Nigeria News (Standard)
South Africa Coach Hugo Broos Defends Tactics After Securing AFCON Knockout Qualification
Broos addresses critics following Bafana Bafana’s progression; says team focus remains on next round in Ivory Coast
Broos addresses critics following Bafana Bafana’s progression; says team focus remains on next round in Ivory Coast
South Africa’s national football coach, Hugo Broos, has responded to criticism of his team’s tactics after guiding Bafana Bafana into the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. The Belgian tactician spoke out on Thursday after South Africa secured their place in the next phase of the continental tournament.
The team’s qualification came amid concerns from fans and analysts who questioned Broos’ selection choices and playing style during the group matches. South Africa’s performance drew mixed reactions, especially after a goalless draw against Tunisia that sealed their progress. Despite this, Broos insisted his approach was justified by results, stating that securing passage to the next round was always the priority.
South Africa’s advance to the knockouts marks a significant achievement for the squad, considering their inconsistent form in recent international competitions. Many supporters had expressed doubts about Bafana Bafana’s chances before the tournament began. The latest result has reignited debate over whether Broos’ pragmatic style is effective enough for South Africa to challenge for a title or if it limits the team’s attacking potential.
Addressing questions at a post-match press briefing in Abidjan, Broos maintained that critics were ignoring the team’s main objective. “We are not here to play beautiful football and go home early. The most important thing is to qualify, and we have done that,” he said. He added that every decision was made with qualification in mind and urged fans to support the squad as they prepare for tougher opposition ahead.
With South Africa set to face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the next round, Broos said preparations would focus on maintaining defensive solidity while looking for opportunities to improve going forward. The South African Football Association said it was satisfied with progress so far but expected further improvement as the competition enters its decisive stages.
Nigeria News (Standard)
SSS Arraigns Former Plateau NBA Chairman Over WhatsApp Post in Jos
Security agency files charges against ex-bar leader for alleged online post; legal community expresses concern over implications for free speech
Security agency files charges against ex-bar leader for alleged online post; legal community expresses concern over implications for free speech
The State Security Service (SSS) has charged a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Plateau State branch, to court in Jos on Thursday, following an alleged post made on WhatsApp. The move by the security agency marks a notable development in the ongoing scrutiny of online speech by public figures in Nigeria.
According to court filings, the ex-NBA chairman is accused of sharing a message on the social media platform deemed objectionable by authorities. Details regarding the content of the post and the specific legal provisions cited have not been made public as at press time. The arraignment took place at a Jos magistrate court, with SSS officials present to oversee proceedings.
This case comes at a time when legal practitioners and civil rights advocates in Nigeria are increasingly raising alarm over perceived encroachments on digital rights and freedom of expression. Social media has become a major avenue for civic engagement and political commentary in Nigeria, but regulatory agencies have warned that certain posts can threaten national security or incite public disorder.
Neither the SSS nor representatives of the NBA Plateau branch issued immediate statements following Thursday’s court session. However, members of the local legal community have expressed concern about what they described as a growing trend of using security agencies to target critics and professionals for their online activities.
The case is expected to continue in coming weeks, with observers watching closely for its outcome and potential impact on how Nigerian authorities interpret laws related to online speech. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding Thursday’s development.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NIVEA Launches Derma Control Range in Lagos, Targets Improved Underarm Skincare for Nigerians
New product line promises relief from irritation and dark marks as beauty industry addresses neglected body care
New product line promises relief from irritation and dark marks as beauty industry addresses neglected body care
NIVEA has introduced its Derma Control range in Lagos, aiming to transform underarm skincare for Nigerian consumers. The launch, which took place on 25 June 2026, brings attention to an area often overlooked in personal care routines. According to the company, the new line includes two products designed to nourish underarm skin, reduce irritation, and address uneven skin tone resulting from daily stress like shaving and sweating.
The Derma Control range features two variants: Defend and Natural Tone. Defend is formulated with Pure Hyaluron and Pro-Vitamin B5, intended to soothe irritation and prevent itchiness caused by friction. Natural Tone combines Pure Hyaluron with Vitamin C, targeting dark marks while maintaining sweat and odour protection. NIVEA stated that both products are enriched with vitamins and offer a level of care typically reserved for facial or body skincare products.
The launch comes as the Nigerian beauty industry experiences increased demand for specialised skincare solutions beyond traditional face and body products. Industry observers note that many Nigerians face discomfort or confidence issues due to underarm concerns but have limited access to targeted solutions. With the introduction of this range, NIVEA aims to fill this gap by providing options specifically developed for sensitive underarm skin.
While official reactions from government regulatory agencies were not immediately available at press time, experts in dermatology have previously highlighted the importance of using gentle formulations on delicate areas such as underarms. The company did not disclose retail prices during the launch event but indicated the products would be widely available across Nigeria from July.
As more brands respond to consumer calls for comprehensive skincare options, stakeholders expect competition in Nigeria’s beauty market to intensify. NIVEA’s move may prompt other manufacturers to develop similar targeted products addressing specific needs of Nigerian consumers.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/your-underarms-deserve-skincare-too/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Fubara Submits 2026–2028 Fiscal Framework as Rivers Assembly Reconvenes After Months
Lawmakers resume plenary in Port Harcourt, receiving multi-year budget proposal amid ongoing political tension in Rivers State
Lawmakers resume plenary in Port Harcourt, receiving multi-year budget proposal amid ongoing political tension in Rivers State
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has presented the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework to the Rivers State House of Assembly, marking the first plenary session held by the lawmakers in several months. The assembly reconvened on Thursday in Port Harcourt, South-South Nigeria, where members received the fiscal strategy document from the executive arm.
The development comes after a prolonged period of inactivity in the state legislature, which had been dogged by political disagreements and leadership disputes. At Thursday’s sitting, Speaker and other principal officers were present as the assembly formally acknowledged receipt of Governor Fubara’s proposed spending plan for the next three financial years.
The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework is a statutory requirement that outlines projected government revenue and expenditure, providing a basis for annual budgets. Its submission signals preparations for next year’s appropriation bill and is seen as a step towards restoring normal legislative business in Rivers State, following recent tensions between factions aligned to different political interests.
While details of Fubara’s spending priorities were not immediately disclosed at plenary, observers say the resumption of legislative activities may help douse anxieties among stakeholders about governance stability in the oil-rich state. Attempts to reach opposition lawmakers for comment were not successful as at press time.
The assembly is expected to deliberate on the framework in coming weeks before its adoption, paving way for formal budget presentation later this year. Political analysts note that sustained engagement between the executive and legislature will be key to unlocking delayed development projects and addressing constituents’ concerns across Rivers State.
