Latest News
Proudly Nigerian! Toni Payne Snubs USA, Says Her Heart Belongs to the Super Falcons”
Toni Payne has described her choice to represent Nigeria instead of the United States as one of the most rewarding decisions of her career and life.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final clash with Zambia, Payne told Biola Solace‑Chukwu that her decision went beyond football ambitions—it was about reconnecting with her roots.
“Even though I grew up dreaming of playing for the U.S., when the chance to play for Nigeria came, it was almost a no‑brainer. I had no doubts at all, and I have absolutely no regrets,” she said.
Born and raised in the United States, Payne was once tipped as a future star for the U.S. women’s team, but her heritage ultimately called louder.
“I love being part of something bigger than myself,” she explained. “I love being around my culture, something I didn’t experience often while growing up in the U.S. I love representing my family. There’s so much passion and love for the game here that you don’t see every day.”
Now a key figure in Nigeria’s midfield, Payne hopes her journey will inspire other dual‑nationality players to follow their instincts.
“In the end, it’s about where your heart feels at home,” she said. “I feel incredibly lucky that I got the chance to play for Nigeria. Not everyone gets that opportunity. If you ever do, go with your heart—go where your dreams lead you.”
This year’s WAFCON is Payne’s second appearance, and she says the Super Falcons are ready for the challenge ahead.
“It feels great going into this tournament with more experience,” she noted. “I’ve been more immersed in African football, and we’re excited to be here.”
Nigeria topped Group B with seven points ahead of Algeria, Tunisia, and Botswana, and now face Zambia in the quarter‑finals on Friday in Casablanca. Payne acknowledged Zambia’s threat, particularly forward Barbra Banda, but remains confident.
“Zambia are strong with really good attackers like Barbra Banda,” she said. “We respect every opponent, but we’re ready for whatever they bring. Our goal was to top the group and keep clean sheets, and we did that. We’re confident heading into the next match.”
Beyond football, Payne revealed one of her most cherished moments is sharing the pitch with her younger sister, Nicole Payne, also a Super Falcons player.
“Every time we get to be on the field together, it feels incredible. It’s such a heartwarming experience,” she added.
Public commentator Mahdi Shehu has expressed concern over what he described as inadequate funding for military equipment, warning that it could endanger the lives of soldiers in active service.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a post shared on his official X account on Monday, Shehu reacted to reports suggesting that only a small fraction of the Nigerian Army’s 2025 budget for security equipment has been released.
He stated that although over ₦20 billion was approved for the procurement of security equipment, only about ₦1.7 billion—roughly 7 percent—has reportedly been disbursed so far.
Shehu questioned the possible impact of the funding gap on troop safety, suggesting it could be linked to growing battlefield casualties.
He also raised concerns about reported cases of soldiers abandoning their posts, implying that insufficient equipment and support may be contributing factors.
The commentator further asked what had become of funds borrowed in the name of addressing insecurity, calling for accountability in their use.
Shehu also suggested that delays or restrictions in releasing security funds could have serious consequences for both military personnel and civilians.
He expressed worry that different levels of government may not be fully meeting their responsibilities in ensuring the safety of lives and property.
Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has said that the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran are triggering global energy shocks that are contributing to rising inflation in Nigeria.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Israel, Nkechi Ufochukwu, has stated that efforts are ongoing to strengthen trade relations between Nigeria and Israel as part of wider plans to enhance bilateral cooperation and economic growth.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking at a forum held over the weekend in Abuja, the envoy explained that boosting trade between both countries remains a key priority in her diplomatic mission.
She emphasized that her focus is on expanding the existing trade framework between Nigeria and Israel, describing it as essential to deepening economic ties and improving collaboration between both nations.
Ufochukwu also noted that her agenda extends beyond trade, including the promotion of Nigeria’s culture, agriculture, and investment opportunities, as well as supporting training programmes in cybersecurity and information technology.
She assured stakeholders of her commitment to fully delivering on her responsibilities, adding that sustained communication and cooperation would be important in achieving set goals.
Participants at the forum highlighted the need for Nigeria to address structural barriers affecting business growth, while pointing to Israel’s innovation-driven economy as a model worth studying.
One of the attendees, Pastor Henry Opara, called for formal bilateral agreements, stressing that most current business interactions between both countries are informal and based on personal relationships rather than structured government frameworks.
He argued that stronger government-to-government agreements would provide clearer rules and more stable economic engagement.
Similarly, the National Coordinator of the Nigeria–Israel Business Forum, Mrs. Florence Osuji, urged both countries to renew official trade agreements, noting that some existing arrangements have expired, leaving current trade relations without strong institutional backing.
-
latest8 months ago“Social Media Erupts As Jim Iyke Declares Rita Dominic Nollywood’s Most Beautiful”
-
latest2 years agoEdo Political Showdown: Oshiomhole Appears At Presidential Villa As Tinubu Hands APC Gubernatorial Flag To Okpebholo (Photos & Video)
-
entertainment2 years agoLove Knows No Age American Woman Defends Marriage To Young Nigerian Man “I’m Not 70”
-
latest2 years agoOlumide Akpata Strikes Again: Drops Killer Track, Sends Edo State Into Frenzy!(Video)
-
Politics2 years agoNigerians React As Pastor Adeboye Foresees Passing Away On A Sunday After Enjoying A Satisfying Meal Of Pounded Yam
-
latest2 years agoFG Identifies 31 States At Risk Of Heavy Flooding In 2024: See Full List
-
Politics2 years agoBREAKING: Inspector-General Of Police Summons Top Police Commanders For Crucial-Security Challenges
-
latest2 years ago5 NYSC Corpers Perish In Fatal Road Accident Returning From Camp