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AFCON 2025: Quarter-final fixtures confirmed

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All the quarter-final fixtures of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco have been confirmed following the conclusion of the Round of 16 matches on Tuesday.

Algeria sealed their place in the last eight with a 1-0 victory over DR Congo, setting up a highly anticipated quarter-final clash against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Ivory Coast also booked a place in the quarter-finals and will take on Egypt in what promises to be a thrilling encounter this weekend.

AFCON Quarter-final Fixtures:

Senegal vs Mali (Friday)

Morocco vs Cameroon (Friday)

Nigeria vs Algeria (Saturday)

Egypt vs Ivory Coast (Saturday)

NCC unveils draft spectrum roadmap to boost broadband expansion in Nigeria

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EVC NCC, Aminu Maida

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued two key draft regulatory documents designed to enhance spectrum management and fast-track the deployment of next-generation broadband services nationwide.

In a public notice dated December 19, 2025, and signed by the Commission’s Head of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the NCC announced the release of the Draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector 2025–2030 and the Draft Guidelines for the Use of the 60 GHz License-Exempt Band for Multi-Gigabit Wireless Systems. The initiative is in line with the Commission’s mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.

According to the NCC, the five-year Spectrum Roadmap sets out a strategic framework for spectrum planning, allocation, and utilization, with emphasis on supporting emerging technologies, enhancing quality of service, and meeting Nigeria’s growing demand for data and digital services. The roadmap is expected to promote efficient spectrum use while fostering innovation and long-term sustainability in the communications sector.

The Draft Guidelines on the 60 GHz license-exempt band are aimed at providing regulatory clarity for the deployment of high-capacity, multi-gigabit wireless systems. The Commission noted that the guidelines would help reduce deployment costs, encourage innovation, and expand access to ultra-high-speed wireless connectivity, particularly for last-mile and enterprise broadband solutions.

The NCC added that effective utilization of the 60 GHz band could significantly improve broadband penetration, especially in densely populated urban centers and underserved areas.

In accordance with Section 58 of the NCA 2003, the Commission invited stakeholders to review the draft documents and submit comments to guide the development of the final frameworks. The consultation is open to telecommunications operators, equipment manufacturers, internet service providers, technology firms, and members of the public.

The NCC explained that the inclusive approach would ensure the final documents reflect industry realities, national development goals, and global best practices.

All submissions must be received on or before Friday, January 16, 2026. Stakeholders are to send their comments to ygibrahim@ncc.gov.ng, yabdulkadir@ncc.gov.ng and jdavid@ncc.gov.ng

The Commission said the release of the draft frameworks underscores its commitment to transparency, stakeholder engagement, and the creation of an enabling regulatory environment for the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s communications sector.

PDP NWC in closed-door meeting with ex-president Jonathan

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The Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee, NWC of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP is currently holding a closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Although the reason for the meeting cannot be ascertained immediately, it may not be unconnected to the leadership crisis rocking the party.

The meeting is being held at the Jonathan’s office in the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT Abuja

Reports said the PDP leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing crisis within the party, their efforts to reposition it, and other key national issues.

Jonathan was recently in the news over rumour of his political comeback ahead of the 2023 elections.

The former president has, however, kept mum on whether he is interested in contesting for the presidential seat in the coming election.

2027: I’ll work against Peter Obi if he cedes presidential ticket to Atiku, others in ADC—Aisha Yesufu

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A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Aisha Yesufu, has cautioned the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, against accepting a vice-presidential role in the 2027 general election.

In a video circulating on social media, the socio-political activist vowed to oppose any presidential ticket that features Obi as a running mate, insisting that the former Anambra State governor deserves to lead, not deputize.

Yesufu described Obi as the strongest among the opposition hopefuls and said he should be given the presidential ticket.

“I’m giving you people my word: if Peter Obi emerges as a running mate to anyone, I will work against that ticket,” she said. “In my little capacity, I will work against them, even if I don’t support any other candidate. Why are we always asking the best to be second?”

Nigerian Newssphere reports that Obi, who recently joined the ADC—now adopted by a coalition of opposition leaders seeking to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027—is among the aspirants eyeing the party’s presidential ticket.

However, there are indications that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could emerge as the ADC flagbearer, with speculation that Obi may be considered for the vice-presidential slot.

AFCON: Vic is my number one guy—Lookman breaks silence on clash with Osimhen after Nigeria’s 4-0 win

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Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has played down reports of a heated exchange with Victor Osimhen during Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the last-16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday night.

Both players were instrumental in the first half, with Lookman registering two assists for Osimhen, who scored twice to put Nigeria firmly in control of the encounter.

Tension briefly flared between the duo after Lookman opted to shoot rather than pass in a promising attacking move. Moments later, Osimhen appeared frustrated, slowing his runs and signaling to head coach Eric Chelle that he wanted to be substituted.

However, speaking after the match, Lookman dismissed the incident as insignificant, insisting the team’s performance and result were what mattered most.

“I don’t think that is really important; the team won 4-0,” Lookman told journalists.

“Vic is my number one guy; everybody knows that. He’s a top striker and a top player, so the rest is not important.”

During the game, Osimhen scored two goals, while Lookman won the Man of the Match.

AFCON 2025: Six countries eliminated

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Six countries have been knocked out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at the round of 16 stage in Morocco.

Those eliminated are Benin Republic, Mozambique, South Africa, Sudan, Tunisia and Tanzania, Nigerian Newssphere reports.

Their exits were confirmed following the conclusion of Monday’s last-16 matches. Benin Republic saw their campaign end after a 3-1 defeat to Egypt, while Mozambique were sent packing following a loss to Nigeria.

 

The round of 16 will be wrapped up on Tuesday, with Algeria set to face DR Congo. In the other remaining fixture, hosts Ivory Coast will battle Burkina Faso later in the night for a place in the quarter-finals.

Pastor Chris Okafor snubs Police Invitation over alleged sexual misconduct

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The Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, failed to honour a police invitation on Monday over allegations bordering on sexual misconduct and other offences that could threaten public order.

Okafor was expected to report to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos, to appear before the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the department by 10:00 a.m., according to Nigerian Newssphere.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, had disclosed during a briefing on Sunday that the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, ordered a comprehensive investigation into petitions submitted against the cleric. The complaints reportedly include allegations of sexual offences and actions capable of disturbing public peace.

However, a senior officer at the SCID, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Okafor did not present himself as scheduled.

“Based on the CP’s directive, the DCP instructed the unit handling the case to debrief him, but he did not show up. By evening, it was clear he would not be coming today,” the officer said.

Another source familiar with the investigation revealed that the pastor allegedly contacted the police through his aides to request more time.

“We received calls from his representatives asking for an extension and giving assurances that he would eventually appear. That is the situation for now,” the source stated.

Efforts to obtain further comments from the police spokesperson on Monday were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to her office were not returned as of the time of filing this report.

AFCON 2025: Osimhen booed after requesting substitution following spat with Lookman

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Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was booed by sections of the crowd after asking head coach Eric Chelle to substitute him following a heated exchange with teammate Ademola Lookman.

 

The incident occurred on Monday night during Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique in their Africa Cup of Nations round-of-16 clash.

 

At the time, the three-time African champions were firmly in control, leading 3–0 thanks to goals from Lookman and a brace from Osimhen. Notably, Lookman had provided both assists for the Galatasaray forward, taking Osimhen’s tally to three goals at the tournament.

 

Tensions flared in the second half after a promising team move broke down, with Osimhen appearing to remonstrate angrily with Lookman, seemingly for not releasing the ball early.

Moments later, Osimhen signalled to the bench requesting to be substituted. Chelle responded by introducing Paul Onuachu in place of the striker, who was met with boos as he left the pitch.

Rodríguez replaces Maduro as acting president after US military invasion of Venezuela 

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This handout picture released by the Miraflores Palace press office shows Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez (L) taking an oath in front of Venezuela's National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez (R) and Deputy Nicolas Maduro Guerra (C) during a session of the National Assembly in Caracas on January 5, 2026. Venezuela's parliament swore in Delcy Rodriguez as interim president on January 5, two days after US forces seized her predecessor Nicolas Maduro to face trial in New York. Members of the new National Assembly offered their full backing to Rodriguez -- who had been Maduro's vice president -- and reelected her brother Jorge Rodriguez as parliament head. (Photo by Marcelo Garcia / Miraflores press office / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / MIRAFLORES PALACE PRESS OFFICE / MARCELO GARCIA" - HANDOUT - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s former vice president, has been sworn in as acting president following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro in a United States military operation.

Rodríguez took the oath of office on Monday before the National Assembly, which is dominated by pro-government lawmakers. In her address, she strongly condemned the US-led operation that led to the arrest of Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

“I assume this responsibility with profound pain over the kidnapping of two national leaders: President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores,” Rodríguez, 56, said. “I will work tirelessly to preserve peace and safeguard the spiritual, social, and economic well-being of our people.”

A former labour lawyer, Rodríguez had been acting as head of government since the early hours of Saturday, when explosions were reported across Caracas, including near military facilities and civilian areas, signalling the start of the US operation.

Monday’s swearing-in ceremony was overseen by her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, the president of the National Assembly, while Maduro’s son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, held the Venezuelan Constitution. Senior officials in attendance included Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino.

The inauguration coincided with Maduro’s arraignment in a federal court in New York, where he faces four criminal charges, including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, cocaine trafficking, and the illegal possession and conspiracy to possess firearms and other destructive devices.

Maduro and Flores have both pleaded not guilty. Rodríguez and other government allies have described the US action as a violation of international law and an attack on Venezuela’s sovereignty.

Speaking in court on Monday, Maduro insisted he remains the country’s lawful leader, declaring, “I am still president.”

Naira extends gains against dollar as Nigeria’s foreign reserves rise to $45.57bn

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The Naira continued its upward momentum against the United States dollar at the official foreign exchange market on Monday, starting the week on a positive note.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the local currency appreciated to N1,429.31 per dollar on Monday, compared to N1,430.85 recorded on Friday, January 2, 2026.

This reflects a gain of N1.56 for the Naira against the dollar at the official market within one trading session.

However, at the parallel market, the Naira weakened slightly, depreciating by N5 to exchange at N1,480 per dollar on Monday, down from N1,475 on Friday.

The mixed performance of the currency comes amid an improvement in Nigeria’s external reserves, which rose to $45.57 billion as of last Friday.

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