The Super Falcons have ramped up their preparations for next week’s international friendlies against Senegal, with their squad in Ikenne now numbering 17 players.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Squad Updates and Training

• Recent arrivals include Christy Ucheibe, Glory Ogbonna, Blessing Nkor, Francisca Ordega, Comfort Erhabor, and Sikiratu Isah, who have strengthened the team.

• The camp opened on Sunday with early attendees such as Asisat Oshoala, Shukurat Oladipo, and Kafayat Shittu, followed by a large group of arrivals on Tuesday including Toni Payne, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, and Oluwatosin Demehin.

• Six additional players are still anticipated to join the squad.

• The team is set to conduct full-scale training on Wednesday evening at the Remo Stars Sports Complex.

Tournament Outlook

• The two friendlies against Senegal are scheduled for this Friday and Monday at the Remo Stars Stadium.

• Head coach Justine Madugu is utilizing these matches to prepare the squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which will be held in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, 2026.

• Defending champions Nigeria are placed in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt, while Senegal will compete in Group A against Morocco, Algeria, and Kenya.

• The WAFCON tournament will also function as the African qualification phase for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Following a significant public backlash, Nigerian gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori has issued an apology regarding her recent remarks concerning the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The controversy began when Yinka posted an Instagram video urging Nigerians to maintain prayers regarding the region’s insecurity, while also emphasizing that the government was doing its best to restore peace. Many Nigerians were infuriated by these comments, feeling that their concerns regarding the victims were being dismissed or not taken seriously.

In a subsequent video shared on Wednesday, the singer expressed deep regret and clarified that she never intended to disregard the pain of the affected families. Her statement included the following points:

• She realized that her initial comments had caused offense and made many Nigerians feel that their voices were not being heard.

• She specifically reached out to mothers and families impacted by the tragedy to express her remorse.

• She stated, “I am sorry. I beg in God’s name. Please, forgive me”.

• She affirmed that she would never deliberately minimize their suffering.

Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has been named the House of Representatives’ Minority Leader-designate, securing the crucial support of 61 opposition lawmakers. This nomination, submitted to the Speaker, fills the vacancy left by Kingsley Chinda’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Backed by a coalition including the LP, ADC, APGA, and several other parties, Ugochinyere is being recognized for his prolific legislative track record, which includes over 40 bills, motions, and petitions in just three years. Consultations regarding the remaining minority leadership roles, such as Deputy Minority Leader and Minority Whip, are currently ongoing.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Opposition Caucus Nominates Ugochinyere for Minority Leadership A coalition of 61 opposition lawmakers has formally nominated Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere to serve as the House of Representatives’ Minority Leader-designate, following the departure of former leader Kingsley Chinda. The nomination, processed under Order 7 Rule 7 of the House Standing Orders, reflects support from a diverse array of parties, including the NDC, LP, and SDP. Lawmakers advocating for Ugochinyere highlighted his extensive experience, including his tenure as a Senior Adviser to the Senate President and his significant legislative output, which totals more than 40 bills and motions within three years. The Speaker is anticipated to make a formal announcement during the upcoming plenary session.

Ugochinyere Tapped for House Minority Leader Role Following the defection of former Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda to the APC, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has emerged as the Minority Leader-designate after receiving endorsements from 61 opposition members. His nomination, which honors his history of moving over 40 bills and motions, is currently awaiting formal announcement by the Speaker. Meanwhile, the opposition caucus is continuing discussions to fill other vacant leadership posts, with one position reportedly designated for an NDC member from the North-West.