Wednesday, July 29, 2026

UK PM Keir Starmer Resigns Amid Labour Revolt as Andy Burnham Emerges as Successor

By
Agency Report
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces his resignation on Monday.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation after mounting pressure from within the Labour Party, bringing an abrupt end to a premiership that began with a landslide election victory in 2024 but gradually became overshadowed by economic challenges, political setbacks and declining public support.

Starmer made the announcement outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, confirming that he would remain as caretaker prime minister until Labour selects a new leader. The resignation comes just two years after he swept to power on promises of stable leadership, economic recovery and renewed public confidence in government.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that his position had become untenable after losing the confidence of a significant portion of Labour lawmakers, particularly following the return of former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to Parliament in a special election victory that many viewed as a catalyst for change within the party.

Addressing the nation, Starmer said: “The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.”

The outgoing prime minister also disclosed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision before making the public announcement.

Starmer’s departure marks yet another chapter in a turbulent period for British politics, making him the sixth UK prime minister in the past decade to leave office before completing a full term. His resignation comes on the eve of the 10th anniversary of the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union, a decision that continues to shape the country’s political and economic landscape.

Attention has quickly shifted to Burnham, who is widely regarded as the overwhelming favourite to succeed Starmer. Burnham confirmed his intention to contest the Labour leadership shortly after the Prime Minister’s announcement.

“I will put myself forward as part of this process,” Burnham said in a statement posted on social media.

His path to the leadership appeared to become even clearer after former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who had been considered Burnham’s strongest potential challenger, publicly endorsed him.

The endorsement has fuelled speculation that Burnham could become Labour leader without a contested election, especially as party rules require candidates to be sitting Members of Parliament. Burnham is expected to be sworn in as an MP later on Monday following his recent parliamentary by-election victory.

Starmer’s resignation follows months of growing dissatisfaction within Labour ranks. Although he secured a commanding electoral victory in July 2024, his government struggled to deliver the economic growth it had promised while facing criticism over public services and the rising cost of living.

His administration was further weakened by a series of controversies, including criticism surrounding the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. Political analysts say Labour has also suffered from losing support to both the Green Party and Reform UK, the anti-immigration party led by Nigel Farage, which has gained momentum in recent opinion polls.

Even before the formal announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on Starmer’s future, linking his departure to disagreements over immigration and energy policy.

“Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of The United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects- IMMIGRATION AND ENERGY (OPEN NORTH SEA OIL!). I wish him well! President DJT,” Trump wrote on his social media platform.

Despite domestic difficulties, Starmer earned significant international recognition during his time in office. He played a prominent role in strengthening European support for Ukraine in its war against Russia and worked closely with allies to navigate diplomatic and economic challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid tribute to the outgoing British leader, thanking him for his support and cooperation.

In a message posted on X, Zelenskyy said Starmer’s efforts and partnership had “helped make our Europe and our protection of life stronger.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also praised Starmer’s international leadership and legacy.

“It can take many leaders years to grow into the statesman you became in just two years,” she wrote. “European and Ukrainian security is stronger because of you. Thank you, dear Keir.”

While many Labour lawmakers have rallied behind Burnham, some members of the party have voiced concerns over the manner of Starmer’s exit. London MP Neil Coyle criticised what he described as “the prospect of an utter stitch-up & the media circus being rewarded.”

Political analysts believe Burnham’s appeal stems largely from his perceived ability to reconnect Labour with voters increasingly drawn to Reform UK and other alternatives. Olivia O’Sullivan of Chatham House said many within the party view Burnham as someone capable of offering a clearer political vision and rebuilding support in areas where Labour’s position has weakened.

However, she cautioned that a change in leadership does not automatically guarantee a significant policy shift.

“It’s absolutely correct that that is not the same thing as offering a radically different set of policies or even a particularly clear policy program,” O’Sullivan said.

Labour nominations for the leadership race are set to open on July 9, with the party aiming to have a new leader in place before Parliament returns from its summer recess on September 1. Should Burnham emerge as the sole candidate, the transition could be completed as early as mid-July, ushering in a new era for Britain’s governing party after one of the most dramatic political upheavals in recent years.

‘We Were Simply Not Ready’: Tunisia Star Admits Huge Gap After Crushing 4-0 World Cup Defeat to Japan

By
Kazeem Busari
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Japan's Ao Tanaka (left) and Tunisia's Ali Abdi (right) during their match on Sunday. Photo: AP

Tunisia’s World Cup campaign descended further into crisis after a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Japan, with defender Ali Abdi delivering a brutally honest assessment of his team’s performance and admitting the North African side was “simply not ready” for the challenges of the tournament.

The heavy loss, which followed Tunisia’s 5-1 thrashing by Sweden in their opening match, leaves the Carthage Eagles with just one goal scored and nine conceded in two games, effectively ending their hopes of progressing beyond the group stage.

Speaking after the defeat, Abdi acknowledged that Tunisia had been comprehensively outplayed by a Japanese side whose pace, organization and clinical finishing exposed the team’s weaknesses throughout the contest.

“Yes, honestly, it’s a very difficult result for us. We knew Japan would be a tough opponent, but losing 4-0 is painful,” he said.

“We made some critical mistakes early on, and at this level, against a team with that kind of quality and speed, you get punished immediately. We tried to react in the second half, but their defensive organization was solid, and we couldn’t break them down.”

Japan dominated the match from the outset and capitalized on Tunisia’s defensive vulnerabilities, scoring four goals in a commanding display that further highlighted the gulf between the two sides.

Abdi pointed to Japan’s rapid transitions and Tunisia’s inability to maintain defensive discipline as key factors behind the defeat.

“Exactly, their counter-attacks and transitions were incredibly fast. We lost focus in key moments, and we didn’t close down the spaces well enough,” he said.

Despite the setback, the Tunisian international insisted the squad must learn from the experience and respond positively.

“But look, this is football. It’s a heavy blow, but we can’t stay down. We have to analyze our mistakes, correct them as a group, and focus on the upcoming games. There is still a long way to go, and we owe it to our fans to show a much better performance next time.”

The player also expressed frustration at what he described as repeated promises of improvement that have failed to materialize on the pitch, stressing that the team must now back words with action.

“If you want to get a result, then everyone has to be at the top of their game. We were not, and we take full responsibility for that. We know there are a lot of people behind us, people who wake up early in the morning to watch and support us.”

“Every time we speak, we say, ‘yes, next time, next time’. But I have to admit, we can’t keep saying that. We need serious reactions and serious conversations.”

In perhaps his most candid remark, Abdi rejected any suggestion that the gap between Tunisia and the stronger teams in the group was insignificant, pointing to the stark statistics from the opening two matches.

“I cannot say the gap is not big [between Tunisia and the others in the group]. We conceded nine goals and scored one in two games. If I stood here and told you the gap was small, I would be lying,” he said.

“The same players did the job six months ago [to qualify], but this is a new competition and new games, and we were simply not ready for it.”

The comments reflect growing concern within Tunisian football following a disastrous World Cup campaign that has seen the team concede goals at an alarming rate and struggle to compete against higher-ranked opponents.

 

 

Gun-Smuggling Network Uncovered as Customs Arrests Three, Seizes ₦3.22bn Contraband

By
Justice Oladapo
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The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations with the interception of three pump-action rifles and the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to an arms smuggling network.

The development was disclosed by the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Wale Adewole, during a press briefing held in Ibadan on June 18, 2026.

Adewole described the seizure of the firearms as one of the Command’s most significant operational achievements in recent months, noting that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network and bring all those involved to justice.

According to him, the operation formed part of intensified intelligence-led enforcement activities across the Command’s area of responsibility.

“The Command is working closely with the Customs Intelligence Unit, Customs Police Unit and the Legal Unit to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attempted smuggling of the firearms and ensure that all persons connected with the unlawful act are brought to justice,” Adewole said.

Beyond the firearms seizure, the Customs boss revealed that officers of the Command intercepted a wide range of prohibited and restricted goods with a cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of more than ₦3.22 billion.

The confiscated items included 1,537 bags of foreign parboiled rice, used clothing, used tyres, pharmaceutical products, cannabis sativa, tramadol, premium motor spirit (PMS), as well as several vehicles allegedly used in smuggling operations.

The seizures, according to the Command, underscore its sustained efforts to combat illicit trade, safeguard public health and security, and protect the nation’s economy from the adverse effects of smuggling.

In a separate intelligence-driven operation conducted in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps in Ibadan, Customs operatives also arrested a suspected recruitment fraudster accused of defrauding members of the public by falsely promising employment opportunities within the Nigeria Customs Service.

Adewole used the opportunity to warn Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent recruitment schemes, emphasizing that recruitment into the Service follows a transparent and officially approved process.

“Recruitment into the NCS is transparent, merit-based and conducted strictly through officially approved channels. Members of the public should disregard individuals who claim to offer employment opportunities in exchange for money,” he stated.

The Acting Area Controller also highlighted the Command’s revenue performance, disclosing that it generated ₦28.5 billion between March and May 2026.

According to the figures released, the Command collected ₦28,503,393,802.75 during the three-month period, representing an eight per cent increase compared to the ₦26,233,796,496.57 generated during the corresponding period in 2025.

The improved revenue performance, coupled with the significant seizures recorded during the period, reflects the Command’s dual focus on trade facilitation and enforcement, as authorities continue to intensify efforts to curb smuggling and strengthen border security.

The latest interception of firearms is expected to heighten concerns about the illegal movement of weapons across the country, even as security agencies step up collaboration to dismantle criminal networks involved in arms trafficking and other transnational crimes.

Ekiti Poll: Oyebanji Hails ‘Historic’ Victory After Sweeping All 16 LGAs, Securing 85% of Votes

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed profound gratitude to voters across the state following his landslide victory in the governorship election, describing the outcome as a historic endorsement of his administration’s policies and development agenda.

In a statement issued after the election, Oyebanji celebrated what he called an unprecedented mandate from the electorate, noting that the result saw his party secure victory in all 16 local government areas of the state while garnering approximately 85 per cent of the popular vote.

The governor attributed the overwhelming support to what he described as an inclusive style of governance focused on human development, stability and broad-based participation across political divides.

“This is the beautiful face of an absolute consensus. I am profoundly grateful to every single citizen who walked into a polling unit yesterday to cast their vote for continuity and stability,” Oyebanji said.

According to the governor, the outcome reflects the confidence of Ekiti residents in the direction of his administration and their desire to sustain ongoing developmental initiatives across the state.

“By delivering a clean sweep across all 16 local governments and entrusting us with 85% of the popular vote, you have shattered records and built an unbreakable wall of unity,” he stated.

Oyebanji described the result as evidence that governance driven by inclusiveness and a focus on the welfare of citizens can transcend partisan boundaries and unite diverse groups behind a common vision.

“This historic milestone proves that when governance is inclusive, personal, and focused entirely on human development, it unites everyone across all political lines,” he said.

The governor also commended voters for the peaceful conduct that characterized the election, thanking residents for their trust in his administration and their commitment to democratic values.

“Thank you for your orderly conduct, your trust, and your unwavering belief in our homegrown vision. This massive victory belongs to you,” he added.

With the election now concluded, Oyebanji pledged to intensify efforts to deliver on his administration’s promises, assuring residents that the renewed mandate would be used to further advance development and prosperity across the state.

“As we transition into this next chapter, I promise to remain your servant leader, working tirelessly every single day to protect your future and expand our state’s prosperity,” the governor said.

The election result represents one of the most decisive victories recorded in Ekiti State’s political history, with Oyebanji’s sweeping performance across all local government areas underscoring his strong political support base and consolidating his position ahead of a new term in office.

Political observers say the scale of the victory is likely to strengthen the governor’s influence within the state and provide momentum for the implementation of his administration’s developmental programmes in the years ahead.

Cerundolo Stuns Defending Champion Tommy Paul to Capture Queen’s Club Title Ahead of Wimbledon

By
Agency Report
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Francisco Cerundolo hits the ball to Tommy Paul in the men's final of the Queen's Club championship in London on Sunday. Photo: AP

Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo produced a remarkable comeback to defeat defending champion Tommy Paul of the United States and claim the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships title in London on Sunday.

The seventh-seeded Argentine rallied from a set down to secure a 6-7 (4), 6-4, 6-3 victory over the eighth-seeded American in a gripping final at the Andy Murray Arena, lifting the ATP 500 trophy and strengthening his credentials ahead of Wimbledon.

Cerundolo showed resilience after narrowly losing a tightly contested opening set in a tiebreak. The Argentine responded with aggressive baseline play and improved consistency in the second set to level the match before taking control in the decider.

The 26-year-old eventually sealed victory on his fifth championship point, capping an impressive week on the grass courts of west London and denying Paul a successful title defence.

The triumph marks Cerundolo’s second ATP title of the 2026 season and the fifth tournament victory of his professional career. It is also his second career title on grass, following his success at Eastbourne in 2023, further underlining his growing reputation as a dangerous player on the surface.

For Paul, the defeat ended his bid for a sixth ATP title and a successful defence of the crown he won in 2024. The American battled strongly throughout the final but was unable to halt Cerundolo’s momentum after the Argentine found his rhythm in the latter stages of the match.

The result also continued Cerundolo’s dominance in their head-to-head meetings, with the Argentine now holding six victories from eight encounters against Paul.

The Queen’s Club Championships, one of the most prestigious grass-court events outside Wimbledon, serves as a key preparation tournament for players ahead of the season’s third Grand Slam.

With Wimbledon set to begin on June 29, Cerundolo’s title-winning run in London is expected to boost his confidence significantly as he heads to the All England Club seeking a deep run at the sport’s most famous tournament.

AP

NCC, CAC Tighten Oversight of Telecom Firms, Mandate Approval for Major Share Transfers

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) have introduced a new regulatory requirement mandating prior approval for significant changes in the ownership structure of telecommunications and communications companies operating in Nigeria.

Under the new directive, any proposed transfer of ownership or control involving 10 per cent or more of the total share capital of a company licensed by the NCC must receive a Letter of No Objection from the telecommunications regulator before such changes can be registered by the CAC.

The policy, which takes immediate effect, was jointly announced by the two agencies as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight, promote fair competition and ensure transparency within Nigeria’s communications sector.

According to the regulators, the requirement is backed by provisions of Section 90 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, Regulation 28(2) of the Competition Practices Regulations 2007, and Regulation 42 of the Licensing Regulations 2019, all of which empower the NCC to review and oversee transactions affecting licensed operators.

The new framework also covers multiple transactions that may individually fall below the threshold but collectively exceed 10 per cent of a licensee’s total share capital. In such cases, prior regulatory clearance from the NCC will still be required before the ownership changes can be legally effected and registered.

As part of the implementation process, the CAC said it would ensure that all requests for changes in shareholding structures involving 10 per cent or more of a telecommunications company’s shares are accompanied by evidence of the NCC’s consent and approval before registration can proceed.

The NCC and CAC explained that the measure is aimed at preserving a fair and competitive market structure in the communications industry by preventing direct or indirect anti-competitive practices that could undermine market stability.

The agencies noted that enhanced scrutiny of significant ownership changes would also strengthen regulatory oversight of the sector, improve transparency, boost investor confidence and provide greater regulatory certainty for stakeholders.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts by regulators to deepen governance standards and strengthen institutional oversight within one of Nigeria’s most strategic economic sectors.

In the joint notice, both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a transparent, stable and competitive business environment, emphasizing that continued collaboration between the NCC and CAC would support the orderly and sustainable growth of the country’s communications industry.

The regulators further stated that they would continue to work together to promote regulatory certainty, ensure fair market practices and safeguard the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications and communications ecosystem.

Japan Crush Tunisia 4-0 to Seal World Cup Statement Win

By
Kazeem Busari
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Tunisia goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen blocks a charge from Japan's Ayase Ueda.jpeg during their match on Sunday. Photo: AP

Japan produced one of the most commanding performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, dismantling Tunisia 4-0 in Guadalupe to boost their knockout-stage ambitions and send the North African side crashing out of the tournament.

The emphatic victory moved Japan level with the Netherlands on both points and goal difference in Group F, while Tunisia’s World Cup campaign came to a premature and disappointing end after suffering a second consecutive heavy defeat.

The result also marked a miserable start for Tunisia’s newly appointed head coach, Hervé Renard, who was drafted in following the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi after the team’s humiliating 5-1 loss to Sweden in their opening match. Renard, renowned for guiding Saudi Arabia to a stunning victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, was unable to inspire a turnaround as Tunisia once again struggled defensively and offered little attacking threat.

Japan wasted little time asserting their dominance and opened the scoring in the fourth minute through Daichi Kamada. A swift attacking move saw Keito Nakamura race to the byline before cutting the ball back into a crowded penalty area, where Kamada arrived to finish and hand the Samurai Blue an early advantage.

The Asian side continued to dictate proceedings and doubled their lead in the 31st minute. Ayase Ueda found himself in acres of space before unleashing a powerful strike that flew beyond Tunisian goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen and into the far corner of the net.

Tunisia showed little sign of mounting a comeback after the interval as Japan maintained their relentless intensity and superior organization. Their third goal arrived in the 69th minute when Ueda turned provider, releasing Junya Ito behind the Tunisian defence. Ito shrugged off a challenge from Ali Ben Hmida before calmly slotting the ball underneath Dahmen to effectively end the contest.

Japan completed the rout six minutes from time. Kaishu Sano surged forward on an overlapping run and delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area, where Ueda rose highest to guide a looping header beyond the desperate efforts of two defenders stationed on the goal line.

The victory highlighted the collective strength and tactical discipline of Hajime Moriyasu’s side, with each goal stemming from fluid team play and incisive attacking combinations. While Japan may not boast the star power of some of the tournament favourites, their energy, pressing game and clinical finishing have made them one of the standout performers in the competition so far.

For Tunisia, the defeat capped a disastrous World Cup campaign. Having already conceded five goals against Sweden in their opening fixture, the Carthage Eagles never recovered and were comprehensively outplayed by a Japanese side that exposed familiar defensive vulnerabilities throughout the match.

Renard’s task of rebuilding confidence within the squad now becomes even more difficult following an early exit that will undoubtedly prompt fresh questions about the direction of Tunisian football.

Japan, meanwhile, have strengthened their credentials as one of the tournament’s potential dark horses. With six goals scored and a commanding display against Tunisia, Moriyasu’s men have sent a strong warning to their Group F rivals and will head into their final group-stage match full of confidence as they seek to secure qualification for the knockout rounds.

Troops Repel ISWAP Assault in Borno, Inflict Heavy Casualties in Air-Ground Counterattack

By
Kazeem Busari
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Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled coordinated attacks launched by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Buratai, Borno State, dealing what military authorities described as significant losses to the insurgents.

The military operation took place in the early hours of June 19, 2026, when ISWAP fighters reportedly launched multiple attacks on troop positions at Dusten Kura and Chara Road in Buratai, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to Operation HADIN KAI, the terrorists’ movements were detected early through intelligence gathering and surveillance, enabling troops to respond swiftly with a coordinated air and ground counteroffensive.

Military authorities said the operation was supported by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, which deployed Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets alongside precision-strike platforms from the Nigerian Air Force. The air support worked in close coordination with ground troops, disrupting the insurgents’ advance and forcing them to retreat from the area.

In a statement on the operation, the military said the coordinated response proved decisive in neutralising the attack and preventing the terrorists from achieving their objectives.

The military further disclosed that no casualties were recorded among troops involved in the operation, while the attackers suffered substantial losses in personnel and equipment during the engagement.

Operation HADIN KAI stated that the latest victory highlights the high level of operational readiness among troops and the growing effectiveness of joint operations between air and ground forces in the North-East theatre.

The command noted that sustained military pressure would continue against terrorist groups operating in the region, emphasizing its determination to deny insurgents freedom of movement and operational space.

The military also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely intelligence capable of assisting ongoing counterterrorism efforts.

Authorities reiterated that Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to maintaining aggressive offensive operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, dismantling insurgent networks and restoring lasting peace and stability across communities in the North-East.

 

Tinubu Orders Security Reinforcement at NIPSS After Deadly Bandit Attack Kills Three Officers

By
Laziz Olatunde
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate and permanent reinforcement of security at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, following a recent bandit attack on the institution’s perimeter that claimed the lives of two soldiers and a police officer.

The directive was conveyed on Friday by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a visit to the institute, where he addressed participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 48 on behalf of the President.

The Vice President said the Federal Government would not allow the attack to undermine the country’s strategic institutions, stressing that urgent measures had been activated to strengthen security at the nation’s foremost policy think tank.

According to Shettima, President Tinubu has instructed the Director General of NIPSS to immediately coordinate with the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to fortify the institution’s perimeter and prevent any recurrence of the incident.

“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR has directed that emergency security measures be activated at once, with the DG to coordinate with the Armed Forces, the Police, and the DSS to fortify the perimeter without delay,” the Vice President said.

He further disclosed that the President had ordered the submission of a comprehensive security reinforcement plan within 72 hours.

“On the President’s order, a comprehensive action plan and timeline for permanent reinforcement, covering surveillance, personnel, access control, and emergency systems, must be submitted to the Office of the Vice President within seventy-two hours. Weekly progress reports will follow until full completion. No future attack must find us unprepared,” Shettima stated.

Describing NIPSS as Nigeria’s strategic intellectual nerve centre, the Vice President said the attack was aimed at spreading fear and disrupting the training of future national leaders but failed because of the courage and discipline demonstrated by participants and security personnel.

“I come to you with a heavy heart and a firm spirit. A banditry attack on the perimeter of NIPSS claimed the lives of two gallant soldiers and one courageous policeman. To their families, to the Nigerian Armed Forces, and to the Nigeria Police Force, I extend, on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the entire Federal Government, our deepest condolences,” he said.

“We mourn with you. We share your pain. And we honour their sacrifice.”

Shettima assured the families of the fallen officers that the Federal Government would take responsibility for their welfare and that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

“Your safety is non-negotiable. The President has directed the immediate reinforcement of security around NIPSS and all strategic institutions. The sacrifice of those three brave men will not be in vain. Their children will be our children. Their welfare will be our responsibility,” he added.

The Vice President also commended participants of the Senior Executive Course for maintaining composure during the attack, saying their response reflected the qualities expected of future national leaders.

“When darkness came to the gates of this Institute, it expected to find people who would scatter into the night. It found instead men and women who stood their ground.

“You did not flee. You did not abandon your colleagues. You faced the worst that cruelty could send, and you answered it with composure, with courage, and with the steady discipline of people who understand exactly why they were summoned to this place,” he said.

Shettima praised the leadership of the Director General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, for his swift response and coordination with security agencies during the crisis.

“In a moment that tested this Institute to its core, your calm command turned crisis into control. On behalf of the President and the nation, I thank you,” the Vice President said.

Earlier, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its prompt response and solidarity with the institute following the attack.

The governor also approved requests by NIPSS management for the creation of a buffer zone around the institution and the installation of security lighting and other protective infrastructure to enhance safety around the facility.

In his remarks, NIPSS Director General, Ayo Omotayo, presented an incident report to the Vice President and appealed for enhanced surveillance infrastructure, including CCTV cameras and additional security personnel.

Omotayo said the incident exposed the vulnerability of critical government institutions and underscored the need for stronger preventive security measures.

Representatives of the Senior Executive Course 48 participants, Dr. Toyin Sanni and Dr. Kabiru Abba, also assured the Vice President that participants remained focused on completing their programme, expressing confidence in the government’s commitment to their safety.

The attack on the NIPSS perimeter has renewed concerns over security around strategic national institutions, even as the Federal Government moves to strengthen protective measures and reassure Nigerians that critical facilities will remain secure against future threats.

Mexico Become First Team to Reach 2026 World Cup Knockout Stage 

By
Agency Report
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Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel stopping a goal bound ball in the game against South Korea on Friday. Photo: AP

Mexico became the first nation to secure a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in Guadalajara on Thursday, sparking jubilant celebrations across the host nation.

A second-half goal from Luis Romo proved decisive as Mexico claimed its second consecutive win of the tournament, guaranteeing top spot in Group A with six points from two matches. The result marked a significant turnaround for El Tri, who suffered a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The breakthrough came in the 50th minute following a costly defensive mix-up by South Korea. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with defender Lee Gi-hyuk while attempting to deal with a ball inside the penalty area, spilling possession into the path of Romo, who calmly slotted into an unguarded net.

The match had largely lacked quality before the goal, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut opportunities. Frustrated fans at Estadio Akron voiced their displeasure by booing both teams as they headed into the halftime break after a goalless first half.

South Korea nearly salvaged a point late in the game, but Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel produced a stunning double save in the 87th minute. He first denied Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header before reacting brilliantly to stop Yang Hyun-jun’s rebound effort with an outstretched arm, preserving Mexico’s lead.

Reflecting on the crucial moment, Rangel said: “It was very quick, it was pure reaction. I couldn’t really tell you what I saw, because I remember the moment of impact with my teammate and me having the ball.”

The victory triggered celebrations across Mexico, with thousands of supporters gathering at Mexico City’s iconic Ángel of Independence monument while motorists in Guadalajara filled the streets, sounding horns, waving flags and chanting in celebration of the national team’s progress.

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre acknowledged that his side had not produced its best performance but praised the team’s ability to capitalize on its opportunity.

“We’ve been doing very well,” Aguirre said. “It wasn’t a great match, but I think that our opponent didn’t let us do too much. But we still were able to score, on that mistake, in addition to another two or three opportunities.”

The veteran coach added that qualifying for the knockout stage on home soil would boost confidence within the squad.

“It relieves some of the pressure,” Aguirre said. “But not for me, for the players. They are euphoric, they are very happy.”

Mexico’s qualification was confirmed after the team moved three points clear of South Korea and five points ahead of both the Czech Republic and South Africa, who earlier played out a 1-1 draw in Atlanta. Under the tournament’s expanded 48-team format, the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advance to the round of 32.

The victory also carried historical significance. Prior to the 2026 World Cup, Mexico had never won a World Cup match on home soil outside Mexico City. Most of its previous home World Cup fixtures during the 1970 and 1986 tournaments were played at the famed Estadio Azteca.

For South Korea, the defeat leaves qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Captain Son Heung-min endured another frustrating outing and was substituted in the 57th minute. The 33-year-old forward, playing in his fourth World Cup, remains on three career World Cup goals as he seeks to become South Korea’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo lamented the error that led to Mexico’s winning goal.

“The mistake that we made was unfortunate,” he said.

Despite late pressure and several dangerous attacks, the Asian side was unable to find an equalizer and now faces a must-win encounter against South Africa in Monterrey.

The match attracted a crowd of 45,522 spectators at the 45,664-capacity Estadio Akron, making it one of the best-attended fixtures of the tournament so far. The occasion was not without controversy, however, as some fan zones in Mexico witnessed the return of a homophobic chant that has previously resulted in FIFA sanctions against the country.

Meanwhile, peaceful demonstrations organized by families of Mexico’s more than 130,000 missing persons took place in Guadalajara, adding a social dimension to a day otherwise dominated by football celebrations.

Mexico will conclude its Group A campaign against the Czech Republic in Mexico City on Wednesday, while South Korea faces South Africa in a crucial clash that could determine its World Cup future.

AP

 

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