Following his decisive performance in Argentina’s 2-1 semi-final victory over England, Lionel Messi has become the frontrunner for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The 39-year-old’s two assists in the match have significantly bolstered his bid for a ninth title, with the upcoming World Cup final against Spain serving as a pivotal moment in the race for the award.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Current projections from the prediction market Polymarket indicate the following standings for the 2026 Ballon d’Or:

• Lionel Messi: Leading the field with a 31.7% probability of winning.

• Lamine Yamal: A strong contender for the award following an outstanding campaign for club and country, currently holding a 30.9% probability.

• Harry Kane: Positioned third with a 13.5% probability despite England’s semi-final exit.

• Ousmane Dembele: The reigning holder of the award now has a 3.1% probability following France’s elimination.

While these market projections reflect current expectations rather than official results, the World Cup has clearly shifted the landscape for the award. The final outcome may be heavily influenced by Sunday’s match between Argentina and Spain, as a victory could solidify Messi’s position, though Yamal remains a formidable challenger. The winner will be announced on October 26 at the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony, which will be held in London for the first time.

Buba Galadima, a prominent figure in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for an end to the “ethnic blame game” by insisting that Peter Obi should not be held responsible for the 1966 military coup. Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, Galadima emphasized several key points regarding reconciliation and national unity:....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• • Absence of Personal Responsibility: Galadima pointedly questioned the logic of blaming Peter Obi for the 1966 events, noting that Obi was not of age during that period and should not be made to “carry the cross of those who did it”.

  • Historical Precedents for Forgiveness: Referencing the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Galadima noted that even after the Nigerian Civil War, Ojukwu was pardoned and returned to participate in the democratic process, proving that reconciliation is possible.

  • Encouraging Constructive Dialogue: While acknowledging that building support for the Peter Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso ticket has faced resistance, Galadima maintained that these challenges are not insurmountable. He drew a comparison to international diplomacy, suggesting that even rivals—such as the United States and Iran—can remain at the negotiation table despite ongoing conflict.

  • Focus on Reconciliation: Galadima urged Nigerians to prioritize constructive engagement over dwelling on historical ethnic grievances, arguing that such divisions hinder the country’s progress.

Buba Galadima, a prominent figure in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has characterized the proposed presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as a “healing ticket” aimed at bridging Nigeria’s historical divides. Speaking on ARISE Television’s ‘Prime Time’ programme, Galadima emphasized that this alliance is designed to foster national unity rather than cater to specific ethnic or religious interests.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• A “Healing Ticket” for National Unity: Galadima stated that the primary objective of this coalition is to move past historical grievances and salvage the nation. He insisted that the partnership transcends ethnic labels such as Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba, and religious affiliations, focusing entirely on the betterment of Nigeria.

• Building Inter-Regional Understanding: The Kwankwasiyya movement has dedicated over two years to improving dialogue and reducing tensions between the Northern and Southern regions of the country. Galadima believes this effort has been instrumental in making the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance a viable path forward.

• Policy Focus and Collaboration: Galadima revealed that Peter Obi has committed to prioritizing security, agriculture, and education if elected. Furthermore, Obi has agreed to actively involve members of the alliance in addressing these critical national challenges.

• A Vision for Nigeria: By supporting this partnership, Galadima and his associates aim to rebuild the country, viewing Peter Obi as a leader for all Nigerians rather than a representative of a single ethnic group.