Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Trump Hails FIFA Decision as Balogun Cleared to Face Belgium

By
Agency Report
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United States’ Folarin Balogun fouls Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic resulting in a red card during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between the United States and Bosnia Wednesday, July 1, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif. (Jeff Chiu / AP)

United States forward Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play in Monday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after FIFA lifted his automatic one-match suspension, a decision that has sparked strong reactions from U.S. President Donald Trump and the Belgian Football Association.

Balogun, the United States’ leading scorer at the tournament with three goals, was shown a straight red card during the Americans’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after stepping on the right ankle of defender Tarik Muharemović. Under FIFA regulations, the dismissal automatically carried a one-match suspension, ruling him out of the meeting with Belgium.

However, FIFA announced on Sunday that the suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of its disciplinary rules, making the 25-year-old striker available for selection.

“The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA said. “If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”

The governing body explained that Article 27 allows its judicial body to “fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure,” subjecting the sanctioned player to a probationary period lasting between one and four years.

The decision followed reports that U.S. President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino after Wednesday’s match to request a review of the red card. According to a person familiar with the call, Trump urged FIFA to reconsider the dismissal, although FIFA has not publicly linked its ruling to the intervention.

Reacting after the announcement, Trump welcomed the decision on social media, writing: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”

Belgium, however, reacted angrily to the development, with the Royal Belgian Football Association describing the ruling as unprecedented and announcing it was considering its legal options.

“In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options,” the Belgian federation said in a statement.

Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia also questioned FIFA’s decision.

“I didn’t know that in the offices of FIFA the 5th of July was the 1st of April in Europe,” Garcia said through a translator. “The Belgian federation does not defend itself, it does not protect the national team. She defends football in general, she defends her integrity, her ethics. I think it’s the first time in the history of the World Cup that there is this kind of decision.”

Garcia declined to comment on whether Belgium would appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport or whether Trump’s reported involvement influenced FIFA’s decision.

The U.S. Soccer Federation received notification of the ruling through FIFA’s official portal at 10:31 a.m. EDT, with American players learning of Balogun’s availability during the team’s short bus ride to training at the University of Washington’s Husky Soccer Stadium.

Balogun’s dismissal had become one of the tournament’s most debated refereeing decisions, with several members of the U.S. squad insisting the punishment was excessive.

“If you look at the foul, it was just zero intent at all,” U.S. captain Christian Pulisic said. “I felt like there was much worse ones that went on this tournament.”

Balogun himself had earlier argued that a caution would have been more appropriate.

“I thought a yellow card instead of red would have been fair,” the Monaco striker said on Friday.

The Brooklyn-born forward, who switched his international allegiance from England to the United States in 2023 despite being eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents, has emerged as one of the standout performers of the competition. His three goals include the decisive strike against Bosnia and Herzegovina, equalling Landon Donovan’s tally from the 2010 World Cup and leaving him second only to Bert Patenaude’s four goals for the United States in World Cup history.

The former Arsenal academy graduate scored 13 Ligue 1 goals for Monaco last season and has now registered 12 goals in 30 appearances for the U.S. national team.

Defender Chris Richards underlined Balogun’s importance to the American attack, saying, “He strikes fear into a lot of defenders.”

The United States, co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will now head into Monday’s clash with Belgium boosted by the return of their leading scorer as they seek to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since the 2002 tournament. Balogun later posted a photo of himself celebrating with U.S. supporters on social media, accompanied by Michael Jackson’s hit song Bad, but the U.S. Soccer Federation declined to make him available for media interviews.

FIFA’s decision also follows previous cases in which suspensions were deferred. Cristiano Ronaldo had part of a three-match ban postponed ahead of the tournament, while Argentina’s Nicolás Otamendi and Ecuador’s Moisés Caicedo also benefited from deferred one-match suspensions before the World Cup. The move has nevertheless intensified debate over disciplinary consistency, with Belgium insisting the integrity of the competition must be protected.

Morocco Cruises Past Co-Host Canada 3-0, Advances to World Cup Quarterfinals

By
Justice Oladapo
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Canada’s Alistair Johnston, left, and Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss fight for the ball during the World Cup round of 16 soccer match in Houston, Saturday, July 4, 2026. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Morocco delivered a clinical performance to eliminate co-host Canada from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, winning 3-0 in the Round of 16 on Saturday and booking their place in the quarterfinals for the second consecutive tournament.

Azzedine Ounahi starred with a second-half brace, while Soufiane Rahimi added a stoppage-time goal in the eighth minute of added time to seal the victory at Houston Stadium. The result marks the end of Canada’s impressive home tournament run, making them the first co-host nation to exit at this stage.

Morocco controlled much of the second half after a competitive opening period. Ounahi opened the scoring around the 50th minute with a well-taken strike, then doubled the lead in the 82nd minute. Rahimi’s late finish, assisted by Brahim Diaz, capped a dominant display by the Atlas Lions.

The match saw Morocco’s Ismael Saibari substituted early due to a hamstring injury in the 22nd minute. Referee Michael Oliver was busy, issuing multiple yellow cards, including six in a feisty first half.

Canada showed fight and created moments of danger, particularly early on, but struggled to convert opportunities against a resolute Moroccan defense. The home crowd’s energy could not bridge the quality gap in the final third as Morocco advanced to face the winner of France versus Paraguay.

Post-match, Canada coach Jesse Marsch reflected on his team’s efforts: “What a privilege our fans have had to root a team on like this.” He added praise for his players’ approach, stating he’d “rather be us” despite the defeat, highlighting their belief and performance against a strong opponent.

Morocco’s progression continues their strong form since their remarkable run to the semifinals in Qatar 2022. The North African side has now eliminated a co-host and set up another deep World Cup campaign.

Egypt Beat Australia on Penalties to Reach World Cup Last 16 for First Time

By
Agency Report
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Egypt players celebrate their victory over Australia after a penalty shootout in the round of 32. Photo: AP
Egypt etched their name into World Cup folklore on Friday, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time to secure their first-ever victory in a knockout-stage match and advance to the last 16.

Emam Ashour gave Egypt a first-half lead with a header in the 13th minute. Australia fought back, equalizing through an own goal by Mohamed Hany in the second half. The Socceroos pushed hard in extra time, but Egypt’s defense held firm, forcing the decisive shootout at Dallas Stadium.

In the penalty drama, Egypt held their nerve perfectly. Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs’ captain, stepped up with characteristic composure and converted with an impudent Panenka. Australia’s gamble to introduce experienced goalkeeper Mathew Ryan specifically for the shootout backfired, as he failed to stop any of Egypt’s efforts. Harry Souttar missed high for the Socceroos, and 18-year-old Lucas Herrington struck the crossbar with their fourth kick. Hossam Abdelmaguid sealed the win for Egypt.

The victory marks a historic milestone for the seven-time African champions, who had never previously won a World Cup knockout game. Salah reflected on the moment afterward: “It’s history. I told the boys before the game, ‘this is it guys, this is the biggest stage you could play in your life, so just enjoy it, don’t let the pressure get into you and not enjoy the moment’. I’m glad that we managed to win the game.”

On his penalty decision, Salah added: “If somebody would do it in the game it would be me. I am more experienced than others and I just wanted to give them confidence. I decided at the last minute. I don’t know if this is my last World Cup or not, but I had to do it.”

Egypt will now face the winner of Argentina versus Cape Verde in the Round of 16. For Australia, the exit was bitter despite a spirited performance that took the tie to the wire. Coach Graham Arnold’s late substitution of Ryan for the penalties failed to deliver the desired edge.

Argentina Survive Cape Verde Scare in Thrilling 3-2 Extra-Time World Cup Victory

By
Kazeem Busari
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Lionel Messi (10) scores Argentina’s first goal against Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha (1) during the World Cup round of 32 match in Miami Gardens, Fla., Friday, July 3, 2026. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

 Defending champions Argentina survived a monumental scare from tournament debutants Cape Verde, edging a dramatic 3-2 victory after extra time in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on Friday night at Hard Rock Stadium (also referred to as Miami Stadium).

Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a clinical finish, assisted by Lisandro Martínez, marking his 20th career World Cup goal and temporarily reclaiming the Golden Boot lead. Cape Verde, the underdogs ranked around 59th-67th in the world, refused to wilt. Deroy Duarte leveled the score in the 59th minute with an equalizer assisted by Ryan Mendes, stunning the pro-Argentina crowd.

Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time with a goal in the 92nd minute, assisted by Alexis Mac Allister. But Cape Verde struck back again in the 103rd minute through a stunning long-range curler from Sidny Lopes Cabral (assisted by Yannick Semedo), one of the standout moments of the tournament.

The decisive moment came in the 111th minute when a set-piece delivery from Messi led to a header by Cristian Romero that deflected off Cape Verde’s Diney Borges for an own goal, sealing the 3-2 win for Argentina. Emiliano Martínez was forced into key saves late on, including tipping over another dangerous effort from Cabral.

The match, attended by 64,478 fans, showcased Cape Verde’s fearless approach. The island nation, making its World Cup debut, had gone unbeaten in the group stage with draws against strong sides including Spain and Uruguay. Their goalkeeper Vozinha produced several crucial saves, embodying the team’s resilient spirit.

Post-match reactions highlighted the respect earned by the underdogs. Cape Verde players were emotional but proud after their fairytale run ended. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni had pre-match warned his team: “The biggest mistake at a World Cup is believing you’ve already won because of the badge on your shirt. Cape Verde didn’t come this far by accident.”

Wimbledon 2026: Djokovic Equals Federer’s 105-Win Record, Storms Into Fourth Round

By
Agency Report
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Djokovic

Novak Djokovic moved another step closer to rewriting Wimbledon history on Friday after equalling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 105 match victories at the All England Club with a hard-fought four-set win over France’s Arthur Rinderknech.

The seven-time Wimbledon champion overcame the 25th-seeded Frenchman 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4) on Centre Court to book his place in the fourth round and match Federer’s long-standing record for the most men’s singles victories at the Championships.

The victory also saw the Serbian legend equal Federer’s Open Era record for the most appearances in the Wimbledon fourth round, reaching the last 16 for the 18th time in his illustrious career.

Reflecting on the milestone, Djokovic described the achievement as a special moment in one of the tournaments that has shaped his career.

“To be able to make history of this sport is a huge honour and privilege, especially here,” Djokovic said after the match.

“It’s always been a dream tournament for me here. I’m just trying to win that match on a given day. Today I was quite stressed out, with more tension than usual.”

The 39-year-old also joked about the possibility of breaking the record alongside his longtime rival, Roger Federer.

“I propose a match-up between Roger and me for 106. Let’s stop it here and call Roger to come,” he said, drawing laughter from the Centre Court crowd.

Djokovic will now face Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin on Sunday, with a place in his 66th Grand Slam quarter-final and 17th Wimbledon quarter-final at stake.

Looking ahead to the next round, the Serbian admitted his performance against Rinderknech was not as comfortable as his dominant second-round victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas but expressed confidence that he would improve.

“I think I’ve done everything I needed to do today under the circumstances, which weren’t as good for me as they were in the second round,” Djokovic said.

“I hope in a few days’ time I’ll come out at my best.”

Djokovic entered the contest seeking a return to outdoor conditions after playing his opening two matches under Centre Court’s retractable roof. The adjustment posed little difficulty for the former world number one, who committed only 16 unforced errors across much of the contest.

The opening two sets showcased Djokovic’s trademark efficiency as he edged a tightly contested first set before breaking early in the second to establish control of the match. He entertained spectators with a spectacular diving volley during the first set, acknowledging the applause with a theatrical bow before serving out the set.

Rinderknech, however, mounted an impressive response in the third set. The Frenchman, the last remaining French singles player in the men’s draw, struck 13 winners in a dominant display to claim the set 6-1 and briefly shift the momentum.

Despite the setback, Djokovic regained his composure in a high-quality fourth set that stayed on serve before heading into a tie-break. The decisive moment came on the first match point when the Serbian prevailed in a dramatic exchange at the net that left both players sprawled on the grass before Djokovic sealed victory.

The win keeps alive Djokovic’s bid for an eighth Wimbledon title and another Grand Slam crown after last year’s campaign ended in the semi-finals with a defeat to eventual champion Jannik Sinner—his first failure to reach the Wimbledon final since 2017.

For Rinderknech, the defeat ended a spirited run at the Championships. Although the Frenchman produced flashes of brilliance, particularly during his third-set resurgence, he fell short in his attempt to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam for only the second time in his career.

With Federer now levelled on 105 Wimbledon victories, Djokovic has the opportunity to stand alone atop one of the tournament’s most prestigious records when he faces Safiullin in the fourth round on Sunday.

‘I’m Not a Criminal’: Alleged Fake Presidential DG Insists Appointment Was Genuine as Presidency Details Forgery Case

By
Kazeem Busari
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Adeniyi Adeyemi

The controversy surrounding the alleged Director-General of the non-existent Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) and Presidential Economic Advisory Council took a fresh turn on Thursday after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew insisted that his appointment was legitimate, despite the Presidency maintaining that he is an impostor facing criminal prosecution for alleged forgery and impersonation.

Adeyemi, who is standing trial on charges bordering on conspiracy, forgery, impersonation and obtaining by false pretence, defended himself during a telephone interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme, saying the court would ultimately determine the truth of the matter.

Asked whether he was evading the law, Adeyemi replied, “Not at all.”

On his readiness to face trial, he said: “Definitely, if I am wrong, let the court of law do that; if I am right, let the court of law do the right thing. Do you know what? Since the matter is in the court, let the court of competent jurisdiction vindicate me because I am ready to clear my name. Let the court take its course. Since my lawyers are involved, everybody will follow us, they will monitor the whole thing. Let the court of competent jurisdiction do the needful.”

Adeyemi maintained that he possessed a valid appointment letter but declined to provide further details because the matter is before the court.

“I have a letter of appointment. However, since the matter is in the court, I won’t be able to say much about it. I am on medication. I am a bit down, I am sick,” he said.

Responding to a question on whether he regarded himself as a criminal, Adeyemi answered: “No, I am not a criminal. However, the court will do justice to that.”

He also questioned the Presidency’s insistence that the agency he headed never existed, arguing that it would have been impossible for him to openly interact with top government officials for several years if the organisation were fictitious.

“I want Nigerians to know that, for one second, let us assume the agency does not exist, would I have the temerity, the audacity, to be going all over the country, meeting the heads of ministries, departments and agencies, if I know that the agency does not exist, or as they allege that I cooked up everything? No Nigerian can dare do that. I could not have summoned the courage to be going from one place to another for almost three years. Nigeria is not a banana republic,” he said.

Adeyemi’s comments came barely a day after the Presidency issued a detailed statement dismissing his claims and describing him as an impostor who allegedly forged appointment documents and operated a fake government agency.

In a statement titled “Re: The Matter of Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew and the Fictitious Presidential Economic Advisory Council,” the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President first uncovered the alleged fraud following complaints from officials of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission that another agency appeared to be carrying out overlapping responsibilities.

According to the Presidency, the Chief of Staff wrote to the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force on October 17, 2025, requesting an investigation into what he described as “fraudsters and imposters” forging appointment letters purportedly issued from his office.

In the petition, the Chief of Staff stated: “The attention of this office has been drawn to the activities of certain individuals and groups engaged in the forgery of official appointment letters purportedly issued from my office.”

He further alleged that the fake documents, which bore falsified signatures, reference numbers and official seals, had been used to claim appointments into non-existent government entities.

“The aforementioned entity under the leadership of one Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew as Director-General is said to have an office at the Federal Secretariat Complex Phase III, 2nd Floor. Also, they have been parading themselves as a legitimate government agency, hosting meetings with both foreigners and Nigerian citizens, and even going so far as to request a note verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the United States of America to facilitate visas for some of their staff,” the petition stated.

The Chief of Staff described the alleged activities as “a serious criminal act” that undermined “the integrity of the Presidency and the credibility of official government communication,” urging security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible.

The Presidency disclosed that concerns over the alleged fake agency had also been raised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after Adeyemi reportedly convened a meeting with ambassadors at the Wells Carlton Hotel in Abuja without the ministry’s involvement.

In a letter dated October 15, 2025, the ministry reportedly informed the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Staff that the meeting “contravenes extant rules and regulations guiding diplomatic practices globally.”

According to the statement, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation later sought clarification from the Chief of Staff following multiple enquiries from government and non-governmental organisations regarding Adeyemi’s status.

The Chief of Staff subsequently denied issuing any appointment letter to Adeyemi, stressing that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation—not the Chief of Staff—is constitutionally responsible for federal appointments.

On November 5, 2025, the Chief of Staff again rejected Adeyemi’s claims, stating: “Prince Adeniyi Matthew, director-general of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, is unknown to any office, nor do we have any dealings with the said council.”

He added: “My attention was drawn to a letter of this purported application, which is fake, and my office has instructed the police and other relevant security agencies to carry out investigations on the person and the entity he claims to represent.”

The Presidency said police investigators arrested Adeyemi on October 27, 2025, at an office within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, where he allegedly operated the organisation. Searches conducted at both his office and residence in Suleja reportedly led to the recovery of documents and other exhibits.

According to the police investigation cited by the Presidency, Adeyemi claimed during interrogation that one Dolapo Babatunde Tanimola helped procure the alleged appointment letter. However, investigators reportedly established that Tanimola had died in a fire incident at Kachi Hotel, Abuja, on October 22, 2025, five days before Adeyemi’s arrest.

The Presidency further stated that investigators concluded the agency was fictitious, the appointment letter had been forged and that Adeyemi falsely presented himself as a presidential appointee while allegedly seeking diplomatic support for visas through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Police also alleged that Adeyemi operated 34 bank accounts, including nine linked to entities identified as fictitious, and fraudulently opened a Central Bank of Nigeria account using forged documents. Investigators, however, said no government funds were transferred into the account.

Summarising the findings, the police stated: “The act of the suspect constitutes criminal forgery, impersonation and obtaining by false pretence, thereby bringing the office of the Chief of Staff to the President and the Presidency to disrepute before the public and international community.”

Following the investigation, police filed an eight-count charge against Adeyemi and two alleged accomplices at the Federal High Court in Abuja on November 27, 2025. The case is scheduled to come up again on July 27.

The Presidency also urged politicians and members of the public to refrain from drawing conclusions while the matter remains before the court, describing the case as sub judice and advising all parties to allow the judicial process to run its course.

Oyo APC Unveils Sharafadeen Alli, Adedeji for 2027 Governorship Race

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Sharafadeen Alli (right)

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has formally presented Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election and unveiled Hon. Michael Adesoji Adedeji as his running mate, as the party intensified efforts to reclaim power in the state.

The unveiling ceremony, held in Ibadan on Thursday, also featured the presentation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination form to Alli, officially kick-starting the party’s campaign preparations for the 2027 governorship election. The development comes days after the APC concluded the nomination process for its candidates ahead of the polls.

Adedeji, 46, an Economics graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, hails from Iwo-Ate in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. He is the younger brother of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji.

Speaking at the event, Oyo APC Chairman and former Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, urged members to put internal differences behind them and unite ahead of the election, stressing that only a united party could successfully challenge the ruling government in the state.

“By the grace of God, come May 29, 2027, our governor and deputy governor will be Senator Sharafadeen Alli and Hon. Adesoji Adedeji. I plead with us in the name of the Lord to come together,” Adeyemo said.

Presenting the INEC nomination form, the APC Deputy National Auditor, Hon. Gbenga Olayemi, described Alli as more than an individual candidate, saying the party’s collective success depended on every member rallying behind him.

“Senator Alli is not just our governorship candidate; he is our flag bearer. Every APC member in Oyo State is a governorship candidate,” Olayemi said.

In his acceptance speech, Alli described his emergence as the party’s standard-bearer as a collective victory for all APC members and extended an olive branch to other aspirants who contested the party’s primary, calling for reconciliation and unity ahead of the governorship election.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC National Working Committee, the Oyo State leadership of the party, security agencies and party faithful for their support throughout the nomination process.

Highlighting his vision for the state, the APC candidate said the people of Oyo deserved a government that prioritises inclusion and responsive leadership.

“Our people are yearning for leadership that listens, unites and understands their pains. They deserve a government that works for everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, social class or geopolitical zone,” Alli said.

The senator pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would focus on agriculture, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, environmental protection and inclusive economic growth, while aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through justice, fairness, accountability and compassionate governance.

“I will remain accessible, accountable and a good listener. I will never take the trust of the people for granted. Let us reject division, embrace unity and work together to restore the true Pacesetter glory of Oyo State,” he added.

Accepting his nomination as the deputy governorship candidate, Adedeji thanked the APC leadership for the confidence reposed in him and expressed optimism that the party would secure victory in the 2027 governorship election.

NYSC Uniform Not Changing Yet, Minister Clarifies Adire, Ankara Comments Amid Reform Debate

By
Justice Oladapo
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Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande

The Federal Government has clarified that no final decision has been taken on changing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform, following widespread reactions to comments suggesting that traditional fabrics such as Adire could replace the scheme’s current attire.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, issued the clarification on Thursday after his appearance on Channels Television sparked media reports and online discussions about a proposed redesign of the NYSC uniform as part of the ongoing reform of the scheme.

In a statement posted on his official X account, Olawande explained that his reference to Adire and Ankara during the interview was merely to highlight some of the proposals that have emerged during stakeholder consultations and not an announcement of an approved policy.

“My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my brief appearance earlier this morning on Channels TV regarding the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform,” the minister said.

He added: “For the avoidance of doubt, yes, I mentioned Adire during the discussion. I also mentioned Ankara. My intention was simply to cite examples of some of the proposals that have been put forward in the course of our consultations. It was not an announcement that any particular fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform.”

The clarification comes after reports interpreted the minister’s comments as confirmation that the iconic NYSC khaki uniform would be replaced with locally produced fabrics. The development generated mixed reactions from Nigerians, with many expressing support for promoting indigenous textiles, while others questioned the practicality and cost implications of such a move.

Addressing the controversy, Olawande stressed that the government is still evaluating several options and that no fabric or design has received final approval.

“For the record, what we are considering are different options that tick all the right boxes in terms of professional outlook, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the projection of national pride. No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design,” he stated.

The minister further assured Nigerians that any eventual decision on the corps members’ uniform would be based on broad consultations with relevant stakeholders and guided by what best serves the interests of both the NYSC and the country.

“As with every aspect of the ongoing NYSC reforms, any eventual decision will be guided by extensive stakeholder engagement and what best serves the interests of the Scheme and the nation,” he said.

Olawande also urged the public not to lose sight of the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms, noting that the uniform debate represents only a small part of a comprehensive effort to reposition the NYSC for contemporary realities.

“I respectfully urge Nigerians to continue to engage with the ongoing NYSC reform conversation based on its broader objectives and the immense benefits it holds for our young people and our country,” he said.

According to the minister, the reform agenda is aimed at making the NYSC more relevant by improving graduate employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and ensuring a smoother transition from education to productive careers.

“The reforms are designed to make the Scheme more relevant to today’s realities by improving employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and creating a smoother transition from education to productive careers,” Olawande said.

He maintained that while public interest in the proposed uniform is understandable, it should not overshadow the wider reforms intended to strengthen the scheme’s impact on Nigerian youths.

“While conversations around the uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the far-reaching reforms aimed at empowering millions of Nigerian youths and positioning the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development,” the minister stated.

Olawande concluded by thanking Nigerians for their feedback and reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring that every proposal under the ongoing NYSC reform process is carefully evaluated before any final decisions are made.

“I appreciate the constructive feedback and assure Nigerians that every proposal will continue to be carefully considered in the best interest of the nation,” he said.

Tinubu Recommits to West African Unity as ECOWAS Unveils New ‘Eye of Africa’ Headquarters in Abuja

By
Laziz Olatunde
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New ECOWAS building in Abuja.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening regional integration, peace, industrialisation and shared prosperity across West Africa as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially commissioned its new headquarters in Abuja.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration ceremony on Thursday, President Tinubu described the newly completed ECOWAS complex—popularly referred to as the “Eye of Africa”—as more than an architectural landmark, saying it represents a renewed commitment to the ideals upon which the regional bloc was founded over five decades ago.

“Today marks not only the inauguration of an impressive landmark, but the renewal of a covenant, our covenant with the ideals of regional integration, solidarity and shared prosperity,” Tinubu said.

The President noted that ECOWAS has evolved into one of the world’s most respected regional economic communities, recording notable achievements in peace-building, democratic governance, economic cooperation and the free movement of people, goods and services. However, he warned that the sub-region continues to grapple with serious threats, including terrorism, violent extremism, economic vulnerability, food insecurity, climate change, public health challenges and the growing expectations of its youthful population.

Against that backdrop, Tinubu called for a fundamental shift in the region’s economic strategy, urging member states to move beyond consumption-driven integration to productive economic collaboration.

“The hour has come to transform our regional market into a regional production base. Our integration must increasingly be driven by what we produce rather than by what we consume, for a Community that consumes what it does not make will forever live at the mercy of the goodwill of others,” he declared.

According to the President, deeper industrialisation, stronger regional value chains, expanded intra-regional trade, manufacturing, innovation and increased investment must become the defining pillars of ECOWAS’ next phase of development.

Tinubu also addressed the recent withdrawal of three member states from the regional bloc, saying the development, alongside evolving security challenges across West Africa, has reinforced the need to broaden the purpose of regional integration beyond economics.

“Regional integration can no longer be an economic imperative alone. It has become a comprehensive framework for our collective security, our political stability, our sustainable development and the welfare of our peoples,” he said.

While acknowledging the current challenges facing the organisation, the President stressed that ECOWAS should continue to keep its doors open for dialogue with countries that have chosen to leave the bloc, emphasizing the need for renewed solidarity and collective responsibility.

Tinubu commended Sierra Leone’s President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Julius Maada Bio, for providing what he described as steady leadership during a period requiring courage and conviction. He also praised the ECOWAS Commission for successfully delivering the headquarters project, saying the new facility reflects the region’s determination to build enduring institutions.

The Nigerian leader further expressed appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China for financing the headquarters, as well as Shaanxi Construction Engineering Group Company Limited, consultants, Nigerian counterparts and other stakeholders who contributed to the project’s completion.

“May every decision taken within these walls advance the peace, the unity, the prosperity, and the dignity of the peoples of West Africa,” he said.

In his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio said the commissioning of the new headquarters presents an opportunity for member states to renew their commitment to the more than 450 million people of West Africa while strengthening the effectiveness of the regional body.

According to Bio, “history does not remember generations for the buildings they construct, but for the lives they transform.”

He commended President Tinubu and Nigeria for their longstanding financial contributions and leadership within ECOWAS, describing the country as “a great anchor” of the regional organisation. He also expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for what he called its “generous donation” of the new headquarters building.

President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, similarly thanked the Chinese government and people for donating what he described as a monument that will stand as a symbol of regional partnership, integration and institutional coordination.

Touray recalled China’s longstanding support for ECOWAS across various sectors, including assistance to the regional standby force and technology development, noting that Beijing remains one of the bloc’s most strategic partners for economic, political and social transformation.

He assured member states that the commission’s management and staff remain fully aware of their responsibility to ensure the new headquarters becomes a centre for regional transformation, stronger cooperation and lasting stability.

Also speaking at the ceremony, China’s Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Yu Dunhai, congratulated West African leaders on the inauguration of the new complex, describing it as another milestone in China’s support for African integration and evidence of the enduring relationship between China and the continent.

According to the envoy, the future of China-ECOWAS relations will continue to be built on mutual trust and practical cooperation that enables African countries to independently pursue their development priorities and aspirations.

 

US Supreme Court Upholds Birthright Citizenship for Children Born to Undocumented, Temporary Immigrants

By
Agency Report
-
US Supreme Court

The United States Supreme Court has ruled that children born on American soil to parents who are unlawfully or temporarily present in the country are entitled to automatic U.S. citizenship under the Fourteenth Amendment, dealing a major legal blow to President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to restrict birthright citizenship.

In a decision issued on June 30, 2026, in the case Trump, President of the United States, et al. v. Barbara et al., the nation’s highest court held that children born in the United States to undocumented or temporary immigrants are “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States and are therefore citizens at birth under the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

The case centered on Executive Order No. 14160, signed by President Trump on January 20, 2025, and titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.” The order argued that children born in the United States to parents who were unlawfully or temporarily present in the country were not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States and therefore did not qualify for automatic citizenship under either the Constitution or the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Several affected families challenged the executive order in court on behalf of their children, contending that it violated the Fourteenth Amendment. A federal district court agreed with the plaintiffs, provisionally certified a nationwide class of children who would have been denied citizenship under the order, and issued a preliminary injunction blocking its enforcement. The Supreme Court subsequently agreed to hear the case before judgment.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court affirmed the lower court’s position, stating that “Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are ‘subject to the jurisdiction’ of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause.”

The Court explained that the Citizenship Clause must be interpreted within its historical and legal context, drawing from English common law and the framers’ intention to repudiate the infamous Dred Scott v. Sandford decision, which denied citizenship to people of African descent before the Civil War.

The landmark judgment effectively blocks the implementation of President Trump’s executive order and reaffirms the long-standing constitutional principle that birth on U.S. soil generally confers citizenship, regardless of a child’s parents’ immigration status.

The decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for U.S. immigration policy and future legal debates over the scope of the Fourteenth Amendment, while preserving birthright citizenship as one of the country’s foundational constitutional guarantees.

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