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Messi, Ronaldo Shine as 2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off Across US, Canada, and Mexico

Expanded 48-team format sees dramatic upsets and record heatwaves; African fans lament Nigeria’s absence from global stage

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Expanded 48-team format sees dramatic upsets and record heatwaves; African fans lament Nigeria’s absence from global stage

The 2026 FIFA World Cup commenced across venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico on Monday, marking the first time three countries are jointly hosting the tournament. With a historic expansion to 48 teams, the competition has delivered surprise results and intense rivalries, including standout performances from Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The opening matches saw temperatures soar to record highs, with players and fans contending with unprecedented heatwaves reported in several US cities. Despite these challenges, Argentina’s Lionel Messi made headlines by scoring a hat-trick in his team’s opener against Algeria. The performance renewed global focus on Messi’s long-standing rivalry with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, whose initial match against DR Congo drew criticism for a subdued display. However, Ronaldo responded strongly in Portugal’s subsequent fixture, netting two goals to silence critics questioning his place in the squad.

For many Nigerian football followers, this World Cup has been bittersweet. Nigeria’s Super Eagles failed to qualify for the tournament, leaving supporters across Lagos, Abuja and other major cities voicing disappointment over the country’s absence from football’s biggest stage. Analysts say Nigeria’s inability to qualify underscores ongoing issues within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), with calls intensifying for structural reforms to restore national pride.

FIFA officials have acknowledged logistical challenges arising from hosting matches across three nations and adapting to an expanded roster of teams. Tournament organisers say contingency plans are in place to address weather disruptions and ensure player safety. “We are committed to delivering a world-class event that celebrates football’s global appeal,” a FIFA spokesperson stated during a press briefing in New York.

As group-stage fixtures continue this week, attention remains fixed on whether emerging teams can sustain their momentum against traditional heavyweights. With several top-ranked sides already facing early setbacks, stakeholders expect further surprises before the knockout rounds begin.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/2026-world-cup-and-the-beautiful-chaos/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Kyoto Opens World’s First Plush Toy Shrine, Honours Over 26,000 Stuffed Animals

Newly launched Nuigurumi Jinja to begin receiving visitors during Tanabata festival as families seek emotional closure

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June 25, 2026

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Newly launched Nuigurumi Jinja to begin receiving visitors during Tanabata festival as families seek emotional closure

Authorities in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, have inaugurated what is believed to be the world’s first shrine solely dedicated to plush toys, offering memorial and thanksgiving ceremonies for cherished stuffed animals. The site, known as Nuigurumi Jinja (Plush Toy Shrine), was established on 20 June and will officially open its doors to the public on 7 July to coincide with the annual Tanabata festival.

The founder, Komichi Horiguchi, who also created the popular Plush Toy Hospital repair service, said the idea came from observing the deep emotional bonds people form with their plushies. According to Horiguchi, more than 26,000 toys have been repaired by her organisation for owners across Japan and internationally. She noted that many people regard these toys as companions during childhood, illness and difficult periods, making it difficult for them to simply dispose of them when they get old or damaged.

The shrine is located in Kyoto’s scenic Miyama area and features plush-inspired architecture — including a torii gate with bear-like ears and a worship hall with a bear-shaped window. In keeping with Japanese tradition, the site underwent a formal Shinto spirit-enshrinement ritual before its opening, with support from an existing Kyoto shrine giving it religious legitimacy within Shinto practice.

Services at Nuigurumi Jinja will include thanksgiving rites for treasured toys, memorials for plushies beyond repair and a peaceful resting place for those being retired. Visitors will be able to collect special amulets and commemorative stamps or leave written messages of gratitude for their beloved stuffed animals. Organisers said the shrine is not just a novelty but responds to genuine emotional needs among the public.

Speaking about the project, Horiguchi said: “Many people feel real sadness when they can no longer keep a favourite plush toy. This shrine is here to help them say goodbye in a meaningful way.” Social media users have described the concept as heartwarming and uniquely Japanese. The practice aligns with broader cultural traditions in Japan where objects like dolls and sewing needles are honoured after years of service. The opening has attracted significant attention online as families prepare to visit during Tanabata festival.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/inside-japans-worlds-first-plush-toy-shrine-where-stuffed-animals-are-honoured-like-family-2026062507373393100

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Kaduna, Zaria Residents Switch to Charcoal, Firewood as Cooking Gas Prices Surge

Soaring cost of liquefied petroleum gas forces households in North-West states to abandon cleaner fuels

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23 minutes ago

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June 25, 2026

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Soaring cost of liquefied petroleum gas forces households in North-West states to abandon cleaner fuels

Many residents of Kaduna and Zaria in Kaduna State have turned to charcoal and firewood for their daily cooking needs following a sharp rise in the price of cooking gas. As at Thursday, June 25, 2026, the cost of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has increased significantly across major markets in the North-West, pushing families to seek cheaper alternatives.

The hike in LPG prices has been attributed by local traders and residents to factors including volatile naira exchange rates and persistent inflation affecting import-dependent commodities. Households who previously relied on gas cylinders now frequent roadside vendors selling firewood and charcoal, with demand for these traditional fuels rising sharply in recent weeks.

The shift marks a setback for government efforts to encourage clean energy adoption and reduce deforestation. Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics recently reported inflation hovering above 33 percent, with energy costs among the primary drivers of hardship for urban and peri-urban communities. Many affected residents say they are unable to afford refilling their cylinders at current prices, which have more than doubled compared to the same period last year.

Despite repeated assurances from federal authorities about measures to stabilise gas supply and pricing, relief has yet to reach consumers. Several residents who spoke at local markets in Kaduna expressed frustration with the lack of effective intervention. “We just dey manage now with firewood because gas money don too much,” one woman said.

As the rainy season advances, experts warn that continued reliance on charcoal and firewood could worsen indoor air pollution and environmental degradation. Advocacy groups are urging government to prioritise affordable access to cleaner fuels as part of its broader energy policy reforms.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/890552-soaring-cooking-gas-prices-push-kaduna-zaria-residents-to-charcoal-firewood.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

EFCC Arraigns Miyetti Allah Leader Over Alleged ₦3.8bn Money Laundering From Bauchi Government

Anti-graft agency files charges in Abuja as cattle breeders’ association faces scrutiny over multi-million dollar transfer

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43 minutes ago

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June 25, 2026

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Anti-graft agency files charges in Abuja as cattle breeders’ association faces scrutiny over multi-million dollar transfer

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged the national president of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore with money laundering involving a reported $2.53 million (about ₦3.8 billion at current rates) said to have been received from the Bauchi State government. The arraignment took place in Abuja on Thursday, marking a significant development in the ongoing efforts to tackle financial crimes linked to public funds.

According to information made available by the EFCC, the leader of the influential cattle breeders’ association is accused of receiving funds from Bauchi State government coffers without due process, allegedly disguising the source and intended use of the money. The commission stated that investigations uncovered suspicious transfers and that the accused failed to provide satisfactory explanations when questioned.

This case has drawn attention from stakeholders across Nigeria, given Miyetti Allah’s prominent role in livestock policy discussions and its influence within rural communities. Anti-corruption campaigners say it underlines persistent concerns about transparency in dealings between state governments and powerful interest groups. The EFCC has stepped up efforts in recent years to trace illicit financial flows involving associations and individuals with close ties to government officials.

While details of the court proceedings are still emerging, EFCC spokespersons have reiterated that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Calls for comment from Miyetti Allah officials were not immediately returned as at press time, while Bauchi State government representatives have yet to issue an official response regarding their role in the transaction.

The case is expected to proceed with further hearings in Abuja. Observers note that its outcome could set an important precedent for accountability in state-level disbursements and dealings with non-governmental associations.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/890549-efcc-charges-miyetti-allah-leader-with-money-laundering-over-2-53m-received-from-bauchi-govt.html

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