
The Coalition for National Unity and Youth Development has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to suspend certain aspects of the proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps NYSC. The group warned that altering the scheme's traditional structure could weaken its role in national unity, discipline, and emergency service. While acknowledging efforts to modernize the NYSC, the coalition argued against fundamentally changing an institution that has served Nigeria for over five decades. They called for an expanded committee, including former NYSC directors-general, security experts, university administrators, and youth organizations, to review the proposals before they reach the National Assembly. The coalition emphasized that the NYSC was established as a nation-building institution and should not be reduced to merely a vocational training program. They also defended the military component of the orientation camp, highlighting its importance for discipline and civic responsibility, and noted the strategic role of corps members during national emergencies like COVID-19. The group dismissed claims that the reforms would introduce digital innovation, stating that many administrative processes are already automated, and suggested that funding is the bigger challenge. They also expressed concern over the debate surrounding changes to corps members' uniforms, underscoring the need for broader consultations. The Federal Executive Council had approved a comprehensive overhaul of th
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Must ReadNorway secured a 2-1 victory over Brazil to reach the World Cup quarter-finals, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals. Haaland headed Norway into the lead in the 79th minute and added a second in the 90th minute. Norway's goalkeeper Orlan Nyland made several crucial saves, including a first-half penalty from Bruno Guimaraes. Neymar scored a penalty for Brazil deep into stoppage time. Haaland's two goals brought his tournament total to seven, matching Lionel Messi. Norway will now face either Mexico or England in Miami on July 11. This marks Brazil's earliest World Cup exit since 1990 and the sixth consecutive tournament where they have been eliminated by European opposition. The last time Brazil failed to reach at least the quarter-finals was 36 years ago. Julian Ryerson returned to Norway's lineup after a thigh injury. Early in the match, Patrick Berg's goal for Norway was disallowed for offside. Brazil was awarded a penalty after Kristoffer Ajer fouled Matheus Cunha, but Nyland saved Guimaraes's shot. Nyland continued to thwart Brazil's attacks, saving shots from Martinelli and Vin铆cius J煤nior. Despite a quiet first half, Haaland's strength created an opportunity for Martin 脴degaard, whose shot was saved by Alisson Becker. Substitutions were made by both teams, with Endrick almost scoring for Brazil. Neymar's arrival in the 67th minute energized the crowd. Haaland's second goal provided crucial breathing room before Neymar's late penalty, which followed an incident involvi
Naomi Osaka secured a significant victory at Wimbledon, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6 7/2 to advance to her first quarter-final at the All England Club. This win avenges her previous straight-sets loss to Sabalenka at the French Open in June. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has won all four of her matches in this year's tournament without dropping a set, showcasing increased confidence on grass courts. She expressed the special significance of her victory on Centre Court, stating it was her first win on that court and that she was having fun playing. Osaka also noted her desire to overturn her three consecutive losses to Sabalenka this season and credited her mother's cooking for her performance. The Japanese star will now face Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova for a spot in the semi-finals.
Must ReadThe Plateau State Government has expressed concern over an increase in human trafficking following the rescue and return of three young women allegedly trafficked to Mali and forced into prostitution. The Global Anti-Human Trafficking Organisation GAHTO handed over the victims to Plateau State officials for rehabilitation and reintegration. The rescued women, Victoria, Joy, and Janet, recounted being lured with promises of legitimate employment but ending up in sexual exploitation. Olivia Dazyam, Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Muftwang on Gender Matters and Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, highlighted the growing menace, particularly among vulnerable women and children. She warned parents against entrusting children to strangers, as economic challenges make many susceptible to false promises of jobs or education abroad. Dazyam commended partners for their support in rescues and the state government's focus on victim rehabilitation, which includes counselling, psychosocial support, and empowerment programs. Efforts are also underway to prosecute traffickers. Prosper Michael, Founder of GAHTO, stated that the rescue operation began after receiving information about two young women held in sexual captivity in Mali, emphasizing the need for stronger partnerships to dismantle trafficking networks. The victims shared their harrowing experiences, with one, Victoria, an orphan and mother, appealing for support to establish a busin