Category Nigeria News

The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has affirmed that Senegal retains the right to challenge the controversial decision that stripped it of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, stressing that no country will receive preferential treatment.

Motsepe stated this in a video interview published by CAF on Wednesday, addressing the fallout from the disputed AFCON 2025 final between the Senegal national football team and the Morocco national football team.

“And I’m told that Senegal is going to appeal, which is very important. Every one of the 54 nations in Africa has a right to pursue their appeals and advance their interests, not only at the highest level in Africa, in CAF, but also at the highest body, which is the Court of Arbitration for Sport. And we will adhere to and respect the decision that’s taken at the highest level,” he said.

Motsepe acknowledged that the controversy surrounding the final had undermined confidence in African football.

“I’ve been informed of the ruling by the CAF Appeals Board concerning the appeal by Morocco relating to the AFCON-Morocco 2025 final match, and I previously expressed my extreme disappointment with the incidents that took place at the final match.

“The important thing of what happened in that final match is it undermines the good work that CAF has done over many years to ensure that there’s integrity, that there’s respect, that there’s ethics, that there’s governance, as well as credibility of the results of our football matches,” he said.

READ ALSO: Stripping Senegal Of AFCON Title A ‘Disgrace For Africa’ — Fans

The CAF president described the situation as part of a longstanding credibility challenge within African football, adding that concerns over officiating and governance predate the 2025 final.

“The occurrences at the final match are part of the issues we are still dealing with concerning suspicion and distrust. It’s a legacy issue.

“When I became president, one of the major concerns was the impartiality, the independence and the respect of referees and match commissioners. A lot of good work has been done, but there continues to be suspicion because it’s a legacy issue,” he said.

Motsepe added that the controversy has also brought renewed scrutiny to the independence of CAF’s judicial bodies.

“Another important matter that these incidences brought to the fore is the independence and the respect of our judicial bodies,” he said.

Explaining reforms under his leadership, the president said CAF had adopted a new approach in appointing members of its judicial bodies.

“We, in choosing the members of our judicial bodies, followed a different path from what had been the case before. We invited each member association and each of the six zones in CAF to submit names of respected judges and lawyers,” he said.

Motsepe stressed that the credibility of decisions remains central to the organisation’s reforms.

“It is important that the decisions of our disciplinary board and the CAF appeals board are viewed with the respect and integrity that’s very important to us. But we will still have to deal with perceptions and concerns about integrity. It’s an ongoing issue. The CAF disciplinary board took one decision. The CAF appeals board took a totally different position,

“A critical factor is that not a single country in Africa will be treated in a manner that is more preferential or more advantageous or more favourable than any other country on the African continent,” he said.

READ ALSO: Senegalese Govt Calls For Probe Into AFCON Decision

Motsepe added that the African football body has commenced internal reviews following the final, emphasising that public trust would ultimately determine the legitimacy of CAF’s decisions.

“We take what has happened at the final match in Morocco during the TotalEnergies CAF Morocco 2025 very seriously. We have already started very important steps to address the identified deficiencies and ensure the necessary resolutions are passed.

“It is important for us that ordinary football supporters and spectators in every one of the 54 countries in Africa, in their judgement, not CAF’s judgement, regard the decisions of our judicial bodies as fair, with integrity and impartiality,” he said.

AFCON Title Strip

CAF overturned the outcome of the AFCON 2025 final, stripping Senegal of the title and awarding a 3–0 victory to Morocco after upholding an appeal by the Moroccan football federation.

The decision followed findings that Senegal violated Article 82 of CAF regulations during the match, resulting in forfeiture.

Senegal had originally won the final 1–0 on 18 January 2026, courtesy of an extra-time goal by Pape Gueye.

However, the match was marred by controversy after Senegalese players walked off the pitch for approximately 15–20 minutes in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco.

CAF subsequently ruled that the walk-off constituted a breach of regulations, leading to the reversal of the result.

Drones struck a Saudi oil refinery on the Red Sea and caused fires at two others in Kuwait as Iran stepped up attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure on Thursday.

Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry said a drone crashed into the Samref refinery in the industrial zone of the Red Sea port of Yanbu, adding that damage assessment was underway.

Yanbu is the destination of Petroline, the overland oil pipeline that gives Saudi exports an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz — currently choked off by Iran.

Thursday’s attacks follow major damage at the world’s biggest gas hub, Qatar’s Ras Laffan, on Wednesday as Iran retaliated for Israeli strikes on its South Pars gas field.

READ ALSO: MEMAN: Why Oil Marketers Delay Petrol Price Cuts At Pump

In Kuwait, drone attacks sparked blazes at the Mina Abdullah and Mina Al-Ahmadi refineries, which have a combined capacity of 800,000 barrels per day.

The state Kuwait National Petroleum Company later said the fires were contained.

Saudi Arabia’s Samref refinery can process about 400,000 barrels of crude per day.

Oil prices have surged during the nearly three-week Middle East war, with the benchmark Brent crude topping $115 on Thursday.

President Bola Tinubu has recalled how he found refuge in the United Kingdom during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, stating that British authorities once placed his residence under police protection amid threats from agents of the military regime.

Tinubu made the remarks on Wednesday during a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

In his address, the Nigerian leader expressed gratitude to the UK for its support during the years of military rule.

“Your Majesty, I wish to express Nigeria’s deep gratitude to this great nation for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship.

“Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta,” he said.

He added that such solidarity remains significant, noting it was “deeply humbling” to return as President of a democratic Nigeria.

READ ALSO: King Charles Hosts Tinubu To State Banquet, Hails UK–Nigeria Partnership

Pro-Democracy

Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle reached its peak in the 1990s following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by Moshood Abiola under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida. The decision triggered widespread protests and resistance.

Repression intensified during the rule of Sani Abacha, marked by arrests, assassinations, and the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine, drawing international condemnation.

Sustained pressure from pro-democracy groups, including civil society organisations and the media, eventually paved the way for a transition to civilian rule under Abdulsalami Abubakar in 1999, ushering in the Fourth Republic with Olusegun Obasanjo as President.

The legacy of the struggle endures, notably through the recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day and ongoing efforts to honour its key figures.

‘Safeguarding Regional Stability’

Tinubu also highlighted Nigeria’s current security challenges, particularly terrorism linked to instability in the Sahel, stressing the importance of continued cooperation with the UK.

“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability.

“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential,” he said, adding that he looked forward to meeting Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The President further expressed confidence in the future of bilateral relations, noting that both countries share a commitment to progress, mutual respect, and common values.

He also pointed to Nigeria’s role within the Commonwealth of Nations as a platform for strengthening ties.

Reflecting on historical and institutional links, Tinubu acknowledged the influence of British legal and political traditions on Nigeria’s governance system, including its courts, parliamentary structures, and civil service.

He also praised the contributions of Nigerians in the UK, describing them as the “strongest bridge” between both nations, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, business, technology, and the arts.

Diplomatic Relations

The state visit marked a significant moment in diplomatic relations, with Tinubu noted as the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle in such a setting.

The visit, which included high-level engagements, is expected to deepen cooperation in security, education, and economic development.

In his remarks, King Charles III described UK–Nigeria relations as a “partnership of equals,” commending Nigeria’s growing economic influence and the impact of its diaspora, particularly in healthcare and cultural exports such as Afrobeats and Nollywood.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) on Thursday honoured Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham with a Box Office Champion Award following the commercial success of her film, Oversabi Aunty.

In February, the movie surpassed the ₦1 billion mark at the Nigerian box office, making Abraham the first debut director to achieve such a milestone in cinemas. It is also now ranked among the highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time.

The film follows the story of an overzealous church usher whose constant interference in family matters leads to a series of chaotic and comedic consequences.

It features a star-studded cast, including Mike Ezuruonye and Odunlade Adekola and has been lauded for its relatable humour and cultural themes.

Speaking at the event, NFVCB Executive Director Shuaib Husseini described the achievement as a historic moment for the industry.

“It is my honour to welcome you as we celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements within Nigeria’s film industry.

“This accomplishment is not only a personal triumph but a testament to the industry’s growing strength. You have entertained millions and encouraged others to dream bigger,” he said.


READ ALSO: Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ Grosses ₦1bn At Box Office

On his part, the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Sanusi Yakubu, represented by Don Pedro, said the occasion marked a defining moment for Nollywood.

“We gather not merely to present an award but to mark a defining moment,” he said, describing Abraham as a creative force shaping the industry’s economic direction.

“Her film’s performance is a signal that Nigerian stories are commanding global attention,” he added.

In her remarks, Abraham expressed gratitude to the NFVCB for the recognition and acknowledged the support of her husband and team.

Reflecting on her journey into directing, she said, “I told my manager that I wanted to direct this movie by myself, alone. I went to my industry godmother, Mrs Bolanle Austin-Peters, and I told her that I wanted to shoot a movie.”

She also shared her excitement about the film’s success and the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

Today, the National Film and Video Censors Board @nfvcb, @igalaman hosted me and presented me with a recognition award for grossing over a billion naira at the box office, and for being the first solo director to achieve such a feat with a debut project.

This is a huge honor,… pic.twitter.com/v0zZwTmIsM

In a post shared on her X (formerly Twitter) page, Abraham described the recognition as a major milestone.

“Today, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), hosted me and presented me with a recognition award for grossing over a billion naira at the box office, and for being the first solo director to achieve such a feat with a debut project.

“This is a huge honour, one I deeply cherish and appreciate, especially coming from such a reputable organisation,” she wrote.

The event was attended by key stakeholders in the film industry, including Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, whose presence Abraham described as a highlight of the occasion.

“As if that wasn’t enough to make the day unforgettable, I was pleasantly surprised when Her Majesty, Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, graced us with her presence despite her demanding schedule,” she said.

Abraham also reflected on the message behind Oversabi Aunty, noting its focus on parenting and family values.

“Oversabi Aunty is more than just a film; it is a wake-up call for families, especially mothers, to realise that there is more to raising a child than shouting or reacting dramatically,” she said.

Funke Akindele’s film Behind The Scenes also made a box office success, grossing ₦2.4 billion and ranking as both the highest-grossing film of the year and the weekend.

Released in December 2025, it was the first Nollywood movie to surpass ₦2 billion, reaching ₦1 billion in just 17 days and hitting a single-day high of ₦129.5 million on Boxing Day.

The film broke the previous record held by Everybody Loves Jenifa and adds to Akindele’s achievements, making her the only Nigerian filmmaker with three films earning over ₦1 billion each (Behind The Scenes, Everybody Loves Jenifa, and A Tribe Called Judah), with a combined total of about ₦5.39 billion.

A truck–car collision has compounded the already severe traffic congestion around Kara Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday morning on the outbound lane from Lagos towards Mowe, involved a Mack truck and a Toyota Camry.

The truck rammed into the car, leaving it with significant damage to its bonnet.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), alongside other security operatives and traffic management authorities, are on the scene to manage the situation and ease vehicular movement.

The collision aggravated the heavy gridlock that has plagued the Kara Bridge corridor in recent days.

READ ALSO: Borno Bombings: Normalcy Has Been Restored To Maiduguri — Police

Traffic build-up has reportedly extended far beyond the immediate axis, with spillovers reaching Otedola Bridge, Berger, and other adjoining routes.

Commuters have continued to experience prolonged delays around that corridor, with some journeys lasting between three and five hours for relatively short distances.

The worsening traffic situation has largely been attributed to ongoing rehabilitation work on the bridge.

The Federal Ministry of Works earlier commenced repairs to replace damaged expansion joints on the outbound carriageway, leading to partial lane closures and diversions.

The current phase of the project, which resumed on March 10, 2026, is expected to last approximately two weeks, with a tentative completion date of March 24, 2026.

In addition, increased vehicular movement linked to the Eid and public holiday period has contributed to the surge in traffic volume.

Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has explained why the state government will not restrict movement for environmental sanitation.

“The restriction is not what makes you imbibe the culture. We have to separate it here. The approach and the advocacy are to sit back and look at your environment yourself.

“We have a strategy in place, we won’t disclose here but we’ve engaged enough to know there are ways to go about it,” Wahab said on Thursday during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

His comment follows the concerns of Lagos residents on how the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise will be made effective with no restriction of movement in place.

He said the Thursday environmental sanitation had not been discontinued in the markets, as it was effective from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

“How were they able to do it? There’s a strategy behind it, so we have a strategy to put in place, and we’ve already put it in place to see how we can implement this without taking away anybody’s fundamental rights,” he disclosed.

READ ALSO: PHOTOS: Lagos Reintroduces Monthly Environmental Sanitation After 10 Years

The commissioner noted that Lagos had also grown exponentially within the past 10 years in population.

“So now it’s for us to sit back and say, ‘No, we can’t go on this trajectory any longer.’ In this state, we can’t allow it to go this way. Let us build a culture, and that’s what we want to do. Look, people who are saying why are they doing this, they travel, most of them do,” he added.

Speaking further, Wahab cited environmental culture in other parts of the world.

“In the UK, you know, on a Tuesday or a Wednesday or a Thursday you have to bring out your waste baskets? You must bring out your waste basket around midnight because you know by 6 a.m, 7 a.m, 8 a.m., they are coming to cart them away.

“In Singapore, you can’t chew gum and throw it out. You can’t. It’s an offence, and there are consequences,” Wahab stated.

“So why can’t we build a culture of cleanliness? If the two main religions in this country, Islamic and Christian, preach cleanliness is next to godliness and we want to be godly, why can’t we be clean?” he added.

Sanitation

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had reintroduced the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, put on hold about 10 years ago due to a court order on movement restrictions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sanwo-Olu noted that the sanitation exercise would take place between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. every last Saturday of the month, starting from April 25, 2026, to keep the state clean.