Nigeria News (Standard)
Morocco, Ghana Lead Africa’s Push for Record World Cup Knockout Spots
Strong group stage performances put African teams in contention for unprecedented FIFA World Cup round of 16 presence
Strong group stage performances put African teams in contention for unprecedented FIFA World Cup round of 16 presence
Morocco and Ghana have emerged as frontrunners among African representatives at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, with both sides topping their groups after decisive victories in their latest matches. The tournament, which is taking place across North American cities, has seen African teams deliver standout performances as at Tuesday, 23 June.
Both Morocco and Ghana secured crucial wins in their second group matches, placing them ahead of their rivals and raising hopes of a historic number of African teams progressing to the knockout rounds. Their performances have fuelled optimism among fans and stakeholders that Africa could surpass its previous best by having more than two teams reach the round of 16 in a single tournament.
This development is significant for the continent’s football ambitions, as African teams have traditionally struggled to advance past the group stages at World Cup finals. The current campaign reflects improved preparation and tactical discipline among African sides, with players featuring prominently in European leagues bringing added experience.
Officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have commended the teams’ efforts, noting that their progress could inspire further investment in grassroots football across the continent. While official reactions from Nigeria’s football authorities were not immediately available, fans across West and North Africa have taken to social media to celebrate the achievements of Morocco and Ghana.
With one group match remaining for each team, analysts say qualification for the knockout stage is now within reach if current form continues. The prospect of multiple African nations making it to the round of 16 would mark a new chapter for African football on the global stage.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ogun Police Recover Late Broadcaster’s Lexus, CP Vows to Uncover Killers
Commissioner Bode Ojajuni visits scene in Abeokuta, assures thorough investigation as detectives probe double killing
Commissioner Bode Ojajuni visits scene in Abeokuta, assures thorough investigation as detectives probe double killing
Police authorities in Ogun State have recovered a Lexus RX300 belonging to late broadcaster MS Kitan Oyesiku, after she and her security guard were allegedly killed at her residence in Abeokuta. The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, made this known during an on-the-spot assessment of the crime scene on Monday, promising to ensure those behind the act are brought to justice.
Ojajuni arrived at the house where the retired Ogun State Television (OGTV) staff and her guard were found dead, and was briefed by detectives currently handling the investigation. According to him, police operatives traced and recovered the vehicle overnight following earlier reports that it was missing from the compound after the incident.
The case has heightened concerns over residents’ safety in Ogun Central Senatorial District, especially given recent reports of violent crimes targeting both prominent and ordinary citizens. The late Oyesiku was a respected figure in the state’s media sector, making the circumstances of her death a matter of public interest.
“It is worthy of note that the vehicle earlier reported missing from the residence, a Lexus RX300, has been recovered by police operatives during the night hours,” Commissioner Ojajuni said at the scene. He added that all necessary forensic evaluations were ongoing and assured that investigators would leave no stone unturned until those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
Police officials say they are intensifying efforts to trace further leads connected to the case. Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant as investigations continue. The command emphasised its commitment to restoring public confidence in security within Ogun State.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Cubana Chiefpriest Agrees to Live DNA Test in Lagos Amid Ongoing Paternity Dispute
Socialite says he will not fund travel as Hellen Ati renews public appeal over child’s paternity claim
Socialite says he will not fund travel as Hellen Ati renews public appeal over child’s paternity claim
Popular socialite and businessman, Cubana Chiefpriest, has agreed to take a live DNA test in Lagos to resolve the ongoing paternity dispute with Kenyan woman Hellen Ati, following her renewed appeal on national television. The development comes after a video resurfaced on Monday showing Ati pleading for support while highlighting the boy’s health challenges and her financial struggles.
The controversy dates back to early 2023, when Ati claimed she met Chiefpriest during a visit to Lagos in 2022, resulting in a pregnancy. She announced the birth of her son in January 2023 and named Chiefpriest as the father, calling on him to acknowledge responsibility. Chiefpriest has consistently denied the paternity claim, describing it as an attempt to gain attention and financial benefit from his name.
In response to widespread calls from followers urging him to address the matter once and for all, Chiefpriest posted on Instagram: “Make Una help me bring her & the child for una studio make I come there come do the DNA For una on live tv for free.” He maintained that he would not send money or fund any trip, insisting that anyone making such a claim should present the child. “If you have a child for me too bring it to any of my outlets or my residence,” he added.
Despite his denial, Ati has repeatedly reached out for both a DNA test and financial assistance. She also alleged that Chiefpriest sent her ₦300,000 in instalments after childbirth complications, though he has continued to reject any suggestion of paternity. The case gained further attention in January 2025 when musician Burna Boy publicly backed Ati’s call for a DNA test and offered to facilitate her travel.
The dispute remains unresolved nearly three years after it began. While Ati insists that a DNA test will confirm Chiefpriest as her son’s father, Chiefpriest says he is prepared to undergo testing if she brings the child to Nigeria. There has been no official comment from government agencies or legal representatives of either party as at press time.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/cubana-chiefpriest-live-dna-test-hellen-ati-2026062318210376891
Nigeria News (Standard)
WHO Confirms Ebola Cases Surpass 1,000 With 254 Deaths Recorded Globally
World Health Organisation urges intensified response as outbreak spreads to new regions and death toll rises sharply
World Health Organisation urges intensified response as outbreak spreads to new regions and death toll rises sharply
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced that confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease have now crossed the 1,000 mark worldwide, with the official death toll reaching 254 as at Tuesday, 23 June. The global health body disclosed this development in its latest update on the ongoing outbreak, which has affected several countries in recent weeks.
According to WHO, the surge in cases comes amid increased transmission in some affected regions, leading to growing concern among public health authorities. The organisation stated that efforts are ongoing to contain the spread of the virus, including enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, and deployment of medical teams to affected communities.
Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease that causes severe haemorrhagic fever and has a high mortality rate if not managed promptly. The current outbreak has raised alarm due to its rapid escalation and expansion into new areas previously considered low-risk. WHO noted that this spike in numbers underscores the need for robust public health interventions and international support to prevent further fatalities.
In its update, WHO called on governments and partners to strengthen their response capacities and ensure adequate provision of personal protective equipment for frontline health workers. The organisation also emphasised the importance of timely diagnosis and isolation of suspected cases to break chains of transmission.
Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as international agencies mobilise additional resources for containment. WHO reiterated its commitment to supporting national governments in their efforts to curtail the outbreak and mitigate humanitarian impact. The organisation warned that unless urgent measures are taken, the number of infections and deaths could continue to rise in coming weeks.
Ogun Police Recover Late Broadcaster’s Lexus, CP Vows to Uncover Killers
Cubana Chiefpriest Agrees to Live DNA Test in Lagos Amid Ongoing Paternity Dispute
WHO Confirms Ebola Cases Surpass 1,000 With 254 Deaths Recorded Globally
Lagos Government Shuts Oshodi Market After Traders Clash With KAI Officials
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Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
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FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
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Lagos Police Arrest Doctor, Birth Attendant Over Alleged Sale of Newborn for ₦2.5m
Lagos Court Declares National Assembly’s ₦110bn Vehicle and Allowance Spending Unlawful
