
Switzerland and Canada have secured their spots in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage. Switzerland topped Group B with a 2-1 victory over Canada, with goals from Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi. Despite the loss, Canada advanced for the first time in their history, finishing second in the group on goal difference. Canada will face the Group A runners-up in Los Angeles. Brazil, five-time champions, need a draw against Scotland in Miami to qualify for the knockout stage, with a win guaranteeing them top spot in Group C. Morocco, who drew with Brazil earlier, hopes to beat Haiti by a significant margin to overtake Brazil. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed veteran forward Neymar is fit and could play, while winger Raphinha is out due to injury. Co-hosts Mexico have already qualified, winning Group A, and will play the Czech Republic. South Africa needs to defeat South Korea to have a chance of progressing. The final group-stage matches continue over the next four days.
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Must ReadNigeria's Senate has passed a Constitution Alteration Bill aimed at decentralizing policing, a move that now requires approval from at least 24 of the 36 state Houses of Assembly to become law. This legislation seeks to create state-controlled police services to operate alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force, a significant shift from the country's long-standing exclusive federal policing structure. The bill, approved by a two-thirds majority in the Senate, empowers governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by state legislatures. Proponents argue this dual policing structure will improve security by bringing law enforcement closer to communities, with state police handling local issues like enforcing state laws and maintaining public order, while federal police focus on national security matters such as counter-terrorism and organized crime. Safeguards have been included to prevent abuse of power by governors, such as a provision stating that a state Commissioner of Police cannot arrest or deploy force against individuals or groups merely for criticizing the government, except in accordance with the law. The National Assembly would also retain powers to prescribe minimum national standards for state police services. Supporters, including retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Aare Tunji Alapinni and the Western Nigeria Security Network Amotekun, believe state policing will strengthen grassroots security and improve intel

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori announced that the state government spent over N664.5 billion on 362 contracts in 2025. These contracts, each valued at N25 million and above, covered critical sectors such as road infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The governor made this disclosure in Asaba during the opening of a Public Procurement Enlightenment Workshop organized by the Delta State Public Procurement Commission. Represented by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori stated that the workshop aims to strengthen compliance with the Delta State Public Procurement Law, 2020, and promote transparency, accountability, and due process in government spending. He emphasized that these achievements were recorded without borrowing, attributing it to prudent financial management and strict adherence to due process. The administration plans to continue supporting reforms to strengthen the procurement system and enhance public confidence. David Igbodo, Chairman of the Delta State Public Procurement Council, noted that the administration's commitment to fairness and compliance has ensured that only qualified contractors execute public projects, leading to quality infrastructure and prudent resource management. The workshop included lectures on achieving professionalism in public procurement and preventing fraud.
Must ReadThe Host Communities of Nigeria producing oil and gas HOSCON has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate an alleged plot by unnamed oil cabals to sabotage pipeline surveillance operations in the Niger Delta region. In an open letter dated June 20, 2026, HOSCON, through its Chairman, Traditional Rulers and Elders Advisory Council of Nigeria, His Majesty, Obukowho Monday Whiskey, stated that intelligence reports indicate these cabals are deliberately starving the pipeline surveillance outfit of funding. This alleged action has resulted in staff and subcontractors not being paid for nearly four months, leading to grumbling and threats of industrial action. HOSCON claims the cabals, unable to steal crude oil directly, are now attempting to disorganize operations by delaying payments for services rendered by Tantita Security Services Limited. HOSCON urged the President to investigate this matter, warning that delaying action could lead to an avoidable crisis in the region.