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🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 mins ago
Senegalese football federation president attributes World Cup issues to coach Pape Thiaw's salary demands
The president of the Senegalese football federation, Abdoulaye Fall, stated on Monday that coach Pape Thiaw's salary demands created a toxic environment for the team at the World Cup. Thiaw, 45, was sacked on Sunday after Senegal's elimination in the last 32 by Belgium on July 1. Fall explained that a breakdown in trust occurred due to Thiaw's initial refusal to sign a new contract, as he had requested a salary increase from 20 million CFA to 30,000 CFA before the World Cup. Fall also mentioned that Thiaw threatened not to travel to the World Cup if his demands were not met, and it was Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye who convinced him to change his mind. The contract was eventually signed on the eve of their second game against Norway, after Thiaw reportedly refused to sit in the dugout until it was finalized. Fall indicated that Thiaw believed federation officials were his enemies, which affected the national team's operations. During the World Cup, the Lions of Teranga experienced two group stage defeats against France and Norway before a 5-0 victory over Iraq secured their place in the knockout rounds. Under Thiaw, Senegal had won the Africa Cup of Nations in January but were later stripped of the title for walking off the pitch during the final against Morocco.
1 min read
Breaking🇳🇦The Namibian·12 mins ago
Sudanese court sentences RSF leader to death for war crimes
A Sudanese court in Port Sudan has sentenced Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces RSF, and 15 other senior RSF members to death in absentia. The conviction is for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide related to atrocities in West Darfur, specifically in el-Geneina. Among those sentenced are Hemedti's brother and deputy, Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, another brother, Al-Qoni Hamdan Dagalo, and the RSF's West Darfur commander, Abdul Rahman Juma Barkallah. The court found them guilty of orchestrating attacks on civilians, widespread destruction, looting, and targeting schools, places of worship, and residential neighborhoods, including the June 2023 killing of state governor Khamis Abbakar. Special Judge Mohamed Al-Amin ordered the confiscation of all RSF assets and instructed authorities to seek Interpol Red Notices for their arrest. The Sudan Founding Alliance, which includes the RSF, called the trial a "sham trial." This marks the first judicial conviction of RSF leadership since the civil war began in April 2023, which has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes, with UN investigators and human rights organizations citing ethnically targeted attacks against the Masalit population in Darfur.
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·12 mins ago
President Ramaphosa scrutinizes anti-corruption head Andrea Johnson after Madlanga Commission no-show
President Cyril Ramaphosa is investigating the conduct of Andrea Johnson, head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption Idac, following her failure to appear before the Madlanga Commission. Johnson cited illness, submitting a medical certificate that commission chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga described as "useless." Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed that the President was "looking forward" to her testimony. Johnson was expected to address allegations of collusion and defeating the ends of justice. A whistleblower previously testified that Johnson secretly sent evidence of a complaint against him to Crime Intelligence deputy head General Feroz Khan. This is not the first time Johnson's name has surfaced in relation to police matters; she was questioned in 2025 about her failure to recuse herself from a job interview where her husband, a Crime Intelligence officer, was an applicant. More recently, Idac's attempt to re-arrest General Dumisani Khumalo, head of Crime Intelligence, was halted. Johnson has expressed fear for her life in connection with these cases. Her ongoing involvement in these issues, rather than leading anti-corruption efforts, poses a challenge for National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibe. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago stated that only the President, who appointed Johnson, can take action against her. Tebogo Khaas of Public Interest SA expressed concern over the repeated non-appearances of k
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·12 mins ago
US immigration policy under Trump favored South African Afrikaners, court case reveals
A recent US court order in Ohio highlighted that of 7,730 refugees admitted to the United States over several months, 7,727 were from South Africa, with the remaining three from Afghanistan. This occurred while immigrants from other countries, legally residing in the US, faced indefinite pauses on their immigration benefit applications, including work authorization. The court case, filed by 25 anonymous plaintiffs from countries like Iran, Canada, Burma, Nigeria, Syria, Tanzania, and Venezuela, challenged policies by US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of Homeland Security that treated nationality as a negative factor in adjudications. The Ohio court found in favor of the plaintiffs, ordering a halt to the application of these policies. The court order cited US President Donald Trump's stated preference for white immigrants, specifically mentioning his interest in white South Africans and a February 2025 Executive Order offering refuge to "Afrikaners in South Africa who are victims of unjust racial discrimination." This order followed Trump's narrative that white Afrikaner people in South Africa were being discriminated against and violently targeted. The court noted that from October 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026, 6,665 of 6,668 refugees admitted to the US were from South Africa. The court order also referenced Trump's and Vice President JD Vance's public hostility toward immigrants from certain countries. Meanwhile, South Africa is facing its own immi
7 min read
Must Read🇬🇭GhanaWeb·2 hours ago
Ghana government mourns passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II
The Government of Ghana has extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II. In a statement issued by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Monday, July 13, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama expressed sympathies to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and Ghanaians. The late Yaa Naa was described as a traditional ruler whose leadership promoted peace and unity, playing a key role in bringing healing and reconciliation to the kingdom after years of conflict. The government highlighted his commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people, which fostered development in Dagbon and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and the government. The statement paid tribute to his invaluable service to the nation, stating that his legacy of wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace would continue to inspire future generations. News of the Yaa Naa's passing was announced on July 13, 2026.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 hours ago
Experts call for audit of collapsed Gombe Assembly building, state government launches investigation
Built environment professionals are urging a thorough technical audit of the new Gombe State House of Assembly Complex construction site after a section of its cantilevered entrance canopy collapsed, resulting in one fatality and seven injuries. Experts from engineering and architecture, including Engr. Suleiman Abba of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Engr. Musa Achindo of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, emphasized the need for an independent assessment to determine the cause and strengthen safety standards. Arc. Mustapha Adamu of the Nigerian Institute of Architects advocated for a multidisciplinary investigation. The Gombe State Government has initiated an immediate investigation, confirming eight workers were involved, with one death and seven injuries. Governor Muhammadu Yahaya expressed condolences and directed that all injured workers receive medical care at the government's expense. The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transportation, along with other agencies, has been instructed to commence safety and accountability procedures. The contractor and supervising consultant are required to submit an incident report within 24 hours, followed by preliminary and comprehensive technical reports. The government assured the public that the investigation's findings would guide future actions and reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing safety and quality standards in public infrastructure projects.
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·3 hours ago
Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control system
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC has identified significant vulnerabilities in Mauritius' system for controlling the import of dangerous drugs, warning that these weaknesses could be exploited by criminal networks. The FCC's report, a Financial Crimes Prevention Review, was initiated following allegations of questionable practices surrounding the import and monitoring of strictly controlled medications. The investigation specifically focused on pregabalin, marketed as Pregatas, Nervigen P, and Nervigen NP, which are classified as dangerous drugs due to their potential for abuse. The FCC concluded that the control system is undermined by poor governance, insufficient oversight, and an over-reliance on manual procedures within the Ministry of Health's pharmacology department. Additional issues include inadequate management of import quotas, ineffective monitoring mechanisms, poor traceability, and documentation management that fails to meet transparency and security standards. These dysfunctions, according to the Commission, create opportunities for quota manipulation, irregular authorizations, collusion among stakeholders, document falsification, corruption, bribery, and the diversion of dangerous drugs into illicit channels. The report also highlights that these failures could facilitate the financing of drug trafficking activities. The absence of secure IT systems further compromises authorities' ability to effectively track sensitive products, limiting control, audit, an
2 min read
🇿🇦The Citizen·3 hours ago
Ramaphosa mourns former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad, praises visionary legacy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa’s condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.
1 min read
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🇿🇦The Citizen·4 hours ago
PIC CEO Patrick Dlamini suspended amid whistleblower allegations
The Public Investment Corporation PIC Board has placed its Chief Executive, Patrick Dlamini, on precautionary suspension following a whistleblower report submitted last month. This decision, announced on Monday, comes after weeks of internal disagreements and allegations of impropriety. The PIC, which manages the pension savings of 1.3 million civil servants, has faced scrutiny over governance and financial losses from politically connected investments, with approximately R67 billion invested in nearly 150 unlisted entities since 2005, and at least 78 of these experiencing losses. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana reportedly clashed with PIC Chair David Masondo over the handling of a report commissioned by Dlamini and a subsequent whistleblower tip-off. PIC spokesperson Sipho Mofokeng stated that the suspension provides Dlamini space to respond to allegations and ensures a fair investigation, emphasizing it does not imply wrongdoing. Interim arrangements for an Acting CEO are being finalized. Additionally, the Board announced leadership changes in its investment division, with August Van Heerden ceasing to serve as Acting Chief Investment Officer. Leon Smit, Head for Fixed Income in Listed Investments, will be appointed as Acting CIO. Smit, who joined the PIC in 2000, has previously acted as CIO and holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Economics from the University of Pretoria, along with advanced qualifications in Treasury Management, Financial Markets, and FAIS. The PIC
2 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·4 hours ago
Anthony Joshua says career trials make him stronger ahead of Kristian Prenga fight
British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua stated that the challenges in his career have reinforced his strength as he prepares to face Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 25. Joshua, who holds a record of 29 wins, four losses, and 26 knockouts, reflected on his decade-long career, which includes a second-round knockout of Charles Martin in 2016 for his first world title and a victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2017. Despite significant highs, he has also faced lows, such as a knockout loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 and a one-sided knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. A recent knockout win over Jake Paul in December boosted his American profile, but this was followed by a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two friends. Joshua, 36, remains determined to return to the top and anticipates a long-awaited showdown with Tyson Fury later this year, provided both win their upcoming fights.
9 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·4 hours ago
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emphasizes focus for WAFCON 2026
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has stated that Nigeria cannot afford to lose focus at any point during the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The defending champions are in Morocco for their final preparations for the tournament. Nnadozie, a Brighton goalkeeper and the reigning African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, was among the first players to arrive at the team’s training camp in Casablanca. She highlighted that the Super Falcons will approach the competition one game at a time, aiming for a record-extending 11th continental title and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Nnadozie noted that the expanded WAFCON format, featuring 16 teams for the first time, will make the competition more competitive but will not change Nigeria's focused approach. Preparations intensified with players reporting to camp in Casablanca for a week-long training program in Mohammedia. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, and several other players were among the early arrivals. The training camp will allow head coach Justine Madugu to refine tactics and build team chemistry before the tournament, which runs from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco. The Super Falcons are drawn in Group C and will begin their title defense against Malawi on July 28, followed by matches against Zambia on August 1 and Egypt on August 5.
8 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·4 hours ago
Junior D'Tigers qualify for 2026 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket with unbeaten run
Nigeria's U-18 men's basketball team, the Junior D'Tigers, have qualified for the 2026 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket championship after an unbeaten performance at the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Qualifiers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The team won all four of their matches, securing their spot in the continental championship to be held in Ivory Coast from August 3 to 16. This qualification means both Nigeria's male and female U-18 teams will compete in the tournament. The Junior D'Tigers concluded the qualifiers with a 100-54 victory over hosts Burkina Faso, having also defeated Benin twice 96-35 and 101-43 and Burkina Faso once before 98-54. The tournament featured Nigeria, Benin, and Burkina Faso, following Liberia's withdrawal. The National Sports Commission, through its Director-General Bukola Olopade, congratulated the players and encouraged their continued development. Nigeria Basketball Federation President Musa Kida also lauded the team's success, attributing it to the federation's focus on grassroots development.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Presidency criticizes Oyo Governor Makinde's call for UN probe into abduction
The Nigerian Presidency has criticized Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde's demand for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of 39 pupils and six teachers in Oyo State, labeling it unnecessary and politically motivated. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated that the governor's request suggests a lack of confidence in Nigeria's security institutions, despite explanations already provided by the military and other security agencies regarding the rescue operation. Onanuga questioned the basis for Makinde's demand, arguing that security agencies would not deliberately subject Nigerians to prolonged captivity, especially given that some security personnel lost their lives during the rescue. He accused Makinde, a presidential aspirant, of allowing political considerations to influence his call for an international probe. Governor Makinde, however, maintained that the call for international scrutiny was aimed at ensuring accountability and reinforcing public confidence, not discrediting Nigerian institutions. He emphasized that Nigerians deserve a full and transparent account of the incident. The rescued victims, including the Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esienle, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, recounted their ordeal, including the killing of a mathematics teacher by the abductors. The General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, detailed the complex rescue operation, which inv
12 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Nigerians call for NFF leadership change after Super Eagles miss second consecutive World Cup
Nigeria's failure to qualify for a second consecutive FIFA World Cup has led to increased calls for a leadership change within the Nigeria Football Federation NFF. Football stakeholders are urging the current board to take responsibility and step down ahead of the federation's next electoral cycle. Former Nigeria international Abiodun Obafemi supports an overhaul to restore stability to Nigerian football, stating that the country cannot continue with the status quo. Former Green Eagles captain Segun Odegbami attributes the Super Eagles' absence from the tournament to deep-rooted administrative problems rather than a lack of talent, emphasizing that those in charge must accept responsibility for the decline. He also noted the lack of enthusiasm in Nigeria during the ongoing World Cup as a reflection of this disappointment. Calls for accountability have gained momentum, with some fans on social media demanding action from the NFF leadership. However, National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade insists that any change at the NFF must occur through democratic means, not public pressure. Olopade also rejected the idea that the current leadership is solely to blame for the back-to-back World Cup failures, attributing the first missed qualification to the previous administration led by Amaju Pinnick and highlighting the current board's performance in other tournaments as evidence of progress.
4 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
NAMA and NCAA dispute ticket levy sharing formula
The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority are in a dispute over the sharing formula for the five percent Ticket Sales Charge. A proposal before the National Assembly seeks to increase NAMA's share, leading to concerns from NCAA labor unions that this could weaken safety oversight. However, industry experts argue that NAMA, responsible for operating Nigeria's aviation infrastructure 24/7, carries a significant operational burden. NAMA's responsibilities include maintaining sophisticated Communication, Navigation and Surveillance technologies, which require substantial capital investment and continuous maintenance, often in remote areas with unreliable electricity. Retired pilot Mohammed Badamosi highlighted NAMA's larger workforce and extensive equipment maintenance across the country, contrasting it with NCAA's smaller regional offices. Currently, NCAA receives about 56 percent of the Ticket Sales Charge, while NAMA receives 23 percent. The Joint Action Committee of the NCAA suggests commercializing or partially privatizing NAMA as a more sustainable funding solution. However, proponents of the bill argue that stronger statutory funding is immediately needed. Former Commandant of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Group Captain John Ojikutu, called for a rational review of the revenue-sharing formula based on objective parameters like personnel strength, operational spread, and infrastructure ownership, rather than sentiments or
14 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Vice-Chancellor searches intensify at Nigerian universities
The search for new Vice-Chancellors is intensifying at the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University LASU, the University of Jos, and Abia State University, Uturu. Selection boards are being formed, but the process is already marked by politicking and controversy over eligibility criteria in some institutions. LASU opened applications for its 10th Vice-Chancellor as Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello's tenure concludes. The university faced criticism regarding the required years of professorial experience for applicants, with some academics faulting the advertisement for not specifying at least 10 years. LASU Registrar, Mr Emmanuel Fanu, stated that no law mandates a specific number of years, and "several years" is open to interpretation. The search for the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan began in April, with the incumbent, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, completing his tenure on November 1, 2026. At Abia State University, a search team has been inaugurated, and candidates must be professors of at least five years' standing. The current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ndukwe J. Okeudo, will complete his two-year tenure on October 31, 2026. The University of Jos has also begun the process to appoint a successor to Prof. Tanko Ishaya, whose tenure expires on December 1, 2026. Applicants for the University of Jos position must have at least 15 years of uninterrupted teaching and research experience, with 10 years as a distinguished Professor. The National Universities Commission st
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Federal Government suspends WAEC, NECO fee hike after public outcry
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination. The Ministry of Education announced the withdrawal of the June 18, 2026, letter that communicated the fee adjustment, stating that broader consultations with stakeholders will precede any final decision. This move follows widespread criticism from students, parents, education stakeholders, and civil society groups, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students. The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, directed the suspension, emphasizing the government's commitment to transparent and inclusive policymaking. The ministry acknowledged public concerns, noting that the proposed review, from N27,000 to N50,000, was driven by rising operational costs for conducting credible examinations. However, the government aims to ensure that policies affecting millions of students are carefully considered and socially responsive. The fresh review process will involve extensive consultations with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents' associations, and organized labor. The ministry reaffirmed that student welfare, equitable access to quality education, and responsible policymaking are central to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, presidential
7 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Federal Government develops coordinated reintegration framework for former terrorists
The Federal Government has created Standard Operating Procedures SOPs for its Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration DDR program to enhance Nigeria's response to terrorism and violent extremism. Maj Gen Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre NCTC, announced this at a validation workshop in Abuja, covering federal implementation and pilot states Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara. The SOPs aim to translate the National DDR Framework's objectives into practical guidance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and coordination. Developed through extensive consultations, they clarify institutional mandates, strengthen inter-agency coordination, standardize operational processes, and ensure DDR programs adhere to human rights and the rule of law. Laka emphasized that DDR is a critical non-kinetic strategy, complementing military operations to achieve sustainable peace by providing pathways for individuals to abandon violence and reintegrate. Regional consultations showed support for a nationally coordinated, locally owned, and human rights-based DDR framework. Amb Abimbola Wońosikou, NCTC Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, noted the SOPs provide a coordinated national response to various security threats. She highlighted the need for an integrated approach to standardize existing rehabilitation initiatives. State DDR committees have been established in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara, comprising diverse stakeholders. Wońosiko
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Nigerian floods: Agencies warn of worse to come as governments fail to act on predictions
Despite consistent warnings and projections from relevant agencies, Nigerian governments have largely ignored the threat of devastating floods, leading to recurring deaths, destruction, and misery. In early July 2026, torrential rains caused widespread devastation in Lagos and Ogun states, submerging homes, disrupting electricity, and shattering food supply chains. The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Umar Mohammed, warned that this is just the beginning of the rainy season, with worse floods expected around August-September. The agency's 2026 Annual Flood Outlook indicated that 30,707 communities are at risk across 34 states, with 4.2 million hectares of farmland, 4,792 health facilities, and 10,684 schools located in flood-prone areas. The National Emergency Management Agency's After-Action Review showed that 2024 was Nigeria's most devastating flood year, claiming over 1,237 lives and displacing 1.24 million people, while coordinated action in 2025 significantly reduced the tragedy. The article criticizes governments and citizens for their indifference, highlighting the gap between prediction and implementation, and regulation and compliance. It suggests emulating Ghana's decisive actions against illegal structures obstructing waterways and calls for concerted commitment to climate change adaptation, comprehensive flood-control strategies, and effective waste management. The Lagos State Government, as a low-lying coa
11 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
World Bank warns of fragile global food supply
The World Bank has issued a warning about the fragility of the global food system, despite adequate overall supplies. The June 2026 Food & Nutrition Security Update highlights vulnerabilities stemming from rising input costs, geopolitical tensions, and climate threats, which could undermine progress in poverty reduction. Global food supplies are sufficient, but higher costs and supply chain disruptions continue to pressure prices, and major cereal production is expected to decrease from 2025 levels. Fertiliser prices increased by 35 percent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the previous year, potentially impacting future harvests due to reduced application by farmers. An impending El Niño cycle, with a 61 to 87 percent probability of emerging by mid-2026 and persisting into 2027, could reduce rice output by 20 to 50 percent in vulnerable regions like South Asia, Southern Africa, and parts of East Asia. Domestic food price inflation remains high globally, with low-income countries experiencing a deterioration; the share of these countries with food inflation above five percent rose from 40 to 45 percent between April and May 2026. Conflict-ridden and climate-stressed areas are most affected, with 44 to 47 million people in East Africa needing urgent food assistance, and famine confirmed in parts of Sudan with risks in Somalia. The World Bank projects a 38 percent rise in overall fertiliser prices for the year, emphasizing that these pressures risk reversing gains in
9 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Nigeria requires N720bn additional funding to reduce maternal and newborn deaths
Nigeria needs an additional N720bn to adequately fund interventions aimed at reducing maternal and newborn deaths, according to Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, National Lead of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative. Speaking at a maternal health roundtable organized by Nigeria Health Watch in Abuja, Dr. Adeyanju stated that Nigeria's 2025 National Annual Operational Plan for the health sector is estimated at N3.68tn, with N1.7tn from government funding and N1.25tn from development partners, leaving a N720bn financing gap. Stakeholders called for increased domestic investment in maternal and newborn healthcare, warning that inadequate financing, poor budget implementation, and weak accountability contribute to high mortality rates. Nigeria faces one of the world's highest maternal and neonatal mortality burdens, recording over 572 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 41 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births. The Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative, launched in 2024, aims to reduce maternal mortality by 30% and neonatal mortality by 20% by 2027, focusing on 172 priority Local Government Areas. Dr. Adeyanju identified delays in seeking and receiving healthcare, and poor coordination as major contributing factors. Dr. Biobele Davidson, Strategic Health Systems Lead at BudgIT Foundation, noted that Nigeria accounts for 19-20% of global maternal deaths, with approximately 82,000 Nigerian women dying annually from preventable pregn
4 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Torrential downpour causes widespread flooding in Lagos, submerging vehicles and stranding commuters
A heavy downpour on Monday brought commercial activities to a halt in several parts of Lagos, leading to widespread flooding that submerged vehicles, stranded motorists and commuters, and caused severe traffic. Areas most affected included Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island, and Oworonshoki. Social media videos showed long queues of stationary vehicles and pedestrians wading through deep floodwaters. Residents described the rainfall as one of the heaviest in recent weeks, disrupting movement and business. Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo expressed shock at the flooding on Bourdillon Road. A frustrated motorist lamented the recurring issue, stating he was stuck in traffic for hours. Some commuters attributed the persistent flooding to ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stated that the flooding was largely due to a significant rise in the lagoon water level, which had increased by approximately one meter, impeding stormwater discharge. He appealed for patience, expecting the situation to normalize as rainfall subsides and lagoon levels recede. Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency's NEMA Lagos Operations Office conducted a flood impact assessment in Surulere communities, including Orile, Coker, Aguda, Itire, Ikate, and Ijesha. NEMA reported that homes and businesses were inundated, causing property damage, livelihood disruption, and restricted movement. The agency attrib
3 min read
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🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
Artificial intelligence and the evolving value of human competence
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the value of human competence by reducing the cost of producing knowledge while increasing the importance of judgment. Historically, expertise was linked to access to information and experience, which required significant effort and time. AI now allows for rapid generation of business strategies, literature reviews, campaign concepts, and financial report summaries across various industries, making the mechanics of knowledge production significantly easier. However, the ability to evaluate knowledge and exercise sound judgment becomes more valuable. While AI democratizes access to intelligence, it does not democratize competence, which is built through exposure to uncertainty, decision-making with incomplete information, and understanding consequences and trade-offs. AI excels at pattern recognition and predicting statistically likely responses, but prediction differs from judgment. Judgment determines appropriateness, decides if history applies, and accepts responsibility for choices, whereas prediction identifies probability and generates possibilities. Context, which includes timing, culture, stakeholder expectations, and individual circumstances, remains a crucial and less transferable dimension of intelligence. The fluency of AI's communication can be mistaken for sound reasoning, making the ability to distinguish between the two a critical professional skill. AI also makes expertise less visible but more valuable, shifti
11 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
Fasoranti and Fayemi celebrate Wole Soyinka's 92nd birthday
Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti State, extended birthday greetings to Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday. Soyinka, born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on July 13, 1934, was the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986. Fasoranti described Soyinka as a rare breed and a pride to the Yoruba race, Nigeria, and Africa, whose positive impact transcends ethnic or racial boundaries. He expressed gratitude for Soyinka's contributions and prayed for his longevity and good health. Fayemi, in a statement, hailed Soyinka as a symbol of intellectual excellence, courage, and cultural pride, whose work in literature, human rights, and democratic ideals inspires generations. He noted Soyinka's consistent voice of conscience and mentorship, urging younger generations to draw inspiration from his life of principle and purpose. Fayemi also prayed for Soyinka's continued good health and strength, expressing confidence that his wisdom would continue to guide Nigeria's public discourse.
9 min read