LOOKMAN’S BID FROM INTER MILAN TURNED DOWN BY ATALANTA

Inter Milan has made a new bid to Atalanta for Ademola Lookman.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the latest offer amounts to 40 million euros, with an additional 5 million euros in add-ons. However, Atalanta has rejected this offer, asking for a higher fee.

Lookman is eager to join Inter Milan and has already agreed to personal terms with the Serie A club.

DANGOTE BACKS DOWN FROM SUIT AGAINST NNPCL PERMITS

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has requested to withdraw its legal challenge against the import licenses issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and various oil marketers for the importation of petroleum products.

In a notice of discontinuance, Dangote Refinery officially withdrew the lawsuit. The refinery argued that import licenses should only be granted in cases of a shortfall in petroleum products.

Additionally, they called on the court to acknowledge that the NMDPRA has failed in its statutory duty under the Petroleum Industry Act to support local refineries like theirs.

RESIDENTS PLEAD WITH MAKINDE ON IBADAN CIRCULAR ROAD PLAN

The residents from the communities along the Ibadan Circular Road have reached out to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to discuss the proposed plan to extend the corridor pillars by 500 meters.

The local governments affected by this proposal collectively comprise over 10,000 residential and commercial properties.

In a statement, Niyi Fasoye, the ICRCR Coordinator, and Secretary Isiaq Jimoh expressed the residents’ concerns about the need for a discussion regarding the construction. They highlighted its potential impact on the well-being of homeowners in the affected areas. The residents hope to collaborate with the government to find solutions that minimize disruption and enhance community welfare.

SDP REFUTES EL-RUFAI BAN ALLEGATION

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State has denied reports claiming that former governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai has been banned from the party for thirty years.

Honorable Darius Kurah, the Kaduna State Publicity Secretary, stated that the claims by Araba Rufus Aiyenigba are false and unauthorized. The recognized National Publicity Secretary is Ambassador Judith Shua’ibu.

The SDP emphasized that El-Rufai has not received any official complaints or expulsion notices from the party. They also dismissed claims that he is promoting other political parties, reaffirming his commitment to good governance without representing himself as an SDP member.

JOSHUA PLANS POSSIBLE RETIREMENT BY 2025

British boxer Anthony Joshua has shared his feelings about potentially ending his boxing career in 2025. Following a tough loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, where he was knocked out in the fifth round, Joshua has shown incredible resilience and dedication to his sport.

At 35 years old and with a career that began in 2013, he is looking forward to stepping back into the ring later this year. In a heartfelt interview on the Ariel Helwani Show, Joshua expressed his deep desire to conclude his career on his own terms, sharing that he hopes to throw his last punch this year.

He also took a moment to express his sincere gratitude to Matchroom Boxing for their unwavering support throughout his journey, acknowledging how vital their partnership has been in his life as a boxer. Joshua’s passion and commitment resonate deeply, as fans and supporters appreciate the profound impact he’s made in the sport.

LADOJA VOWS SWIFT ACTION TO FILL VACANT POSITIONS

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan-designate, has confidently announced his intention to promptly fill any vacant positions within the Olubadan Chieftaincy line without hesitation.

This statement was made by his spokesman, Adeola Oloko, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. Ladoja made the announcement while welcoming Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi and the Asipa Olubadan of Ibadanland at his residence.


The former Governor of Oyo State also paid tribute to the late paramount ruler, stating that Kabiyesi Olakulehin lived a meaningful life and made a significant impact on our history.

POWER BOOST: ELECTRICITY BILL IGNITES CHANGE

The Federal Government is considering re-privatizing 11 power distribution companies, pending the passage of the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, currently being reviewed by the National Assembly. This effort aims to address the challenges in Nigeria’s power sector.

The National Assembly seeks reforms that encourage investors in electricity distribution companies to boost their investments. If they fail to do so within 12 months, they may face share dilution or re-privatization, promoting accountability.

Led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, the amendment bill addresses regulatory gaps in the 2023 Electricity Act. Once passed, it will empower the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to enforce compliance.

Despite concerns about disruptions to the decentralized electricity market, this legislation aims to enhance accountability and build a more resilient power sector by imposing penalties on defaulting companies.

TINUBU HONOURS SUPER FALCONS WITH A CASH PRIZE, HOUSES, AND NATIONAL AWARDS

During the welcome home party at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President announced rewards for the Super Falcon team and staff, including Naira equivalent to 100,000 dollars for each player and 50,000 dollars for each coach and support staff. All team members will also receive a three-bedroom apartment through the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme. Additionally, the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) pledged to contribute 10 million Naira for every member of the victorious Super Falcons.

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade officially handed over the WAFCON trophy to President Tinubu. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie also presented her Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.

President Tinubu said he was unable to watch the final due to personal reasons but praised the players for their outstanding performance, which has made Nigeria proud.

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES A 10 MILLION NAIRA SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION WORKERS

The Federal Government has launched a loan fund to support staff at tertiary institutions. This fund, known as the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund, aims to enhance the welfare and professional development of both academic and non-academic staff in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

Each eligible staff member can receive up to 10 million naira, with the amount capped at 33.3 percent of their gross annual salary. The funds can be used for various purposes, including transportation, medical support, and micro-enterprise ventures such as poultry farming.

This initiative was announced in a statement by Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education. The announcement took place during a high-level stakeholder engagement session held in Abuja.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, stated that the fund is part of the administration’s broader effort to reposition tertiary education in the country.

SALIBA CALLS NEW ARSENAL SIGNING SCARY THREAT

Arsenal center-back William Saliba has issued a warning to other Premier League defenders about the scary talent of Viktor Gyokeres following his transfer from Sporting.

The Gunners have signed Gyokeres after agreeing to a deal worth €63.5 million, with an additional €10 million in add-ons. The 27-year-old forward is Arsenal’s sixth signing of the transfer window, joining Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, and Cristhian Mosquera.

Gyokeres could make his debut in Arsenal’s upcoming friendly against arch-rivals Tottenham on Thursday. However, manager Mikel Arteta suggested that fans may need to be a bit more patient before seeing the forward in action for the first time.