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Archive June 1, 2025

Katsina Gov Radda Mourns Niger Flood Victims, Condoles Families

By in News, Nigeria News

Dikko Radda, the governor of Katsina State, is grieving over the flood that ravaged Mokwa and the surrounding Niger State.

At least 151 people died as a result of the flood, many of whom were internally displaced, and many of the flood’s critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges, was destroyed.

In a statement released on Sunday by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Radda’s chief press secretary, made condolences to the governor of Niger State and the flood victims’ families.

We all grieve terribly as a result of the Mokwa flood disaster. Governor Radda expressed his thoughts and prayers for everyone who has been affected by this unfortunate incident.

Natural disasters serve as reminders of our shared vulnerability and the value of uniting in times of crisis, according to the governor.

In this challenging time, Katsina expressed her full sympathies to her Niger State brothers and sisters.

READ MORE: 22 Kano athletes die in road accidents after a sports festival

The governor stressed the need for strengthened disaster preparedness measures and flood management systems in northern Nigeria, particularly as the rainy season gets longer.

Radda prays fervently for the departed’s souls, asking Almighty Allah to forgive them for their errors and grant them the oath of honor. The governor also prayed for the families of the bereaved to cope with their unimaginable losses in Allah’s divine comfort and strength.

The governor’s statement read, “I pray for Allah’s protection over all Nigerian communities against upcoming natural disasters and calamities.”

See the following statement in its entirety:

Governor Radda Condoles Families, the Government Over Painful Loss in The Governor’s NIGER FLOOD DISASTER

Following the devastating flood disaster that affected Mokwa, Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expresses deep sorrow and condolences to the government and the people of Niger State.

The flooding incident, which was brought on by heavy rain that submerged the commercial hub, is described by Governor Radda as a tragic natural disaster that has caused the communities affected by immense pain and suffering.

We all grieve terribly as a result of the Mokwa flood disaster. Governor Radda expressed his thoughts and prayers for everyone who has been affected by this unfortunate incident.

Natural disasters serve as reminders of our shared vulnerability and the value of uniting in times of crisis, according to the Governor. In this challenging time, Katsina State extends her heartfelt condolences to her Niger State brothers and sisters.

Governor Radda expresses his sincere sympathies to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, the families who lost their loved ones, and all Niger State residents who lost property as a result of the devastating flooding.

The Governor also emphasizes the need for strengthened disaster preparedness measures and flood management systems in northern Nigeria, particularly as the rainy season gets longer.

Governor Radda asks Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings and grant them Aljannatul Firdaos in fervent prayers for the souls of the deceased. The Governor also prays for the families of bereaved people who are dealing with irreplaceable losses. Allah’s strength and comfort are also at their disposal.

The Governor remarked, “I pray for Allah’s protection over all Nigerian communities against upcoming natural disasters and calamities.”

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Governor of Katsina State is the state’s chief press secretary.

No domestic bliss for ongoing Welsh rugby soap opera

By in News, Sports News
BBB Sport
Gareth Griffiths
BBB Sport Wales
  • 33 Comments

So there it is, folks. The United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-final defeat for the Scarlets was followed by another turbulent campaign both on and off the field.

Resignations, administration, wooden spoons, caretaker coaches, contract controversies and more Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) disputes with the regions.

The most recent entry in the tumultuous world of Welsh rugby.

We were concerned about how much Welsh rugby could lose on both the national and international stages when the four professional sides launched the campaign last September.

While there has been a slight improvement from the regions, the dire Dragons apart, the latest campaign has been a disaster on the international stage and in the boardroom with influential figures like Warren Gatland and Nigel Walker departing.

Before a two-test tour of Japan in July, the men’s side are without a permanent head coach. Only two of the 18 internationals were won by the two national sides.

The WRU, who had to apologize to Wales women over player contracts, has had more off-field controversy.

national issues

Players from Wales women's and men's side look dejected Huw Evans Picture Agency

10 games and 10 losses That was Wales’ two national teams’ worst performance at the 2025 Six Nations in 86 challenging days.

From the 43-0 Friday night Paris mauling dished out to Wales ‘ men’s side in January to the 44-12 hammering inflicted by Italy’s women in late April, it proved a miserable three months as both sides finished rock bottom.

Following another clean sweep of Six Nations defeats, Wales men have lost all eight of their matches this year. This is the 17th consecutive time the team has lost.

So it was no surprise when two players, captain Jac Morgan and scrumhalf Tomos Williams, were chosen as part of the British and Irish Lions’ tour group in Australia, setting a record low.

Gatland departed in February, Cardiff coach Matt Sherratt taking charge for the rest of the Six Nations which finished with the record 68-14 home loss to England in March.

Sherratt continues to be in charge of Japan while new performance director Dave Reddin, who may wonder what he has let himself in, is in charge of the selection process for Gatland’s permanent replacement.

After Ioan Cunningham paid the price for the contracts dispute at the end of 2024, the Welsh women have also hired a new coach.

Ironically, Cunningham was the only Wales national coach to gain victories in the regular season with a 19-10 win against Japan in the WXV2 tournament in South Africa and a warm-up win for the tournament against Australia.

Sean Lynn, who helped his club win three successive league titles, took over from Gloucester-Hartpury just one week before the Six Nations began.

As his team became the first women’s team to lose all five of their matches at a Six Nations tournament, Lynn was quickly exposed to the harsh realities. He will expect more during the World Cup in England later this year.

There is some hope. Blair Murray, the find of the season, has been the stoic figure of Wales’ captain Morgan in the face of hardship, whereas Murray has been the stoic figure in Scarlets and Wales.

Wales Under-20s provided arguably the performance and occasion of the campaign.

Domestic duties

Cardiff players with the United Rugby Championship Welsh shield Huw Evans Picture Agency

Results for the Welsh teams were comparable to those from the previous campaign, with one team reaching the Challenge Cup quarter-finals and the URC play-off final eight.

Under the direction of Toby Booth, it was Ospreys who accomplished both of those feats in 2023-24.

This season – with Booth departing just before Christmas and replaced by Mark Jones – Ospreys managed the European knockout stages again but it was Scarlets who reached the league play-offs with a storming finish to the regular campaign before a last-eight defeat at Leinster.

Despite the salary cap being reduced to £4.5 million, there appeared to be a slight improvement in results. Wales teams won 25 games in the 2024-2019 URC season, up from 22 in the previous campaign.

Scarlets (nine) and Cardiff (eight) were the most improved with their win totals improving by four victories each, while Ospreys had three fewer wins than in 2023-24.

The Dragons were another major disappointment, finishing bottom of a nightmare campaign under Filo Tiatia’s replacement Dai Flanagan and holding the record for the worst URC league season with just nine points.

After only defeating Ospreys on the opening weekend of September 2024, the Welsh side lost 17 straight league games.

More of the same WRU

Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Abi Tierney and chair Richard Collier-Keywood Huw Evans Picture Agency

This year, Welsh rugby has received twice as many negative off-field headlines as it has on the field. Those hoping fresh faces at the top would signify no more controversies will be disappointed.

The managerial change, which has chair Richard Collier-Keywood and chief executive Abi Tierney as the new boss, has so far failed to alter the dreadful state of the Welsh game or have improved the situation.

Old habits were exposed when contract negotiations between Wales women’s players ended and the women’s teams were threatened with withdrawing from the WXV2 international competition and, in turn, this summer’s World Cup.

They were issued with a “final offer” ultimatum on 2 August, saying if they did not sign within a three-hour deadline, planned matches against New Zealand, Scotland and Australia would not go ahead and the contracts would be withdrawn.

Later, the WRU apologised for their actions but refuted sexism claims. According to Collier-Keywood, the row was a “crisis” that the union could have avoided by failing at governance and leadership.

Chaos in Cardiff

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The WRU’s “One Wales” strategy was first introduced in the summer of 2024, and the new Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA) that was promised to follow soon thereafter will be a key component of the long-term plan.

That has not occurred. The WRU had to cope with Cardiff going into administration in April before the governing body bailed them out.

The WRU and Ospreys and Scarlets are currently at odds with the new PRA due to that incident.

Despite Dragons and Cardiff signing the new agreement, Ospreys and Scarlets failed to comply with Welsh rugby’s deadline of 8 May.

Ospreys and Scarlets say they asked the WRU for assurances the takeover “will not disproportionally benefit Cardiff and disadvantage the independent clubs” but claim they were not given guarantees.

The WRU announced that it would abandon its traditional four-part professional sides and would switch to a new two-tier funding structure after the deadline was missed.

According to Ospreys and Scarlets, this choice has “made our game more destabilizing and debilitating uncertainty”.

Will there be three after four?

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Tierney had continually talked about four equal regions being the way forward but the goalposts have moved with the governing body also having to refinance its debt with the bank.

The governing body hasn’t confirmed or refuted the claims that the cash-strapped WRU intends to cut a team from its professional ranks.

Although they hope to have a long-term decision by September, Ospreys and Scarlets, who will represent Wales in the Champions Cup next season, will be on lower terms than their rivals in East Wales.

These events have caused another rift in Welsh rugby that has seen Ospreys and Scarlets ‘ local politicians get involved and could ultimately end up with lawyers.

Players and supporters are more uncertain about what the future holds, with little transparency in Wales and survival battles.

With Welsh rugby’s reputation once more being exposed in public, there are no winners.

Not many dull days in Welsh rugby then with more upheaval to come, which some argue is essential for an upturn in the flagging fortunes.

related subjects

  • Dragons
  • Welsh Rugby
  • Cardiff
  • Scarlets
  • Rugby Union of Wales
  • Ospreys
  • Wales Sport
  • Rugby Union

Linens and silks for summer 2025: Five high street pieces our experts are shopping

By in Entertainment News, News

We’ve compiled the top summer-friendly fabrics from brands like Next, Hobbs, and Forever New to help you get dressed in warm weather.

mirror administrator, writer of shopping, Grace Salmon, and Emma Banko
We may link to affiliate links in this article, but we will make money off of any purchases we make. more information

Coolest linen and silk fashion buys to see you through summer(Image: Mirror)

The season of lightweight fabrics is upon us, whether you’re taking a trip or just enjoying the sunshine at home. Our experts chose the best and most flattering pieces that perfectly meld comfort and style to complement your summer wardrobe.

Because of their breathability and moisture-wicking qualities, linen and silk are ideal summer fabrics. Consequently, these items will keep you cool and dry all year long.

These purchases are some of the warm-weather essentials of the season, from straightforward silhouettes to trendy looks. Starting at just £49, we’ve rounded up our top picks from retailers like Hobbs, Ro&amp, Zo, and Me &amp, Em.

Susanna Reid’s award-winning red midi dress is now available for purchase for £60.

READ MORE: Thanks to a little-known savings site, you can get a large pot of Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream for less than £50.

NEXT

Next floral suit
Perfect for summer weddings(Image: Next)

Florals are always in for the spring/summer, and this slouchy, silky suit from Next is the perfect alternative to a floral dress. If you’re heading to a wedding or the races and not really into floaty skirts or dresses, this suit ticks all the right boxes. It’s comfy and airy, and it looks so stylish teamed with strappy low heels and oversized statement earrings.

Double Breasted Blazer costs $ 66 here, and Tapered Trousers costs $ 40 here. SHOP THE LOOK

RO andamp; ZO

(Image: Ro & Zo)

If you’re looking for something with an easy, breezy linen feel, this warm-weather essential Ro&Zo set is perfect. This tailored yet relaxed look is perfect for throwing on for a sunset dinner or an afternoon stroll.

The versatility of this set allows for easy access to both the top and bottom of your summer wardrobe.

The pair of matching pants are priced at $79 and the waistcoat at $49 here.

HOBBS

Hobbs brown linen dress on model
Brown is right on trend for the summer(Image: Hobbs)

This Chestnut Brown Hobbs dress would make the perfect summer wardrobe addition because Brown has recently made a comeback. You’ll feel comfortable and stylish with its 100% pure linen composition, along with its trendy shade, and its flattering silhouette and pocket-friendly design.

For a simple holiday look, pair it with some strappy leather sandals.

Purchase the Brodie Leather Slides for £110 and the Carmen Linen Dress for £139.

EVER NEW

Forever New linen co ord on model
Waistcoat co-ords are so versatile for summer(Image: Forever New)

In our opinion, a waistcoat in a coordinated color is essential for summer. They are so versatile, whether you pair them with blazers and chunky loafers for work or kitten-heeled mules and gold jewelry for a girls’ night out.

You’ll stay cool and airy all summer long thanks to the linen material on this chic beige Forever New.

SHOP THE LOOK:

ME + EM silk top on model
Silk will keep you cool and have you looking luxe(Image: ME + EM)

This summer chocolate-colored pure silk top will make you feel both cool and stylish. Its straightforward silhouette is enhanced by its open back, which gives it a chic edge.

For a bold appearance, pair it with a pair of slouchy long-length jeans from the company that customers claim are “a staple in every summer wardrobe” and an eye-trend eyelet belt.

Continue reading the article.

Fatface’s linen mini dress with pockets is ‘perfect for holiday’ and ‘looks great on’

By in Entertainment News, News

The bestselling linen dress from FatFace is a must-have this summer and it even has pockets. It is lightweight, flattering, and ideal for packing.

We may link to affiliate links in this article, but we will make money off of any purchases we make. more information

Fatface’s linen dress is the ultimate holiday piece(Image: Fatface)

FatFace might have just delivered the perfect throw-on-and-go summer dress for you.

For its flattering shape, easy-breezy fabric, and versatility, their Binny Linen Mini Dress, which retails for £62, has won a lot of customers’ hearts, making it the ideal summer accessory for both taking a tropical vacation and soaking up the sun closer to home.

The mini dress is designed to keep you cool even on the hottest days thanks to its breathable linen construction. You can stay dry and airy thanks to linen’s moisture-wicking properties and natural breathability.

Its flattering, structured appearance is enhanced by the square neckline, which also helps to soften the linen material a little. While the relaxed fit and mini-length make it simple to style up or down.

READ MORE: I’m a writer who writes about shopping, and River Island’s summer maxi is my best-to-go May payday.

READ MORE: Boden cuts 50% off flattering midi dresses that leave customers feeling like they are “a million dollars.”

Fatface linen dress on model
This dress features pockets and a relaxed silhouette (Image: Fatface)

It’s a summer staple that you’ll want to repurchase if you’re having a relaxed brunch, exploring a coastal town, or just relaxing over the weekend with your family.

And the distinguishing design feature? We all adore a dress that features them, so why not? They allow you to use them while carrying all of your essentials, and they are concealed and functional.

Add to that a classic button-down front and light, airy feel, and you have a dress that is both polished and effortless. For cooler evenings, it looks just as good with sandals and a straw bag as it does with a pair of heeled mules and a denim jacket.

Continue reading the article.

This linen dress has received rave reviews from customers as the ideal holiday dress. Super linen dress, according to one customer. ideal for traveling in daytime. Love it”. And a second “looks great on” was added. There are no negative reviews as of yet.

Affordable LED eye mask that battles fine lines and crow’s feet gives ‘results in two weeks’

By in Entertainment News, News

This affordable LED eye mask has received positive reviews for delivering noticeable results in just “two weeks” if you’re looking for a skincare device that can eliminate fine lines and crow’s feet.

We may link to affiliate links in this article, but we will make money off of any purchases we make. more information

Affordable LED eye mask that battles crow’s feet gives ‘results in two weeks’(Image: Lookfantastic)

Red light therapy is a well-known and widely used treatment for age-related stubborn signs, ranging from deep wrinkles to fine lines and dark spots. This eye mask, which places a premium on the skin around the eyes, has an affordable price tag that makes it simpler and less expensive than ever to bid goodbye to fine lines and crow’s feet.

These StylPro Radiant Eyes Red LED Light Goggles are currently available for purchase at Lookfantastic for less than £50 and come with a nifty 10% discount. These goggles are also sold at Sephora, Boots, and Argos, and are made with red light therapy to give the eyes a younger, more youthful appearance.

Ernest Jones slashes a sizable £1,250 diamond engagement ring to make room for it.

READ MORE: New skincare-infused contour stain won’t budge “all day,” even in water.

StylPro Radiant Eyes Red LED Light Goggles
These StylPro Radiant Eyes Red LED Light Goggles currently have 10% off(Image: Lookfantastic)

This device promises to brighten your eyes, saying goodbye to frown lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet while providing a hands-free solution to your beauty routine that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles around the eyes.

The LED goggles are designed to aid smoother, firmer, and tighter skin using regenerative red LED light therapy, a technology proven to encourage collagen production from the body’s own fibroblasts deep under the skin for a fresher, plumper-looking eye area.

Strong, broad-spectrum LED red lights that penetrate the skin reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, frown lines, and under-eye wrinkles are incorporated into the frame of the flexible goggles. You’ll never have to worry about keeping it on for too long while you’re wearing the rechargeable device because it automatically shuts off after each 10-minute session.

A detachable and adjustable head strap is included so you can go about your day without the distractions of your eye mask. This also ensures a comfortable fit for the goggles.

One 5-star reviewer exclaims, “This mask fits a lot better and is comfier than a previous model I had. I’m looking forward to the results because it offers a variety of options.

I chime in again, “I love this device.” On the way to school, I wear it. It’s a comfortable and simple device to use, and after two weeks, I’ve noticed a difference in my eye area.

Continue reading the article.

Thirdly, “Really well priced! ” Although it was on the lower side, amazing noticed fuller eyes and less dark circles.