Friday, July 31, 2026

Norway Plans Under-16 Social Media Ban, Following Australia’s Landmark Law

By
Agency Report
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The government of Norway has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media, joining a growing global push to regulate youth access to digital platforms and protect mental wellbeing.

Officials confirmed that a bill will be presented to parliament before the end of 2026, placing responsibility on technology companies to enforce strict age verification systems. The move mirrors the pioneering step taken by Australia, which introduced a world-first ban on under-16 social media use in December 2025.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the policy is aimed at preserving childhood experiences in an increasingly digital world. “We are introducing this legislation because we want a childhood where children get to be children,” he said, adding that “play, friendships, and everyday life must not be taken over by algorithms and screens.”

The proposed law is expected to cover major platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube and X, although authorities have yet to publish a definitive list. Under the framework, tech companies—not users or parents—will bear the legal burden of ensuring compliance through effective age verification systems.

Norway’s Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance, Karianne Tung, reinforced this position, stating that responsibility cannot fall on children alone. “Children cannot be left with the responsibility for staying away from platforms they are not allowed to use,” she said, stressing that companies “must implement effective age verification and comply with the law from day one.”

The proposal comes amid increasing global concern over the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, safety, and development. Governments across Europe, Asia, and the Americas are considering similar restrictions, with countries such as France, Denmark, and Spain exploring age limits, while others are introducing parental controls and usage curbs.

Australia’s earlier ban, which imposes heavy fines on companies that fail to prevent underage access, has become a reference point for policymakers worldwide, though enforcement challenges remain a subject of debate among tech firms and regulators.

NNPC Raises Alarm Over Fake Refinery Scrap Sales, Warns Public Against Fraudsters

By
Kazeem Busari
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The NNPC Limited has issued a public warning over what it describes as fraudulent claims circulating about the sale of refinery scrap materials and equipment, distancing itself from any such transactions and cautioning Nigerians against falling victim to scams.

In an official statement, the company said reports suggesting it is selling scrap metals, refinery components, or warehouse inventory to individuals or private firms are “misleading and false.” It stressed that it has not initiated or approved any process involving bids, tenders, or expressions of interest for the disposal of such assets.

NNPC also disclosed that it has received intelligence about individuals impersonating its representatives or agents, claiming to facilitate access to so-called refinery scrap for sale. According to the company, these actors are not authorised and are deliberately attempting to deceive unsuspecting members of the public.

“The Company wishes to categorically state that this information is untrue,” NNPC said, adding that it “has not issued any request for bids, tenders, expressions of interest, or approvals for the sale of scrap materials, refinery components, or any items from the warehouses or inventories of any of its refineries.”

The warning comes amid growing concerns about fraud schemes targeting businesses and investors within Nigeria’s energy sector, with scammers exploiting the reputation of major institutions to lend credibility to their claims.

NNPC urged the public, corporate organisations, and industry stakeholders to disregard any unsolicited offers or claims related to the sale of refinery assets and to exercise due diligence in all dealings. It reiterated that any legitimate disposal of assets would follow clearly defined and transparent procedures.

“For the avoidance of doubt, NNPC Limited is not conducting, nor has it authorised, any sale of scrap metals, equipment, or refinery components from any of its facilities,” the company stated.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, further emphasized that all official transactions would be publicly communicated through verified company channels and conducted in line with regulatory requirements.

NNPC also encouraged members of the public who encounter such fraudulent approaches to report them to law enforcement agencies, as part of efforts to curb the spread of scams.

Ghana Summons South African Envoy Over Xenophobia, Demands Protection for Nationals

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Government of Ghana has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa, Mr. Thando Dalamba, over renewed xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, in parts of South Africa.

In a statement issued in Accra on April 23, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ghana) confirmed that the envoy was called in by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to formally register Ghana’s strong concern over reports of harassment and intimidation captured in widely circulated videos.

Ablakwa highlighted a specific incident in KwaZulu-Natal Province, where a Ghanaian national legally residing in the country was confronted and asked to prove his immigration status before being told to leave and “fix his country.” The minister described such actions as unacceptable, stating they “undermine the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals.”

The Ghanaian government also raised alarm over indications of rising tension, noting that some foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, have reportedly been advised to remain indoors for their safety. While no fatalities or injuries have been recorded in the current wave of incidents, Ablakwa warned against complacency, recalling that past xenophobic attacks in South Africa had resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.

He stressed the deep historical ties between both nations, referencing Ghana’s role in supporting South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle and the legacy of Kwame Nkrumah. According to the minister, “the unprovoked harassment and attacks on law-abiding individuals are contrary to the principles of African solidarity and unity,” adding that Africans must avoid actions that undermine peaceful coexistence across the continent.

Ghana has formally lodged a protest and called on South African authorities to take immediate and effective measures to guarantee the safety of its citizens. The demands include swift intervention to prevent further escalation and firm assurances that such incidents will not recur.

Responding to the concerns, Dalamba acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and assured that the South African government is actively addressing the issue. He indicated that authorities are working to restore calm, with law enforcement agencies closely monitoring developments and taking steps to hold those responsible accountable.

Fenerbahçe Moves to Block Osimhen From Derby, Sparks Rule Row Ahead of Title Clash

By
Justice Oladapo
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Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen in training on Friday ahead of Saturday's Fenerbahçe clash. Photo: Galatasaray.

Tensions are escalating ahead of the Istanbul derby as Fenerbahçe S.K. has formally requested the disqualification of Victor Osimhen, citing safety concerns and the Laws of the Game set by the International Football Association Board.

The petition, submitted to the Turkish Football Federation, centers on the protective arm brace worn by the Galatasaray striker following a recent injury. Fenerbahçe argues that the equipment could pose a risk to opposing players and is reportedly preparing a detailed submission assessing whether the materials comply with IFAB regulations.

The controversy comes just days before the high-stakes clash between Galatasaray S.K. and Fenerbahçe, a fixture that could prove decisive in the Turkish Süper Lig title race. Galatasaray currently leads the standings, and a victory in the derby would all but seal the championship, while a win for Fenerbahçe would keep the title race alive heading into the final weeks of the season.

Osimhen, who sustained a fractured arm during a UEFA Champions League match earlier in the season, has been playing with a specially designed protective brace approved after consultations with European football authorities. However, Fenerbahçe maintains that the device raises safety questions under IFAB provisions governing player equipment.

The dispute has added another layer of intrigue to one of football’s fiercest rivalries, with off-field tensions now matching the stakes on the pitch. Galatasaray, for their part, have pushed back against the growing controversy, insisting that all medical and regulatory procedures were followed in clearing Osimhen to play.

Olaitan Eyes Turkish Cup Glory as Beşiktaş Storm Into Semi-Finals

By
Kazeem Busari
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Beşiktaş midfielder Junior Olaitan (left) in action against Alanyaspor on Thursday. Photo: Beşiktaş JK

Beşiktaş J.K. powered into the semi-finals of the Turkish Cup with an emphatic victory over Alanyaspor, but it was the post-match remarks of Junior Olaitan that captured the team’s hunger for silverware.

Backed by a packed home crowd, the Black Eagles set the tone early in the knockout clash, taking the lead in the 17th minute through El Bilal Touré, who finished from close range after sustained attacking pressure. Beşiktaş maintained control throughout the contest and turned dominance into goals late in the second half, with Hyeongyu Oh and Orkun Kökçü finding the net to seal a comprehensive win and end Alanyaspor’s cup run.

While the result confirmed Beşiktaş’s place in the last four, Olaitan’s reaction reflected a squad already looking beyond the semi-finals. “It was a good match on our behalf. We’re happy, we made it to the semifinals,” he said after the game, before quickly shifting focus to the bigger objective. “I hope we can continue like this, after the semis and into the final, and win the cup. This is the most important.”

The forward also highlighted his personal determination to maximise opportunities within the squad, underlining a mentality built on resilience and consistency. “I’m trying to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way on the field,” Olaitan said, adding that the team’s late goals triggered an emotional surge. “We experienced this burst of emotion in the second and third goals.”

Olaitan further reinforced his commitment to the club, emphasizing the intensity and responsibility that comes with representing Beşiktaş. “This is part of the game, this is why I’m a player. I’m ready to fight for every ball. I’m here to fight for this badge, for this community, for this big team,” he said. Reflecting on his own display, he added, “I think I had a good game, and I hope I continue like this until the end of the season.”

Spike Lee Directs Arsenal’s ‘Who Are Ya?’ Film Featuring Thierry Henry in Culture-Driven Fan Story

By
Justice Oladapo
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Spike Lee (left) and Thiery Henry. Credit: Arsenal.com

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Spike Lee has collaborated with Arsenal FC for the first time to direct Who Are Ya?, a new short film that blends football culture with sharp commentary on the modern game’s financial realities.

The production features a mix of actors, supporters, and club icons, including Thierry Henry, Rachel Yankey, and Aaron Pierre, alongside appearances from Arsenal legend Martin Keown, actor Jasmine Jobson, and current players Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhães, and Viktor Gyökeres.

At first glance, the film mirrors the familiar atmosphere of football debates in pubs across England, with animated exchanges and clashing opinions. However, as the narrative unfolds, it pivots into deeper conversations around financial systems and the business of football, highlighting the evolving sophistication of supporters’ understanding of the game beyond the pitch.

Directed in Lee’s signature style, Who Are Ya? incorporates his iconic “double dolly” shot technique, notably featuring Henry, while weaving humour, cultural references, and dialogue rooted in Arsenal’s fan culture. The film ultimately presents supporters as not just passionate followers, but informed voices in discussions about football finance and governance.

Speaking about the project, Lee underscored his long-standing connection to the club and the inspiration behind the film. “I’ve been riding with Arsenal for years – it started with Thierry. But what really stayed with me is what the club stands for, its history, its culture, the way it reflects the world beyond the pitch,” he told Arsenal.com. He added, “With Who Are Ya?, I wanted to capture that real supporter energy—the passion, the debates, the humour. Fans today don’t just follow the game, they understand everything around it too.”

Lee also noted the integration of Arsenal’s partner into the narrative, explaining that “bringing Airwallex into that conversation felt natural, because the film plays on how fans now talk about the business side of football just as much as what happens on the pitch. This film is about that voice, that culture, and that community” (Arsenal.com).

Matt Jennings, Global Creative Director at Airwallex, said the campaign was designed to resonate authentically with supporters. “Let’s be honest – most Arsenal supporters haven’t heard of Airwallex, and we didn’t want to be a random logo on a perimeter board; so we decided to introduce our Arsenal partnership in a way supporters couldn’t ignore,” he said, as quoted by Arsenal.com. He added, “Football isn’t just 90 minutes on the pitch – it’s the talk about money, business, and tactics that happen at the pub every week.”

Arsenal’s Chief Commercial Officer Juliet Slot emphasized the broader objective of the collaboration, highlighting fan engagement and global connection. “Our partnerships are at their best when, together with partners like Airwallex, we lift our supporters and bring them closer to us,” she said (Arsenal.com). “Who Are Ya? is a celebration of the incredible passion of our community, and how we can use our shared platforms to connect us wherever we are in the world.”

The film marks a unique intersection of sport, cinema, and commerce, reinforcing Arsenal’s effort to deepen its cultural footprint while engaging a global fanbase increasingly attuned to both the emotional and financial dimensions of football.

Elephant Rampage in Oyo Leaves One Dead, Another Missing

By
Fortune Temitope
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Exhibits of the attack. Credit: Oyo Police Command

Tragedy struck Innayin community in Oyo State on Thursday after a wild elephant reportedly invaded the area, killing one resident and leaving another missing, prompting an emergency response from security agencies.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed that the incident occurred at about 3:30pm, following a distress call from residents. Police operatives, working alongside local vigilantes and hunters, were immediately deployed to contain the situation and secure the community.

On arrival at the scene, responders discovered the lifeless body of 45-year-old Ibrahim Tijani in a nearby bush. Authorities said the injuries found on the victim were consistent with an attack by a wild animal. His remains have since been evacuated to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile for medical examination and preservation.

Amid ongoing operations, concern has deepened over the disappearance of another resident, identified as 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, who was reportedly last seen during an encounter with the same elephant. Police say intensive search efforts are currently underway to locate him.

The Police Command has reassured residents of Innayin and surrounding communities that the situation is under control, with measures being implemented to prevent further casualties. Authorities have urged members of the public to steer clear of affected areas and promptly report any sightings of the animal.

While efforts to neutralize the threat continue, officials emphasized the need to handle the situation in compliance with wildlife protection regulations. The National Park Service Nigeria has been engaged to provide technical expertise on safely managing the incident.

Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, appealed for calm as security agencies intensify operations in the area. “We understand the concerns this incident has generated within the community. Our officers are fully on ground working with relevant stakeholders to secure the area and prevent further casualties. We appeal to residents to remain calm, avoid the affected locations, and continue to cooperate with the police and other authorities as we work to bring the situation under control in a safe and professional manner,” he said.

The Command also commended residents for their cooperation so far, urging continued collaboration with law enforcement as efforts persist to safeguard lives and restore normalcy in the affected community.

Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval for $516m Loan to Fund Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway

By
Laziz Olatunde
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approached the Nigerian Senate for approval to secure a $516.3 million foreign syndicated loan to finance critical phases of the proposed Sokoto–Badagry superhighway, a flagship infrastructure project under his administration.

The request, conveyed in a letter read on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Thursday, seeks legislative backing in line with Sections 16 and 21 of the Debt Management Office (Establishment) Act, 2011. The facility is expected to be arranged by Deutsche Bank AG and will fund Sections 1, Phase 1A and 1B of the highway project.

In the communication, Tinubu described the 1,000-kilometre road as a central pillar of his Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at boosting economic integration and improving transport efficiency across Nigeria. He stated that the project is designed “to enhance national connectivity, reduce travel time, and improve the movement of goods across key economic corridors.”

The proposed superhighway will traverse multiple states, linking Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos, and stretching from Illela in the northwest to Badagry on the Atlantic coast. According to the president, the financing structure includes a partial risk guarantee from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit, while the Federal Government will contribute over ₦265 billion in counterpart funding to cover land acquisition, compensation, and associated infrastructure.

Tinubu further disclosed that the loan has a tenure of nine years, including a three-year grace period, with interest tied to the Chicago Mercantile Exchange SOFR plus 5.3 percent annually. He noted that the Federal Executive Council has already approved the financing plan, paving the way for legislative consideration.

Following the presentation, Akpabio referred the request to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, mandating it to report back within one week. Endorsing the borrowing plan, the Senate President said it is “better to borrow for projects to improve road safety and foster national integration,” underscoring the strategic importance of the highway.

Nigeria Targets Diaspora Talent Pipeline as Committee Unveils Plan for National Intermediate Games

By
Kazeem Busari
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Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade

Nigeria has intensified efforts to secure the future of its sports by tapping into its global talent pool, following the inauguration of the Nigeria Diaspora Talents Development Committee by the National Sports Commission.

The committee, established to address what officials describe as a growing talent gap, has already begun work with its inaugural meeting held at the College Lane campus of the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield, United Kingdom. The session was chaired by Committee Chairman Dr. Tunde Adelakun, while the Director-General of the Commission, Bukola Olopade, joined alongside other members virtually.

Setting the tone for the committee’s mandate, Olopade underscored the urgency of rebuilding Nigeria’s talent pipeline from the grassroots level, stressing the importance of early identification and sustained engagement with athletes of Nigerian descent abroad. “At the Commission, we have moved to seriously address the dearth of talents in our sports from the foundations. We know for a fact that there are many of our sons and daughters who are doing so well across the globe. We want to catch them at a much younger age this time,” he said.

He added that the initiative aims to correct a longstanding gap in Nigeria’s sports development structure. “We want to bridge that gap in the past when these athletes rarely identified with their fatherland until much later in their careers. We want to catch them young and provide some pathway for their career development,” Olopade stated, while assuring the committee of the Commission’s “unflinching support” for its programmes.

Central to the committee’s immediate plans is participation in the forthcoming National Intermediate Games, with discussions already underway on assembling a competitive diaspora team. As part of a broader scouting strategy, the committee is also positioning itself to engage directly with youth competitions such as the London Youth Games and the English Schools Sports Competitions, where emerging talents of Nigerian heritage are expected to be identified and nurtured early.

Further momentum is expected at a Multi Sport Exhibition Event scheduled to hold in London on July 17, where officials say the diaspora team for the Intermediate Games will be finalised and preparatory programmes outlined. The event is seen as a critical staging point for aligning logistics and refining the talent identification framework ahead of competition.

In a move aimed at ensuring continuity beyond scouting, the committee has also adopted the creation of a Diaspora Athletes Monitoring, Mentoring and Support Unit (DAMMS). The unit is designed to provide long-term oversight, mentorship, and welfare support for Nigerian athletes in the diaspora, reinforcing a structured pathway from discovery to elite performance.

Russell Brand Admits ‘Exploitative’ Sexual Relationship With 16-Year-Old Amid Ongoing Criminal Trial

By
Justice Oladapo
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Russell Brand

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has publicly admitted to having what he described as “consensual” but “exploitative” sex with a 16-year-old when he was 30, in a revelation that has intensified scrutiny over his past conduct as he prepares to stand trial on multiple sexual offence charges.

Brand made the admission during an interview on The Megyn Kelly Show, where he addressed aspects of his sexual history at the height of his fame. He stated: “The plain fact of it is… the age of consent is 16… and I did sleep with a 16-year-old when I was 30.” He added that his mindset at the time reflected immaturity, describing himself as “a very different person” during that period.

While emphasising that the encounter was legal under UK law, Brand acknowledged the ethical concerns surrounding the situation, particularly the imbalance of power linked to his celebrity status. “Consensual sex… when there is a strong power differential… I think involves exploitation,” he said, conceding that his behaviour was “selfish” and lacked consideration for others.

The admission aligns with comments he has made in recent interviews, where he repeatedly characterised aspects of his past sexual behaviour as “exploitative,” even if technically lawful. His remarks have reignited debate around consent laws and power dynamics, especially involving high-profile figures.

The controversy comes as Brand faces serious legal challenges in the United Kingdom. Prosecutors have charged him with multiple offences, including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault, involving several women over a period spanning the late 1990s to the 2000s. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has consistently maintained that all his past relationships were consensual.

His trial is currently scheduled to begin in October 2026 at Southwark Crown Court, where he is expected to contest the allegations. The case follows a wave of accusations that first emerged in 2023 after a joint media investigation brought multiple claims of sexual misconduct into the public domain.

Brand, once a mainstream Hollywood actor and television personality, has in recent years repositioned himself as an online commentator and spiritual influencer. Despite his evolving public persona, the latest admission underscores the continuing impact of allegations tied to his earlier career and personal life.

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