Sunday, April 19, 2026

AFCON 2025: Senegal Held to 1–1 Draw by DR Congo in Tangier

By
Justice Oladapo
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Senegal forward Sadio Mana. Credit: CAFOnline

Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign continued with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a thrilling Group D encounter at the Stade de Tanger, leaving the group tightly poised ahead of the final round of matches.

In front of a lively crowd, DR Congo took the lead early in the second half through Cédric Bakambu after sustained pressure but Senegal responded with trademark resilience. Eight minutes later, superstar Sadio Mané was on hand to level the score with a composed finish after substitute Ibrahim Mbaye initiated the move with a surging run down the right flank.

The point keeps both teams level at the top of Group D, with Senegal holding four points and DR Congo matching them on goal difference. Both nations now have one eye on the final group fixtures, with Benin and Botswana also in the mix for qualification.

Mané, who has been a driving force for Senegal, acknowledged the challenge posed by the Leopards. “One point is not too bad as our opponents DR Congo were determined and played very well. They were good and compact in defence, they did not take any unnecessary risks, so they also deserve the one point,” Mané said after the match. “We are not completely unhappy as AFCON is always tough. It was a tough match and in this competition you cannot underrate any team.”

Senegal dominated much of the first half and created several good opportunities, with forward Nicolas Jackson going close early on and a free-kick from Mané narrowly missing the target. However, DR Congo’s organised defending kept the Teranga Lions at bay until Bakambu capitalised on a rebound to give his side the advantage.

DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre praised his players’ effort after the draw. “We came here to compete and we showed our quality. The team showed great resilience,” he said. “To get a point against a team like Senegal is something we can be proud of.”

The stalemate sets up a dramatic final set of group matches on Tuesday, with Senegal facing Benin and DR Congo taking on Botswana, both games likely to determine who advances to the knockout stages of AFCON 2025.

AFCON 2025: Benin Make History With First-Ever AFCON Victory Over Botswana

By
Justice Oladapo
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Benin celebrate victory against Botswana on Saturday. Credit: CAFOnline

Benin recorded a landmark victory at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, edging Botswana 1–0 to secure their first ever win in the history of the continental showpiece.

The decisive moment came in the 28th minute at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium when defender Yohan Roche capitalised on a quick interchange with captain Steve Mounié to fire a looping effort that took a deflection off a defender and drifted past Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko. The solitary goal proved enough to give Benin a famous triumph after years of trying at AFCON finals.

Roche, visibly emotional after the match, described the achievement as a dream come true for both himself and his nation. “It is a source of immense pride,” the left-back said. “We were aware of the people’s expectations, and we managed to stay focused to secure the win. This goal is particularly touching for me, especially after the difficulties of the first match. It was an immense joy to score the winning goal for Benin in front of my family, who are here in Morocco.”

This historic victory ended Benin’s long wait for their first AFCON finals win after 15 previous matches without success — a run dating back to their tournament debut in 2004. The result lifts Benin to three points in Group D, level with Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) ahead of the group’s final round of games.

Botswana, meanwhile, suffered their second consecutive defeat at the tournament. The Zebras offered only sporadic attacking threat, though midfielder Mothusi Johnson came close to an equaliser shortly after Benin’s goal when his superb free-kick came back off the crossbar.

Benin’s coach Gernot Rohr hailed the win as a reflection of his team’s progress and determination. “This victory is important to us because it gives us a chance to qualify for the next round,” Rohr said. “We proved today that we have progressed defensively. We didn’t concede many opportunities and we recovered well, especially on the offensive end.”

Botswana’s coach Morena Ramoreboli lamented missed opportunities but praised his side’s courage. “In the first 45 minutes, we got one opportunity which I think we should have buried,” he said. “We created chances, but we did not really get the penetration or create real opportunities to score.”

Undetonated Bombs, Farmland Damage Follow US Strikes in Sokoto

By
Kazeem Busari
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A series of United States-launched airstrikes targeting ISIS militant positions in Sokoto State has left unexploded ordnance scattered across farmland and triggered concern among residents and community leaders, even as both the U.S. and Nigerian governments insist the operations were precise and part of coordinated counter-terrorism efforts.

The precision strikes, carried out in the early hours of December 26, were authorised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and executed with support from Nigeria’s military, according to statements by the Federal Government and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. The government said the attacks were aimed at dense pockets of Islamic State operatives infiltrating from the Sahel region, using the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area as staging grounds for planned attacks.

Minister Mohammed Idris said the precision strikes deployed 16 GPS-guided munitions via MQ-9 Reaper drones, targeting two major ISIS enclaves and conducted under Nigeria’s established command structures. He confirmed that no civilian casualties were reported, and debris from expended munitions fell both in Jabo, Sokoto State, and Offa in Kwara State. “The Federal Government reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and eliminate terrorist threats,” Idris added, urging citizens to remain calm.

However, local residents in Sokoto State described a very different experience on the ground. Many villagers reported hearing loud explosions that “shook the whole town,” sowing fear across Jabo and neighbouring rural communities.

Journalists who visited the impact site confirmed that no casualties occurred, and local health facilities reported no patients linked to the strike, with only impact points and debris fragments visible in fields.

The situation also raised alarm after late-night explosions in Offa, Kwara State, where an undetonated explosive device was discovered near a praying ground and a hotel, prompting police to cordon off affected areas. While authorities have not officially linked those blasts to the Sokoto strikes, residents and local officials are investigating possible connections as security agencies monitor developments.

SGF George Akume Marries Ooni of Ife’s Ex-Wife in Private Ceremony

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has tied the knot with Zaynab Ngohemba, who was formerly married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Akume family has confirmed.

The marriage was formally announced by the Akume Dajoh family, describing the union as a joyous occasion celebrated among close family and friends. While official details of the ceremony’s location remain closely held, widely circulated photos from the event suggest the couple may have wed in Venice, Italy, with scenes of elegantly attired guests, radiant smiles and intimate family gatherings.

“Today, we celebrate not only a union of hearts but the joining of two families,” said a statement by a senior member of the Akume Dajoh family. “We pray for abundant blessings, peace and happiness as George and Zaynab begin this new chapter together.”

Zaynab, a well-known philanthropist, was previously married to the Ooni of Ife for 17 months until their separation in 2017. In the years since, she has been actively involved in charitable initiatives and was based for some time in Qatar, where she built a reputation for supporting education and women-focused empowerment programmes.

The announcement has generated a mix of reactions online. Many Nigerians and members of the diplomatic, political and social circles have extended congratulations to the couple, celebrating the union as a joyful personal milestone for two high-profile figures in public life.

A spokesperson for the couple said: “We kindly ask that the privacy and dignity of the newlyweds be respected at this special time. Queen Zaynab and Mr. Akume appreciate the goodwill and prayers from friends, colleagues and well-wishers.”

George Akume, a veteran politician and public servant, has served in various prominent capacities, including as governor of Benue State and Senate Leader before his current role as SGF. His leadership within the government has often centred on institutional reforms and policy coordination across ministries.

Queen Zaynab, known for her grace and charitable involvement, has been admired by many for her commitment to social causes. Her work in supporting educational and healthcare initiatives has earned her recognition both within Nigeria and abroad.

Mali Halt Morocco’s World-Record 19-Match Winning Run in 1-1 AFCON Draw

By
Justice Oladapo
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Hosts **Morocco saw their world-record 19-match winning streak come to an end after being held to a dramatic 1–1 draw by Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Friday night. The result not only prevented the Atlas Lions from clinching early qualification for the knockout stages but also underscored the growing competitive tension in Group A.

The match unfolded as a tale of two penalties. Morocco seized the lead deep into first-half stoppage time when Brahim Díaz coolly converted from the spot following a VAR review after a handball inside the box, sending the home crowd into jubilant celebration.

But Mali, showing resilience and tactical discipline, responded early in the second half. In the 64th minute, Lassine Sinayoko was brought down by a Morocco defender, and after another VAR check, the referee awarded a penalty. Sinayoko kept his composure to dispatch a precise spot-kick, restoring parity and ensuring Mali left Rabat with a valuable point.

The draw leaves Morocco top of Group A with four points after two matches, but crucially they have not yet secured a place in the last 16. Mali sit second on two points, level with Zambia, while Comoros remain on one point ahead of the final group matches.

The stalemate also marked a historical moment for the Atlas Lions. Their run of 19 consecutive victories — the longest in international men’s football — had been extended from their 2–0 opening win over Comoros earlier in the tournament. That streak surpassed previous records and had generated optimism among fans that Morocco might carry that momentum deep into the competition.

While the result was a setback, Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui praised his players for their effort but admitted the team could not quite close out the victory. “We created chances and dominated large periods, but football is about taking your opportunities,” Regragui said. “Mali dug in, and they deserved to come away with something from the game.”

Mali coach Tom Saintfiet hailed his side’s resolve in neutralising one of Africa’s most in-form teams. “Our players showed heart and discipline. Getting this result against the hosts and a team with such confidence will give us belief,” Saintfiet said.

The point keeps Morocco well-placed to advance, but the hosts now face increased pressure as they must confirm progression with a result against Zambia in their final group fixture. Meanwhile, Mali will look to capitalise on this performance when they take on Comoros — a result that could prove decisive in their own qualification aspirations.

 

(With Agency Reports)

Salah Penalty Seals Egypt’s 1–0 Win Over South Africa

By
Justice Oladapo
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Egypt secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over South Africa in a Group B showdown at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025, with captain Mohamed Salah converting a first-half penalty to send the Pharaohs into the knockout rounds.

The match, played at Le Grand Stade d’Agadir, was tightly contested throughout, but it was Salah’s cool finish from the penalty spot late in the first half that made the difference. The spot kick was awarded after a VAR review ruled that South African defender Khuliso Mudau had clipped Salah in the box, a decision that sparked debate after the final whistle.

Salah’s strike, his second goal of the tournament, proved decisive and was enough to keep record seven-time AFCON champions Egypt unbeaten in Group B. The win took Egypt to 6 points, topping the group, while South Africa remained on 3 points following their earlier victory over Angola.

The game took an additional twist when Egyptian right-back Mohamed Hany was sent off just before halftime after receiving his second yellow card, leaving the Pharaohs to defend with ten men for the entire second half. Despite being under sustained pressure — with South Africa dominating possession and creating multiple chances — Egypt held firm, thanks in part to resilient defending and saves from goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy.

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos was critical of the penalty decision in his post-match comments, labelling it “ridiculous.” He said even Salah himself expressed surprise at the award. “Even Salah said to me after the game that he was surprised it was a penalty,” Broos said, arguing that South Africa had also been denied a penalty late in the contest after a lengthy VAR check.

Broos added that his side dominated much of the match, particularly in the second half, but lacked the final cutting edge needed to break down a determined Egyptian rearguard. “We created opportunities and showed quality, but football sometimes comes down to small margins,” he said.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan praised his team’s resilience under pressure, especially after going down to ten players. “We showed great character to defend our lead and secure qualification,” Hassan said, according to post-match summaries. “This is the level of performance required in a tournament like AFCON.”

The victory ensured Egypt’s place in the round of 16, reinforcing their credentials as strong contenders for a record-extending eighth AFCON crown. Salah’s goal continues his strong tournament start, following his last-gasp winner in Egypt’s opening 2–1 triumph over Zimbabwe.

South Africa, meanwhile, must regroup ahead of their final group match, where a positive result could still see them advance as one of the best runners-up. Both teams now look toward their respective concluding fixtures in Group B, with Angola and Zimbabwe still very much alive in the hunt for progression.

 

(With Agency Reports)

Police Smash Criminal Networks, Arrest 22 Suspects in Coordinated Multi-State Operations

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational gains following a series of intelligence-driven raids across multiple states, leading to the arrest of 22 suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, car snatching, impersonation and drug trafficking.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Force said the operations were carried out by operatives of its Special Tactical Squad, acting on credible intelligence to dismantle organised criminal networks operating across state lines. The coordinated actions, according to the police, underscore renewed efforts to curb violent crime and economic sabotage nationwide.

During the raids, operatives recovered six firearms, including AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, a sub-machine gun, a pump-action gun and an LAR rifle, alongside assorted ammunition. The police also seized several vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other incriminating exhibits believed to have been used in the commission of various crimes.

A major breakthrough was recorded along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, where operatives intercepted 13 brand-new motorcycles suspected to be linked to criminal logistics. A suspect connected to economic sabotage was arrested at the scene, with investigations ongoing to trace the source and intended use of the motorcycles.

In the Federal Capital Territory, police operatives apprehended an escapee from the Kuje Custodial Centre, while another suspect was arrested for impersonating a police officer. Similar operations led to additional arrests in Edo, Lagos, Ogun and Nasarawa States, further disrupting criminal activities across the regions.

Commending the officers involved, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised their professionalism and resolve, describing the outcome as evidence of effective intelligence-led policing. “These successes demonstrate the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, dismantling criminal networks and sustaining nationwide security operations,” Egbetokun said.

The IGP also called on members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts. “We urge citizens to provide timely and credible information to assist ongoing operations. Policing is a collective responsibility, and public cooperation remains critical to achieving lasting security,” he added.

The police said all suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, as the Force intensifies operations to rid communities of criminal elements across the country.

Israel Becomes First Country to Recognise Somaliland as Independent State

By
Kazeem Busari
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

In a landmark development with far-reaching geopolitical implications, Israel has officially recognised the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, ending the breakaway region’s three-decade quest for international legitimacy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition on Friday, formalising the historic decision.

“It is with great pride that we announce today the official recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state,” Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. The declaration, which was signed virtually by the three leaders, marks the first time a United Nations member state has recognised Somaliland since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991.

Netanyahu described the move as “seminal and historic,” reflecting deepening ties between the two nations. He congratulated President Abdullahi for his leadership and commitment to stability, peace, and prosperity in the Horn of Africa and extended an official invitation for him to visit Israel. “We intend to work together on economic development, agriculture, health, technology, and strengthening bilateral cooperation,” the Israeli leader said.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi welcomed the recognition, calling it a “historic moment” for Somaliland and a vindication of its decades-long pursuit of statehood. Abdullahi expressed gratitude to Netanyahu and Sa’ar for their decision, underscoring that the recognition would help advance not only diplomatic standing but also economic growth and regional stability. He said the move would deepen cooperation between the two nations, particularly in sectors critical to development.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar highlighted that the agreement follows a year of sustained dialogue between Israel and Somaliland. He said relations would extend beyond formal recognition to include the establishment of embassies and the appointment of ambassadors, further institutionalising ties between the countries. Sa’ar said the partnership aims to promote bilateral relations, foster regional stability, and create broad economic opportunities.

The declaration was framed by Israeli officials as part of diplomatic progress inspired by the Abraham Accords, the U.S.-brokered normalization agreements that began in 2020 under President Donald Trump. According to Israeli sources, the recognition aligns with initiatives to expand Israel’s diplomatic footprint and strategic partnerships across Africa and the broader Middle East.

Since its unilateral declaration of independence in 1991, Somaliland has operated as a de facto independent republic, maintaining its own government, security forces, currency, and democratic institutions. Despite this, it has struggled to achieve formal recognition, largely due to Somalia’s insistence that it remains part of its sovereign territory and broader international reluctance to set precedents for secessionist regions.

The move has already elicited regional and international responses. Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti have condemned Israel’s decision, warning that recognising breakaway regions undermines territorial integrity and could destabilise regional peace. Their statements reaffirmed support for Somalia’s sovereignty and signalled diplomatic pushback against unilateral recognition of Somaliland.

Despite opposition from some quarters, the Somaliland government views Israel’s recognition as a turning point in its diplomatic strategy. For years, Somaliland leaders—including President Abdullahi—have actively campaigned for global recognition, positioning the territory as a stable, democratic partner in a volatile region. In May 2025, Abdullahi reiterated his determination to secure recognition from the international community, describing it as a central goal of his presidency.

The agreements signed on Friday envisage future cooperation in key areas such as trade, technology, agriculture, and health, potentially transforming Somaliland’s economic landscape and contributing to its prospects for broader diplomatic acceptance.

Christmas Day Strikes: US, Nigeria Target ISIS Strongholds in Sokoto

By
Kazeem Busari
-

The United States carried out airstrikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) militants in northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day, President Donald Trump announced, saying the action was aimed at halting what he described as widespread killings of Christians by extremists. The operation, conducted in Sokoto State, was confirmed by both the U.S. military’s Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of ongoing security cooperation between the two nations.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said, “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries!” He added that he had previously warned the militants that “if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was.” Trump also posted, “May God Bless our Military…MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, including the dead Terrorists,” signaling potential follow-on action if the violence continued.

AFRICOM said the strikes were carried out “at the request of Nigerian authorities” and targeted multiple ISIS militants, though specific casualty figures have not been publicly released. The command’s statement on X noted the operation was conducted in Sokoto State, where ISIS affiliates — including factions of the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) — have been active.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the strikes in its own statement, emphasising that the actions resulted from structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, to counter terrorism and violent extremism. The ministry said the collaboration involved intelligence sharing and strategic coordination carried out in accordance with international law and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.

A spokesperson for the ministry, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, reiterated that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts prioritise the protection of all civilians — Christians, Muslims and others — and uphold national unity. “Terrorist violence in any form — whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities — remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the statement said.

The coordinated action follows weeks of increasingly sharp public criticism by Trump of Nigeria’s handling of violence attributed to militant groups. The U.S. President, who has previously labelled the situation a “genocide” against Christians and even threatened to cut aid or deploy military force, framed the strikes as part of a broader effort to defend religious communities. Senior U.S. defense officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, praised the collaboration with Nigerian authorities and warned of further operations if extremist attacks persist.

While the Trump administration has placed Nigeria on a list of countries of particular concern under the International Religious Freedom Act, Nigerian officials have consistently rejected characterisations of the violence as singularly targeting Christians. Abuja has maintained that extremist attacks affect people of diverse faiths and that the security crisis reflects complex insurgencies involving numerous armed groups. Nonetheless, the government welcomed the precision nature of the strikes within the framework of bilateral cooperation.

The joint operation highlights the complex and evolving security landscape in Nigeria, where multiple militant groups, including ISIS affiliates and Boko Haram factions, continue to pose threats across vast swathes of the country. Nigeria has been battling insurgency and violent extremism for more than a decade, with civilians from many backgrounds bearing the brunt of the conflict.

As investigations continue, Nigeria said it will sustain and deepen collaboration with international partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their funding and logistics, and strengthen the country’s security institutions and intelligence capabilities.

Presidency Denies Reports of Gbajabiamila’s Replacement as Chief of Staff

By
Kazeem Busari
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right) with Femi Gbajabiamila

The Presidency has dismissed as false a viral claim circulating on social media that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with the Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the report as a fabrication and urged Nigerians to ignore it completely.

“There is absolutely no truth to this story. We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely,” Onanuga said, reacting to the widespread online speculation.

He clarified that there has been no change in the leadership structure of the Presidency, stressing that both officials remain in their respective positions. “The Chief of Staff remains in his position. The Principal Private Secretary likewise remains in his role. Hakeem Muri-Okunola has not replaced Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff,” the statement read.

The Presidency accused the originators of the report of deliberately spreading misinformation to sow discord within the government. According to Onanuga, the claim was “a fabrication by mischievous purveyors of fake news whose sole aim is to create disharmony within the government.”

He also used the opportunity to caution the media and social media users against amplifying unverified information. “We reiterate that news media should always verify their information before publishing or sharing on social media,” Onanuga said.

The clarification comes amid heightened public interest in developments within President Tinubu’s administration, with the Presidency reaffirming that its top aides remain firmly in place and that no changes have been made to the office of the Chief of Staff.

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