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No Regrets!” – Super Eagles Star Lookman Opens Up on Choosing Nigeria Over England
Ademola Lookman has spoken candidly about his transformative decision to switch international allegiance from England to Nigeria, calling it “one of the most defining moments” of his football journey.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In an interview with ARISE TV, the 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year shared how his choice to represent Nigeria reshaped both his personal life and professional career.
“It completely changed my life and career — no doubt about it,” the 27-year-old stated. “Everyone sees it. Nigeria is my home, my place. I love it here. I’m truly a son of the soil.”
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Lookman played for England at youth levels before ultimately committing to the Super Eagles — a decision that marked a turning point in his career. The switch preceded a meteoric rise, climaxing with a historic hat-trick in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, where he led Atalanta to their first-ever European trophy with a win over Bayer Leverkusen.
Now hailed as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards, Lookman attributes his success to persistence and self-belief.
“I just kept believing in myself and working hard every day,” he said. “When you do that, your confidence builds and you grow. Eventually, hard work always delivers results.”
Reflecting on his career’s challenges — including a missed penalty during his Fulham loan spell — Lookman noted how maintaining a strong mental attitude was crucial to bouncing back.
“Every single day, I work to improve — both on the field and as a person. That steady mindset has made all the difference,” he added.
Receiving the CAF African Footballer of the Year award was, for Lookman, a deeply humbling experience.
“It’s honestly incredible. I feel truly honoured. Seeing the legends who have received this award before me makes it even more special. To be part of that legacy is a blessing.”
Lookman recently returned to Lagos to personally present his CAF trophy to President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing the visit as a touching return to his roots.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Lookman as a “symbol of the Greater Lagos Rising spirit” and an inspiration to Nigerian youth. The football star also paid a heartfelt visit to Phase 2, the neighborhood where he spent much of his early years with his father and grandmother.
Renowned economist and banker, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has declared his intention to contest the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, pledging to address economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges in the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Hayatu-Deen said Nigerians are facing rising living costs and worsening insecurity, stressing the need for urgent and effective leadership intervention.
He noted that food and fuel prices continue to increase, making daily survival increasingly difficult for many citizens.
According to him, the situation does not reflect the Nigeria citizens deserve, adding that it is time for a change in direction.
He criticised what he described as a growing disconnect between the government and the people, arguing that current policies have placed heavy pressure on households and businesses.
Hayatu-Deen said insecurity has also intensified, while public resources are not being properly managed to protect vulnerable citizens.
He pledged to present a credible alternative focused on stabilising the economy, improving security, and restoring public trust in governance.
He emphasised the need for experienced and steady leadership capable of rebuilding systems, creating jobs, and protecting lives and livelihoods.
Drawing from over four decades of experience in banking and economic management, he highlighted his involvement in financial reforms, investment mobilisation, and institutional restructuring.
He also urged members of the ADC to remain united as the party prepares for the 2027 elections, stressing that unity would be key to becoming a strong opposition force.
Hayatu-Deen, who previously served as Managing Director and Chairman of FSB International Bank and chaired the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, has also contributed to national economic policy discussions and advisory platforms.
He was awarded the national honour of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2000 for his service to Nigeria.
With his declaration, he joins other prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, who have also indicated interest in the 2027 presidential race.
The leadership crisis within the Labour Party has escalated as Julius Abure rejected the recent ruling of the Court of Appeal and announced plans to challenge it at the Supreme Court of Nigeria.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
News reports that the Court of Appeal in Abuja dismissed Abure’s case and upheld an earlier judgment removing him as the party’s national chairman. The court also affirmed recognition of Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the party.
The dispute traces back to a Federal High Court ruling, which relied on a Supreme Court decision that nullified the process that brought Abure into office. The courts maintained that his tenure had ended and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise Usman’s leadership.
However, Abure rejected the judgment, insisting that the 2024 party convention that produced him remains valid and supports his claim to leadership.
He has now instructed his legal team to approach the Supreme Court in a bid to overturn the Appeal Court’s decision.
Abure described the ruling as unacceptable to him and his supporters, arguing that it contradicted established legal principles and internal party autonomy.
He maintained that the Labour Party’s 27 March 2024 convention in Nnewi remains valid for four years, claiming the court failed to properly consider it in its decision.
He also faulted the Umuahia meeting that produced a caretaker committee, describing it as unconstitutional under the party’s rules, arguing that only the National Chairman and National Secretary have the authority to convene NEC meetings.
Abure reaffirmed that the judgment would be appealed, stating that his legal team has already been mobilised to take the matter to the Supreme Court for final determination.
What is the current Dollar to Naira exchange rate in the black market, also known as the parallel market (Aboki FX)?....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Below is the latest black market rate for the Dollar to Naira exchange on Tuesday, 21st April, 2026. At this rate, you can exchange your dollars for naira.
Dollar to Naira Black Market Rate Today
In the Lagos parallel market, Bureau De Change (BDC) operators reportedly sold the dollar at ₦1400 and bought it at ₦1393, according to market sources.
It is important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not recognize the parallel (black) market and advises individuals seeking foreign exchange to carry out transactions through official banking channels.
Black Market Rate (USD to NGN)
- Selling Rate: ₦1400
- Buying Rate: ₦1393
CBN Official Rate (USD to NGN)
- Highest Rate: ₦1357
- Lowest Rate: ₦1345
Exchange rates may vary depending on location and dealers, as market prices are not fixed and can change frequently.
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