🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
US June inflation slows more than expected due to lower energy prices
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
US consumer inflation eased in June, with government data showing a 3.5 percent year-on-year increase in the consumer price index, down from 4.2 percent in May. This slowdown was primarily attributed to a drop in energy costs, which offset rises in housing and food prices. Analysts had anticipated a larger 3.8 percent CPI. However, concerns remain that this progress could be temporary due to rising oil prices following renewed Middle East hostilities and US President Donald Trump's order to restart a blockade of Iranian ports. Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh stated the central bank is committed to tackling the "inflation surge" and will follow data and law in its decisions, despite pressure from President Trump regarding interest rates. The Fed is also monitoring the impact of AI investments on inflation and the job market. Excluding volatile sectors, core CPI rose 2.6 percent year-on-year in June. White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett described the report as among the best in six years. While a lower underlying inflation reading offers the Fed "breathing room," the sharp reversal in oil and gasoline prices could still lead to a rate hike. The effects of Trump's tariffs and AI buildout on prices were less discernible than expected. US gasoline costs fell 9.7 percent month-on-month in June, though still higher than a year ago, while food costs climbed 0.2 percent monthly. The Fed's preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, is due o
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a warning to Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, urging full compliance with club licensing regulations for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The NFF, with the backing of the National Sports Commission, plans strict enforcement of these rules. This warning follows a communiqué from the NFF Executive Committee meeting in Asaba, Delta State, where the NSC's commitment to supporting the licensing framework was welcomed. These measures are part of broader reforms in the domestic league, which include a proposed N2.5bn prize pool for the 2026/27 NPFL season and an increase in the minimum player salary from N150,000 to N2m. NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, stated that these reforms aim to professionalize the league, making it more competitive and attractive to players, thereby preventing them from seeking opportunities in other countries. The NPFL board has tentatively scheduled the 2026/27 season to commence between August 27 and 29, concluding on May 28, 2027, with the President Federation Cup fixtures also integrated into the structured domestic football calendar.
Portuguese top-flight club SC Braga has completed the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian defender Adebisi Olamikun from Nigeria Premier Football League side Inter Lagos. Inter Lagos confirmed the transfer, noting Olamikun's reputation as one of the country's brightest young defenders. Reports indicate the left-footed centre-back has signed a long-term contract in a deal valued at approximately €50,000. Olamikun has already arrived in Portugal and will begin his development with Braga’s youth team, aiming to progress to the senior squad. His move follows an impressive period at Inter Lagos, where his composed displays and defensive qualities made him a standout young talent in the NPFL. This transfer highlights Inter Lagos' growing success in nurturing players for European football. According to Transfermarkt, Olamikun is the eighth Nigerian to join Braga, following in the footsteps of players like former Super Eagles defender Elderson Echiejile.
World record holder Tobi Amusan has qualified for the 2026 Wanda Diamond League Final in the women’s 100m hurdles. She accumulated 28 points from five Diamond League meetings, securing her spot in the season-ending championship scheduled for September 4 and 5 in Brussels, Belgium. Amusan is currently second in the Diamond League standings with 28 points, behind American Masai Russell who leads with 32 points. Both athletes have upcoming races in London, Lausanne, Silesia, and Zurich before the final. Russell holds the fastest time this year at 12.14s, while Amusan's season's best is 12.28s, achieved three times. Amusan will aim for her fourth Diamond League title in Brussels, having won three consecutive crowns from 2021 to 2023. She also holds the world record in the event, set at 12.12s four years ago.