Celeste Amarilla's remarks targeting France captain Kylian Mbappe, stating that her comments contradict the nation's values of peaceful coexistence and human dignity. In a statement released on Monday, the government clarified that Amarilla's statements do not represent its official stance or that of the Paraguayan people, emphasizing that she is solely responsible for her comments as a lawmaker. Amarilla had faced widespread criticism for a series of posts on X, where she made derogatory references to Mbappe, including calling him a "colonised Cameroonian" who was "resentful, newly rich, arrogant and ugly." The Paraguayan government explained that its system of government, based on the separation of powers, means Amarilla's comments are her individual responsibility and not an official position. The government reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, equality, and the fight against racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and all forms of discrimination. It also expressed solidarity with those affected by the comments and reiterated Paraguay's historical friendship with France. Amarilla's remarks followed an altercation between Mbappe and Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill after France's 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the World Cup round of 16. Mbappe had previously responded to Amarilla on X, calling her a "despicable woman" and accusing her of "brazen racism."
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Must ReadThe Yobe State Government restricted the use of certain fertilizers capable of manufacturing improvised explosive devices during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency. Mohammed Goje, the Secretary to the State Government, stated in an interview that this policy, along with other security measures, aimed to deny terrorists access to bomb-making materials and protect returning communities while sustaining agricultural production. The restriction was necessary because insurgents were diverting some fertilizers for explosive device production. The government also discouraged the cultivation of tall crops in conflict-affected areas to prevent insurgents from using them for cover. Goje emphasized that these restrictions did not hinder farming activities, as the state introduced alternative technologies, modern farming practices, improved crop varieties, expanded mechanized farming, and deployed safer fertilizer alternatives that cannot be converted into explosive materials. The government complemented this policy with large-scale agricultural interventions to encourage displaced farmers to return to cultivation, making tractors more accessible through an electronic payment system and reducing hiring costs. These efforts, combined with improved security, safer agricultural inputs, and mechanized farming, have helped revive farming activities and enable displaced residents to return home and rebuild their livelihoods.

As Nigerian celebrities increasingly participate in boxing matches for financial rewards, neurosurgeons have issued warnings about the significant health risks involved. They highlight that repeated blows to the head and other vulnerable body parts can lead to short- and long-term life-altering injuries, especially since many contestants lack proper training and protective gear. Specialists emphasize that while professional boxing is regulated, untrained celebrities are at higher risk of conditions such as concussion, brain bleeding, dementia, paralysis, blindness, and even death. Long-term consequences can include Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy CTE, a degenerative brain disease. Dr. Abass Ajayi, a Neurosurgeon and Senior Clinical Fellow at King鈥檚 College Hospital NHS Trust, London, noted the lack of appropriate protective gear in Nigerian celebrity boxing matches. He detailed potential injuries ranging from facial cuts and fractured ribs to severe brain and spinal injuries, and the possibility of depression and psychiatric disorders from repeated head trauma. Dr. Ifeoluwa Oyewale, a Senior Registrar in Neurosurgery, explained that punches to the head can cause the brain to strike the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, and potentially fatal outcomes. Both experts called for stricter regulation of these events, stressing that the health risks far outweigh any prize money or popularity gained, and that no competition should expose participants to avoidable life-threatening
Must ReadThe Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate 270 Nigerian nationals from South Africa due to renewed xenophobic attacks and deteriorating security conditions. This will be the fourth special flight operated by Air Peace, departing Lagos for Johannesburg on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, and returning to Nigeria with the evacuees. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the aircraft is expected to depart Lagos at 3:30 p.m. and arrive back at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, around 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians, especially following the deaths of Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu. She urged South African authorities to investigate these incidents and prosecute those responsible. The minister also called on Nigerians in South Africa to utilize the ongoing evacuation program, noting that President Bola Tinubu approved an extension beyond the June 30 deadline. Another evacuation flight is scheduled for July 7, with the final one expected on July 10. She advised citizens to prioritize their safety, emphasizing that lives cannot be replaced, unlike material losses.