Klinsmann hints on players who could make life difficult for Alonso at Real Madrid

Germany great, Jurgen Klinsmann, has noted that the likes of Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe will make Xabi Alonso’s job at Real Madrid harder. According to him, it would be difficult for the Spaniard to convince Mbappe and Vinicius to contribute more defensively. Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder, returned to the club as manager
Klinsmann hints on players who could make life difficult for Alonso at Real Madrid

Germany great, Jurgen Klinsmann, has noted that the likes of Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe will make Xabi Alonso’s job at Real Madrid harder.

According to him, it would be difficult for the Spaniard to convince Mbappe and Vinicius to contribute more defensively.

Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder, returned to the club as manager at the end of the season and would remain with the La Liga outfit until June 2028.

Klinsmann, in a recent chat with Marca, was responding to the question whether the former Liverpool midfielder could get his star forwards to track back.

He replied as quoted by Madrid Universal, “Teams with Messi are the only ones that can afford to defend with just 10.

“Even Real Madrid are trying to get Mbappe and Vinicius to drop back to defend. Am I convinced that Xabi Alonso will achieve it? No, really [laughs].”

“Mbappe is no longer a child and Vinicius sees that they don’t defend either and he doesn’t do much either. But they are two personalities that Xabi has to manage, and I’m sure the team will manage to compensate for everything and get the best out of both of them.”

He went further to explain that while at PSG, the manager then found it difficult with Neymar, Mbappe, Lionel Messi.

Klinsmann hints on players who could make life difficult for Alonso at Real Madrid

Dantata’s burial postponed over Saudi protocols — FG

The final rites for renowned Nigerian businessman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who passed away on Friday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have been put on hold due to a delay in transporting his remains to Saudi Arabia for burial.” Confirming the development, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, told the BBC that the delay stemmed
Dantata’s burial postponed over Saudi protocols — FG

The final rites for renowned Nigerian businessman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who passed away on Friday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have been put on hold due to a delay in transporting his remains to Saudi Arabia for burial.”

Confirming the development, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, told the BBC that the delay stemmed from challenges in meeting Saudi Arabia’s burial protocol.

“There are regulations set by the Saudi government on how to bring a body for burial in the country, so now the paperwork is being filled out between the Saudi government and the family of the deceased,” the minister said.

According to him, once the required documentation is finalized, arrangements will be made to transport the body from the UAE to Medina, in Saudi Arabia, where the burial will take place.

Idris further explained that both the Nigerian embassy in Saudi Arabia and the family of the late elder statesman have completed all other funeral logistics.

Alhaji Aminu Dantata, until his death, was one of Nigeria’s most respected businessmen and philanthropists.

It has been reported that he expressed in his will a desire to be buried in the holy city of Medina, a request his family honored by seeking—and receiving—official approval from Saudi authorities.

Meanwhile, delegations representing the federal government and the Kano State Government departed Nigeria on Monday morning, heading to Saudi Arabia to participate in the funeral, which was earlier scheduled for the same day.

Dantata’s burial postponed over Saudi protocols — FG

EXCLUSIVE: New Terrorist Group, Mahmuda Plotting To Establish Independent Government In Kwara, Collect Zakat, Allocate Lands — Emir

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Endeavour to monitor revenue allocations to states – Gov Otti tells RMFAC

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has charged the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission RMFAC, to monitor revenue allocations given to various states and agencies of government in the country, to ensure judicious use. Otti stated this at the government house in Umuahia while receiving a delegation of the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at
Endeavour to monitor revenue allocations to states – Gov Otti tells RMFAC

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has charged the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission RMFAC, to monitor revenue allocations given to various states and agencies of government in the country, to ensure judicious use.

Otti stated this at the government house in Umuahia while receiving a delegation of the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at the RMFAC, Mrs Nkechi Oti.

The Governor, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, stressed the need for a framework that will enable people monitor what is being given to them.

“The Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission is one that every Nigerians should be proud of, ensuring that the revenue that accrues to this nation is judiciously allocated and also, you monitor the disbursement.

“I believe also, you should go ahead and monitor how those funds are used. One thing that has made Abia State standout is fiscal discipline.

“We should come up with a framework that will enable people monitor what is being given to them, whether state, federal, whatever”, Otti said.

He noted that leaders who receive revenue allocations should be accountable to the people, pointing out that his administration is able to record achievements in development because of the financial discipline and monitoring it applies with the allocations the state gets.

Governor Otti congratulated Mrs Nkechi Oti on her appointment as the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at the RMFAC and urged her to represent the state well.

Earlier, the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at the Revenue Moblization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Mrs Nkechi Oti said she was in the state for a familiarization visit having been appointed into office few months ago.

Endeavour to monitor revenue allocations to states – Gov Otti tells RMFAC

NMDPRA: Lawyers, civil rights group vow to continue protests until AGF, ICPC probe allegations

A coalition of lawyers and civil rights groups has vowed to continue protesting until relevant authorities launch investigation into allegations against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). The protests staged to demand investigation of the allegations entered the second week on Monday. The protesters, led
NMDPRA: Lawyers, civil rights group vow to continue protests until AGF, ICPC probe allegations

A coalition of lawyers and civil rights groups has vowed to continue protesting until relevant authorities launch investigation into allegations against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The protests staged to demand investigation of the allegations entered the second week on Monday.

The protesters, led by the Concerned Young Professionals Network, are demanding investigation of alleged corruption, abuse of office and regulatory compromise.

In a petition signed by the convener, Dan Okwa, and addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, the protesters asked for investigation into alleged diversion of over $5 million in public funds to finance the foreign education of the NMDPRA boss’ children.

The petition equally called for investigation of alleged abuse of office and conflict of interest, noting that Ahmed’s son, Faisal, is employed by Oando PLC, a company directly under the regulatory supervision of NMDPRA.

The petition also expressed concern over alleged regulatory compromise by the NMDPRA, pointing to the issuance of permits for the importation of diesel with high sulphur content.

The petition stressed the harmful impact of the product to the environment and public health.

Speaking during the protest on Monday, Okwa restated the demand that the AGF immediately initiate a thorough investigation into the allegations by setting up a special investigative panel.

He insisted that the setting up of a probe panel is necessary to restore public trust in the NMDPRA and ensure accountability in the management of public resources.

“We will not back down until the truth is revealed. We demand that the Attorney General takes immediate action to investigate these allegations. Anything less would be a betrayal of the public trust.

“We will continue to protest until justice is served. The rule of law must prevail, and we will ensure that it does,” Okwa said.

It will be recalled that last week, the protesters occupied the offices of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), ICPC and Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in Abuja, demanding immediate investigation of the allegations.

NMDPRA: Lawyers, civil rights group vow to continue protests until AGF, ICPC probe allegations

Angry residents protest abduction of Agro-chemical dealer in Kwara community

Angry residents of Lafiagi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, have protested against the abduction of a prominent agro-chemical dealer, popularly known as Alhaji Chemical. He was reportedly taken from his home in the Taiwo area of the town around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday by gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits. The attackers, said
Angry residents protest abduction of Agro-chemical dealer in Kwara community

Angry residents of Lafiagi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, have protested against the abduction of a prominent agro-chemical dealer, popularly known as Alhaji Chemical.

He was reportedly taken from his home in the Taiwo area of the town around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday by gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits. The attackers, said to have arrived on motorcycles, overpowered local vigilantes with heavy gunfire before abducting the businessman.

Sources in the community believe the operation was targeted and well-planned, given the victim’s prominence and the precision of the attack. The development has sparked fresh anxiety in Lafiagi, where residents say cases of kidnapping have become increasingly frequent.

In response to the latest incident, angry residents staged protests on Monday, blocking roads and demanding urgent government intervention. Protesters cited the recent abduction of a young man operating a Point of Sale (POS) business as further evidence of growing insecurity in the area.

“The situation is getting out of hand,” one resident said during the protest. “We can’t sleep with our eyes closed anymore. People are being taken almost weekly now.”

The aggrieved residents “urged security agencies to intensify patrols, track down the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of those abducted.”

Angry residents protest abduction of Agro-chemical dealer in Kwara community

ECOWAS to hold regional youth conference for joint socio-economic solutions in Senegal

The Economic Community of West Africa States, ECOWAS, has unfolded plans to hold a regional youth conference in Saly Portudal, Senegal to harmonize perspectives and create joint solutions for the socio-economic and political advancement of West African youth. According to ECOWAS Directorate of Communication on Monday, the conference with the theme; “Engaging ECOWAS for a New
ECOWAS to hold regional youth conference for joint socio-economic solutions in Senegal

The Economic Community of West Africa States, ECOWAS, has unfolded plans to hold a regional youth conference in Saly Portudal, Senegal to harmonize perspectives and create joint solutions for the socio-economic and political advancement of West African youth.

According to ECOWAS Directorate of Communication on Monday, the conference with the theme; “Engaging ECOWAS for a New Vision of Youth,” is part of ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

“ECOWAS will hold a Regional Youth Conference in Saly Portudal, Senegal, from 1–3 July 2025.”

The statement added that the event aims to bring together youth leaders, organizations, policymakers, and experts to discuss key issues affecting young people in the region, particularly employment, entrepreneurship, education, and vocational training.

“The conference will foster dialogue and collaboration between youth and ECOWAS, placing young people at the center of the regional development and transformation efforts.

“It aims to harmonize perspectives and create joint solutions for the socio-economic and political advancement of West African youth.”

ECOWAS to hold regional youth conference for joint socio-economic solutions in Senegal

Punctuality, regular attendance: Nigerian govt recognises 18 civil servants

The Nigerian government, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, OHCSF, has recognised 18 exemplary public servants. The honour was part of the 2025 Federal Civil Service week. They received their recognitions at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja. They were individuals whose dedication, innovation, and integrity
Punctuality, regular attendance: Nigerian govt recognises 18 civil servants

The Nigerian government, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, OHCSF, has recognised 18 exemplary public servants.

The honour was part of the 2025 Federal Civil Service week. They received their recognitions at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

They were individuals whose dedication, innovation, and integrity have driven meaningful progress across Nigeria’s public sector.

The highest honour, the Presidential Distinguished Civil Service Career Award, was presented to Engr. (Dr.) Bahijjahtu Hadiza Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control & Environmental Health at the Federal Ministry of Environment.

Meanwhile, Dr Oluwabamidele Ibrahim Kobe, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer at the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, received the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation EPIC Award for his exceptional commitment to administrative excellence and innovative policy implementation.

Other awardees were celebrated across categories, including Digital Transformation, Citizen-Centric Service Delivery, and Leadership in Public Sector Innovation, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering a merit-driven civil service.

In her keynote address, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, lauded the awardees as embodiments of the “quiet achievers” who power Nigeria’s progress.

“Today, we celebrate not just titles, but impact, not positions, but purpose,” she declared.

“These honourees have demonstrated that excellence is not an accident, but a choice, one built on discipline, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving the Nigerian people”, she said.

Mrs Walson-Jack emphasised the critical role of punctuality, accountability, and workplace ethics in driving systemic reform and stressed the importance of discipline in the service.

“Punctuality and regular attendance are not merely procedural requirements; they are foundational to the culture of excellence we must restore and uphold in the Nigerian Civil Service. Reporting to duty by 8:00 a.m. is an expression of respect for the institution, our colleagues, and the citizens we serve. In the future, we must embrace these values as hallmarks of reform and professionalism across the Service”, she said.

Mrs Walson-Jack stated that the event was a powerful reminder for all to reflect and reenergize their commitment to the values that define true public service and called on all to push beyond their limits, strive for higher standards, and dedicate themselves more courageously to excellence and integrity in their work.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation also noted that transformation is not theoretical but is powered daily by quiet achievers and unsung heroes who serve with excellence, integrity, and dedication. She reminded those not recognised this year that their work is not unnoticed, urging all public servants to continue giving their best, upholding merit, and serving the nation with unwavering dedication.

The event, attended by top dignitaries including Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Hon. Sani Bala, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Sector Matters, underscored the government’s resolve to build a citizen-focused, digitally empowered, and performance-driven civil service.

Punctuality, regular attendance: Nigerian govt recognises 18 civil servants

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