The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has announced that journalist Zainab Sodiq has been released from detention by the Department of State Services (DSS). Following the organization’s intervention, Sodiq was released directly to IPI leadership at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed the rescue of pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oyo State as a clear indication of President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to fighting insecurity. The victims, who spent over 50 days in captivity, were released following a collaborative operation between intelligence and security agencies.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• Operation Success: A total of 39 schoolchildren and six teachers were successfully rescued, bringing relief to families and citizens across Nigeria.

• Government Stance: Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that this successful mission proves the Federal Government is gaining ground in its battle against kidnapping and terrorism.

• Security Coordination: The governor praised the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and other agencies for their coordinated efforts, which he stated were essential to ending the victims’ ordeal.

• Context of the Abduction: The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when gunmen suspected of being linked to the militant group Ansaru attacked three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

• Impact on the Community: The incident, which resulted in the reported deaths of two educators, caused significant distress and led to protests, an indefinite strike by public school teachers in Oyo State, and heightened anxiety regarding school security in the region.

Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his sympathies to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the affected families, noting that the rescue has helped restore hope to the region.

Following their 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium in Los Angeles, Lamine Yamal has declared that Spain remains fearless as they prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final showdown with France in Dallas. The Barcelona winger, who earned man of the match honors, acknowledged France as a world-class side but expressed confidence in Spain’s ability to compete against one of the tournament favorites.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• Quarter-Final Performance: After Belgium became the first team to score against Spain in this tournament, substitute Mikel Merino secured the win for La Roja with an 88th-minute goal at SoFi Stadium.

• France’s Form: France has been highly prolific throughout the competition, recording 16 goals across their six matches leading up to the semi-final.

• Spanish Ambition: Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed deep respect for France while maintaining firm belief in his team’s potential.

• Coach’s Stance: De la Fuente emphasized that his squad is not satisfied with simply reaching the final four and stated that he has been confident in their ability to win the tournament for several weeks.