News Sports September 08, 2026 Eguavoen appointed interim Super Falcons coach ahead of Olympic qualifiers

Former Super Eagles head coach Augustine “Cerezo” Eguavoen has been appointed to lead Nigeria’s Super Falcons on a temporary basis as the search for a permanent manager continues.

His immediate assignment is to navigate the 2028 Olympic Games second-round qualifying tie against Comoros this October.

Eguavoen brings top-tier experience to the role, having previously guided the Super Eagles to a bronze medal at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The former Super Eagles head coach will lead the Falcons for their 2028 Olympic Games double-legged qualifier against Comoros in October.

Eguavoen will be assisted by Christopher Danjuma, head coach of Nasarawa Amazons, alongside a supporting cast that includes Ayisat Yusuf, a former Super Falcons defender; Olatunji Baruwa, former Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer.

The Falcons will kick off their Olympic qualifying campaign in the second round against Comoros, with both legs taking place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on October 9 and 13.

Nigeria had received a bye into the second round as one of the top-ranked teams, while Comoros qualified after a 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan.

Falcons must navigate four rounds of two-legged knockout ties to secure one of Africa’s two slots for the women’s football event at the Olympics. A win over Comoros will advance the team to the third round in early 2027 to face either DR Congo or Morocco.

Eguavoen will be handling the women’s football team for the first time in his managerial career.

His appointment comes a few weeks after Justine Madugu was sacked as Falcons’ head coach alongside his technical crew.

The dismal run follows the Falcons failure to qualify for the 2027 women’s World Cup.

The first time the team will miss the World Cup since its inception in 1991.

News September 08, 2026 Kano task force secures nine-year jail terms for suppliers of intoxicants to children

The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has secured the conviction and imprisonment of two men for supplying rubber solution and other intoxicating substances to underage children in Kano, sending a strong and unmistakable warning that those who exploit children and expose them to harmful substances will face the full weight of the law.

The two convicts, Kabiru Isa (Mada) and Usman Hamisu (Mani), were sentenced by Magistrate Muhammad Alhaji Sani of Magistrate Court Number 44, Gwammaja, Kano, after being found guilty of criminal conspiracy, membership of an unlawful society and administering intoxicating substances, contrary to Sections 97, 97A and 249 of the Penal Code.

A statement issued by a member of the Media and Publicity Committee, Kano State Multi Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Lamara Garba, on Tuesday said the court sentenced each of the convicts to a cumulative jail term of nine years without an option of fine, with the sentences to run consecutively.

The court further ordered that each year of the sentence be served as a full 12 calendar months, without the exclusion of weekends, thereby requiring the convicts to serve the full terms imposed by the court.

SolaceBase reports that the conviction followed an intensive investigation by the Kano State Multi Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the leadership of its Chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, Esq., into circumstances surrounding the exposure of vulnerable children on the streets of Race Course, Kano, to intoxicating substances.

The case emerged following the rescue of 43 children, most of them underage, from the Race Course area. While some of the children are indigenes of Kano State, others had arrived in Kano from different parts of the country and had become trapped in the harsh realities of street life.

Investigations by the Task Force uncovered a disturbing pattern in which children engaged in street-based scavenging were supplied with rubber solution and other harmful substances instead of receiving proper payment for their services. This practice exposed the children to intoxicants and further deepened their vulnerability.

The arrest, prosecution and eventual conviction of the two men represent a decisive enforcement action by the Task Force and reinforce its resolve to dismantle networks and activities that exploit vulnerable children and expose young people to substance abuse.

The Task Force has made it clear that enforcement remains a central pillar of its mandate. Individuals or groups involved in supplying intoxicating substances to children, exploiting vulnerable young people or encouraging drug abuse will be identified, investigated, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

However, the intervention of the Task Force goes beyond arrest and prosecution.

The rescue of the 43 children is part of a broader ambition to take 10,000 vulnerable youths off the streets, particularly those exposed to substance abuse and other harmful influences, and provide them with a structured pathway towards recovery and a productive future.

Under the initiative, vulnerable youths will be removed from harmful street environments and subjected to appropriate medical and psychosocial assessment. Those requiring treatment will receive necessary interventions, while others will be supported through rehabilitation, skills acquisition and eventual reintegration into society.

The objective is not merely to remove young people from the streets, but to give them a genuine opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity, acquire useful skills and become productive members of their communities.

Speaking on the conviction and the broader intervention, the Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji, Esq., said the Task Force would continue to pursue its mandate with firmness while combining enforcement with prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration.

He stressed that children and young people who have become vulnerable to substance abuse must not simply be viewed through the lens of enforcement but should also be protected and given the opportunity to recover and rebuild their lives.

At the same time, he warned that those who deliberately exploit the vulnerability of children and young people for personal gain would not escape accountability.

The Task Force therefore calls on parents, community leaders, traditional institutions and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards protecting children and young people from the dangers of substance abuse.

The Task Force maintains that the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking cannot be won by government agencies alone. It requires the vigilance, cooperation and collective commitment of parents, communities, institutions and all members of society.

The message from this conviction is clear and unmistakable: the streets must not become breeding grounds for the exploitation of children, and those who supply intoxicating substances to vulnerable young people will be pursued, arrested, prosecuted and held accountable under the law.

While offenders will face the consequences of their actions, vulnerable children and young people will continue to be offered protection, treatment, rehabilitation, skills and a renewed opportunity to build productive lives and contribute positively to society.

News September 08, 2026 Rotary Club Abuja Renaissance Marks International Literacy Day with Reading Workshop, Fetes Pupils with Gifts

The Rotary Club of Abuja Renaissance, has brought joy to students and pupils in the Federal Capital Territory as part of activities marking the International Literacy Day, celebrated annually on September 8. The event, held at the Kid’s Playground of Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, attracted students, parents, and other stakeholders from Abuja and its environs.

Sponsored by Zenith Bank Plc and Transcorp Hilton Hotels, Abuja, the club provided guidance to children on how everyday reading routines at home can help build literacy skills, reading confidence, and a stronger connection with books.

Speaking at the event, Rotarian (Mrs) Patience Ofik, Charter President of the Club, emphasized that literacy extends beyond the ability to read and write, but is a pathway to building self-confidence and achieving academic transformation.

She further underscored the importance of consistent reading habits:

"Reading plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of students, offering them not just academic knowledge but also an avenue for personal growth. At the Rotary Club, we believe that cultivating a habit of reading in young minds is essential for their intellectual and emotional development” 

Also speaking, the District-Governor elect of Rotary International District 9127, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu encouraged the children to ensure they always add value in everything they do, harping his discussion on the theme, “Read Today, Lead Tomorrow.”

In his remarks, the General Manager of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Mr. Martin Zarybnicky, urged the children to embrace reading as a way of life. He charged them to never give up on their dreams, which can only be achieved through maintaining good reading habits.

The Branch Manager of Zenith Bank Plc, Transcorp Hilton, Deborah Amapakabo reiterated Zenith Bank’s commitment to literacy and advancing the cause of knowledge, especially in the youths, encouraging the participants to start now to lay foundations for a brighter future. 

The event featured some young authors, including Ashezi Akwashiki, 12 years, Ziora Adighibe, 10 years, and Akum Adighibe, 8 years, who read their books to the delight of the participating students. 

One of the partners to the project, The Kids Nook Library spoke to the students on the importance of a healthy reading culture, encouraging them to always keep their minds productively engaged. 

The event featured reading workshops, storytelling sessions, question-and-answer segments, and the distribution of school bags to all the students. 

More than 120 pupils from a total of 15 primary schools took part in the event, including:

· Care and Cuddle Schools, Abuja. 

· STEM Cuddle International School

· Mienebi International School

· Olumawu School, Abuja 

· Betharbel Free Inclusive Academy

· LEA Primary Schools in Katampe, Saburi and Mabushi. 

· The Berkeley International School

· Barvij International School

. The Posh Oak Academy 

All participating schools are located within Abuja, the nation's capital.

News September 08, 2026 Appeal court affirms 490-year jail term for ex-NEXIM MD over N2.4bn fraud

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Tuesday affirmed the conviction and 490-year prison sentence handed down to former Managing Director of the Nigeria Export-Import Bank, Robert Orya, over a N2.4bn fraud.

A three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Muhammed Danjuma, unanimously dismissed Orya’s appeal challenging the judgment of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja.

The other members of the panel were Justices Ntong Festus Ntong and Ele Ejo Enenche.

A statement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC)’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said Justice Danjuma, while delivering the judgment, held that the appeal lacked merit and affirmed the judgment of the trial court delivered by Justice F.E. Messiri on February 5, 2026.

“I have considered all briefs filed by counsel and have gone through the record of the trial court and adopted it, and the issues as formulated by this appellate court in resolving this appeal.

“I looked at each and every issue, and in my final analysis, all the issues formulated for the determination of this appeal are resolved in favour of the respondent and against the appellant.

“This appeal is devoid of any merit and is hereby dismissed. The judgment of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory delivered on February 5, 2026, in charge number FSC/SC/CS/487/2021 is hereby affirmed,” he was quoted as saying.

Orya was prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission after being arraigned in 2021 on a 49-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretences, forgery and advance fee fraud involving N2.4bn.

The trial court had found him guilty on all 49 counts after holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Justice Messiri consequently sentenced him to 10 years’ imprisonment on each of the 49 counts, totalling 490 years.

The sentences are, however, to run concurrently.

Dissatisfied with the judgment, Orya approached the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn his conviction and sentence.

The appellate court, however, rejected his appeal and upheld the findings of the trial court.

Orya served as Managing Director of NEXIM Bank between 2009 and 2016.

He was appointed to head the bank on August 14, 2009, by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and was reappointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan on August 18, 2014.

News September 08, 2026 NiMet predicts 3-day thundery, cloudy atmosphere from Wednesday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted cloudy and thundery weather conditions across the country from Wednesday to Friday.

NiMet, in its weather outlook released in Abuja, forecast patches of clouds over the northern region on Wednesday, with prospects of morning thunderstorms accompanied by light rains over parts of Taraba and Kebbi.

The agency predicted isolated thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains over parts of Taraba, Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano and Kaduna states later in the day.

“For the North-Central region, thunderstorms accompanied by light rains are expected over parts of Nasarawa, Niger, Benue and the Federal Capital Territory during the morning hours.

“During the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains are expected over most parts of the region,” it said.

NiMet forecast a cloudy atmosphere over the southern region, with prospects of morning rains over parts of Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Cross River, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom states.

It predicted moderate rains over most parts of the region later in the day.

The agency forecast patches of clouds over the northern region on Thursday, with prospects of morning thunderstorms accompanied by light rains over parts of Jigawa, Kano, Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe and Kaduna states.

“Later during the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa and Taraba states.

“For the North-Central region, sunny skies with patches of clouds are expected, with prospects of morning thunderstorms accompanied by light rains over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Plateau, Niger and Benue states.

“Later in the day, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over the entire region,” NiMet said.

It predicted light rains over parts of Ondo, Ogun, Abia, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Lagos, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states during the morning hours in the southern region.

The agency envisaged continuous rains over most parts of the region later in the day.

NiMet forecast a high possibility of flooding over parts of Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states during the forecast period.

For Friday, it anticipated partly cloudy skies over the northern region, with chances of thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains over Taraba and Adamawa states during the morning hours.

According to NiMet, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Adamawa and Taraba states by the afternoon or evening hours.

“Sunny skies with patches of clouds are anticipated over the central region, with chances of thunderstorms accompanied by light rains over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa and Niger states during the morning hours.

“Later in the day, thunderstorms with moderate rains are anticipated in most parts of the region.

“A cloudy atmosphere is expected over the southern region, with prospects of moderate rains over parts of Ondo, Ebonyi, Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states during the morning hours,” it said.

The agency predicted moderate rains over most parts of the southern region later in the day.

According to NiMet, strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely.

The agency urged the public to take adequate precautions and ensure loose objects are secured to avoid collision.

“The states with the possibility of flash floods should activate the emergency response system immediately.

Driving under heavy rain should be avoided. Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets.

“Stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees. Airline operators are advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning of their operations.

“Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet,” it said. (NAN)

News September 08, 2026 ‎NOUN appoints acting bursar

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has appointed Mrs Ramatu Ibrahim as Acting Bursar following the death of the substantive Bursar, Mallam Nasir Marafa.

The ​‌‍‍‍⁠​‍⁠⁠‌‍‍‌⁠‍‌⁠⁠‌​Registrar of the institution, Mr Oladipo Ajayi, announced the appointment in a statement signed by Mrs. Omotola Ojudu, Acting Director, NOUN Directorate of Media and Publicity, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ajayi said the appointment was made to ensure continuity in the university’s financial administration and would remain in force until further notice.

He said the appointment, effective from Sept. 8, was approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Uduma, with the concurrence of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Malam Isa Yuguda.

Ajayi said Ibrahim’s extensive experience in the university’s financial operations positioned her to provide effective leadership and sustain efficient, transparent and accountable financial services.

He said Ibrahim, who was Deputy Bursar, Treasury, before her appointment, had served in various operational units of the Bursary Department.

According to him, she has experience in accounting, financial management, treasury operations and related administrative processes.

Ajayi said that as Deputy Bursar, Treasury, Ibrahim provided professional leadership and oversight of the university’s treasury operations.

He said the university management described the late Marafa as a dedicated and dependable officer who served the institution with commitment, professionalism and integrity.

According to him, management said Marafa’s contributions to the university’s financial administration and institutional development would be remembered with gratitude.

Ajayi said management expressed confidence in Ibrahim’s ability to discharge her responsibilities with professionalism, diligence, integrity and a strong sense of institutional responsibility.

He said the Vice-Chancellor congratulated Ibrahim on the appointment and wished her a successful tenure.

Ajayi said the university community had been enjoined to extend the necessary cooperation and support to the Acting Bursar. (NAN)

News September 08, 2026 FGN offers 2 savings bonds for subscription at N1,000 per unit

The Debt Management Office (DMO), on behalf of the Federal Government, has announced an offer of two FGN savings bonds for subscription at N1,000 per unit.

According to a statement by the DMO on Tuesday in Abuja, the first offer is a two-year FGN bond due on Sept. 16, 2028, at an interest rate of 14.12 per cent per annum.

The second offer is a three-year FGN bond due on Sept. 16, 2029, at an interest rate of 15.12 per cent per annum.

It said that the opening date for the offer is Sept. 7, the closing date is Sept. 11, the settlement date is Sept. 16, while coupon payment dates are Dec. 16, March 16, June 16 and Sept. 16.

“They are offered at N1,000 per unit, subject to a minimum subscription of N5,000 and in multiples of N1,000 thereafter, subject to a maximum subscription of N50 million.

“Interest is payable quarterly, while bullet repayment is on the maturity date,” the DMO said.

It said that FGN bonds, like all other Federal Government securities, are backed by the full faith and credit of the Federal Government and charged upon the general assets of Nigeria.

“They qualify as securities in which trustees can invest under the Trustee Investment Act.

“They qualify as government securities within the meaning of the Company Income Tax Act and Personal Income Tax Act for exemption for pension funds, amongst other investors.

“They are listed on the Nigerian Exchange Ltd., and they qualify as liquid assets for liquidity ratio calculation for banks, ” it said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that FGN savings bonds are risk-free debt securities issued by the DMO on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

They are designed specifically for retail investors, and they allow individuals to earn guaranteed returns while lending money to the government for national development. (NAN)