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Meet first female couple playing for South Africa in WAFCON 2026

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CASABLANCA, Morocco – July 28, 2026

By Prosper Mene 

South Africa’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign began with a historic moment on Monday as married duo Robyn Moodaly and Gabriela Salgado took to the pitch together for Banyana Banyana.

The pair featured in South Africa’s Group B opener against Tanzania on July 27, becoming the first husband and wife to play in the same match in the history of WAFCON.

The milestone came during the tournament’s first matchday in Morocco, as the defending champions kicked off their title defense.

Photos shared by Salgado on Instagram captured the moment, sparking celebration online among fans who hailed it as a landmark for the competition.

Organized by CAF, the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was first staged in 1991 and has since grown into Africa’s biggest women’s football championship. The 2026 edition has now added another first to its record books with the participation of Moodaly and Salgado.

South Africa lost the opening game 2-1 to Tanzania, but the couple’s appearance will be remembered as one of the tournament’s standout moments.

 

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Lola Shoneyin Elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature

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By Prosper Mene 

Acclaimed Nigerian author, publisher and cultural advocate, Lola Shoneyin, has been admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (RSL), the UK’s leading charity dedicated to promoting literature.

Her formal induction took place during the RSL’s annual summer event in London. Founded in 1820 by King George IV, the Society elects Fellows based on their outstanding literary work and significant contribution to global literature.

In line with tradition, new Fellows sign the RSL Roll Book, a historic register that dates back to 1825. Shoneyin marked her induction by signing with a historic dip pen once owned by 19th-century novelist George Eliot.

Shoneyin gained international recognition with her debut novel, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives. The book was longlisted for the 2011 Orange Prize for Fiction and went on to win both the PEN Oakland Josephine Miles Literary Award and the Ken Saro-Wiwa Prose Prize.

Beyond writing, she has been a major force in Africa’s creative industry. She serves as Director of the Book Buzz Foundation, Founder of the Aké Arts and Book Festival, and Founder of Lagos-based publishing outfit and bookstore, Ouida Books.

The RSL said her election reflects its growing commitment to honouring international writers whose work is shaping the global literary scene and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.

 

 

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Soludo’s Wife Celebrates Daughter’s First-Class Degree from University of Nottingham

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By Prosper Mene

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, is in a celebratory mood following her daughter’s outstanding academic achievement at the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.

The Governor’s daughter graduated with First-Class Honours, a feat Mrs. Soludo described as a source of pride for the family and for Anambra State.

In a post shared on her social media pages on Wednesday, the First Lady of Anambra State expressed joy and gratitude to God for seeing her daughter through her studies successfully.

She praised her daughter’s hard work, discipline and determination, noting that the achievement reflects the values of diligence and excellence that the Soludo family upholds.

“We celebrate you, our daughter, for making us proud with your First-Class Honours from the University of Nottingham. Your dedication, focus and God’s grace brought you this far. You are an inspiration to many young girls out there,” Mrs. Soludo wrote.

The University of Nottingham is ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, and is known for producing high-achieving graduates across different fields.

Mrs. Soludo also used the moment to encourage students in Anambra and across Nigeria to take their academics seriously, saying education remains the strongest tool for personal and national development.

The Governor’s family has received congratulatory messages from government officials, party members, and well-wishers who described the achievement as “a win for Anambra and for Nigerian students abroad.”

 

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Badenoch Says New UK Prime Minister “Not the Leader Britain Needs”

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By Prosper Mene

LONDON — Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has criticised the new UK Prime Minister, saying the person in office is “not the leader Britain needs at this time.”

Speaking during a media briefing in Westminster on Wednesday, Badenoch said the country is facing serious economic and social challenges that require “clear direction, strong values, and decisive leadership.”

“The new Prime Minister is not the leader Britain needs,” Badenoch said. “At a time when families are struggling with the cost of living, when our public services are under pressure, and when we need to restore confidence in government, Britain deserves better.”

The Conservative leader did not name specific policies but argued that the current government has failed to provide the stability and long-term vision required to move the country forward.

“We need leadership that puts the British people first, that cuts waste, that backs enterprise, and that restores pride in our institutions,” she added. “That is what the Conservative Party stands for, and that is what I will deliver.”

Badenoch’s comments come amid growing political debate in the UK over the economy, immigration, and public service reform. The new Prime Minister took office following recent changes at 10 Downing Street.

In response, a spokesperson for Number 10 said the government remains “focused on delivering for the British people” and is “getting on with the job of growing the economy and improving public services.”

Political analysts say Badenoch’s statement signals the start of a more aggressive opposition strategy as the Conservative Party seeks to reposition itself ahead of the next general election.

 

 

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FORMER RIVERS GOVERNOR ROTIMI AMAECHI LOSES MOTHER, MRS. MARY AMAECHI, AT 89

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By Prosper Mene 

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – April 2026

There is grief in Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, following the death of Mrs. Mary Amaechi, mother of former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi.

Mrs. Amaechi passed away at the age of 89.

A statement from the Amaechi family described her as “a woman of faith, humility, and strength” who played a pivotal role in raising one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures.

“She was a devout Christian, a community pillar, and a mother who instilled the values of discipline, service, and integrity in her children,” the family said. “Her passing is a great loss not only to us but to Ubima community and Rivers State at large.”

Since the news broke, condolences have continued to pour in from across the political spectrum.

Political associates, APC chieftains, and Rivers leaders have described Mama Amaechi as the quiet force behind her son’s rise from classroom teacher to two-term governor of Rivers State and later, Minister of Transportation under President Muhammadu Buhari.b

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, in a condolence message, described the deceased as “a mother whose prayers and counsel shaped a generation of leaders from Rivers.”

BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS

The Amaechi family is expected to announce burial arrangements in due course.

Mama Amaechi is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her deep faith, love for education, and commitment to her Ubima community.

May her soul rest in peace.

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Loren Adetutu Gomez Graduates as Joint Best Female Student at Nigerian Law School

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By Prosper Mene 

Abuja, Nigeria – April 2026

Excellence, discipline, and faith have earned Loren Adetutu Gomez a place among the top graduates of the Nigerian Law School Class of 2026.

The University of Lagos law graduate, who finished in the top 5% of her class, has now emerged with a First Class at the Nigerian Law School. She was further honoured as the Joint Best Female Graduating Student and Joint Second Best Graduating Student Overall nationwide.

Speaking after her Call to Bar ceremony in Abuja, a visibly emotional Loren described the achievement as “surreal.”

“Even now, it still feels unreal to have those titles attached to my name. I never imagined this outcome when I started,” she said.

A Journey Built on Habits, Not Just Motivation

Loren was posted to the Abuja Campus of the Nigerian Law School. With just two days to prepare, she and some colleagues made the long bus journey from Ibadan to Abuja.

She credited her success to consistency and deliberate habits built over the years.

“Law school strips you down to your habits. You don’t survive on motivation alone. You survive because of what you do every day, even when you don’t feel like it,” she explained.

A former daily library user at UNILAG, Loren carried that culture into law school. She set a personal rule of “no zero days” – doing something law-related daily, whether reading, answering MCQs, or revising cases.

Her strategy evolved with time. She dropped time-consuming note-writing for printed materials and class slides, focused on understanding over speed, and relied heavily on repetition and active recall. Four months to exams, she deleted social media apps and used focus apps to eliminate distractions.

Faith, Friends and Sacrifice

The journey was not without challenges. Loren admitted to moments of exhaustion and self-doubt, even praying to “settle for a 2:1.” She also fell ill twice during the 8-month program.

“My friends carried me through. We prayed together, read together, and reminded each other why we started. I don’t think anyone should do law school without a support system,” she said.

During exam preparations, she and her study group often read from 11pm to 1am, slept a few hours, and resumed by 6am. In exam week, she survived on about 3 hours of sleep nightly.

From Doubt to Distinction

When results were released in April, Loren was too nervous to check. Seeing “First Class” made her break down in tears.

Three days before Call to Bar, the official brochure listed her among the top students.

“While I was crying over my First Class, God was probably saying, ‘You have no idea what’s coming,’” she laughed.

Advice to Aspiring Lawyers

Loren urged students not to let past results limit them.

“I didn’t graduate with a First Class from university, yet here I am today. Faith without works is dead. Pray for a First Class, but your habits must reflect someone preparing for one. And learn how to answer law school questions. If you know, you know.”

With her call to the Nigerian Bar, Loren Adetutu Gomez now joins the legal profession, bringing with her a record of brilliance and a message of resilience for the next generation of lawyers.

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‘I Was Cursed’ — TV Host Morayo Afolabi-Brown Recounts Disturbing Phone Attack

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 By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria | April 4, 2026

Popular TV host Morayo Afolabi-Brown has opened up about a disturbing experience after receiving a threatening phone call in which she said she was cursed.

The media personality, known for her work on Your View  on TVC, recounted the incident during a recent appearance, saying the attack left her shaken.

According to Morayo, the caller made curses and disturbing remarks directed at her and her family during the phone attack. She described the moment as one of the most unsettling experiences she has had in her career.

“I was cursed on the phone. It was very disturbing and not something you expect,” she said, adding that she had to pray and stay strong for her family afterward.

Morayo did not disclose the identity of the caller or the reason behind the attack, but she noted that public figures often face harassment and intimidation.

She, however, said she has put the incident behind her and remains focused on her work and advocacy. The TV host also used the opportunity to speak against online and phone bullying, urging people to be more responsible in how they engage others.

Fans and colleagues have since flooded her social media with messages of support, commending her for speaking out and for her resilience.

The incident has again sparked conversations about the mental and emotional toll of public attacks on media personalities in Nigeria.

 

 

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Governor grants full scholarship from undergraduate to PhD after 344 UTME score

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By Prosper Mene

Awka, Anambra State – April 25, 2026

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has awarded a comprehensive scholarship to Chiazo Umeaniba, a student of Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnewi, after she scored 344 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

Soludo announced the award on Sunday during the first anniversary celebration of Solution Fun City in Awka. The governor made the announcement after Umeaniba, who is the school’s senior prefect, performed as one of the dancers entertaining guests at the event. He was subsequently informed of her UTME score.

Declaring the scholarship, Soludo said it would cover her education from undergraduate to PhD level.

“Your education from undergraduate to PhD is on me. Yes, the bill is on me. I was also a senior prefect like you, I made the best result,” the governor said.

He explained why the gesture touched him:

“You know why I’m touched: I was a senior prefect like her, I went into the university and made a first class honours and won all the departmental and faculty prizes. I am also wishing that she, as a senior prefect and making 344 in UTME, is going in there, I can see her coming out with first class honours, but the bill I will pay. Even after my tenure as a governor, I will continue to pay the bills”.

The scholarship gesture aligns with Soludo’s administration’s push to reward academic excellence and position Anambra as a hub for learning and innovation.

 

 

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At 16, Osasere Okundayo Sets New Record as Nigeria’s Youngest Chartered Accountant

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By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 25, 2026

Sixteen-year-old Osasere Okundayo has made history after qualifying as a Chartered Accountant through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, becoming the youngest person to achieve the professional qualification in the country.

Her feat surpasses the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at age 17 after completing the rigorous ICAN professional examinations. The qualification is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most demanding professional certifications, typically obtained by graduates and professionals after years of study.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, congratulated Okundayo, describing the milestone as a reflection of hard work, discipline, resilience and strong commitment to excellence.

“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” the minister said.

Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through programmes and policies aimed at helping them realise their potential.

“Osasere’s achievement reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens,” he said.

The minister wished the teenager greater success in the years ahead, expressing hope that her story would inspire millions of young Nigerians.

Okundaye’s record is expected to encourage more secondary school students to pursue professional certifications early, beyond the traditional university route.

 

 

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‘It’s not easy’ — Mr Ibu’s widow appeals for financial assistance as stepson counters claims

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By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 25, 2026

Mrs Stella Maris Okafor, widow of late Nollywood veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has made an emotional appeal for financial support, saying life has been difficult since the actor’s death in March 2024.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Thursday, Mrs Okafor said she has been struggling with medical bills, children’s school fees, and daily upkeep without her husband’s income.

“It’s not easy,” she said tearfully. “Since Baba passed, the responsibility has been on me alone. The children are still in school and there are many things to take care of. I am appealing to good Nigerians, fans, and kind-hearted people to assist us. Any support will go a long way.”

However, Mr Ibu’s stepson, Daniel Okafor, has disputed the widow’s claims. In a statement posted online, Daniel alleged that the family has received substantial donations from fans, colleagues, and organizations since the actor’s illness began in 2023 and after his death.

“The public should know the truth,” Daniel said. “A lot of money was raised for my dad’s treatment and for the family’s upkeep. We need transparency on how those funds were managed. It is unfair for the widow to keep asking the public for money without accountability.”

Daniel further claimed that he and other family members have been sidelined from decisions concerning the late actor’s estate and donations.

Mr Ibu, famed for his comic roles and protruding stomach, died on March 2, 2024 at a Lagos hospital after a prolonged illness that led to the amputation of one of his legs. He starred in over 200 movies including Mr Ibu, Keziekele, and 9 Wives.

Since his death, Mrs Okafor and the children have received visits and donations from fellow actors, fans, and the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN. The AGN Enugu State chapter said it is monitoring the situation and has urged both parties to settle differences amicably “in the interest of Mr Ibu’s legacy and the children”.

Fans on social media have reacted with mixed views, with some calling for transparency while others urged Nigerians to support the widow regardless of the family dispute.

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