reports that the decision comes after growing scientific research suggesting a possible link between repeated heading of the ball and neurological problems later in life.

Experts explain that each header produces a short burst of force that travels to the brain at impact. While a single instance is considered low risk, medical specialists warn that repeated exposure over time may contribute to cumulative brain injury.

A major study known as the FIELD research project found that former professional footballers are about 3.5 times more likely to develop neurodegenerative diseases compared to the general population.

In response, the FA has introduced a phased restriction on heading for children under the age of 11. It has also issued updated training guidelines to reduce high-impact headers, especially those from set pieces such as corners, crosses, and free-kicks.

Officials say the measures are designed to reduce repetitive head impacts while preserving the essential nature of the game.

FA Chief Medical Officer Charlotte Cowie said the decision was based on new independent findings that provide deeper insight into the issue.

She added that the research had been shared with global football governing bodies, including FIFA and UEFA, to encourage wider collaboration on the matter.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Football Association has taken a stricter approach by banning heading in training sessions the day before and after matches in professional football.

Football authorities say these steps are precautionary and part of ongoing efforts to protect players while research into long-term effects continues.

reports that the operation, carried out on April 19, 2026, forms part of ongoing military efforts to maintain pressure on insurgent groups in the North-East region.

According to the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the mission was based on credible intelligence, supported by Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) activities.

He explained that the intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists operating from fortified positions and underground bunkers within the area.

Ejodame said the Air Force deployed precision-guided munitions on the identified targets, successfully destroying the structures and eliminating several terrorists as well as key logistics hubs.

He added that post-strike assessment confirmed significant damage to the targets.

“The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly exposed and disrupted, with mounting pressure forcing them into desperate and reactive actions,” he said.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to continuing operations until insurgent elements are fully eliminated.

He stated that the Air Force would sustain intelligence-driven missions aimed at protecting personnel, safeguarding the nation, and ensuring the safety of citizens.

The NAF also noted that it will continue precision operations across various theatres while strictly adhering to operational rules of engagement and working to minimise any risk to civilians.

reports that Nwosu made the clarification during an interview with Punch, where he addressed growing tensions and disputes within the party.

Responding to questions on Bala’s participation in key meetings, Nwosu insisted that records showed he was present throughout.

He said, “One hundred per cent, yes. There was no meeting he missed. The records are there. INEC records are there.”

He further stated that evidence of Bala’s involvement had been submitted during court proceedings.

“When Bala went to court claiming something, one of the documents presented was from INEC. INEC itself confirmed that he participated in everything,” he added.

However, Nwosu expressed surprise over what he described as a change in position by the electoral body.

“But recently, we heard that INEC had gone back on what they presented when Bala started this troublesome thing,” he said.

The ADC founder also alleged that the party’s internal crisis was being influenced by external interests attempting to create the impression of division.

“What is happening is that people are being induced to appear as if there is a crisis in ADC,” he said.

He questioned the idea that a few individuals could represent a faction in a large political organisation.

“How can one individual be a faction in a group that is now five million persons?” he asked.

Nwosu also criticised Dumebi Kachikwu, accusing him of trying to exaggerate his influence within the party.

“As far as Dumebi is concerned, he is using anything that would make it look as if he influences ADC,” he said.

He further alleged that financial influence from political actors was worsening the situation, claiming that opposition activities were being targeted.

Despite the tensions, Nwosu maintained that those involved in the dispute represent only a very small fraction of the party’s large membership base.