Super Falcons were condemned to yet another defeat at the ongoing Olympic Games as they fell to a 1-0 loss against world champions Spain.
Having kicked off their campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Brazil, the Nigerian ladies held their head high against the no.1 ranked team in the world.
The Falcons put up a strong force against Spain and defended greatly but were not taking their bright chances, hence their defeat.
Nigeria will now face Japan in their final group C game of the Olympics while Spain, with two wins, have now reached the quarter-finals of the competition.
More to follow…
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Super Falcons lose against world champions Spain
Ondo: CD, CNCRA opt out of nationwide protest
Ahead of the planned August 1 protest in Nigeria, the Campaign for Democracy, CD, and Conference of Nigeria Civil Rights Activists, CNCRA, in Ondo State have pulled out of the action.
The non-governmental organisations emphasised that their resolve not to be part of the protest tagged ‘End Bad Governance’ was hinged on the facelessness of those behind the protest.
While addressing newsmen at the weekend over the development in Akure, the state capital, Nester Taiwo, who is the Chairman of the Campaign for Democracy in Ondo State, and his CNCRA counterpart, Raphael Dada, advised that the protest should be cancelled considering the security reports that it may be hijacked.
The civil society organisations that lauded President Bola Tinubu on ongoing reforms in the country embarked upon in the last 14 months revealed that the president is currently being engaged over the economic hardship in the country.
The groups said: “We strongly advise that the protesters should sheath their sword and give peace a chance, as we are persuaded that there cannot be a peaceful demonstration that can avoid the risk of being hijacked by unsuspecting hoodlums and miscreants, which may lead to avoidable loss of lives and properties.
“It is not in our practice to engage the establishment in protest without due consultation and dialogue with the government. This is ongoing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunnmi Tunji Ojo.
“The organisers of the protest did not put us in confidence; we are not part of the planning and thinking. And therefore, they cannot enjoy our support and participation.”
Ondo: CD, CNCRA opt out of nationwide protest
Gov Abiodun criticizes protests, emphasizes govt efforts
Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has cautioned Nigerian youths against participating in protests which he describes as counterproductive and often hijacked by politicians with hidden agendas.
Speaking at the 22nd undergraduate and 13th postgraduate convocation ceremonies of Babcock University in Ilishan, Ikenne Local Government Area, Governor Abiodun expressed concern that previous protests in the country had not resulted in constructive outcomes but rather caused disruptions in productivity and led to loss of lives and property.
“I seize this opportunity to appeal to our youths to constructively engage with the government in finding lasting solutions to Nigeria’s problems, rather than engaging in protests that may start peacefully but usually get hijacked and may lead to anarchy,” Governor Abiodun stated.
He defended his administration’s decisions, such as the removal of subsidies and the floating of the Naira, as necessary steps to address Nigeria’s economic challenges amidst global inflation.
“This government has only been in office for one year. Cutting the head is not the solution to a headache,” he emphasized. “Inflation is worldwide. Our president, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had very few choices when he assumed office. He had to take the bull by the horns; he had to remove the subsidy. He had to float the Naira. Otherwise, it would have been worse, trust me.”
Acknowledging the widespread economic difficulties including inflation, Governor Abiodun highlighted various interventions his administration has implemented to mitigate the impact on citizens, such as minimum wage adjustments, empowerment initiatives, and subsidies on essential goods.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this administration has initiated a lot of interventions to cushion the effect of the inflation. Recently, we’ve heard the announcement of the minimum wage. We’ve had a lot of empowerment. Student loans are being put in place. Agric and fertilizer inputs are being given to our farmers. They have provided Food items as palliatives and subsidised prices, amongst others,” he outlined.
He cautioned against allowing protests to destabilize the country, stressing that the current wave of inflation affects nations globally.
Read also: August 1st protest: Nigerian youths must demand end to bad governance —Group
“Which investor will be attracted to a nation that is under siege by protesters? Please, do not allow yourselves to be used by a so-called leaderless movement, sponsored by frustrated politicians who tried in the past and lost. We do not need protests. We must not gamble with our anarchy. Please Let us dialogue,” Governor Abiodun urged.
Addressing the graduating class, the president of the students emphasized the importance of accountability among elected officials and urged fellow graduates to actively engage in nation-building.
“I want to charge us, The only way we can patch this country again is to be our brother’s keeper. There is no point in you acquiring wealth and stashing them outside the country when your fellow Nigerians are suffering,” he said passionately.
He called on Nigerians to hold their governors and local leaders accountable. “We must please query our governors, query our chairmen, we must ask questions. We voted for them, they are responsible to us and please don’t stand on the sideline, be a true Nigerian.”
“In electing someone to serve you, remember, that person is not your leader, but your servant. To make this country great, I plead with us, touch lives,” he concluded.
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NAF aircraft destroys 12 illegal refining sites in Abia, Rivers
No fewer than 12 illegal refining sites in Abia and River states were destroyed by airstrikes from the air component of Operation Delta Safe.
The airstrikes were carried out following a surveillance operation by operatives of the Nigerian Air Force, which revealed the presence of active illegal refining sites in both states.
A statement on Sunday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, AVM Edward Buba, said three of the 12 illegal refining sites were destroyed in Umueze, Abia State.
He said, “In efforts aimed at minimising the activities of oil thieves and other economic saboteurs, Nigerian Air Force aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, on July 26, 2024, carried out several strikes that led to the destruction of 12 illegal refining sites and 2 reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states.
“In Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
“This information was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action. Heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetation, which were subsequently destroyed.”
Gabkwet added that after the operation in Abia, the crew proceeded to Komkom and Okoloma in River State and destroyed nine refining sites and two reservoirs.
He said, “Thereafter, the crew followed the river line down to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed. In total, 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were destroyed.
“The sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments is indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate. “
Gabkwet, therefore, urged individuals operating illegal oil refining sites within fenced areas to cease their activities due to the associated health risks.
He said, “Those engaged in these acts, especially in fenced living environments, are again reminded of their danger to human lives and health as well as the environment.
“Be that as may, armed reconnaissance missions, as well as the destruction of illegal refining sites, will continue unabated until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to the barest minimum.”
No hunger protest in Benue — Gov Alia
Various groups comprising students, market traders, organised labour, and other civil society groups in Benue State have dissociated themselves from the planned hunger protest.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, disclosed this to journalists on Sunday after the mass held at the chaplaincy of Government House, Makurdi.
The governor, who appreciated the security chiefs in the state for their efforts to establish a good rapport with various groups, which led to their dissociation from the hunger protest, said that the state, having suffered insecurity in the past, can no longer afford another protest.
Alia stated that Benue has had enough insecurity in the past, recalling the recent violent protest in Ukum LGA of the state, where personal and government properties worth hundreds of millions of naira were destroyed.
According to him, participating in a hunger protest may worsen the fragile peace of the state, as he expressed fear that hoodlums may hijack the protest.
While lamenting the crisis in the Sankera axis and the efforts his administration has made to stop the killings, the governor said, “I was quite excited about the efforts of the Director of State Security Service and the Commissioner of Police in the state, who on their own made efforts and established contact where necessary.
“I am grateful to organised labour in the state, the student union, the market union, and others for being considerate in not participating in any protest that might be hijacked by hoodlums and destabilise our entire peace.
“We are in precarious times, and we are not taking chances. This is why I must emphasise that as a country and a federating unit, we cherish our freedom and liberty. Security must be paramount, and it is my prerogative to protect people’s freedom and liberty. This is why we cannot hold any protest at all in any part of Benue State.”
The governor, who blamed Abuja politicians for the crisis in the Sankera axis, promised to release the names of the perpetrators of the violent protest that rocked Ukum LGA about a month ago
August 1st protest: Nigerian youths must demand end to bad governance —Group
A group, Change Nigeria Now (CNN) has called on Nigerian youths to join their counterparts in other parts of the country on August 1 for a peaceful protest to demand an end to bad governance in the country.
The group stated that its call for protest was not one for violence or chaos, but a patriotic move to “hold those in power accountable for their actions”….”made life unbearable for many”.
The CNN in a statement on Sunday signed by its convener, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, said “after years of unfulfilled promises and wasteful spending of public funds, the patience of Nigerian citizens, particularly the youth, has finally worn thin. The mismanagement of the economy has resulted in untold hardships, and the long-suffering people are now ready to take a stand.
“Despite the misguided allocation of billions of Naira to fraudulent religious traders and fake youth groups that had previously hijacked the protest narrative on media, claiming to be organisers and now withdrawing their support just to discourage and intimidate others from participating, the Nigerian youths are now more determined than ever to rise up and demand change. The planned 1st August 2024 protests, dubbed the ‘Days of Rage,’ will go ahead as scheduled, with patriotic and responsible Nigerian youths leading the charge.
“On August 1st, 2024, patriotic and responsible Nigerian youths will converge nationwide to demand an end to the bad governance that has made life unbearable for many. This is not a call to violence or chaos, but a peaceful protest to reclaim our rights as citizens and hold those in power accountable for their actions”.
READ ALSO: #EndBadGovernance: Shettima urges Nigerians to shun planned protest
The group also lamented that Nigerian leaders over the past years have squandered public funds on frivolous ventures, neglecting the basic needs of the people. And that “the time has come to put an end to this culture of waste, corruption and nepotism”.
It also said, “this is not just about noise-making or mere expressions of discontent; it’s about demanding concrete actions that address the pressing issues affecting our nation. It’s about holding those in power accountable for their actions and ensuring that our collective efforts towards progress are not squandered.
“The lies and deceit perpetuated by self-serving groups and individuals will not deter us. We will not be swayed by empty promises or intimidated by threats. Our resolve is unwavering, and our determination to bring about positive change is unshakeable.
“We invite all Nigerians who share our desire for positive change to join us on this historic day. Together, we will rise up against bad governance and reclaim our right to a better life. We will make our voices heard, and we will not be silenced.
“Join us on August 1st, 2024, as we march peacefully to demand an end to the status quo and a better future for Nigeria. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for ourselves and future generations”.
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FG, US sign agreement to expand trade, investment partnership
The Federal Government and the United States of America have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Commercial and Investment Partnership, marking a significant step in strengthening their economic ties.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 2024 AGOA Forum held in Washington DC by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, a statement issued by the Ministry said on Sunday.
It said the MoU aims to deepen bilateral commercial and investment ties between both nations through collaboration to enhance the business environment and facilitate private sector-led trade and investment projects, among others.
The agreement focuses on key economic sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, sports and the digital and creative economy, as well as cross-cutting areas such as investment promotion and regulatory reforms.
It also establishes a framework for regular consultations at various levels, including business-to-government, government-to-government and business-to-business engagements.
In addition to the MoU, both countries agreed on new avenues of commercial cooperation and affirming shared priorities on the digital economy, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to enhancing bilateral economic relations.
The statement quoted the minister as saying, “This MOU marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria-U.S. economic relations. By focusing on critical sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and the creative and digital economy, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and job creation. This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing an enabling environment for investment and trade, which is crucial for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic development agenda. We are particularly excited about the opportunities this presents for our fast-growing tech sector and the potential for knowledge transfer and innovation.”
On her part, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying, “With the largest population and largest democracy in Africa, Nigeria is an essential partner for the United States.
“At the U.S. Department of Commerce, we are committed to working hand-in-hand with our Nigerian Government colleagues to foster deeper commercial cooperation that helps promote inclusive economic growth, fosters innovation and creates jobs in both our countries.”
The MoU establishes structures for cooperation, including ministerial co-chairs, technical co-chairs, and various levels of consultation involving both government and private sector stakeholders. It is set to remain operative for five years, with provisions for review and revision as needed.
This agreement represents a significant milestone in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the U.S., promising to usher in a new era of mutual prosperity and cooperation.
Also at the event, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii, initiated discussions to secure investments and expand market opportunities for Nigerian small and medium enterprises.
He said the goal of the agency was to bridge the gap between Nigerian and U.S. small businesses, ensuring that AGOA’s opportunities are fully leveraged to foster growth, industrialization, job creation, and improved production quality for Nigerian SMEs.
He explained that the agency is collaborating with some organisations to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards and streamline the export process.
“We are diligently working to eliminate inefficiencies and barriers that hinder productivity in Nigeria’s SME sector,” the SMEDAN boss stated.
“As the Secretary of the National Council on SMEs, chaired by the Vice President and led at the state level by all state governors, we are collaborating with other government agencies involved in taxation, health and safety regulations, land access, and financing to create a conducive environment for growth,” Odii said.
CAN urges Tinubu to reduce fuel, food prices
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to reduce the pump price of fuel and the rising cost of food in the markets.
This appeal comes ahead of the planned nationwide hunger protest scheduled to be held from August 1 to 10 by Nigerian youths.
The State CAN Chairman, Dr Bulus Yohanna, made the call on Sunday in his message to the Catholic faithful, also urging the youths to shelve the planned nationwide hunger protest, stating that protests and violence have never yielded positive results.
In his message titled, ‘Let Us Shun Protest and Violence’, the cleric said, “Christian faithful should not join the proposed nationwide protest, as genuine protests can easily be seized by hoodlums and selfish groups to cause enormous havoc on innocent citizens.
“Peace is an ongoing and dynamic process that demands perpetual attention and constant effort to attain and maintain. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should, apart from the palliatives, work on price control for goods and services, address the rising cost of living, and then reduce the price of fuel.
“Let us take advantage of the farming season, especially now that the Farmer Governor is proactive and has prioritised the agriculture sector with the hope of feeding the nation.”
Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, called on bloc leaders, church leaders, local government coordinators, and parents to admonish their members and children to remember the book of Romans 13:1-3, which talks about Christians not rebelling against constituted authority.
“As you are aware, there are plans to stage a nationwide protest across the country, but as children of God and responsible people known for peace, I urge us all to shun the protest and speak to our children, wards, and members of our congregation.
“Other well-meaning Nigerians, including our youths, have declared that they won’t join the nationwide protest, and I want us to note that as a body, the Christian Association of Nigeria, Niger State, will not be part of the exercise but rather prefers to have peaceful dialogue and continue to pray for our nation.
“Peaceful protests with clear demands are good, but such could be hijacked by miscreants and be perceived as a security threat, which can lead to arrests and shootings, and we cannot afford to lose any of our children.
“There is no time that violence has led to positive results; rather, it has caused destruction, loss of lives, and setbacks. Genuine protests can easily be seized by hoodlums and selfish groups to cause enormous havoc on innocent citizens,” Yohanna said.
He further stated that “major stakeholders in Niger State have agreed not to join the protest, especially as the Farmer Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has slashed the prices of grains and has promised to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.”
MTN, Airtel didn’t block lines because of protests — Buhari’s ex-aide Ahmad
Bashir Ahmad, a former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has claimed that telecommunications companies have not barred some lines because of the upcoming protests.
On Sunday, several social media users began to complain that their lines had been barred, especially by MTN and Airtel.
But in a post on X, Ahmad said a senior government official has informed him that they have no hand in the matter and that it is not linked to the planned protest for next week.
Ahmad wrote: “After my earlier tweet complaining about MTN blocking user lines, a senior government official reached out to me and clarified that the issue was not connected to the planned protest.
“The lines were actually blocked because the NIN details did not match the information submitted during SIM registration. Examples of such mismatches include discrepancies in names or dates of birth.
“He also told me that MTN and Airtel have sent out SMS notifications to the affected users, advising them to visit their offices or use the self-service portal to resubmit their NIN with the correct details. Please share the information so that it reaches more of the affected users.”
After my earlier tweet complaining about MTN blocking user lines, a senior government official reached out to me and clarified that the issue was not connected to the planned protest. The lines were actually blocked because the NIN details did not match the information submitted…
— Bashir Ahmad (@BashirAhmaad) July 28, 2024
MTN, Airtel didn’t block lines because of protests — Buhari’s ex-aide Ahmad
Police justify request for protest details, cite security concerns
The Nigeria Police Force has defended its request for details from organisers of the planned nationwide protests, explaining that the move is driven by security concerns.
On Friday, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun directed protest organisers to provide their details, proposed routes, and assembly points to the Commissioners of Police in their respective states. This request has been met with resistance from the protest organisers, who accuse the IG of attempting to alter constitutional rights.
Deji Adeyanju, one of the organisers, argued that the IG’s request has no constitutional basis.
He said, “When the constitution was conferring the right to protest on the citizens, did the constitution give conditions for protests? Is the IG trying to rewrite the constitution? Is he trying to donate rights to the citizens or what? He has no such powers. The constitution and other laws of the land do not give the IG the power to dictate how citizens should protest.”
In response, Police Force spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi issued a statement on Sunday, asserting that the request is a routine procedure intended to ensure effective communication, safeguard participants, and prevent unlawful activities.
Read also: Gunmen kill Police Inspector in Borno station attack
Adejobi stated, “The Nigeria Police Force hereby addresses the recent accusations made by one activist, Deji Adeyanju, and others via various fora, alleging that the IGP is attempting to rewrite the constitution by requesting the details of the organisers and leaders of the planned nationwide protests.”
He emphasized the importance of knowing who is planning the protests in each state to avoid potential threats to peace and stability.
Adejobi noted, “Allowing faceless groups to operate unchecked could jeopardise the peace and stability of the country, and leave us with pains, sorrows, and tears as experienced in the 2020 violent EndSARS protests. If organised labour and other recognised bodies were involved, it would have provided a more structured and safer environment for such public protests.”
He clarified that the IG’s request for protest details is a standard procedure meant to facilitate communication and maintain public safety.
Adejobi further affirmed that the IG “has never denied the constitutional right of every citizen to freedom of association and expression,” but stressed that the police are responsible for ensuring that protests do not threaten national security.
Adejobi added, “It is also vital for Deji Adeyanju to note that in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health; or to protect the rights and freedom of other persons as enshrined in Section 45 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this request by the IGP is not out of place.”
He urged the activist and other organisers “not to mislead Nigerians” and called for collaborative efforts to ensure national security and public well-being.
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