Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta State Deploys 46 Athletes for Lagos Commonwealth Games Trials Against U.S.-Based Contenders
Team Delta includes eight sprinters and ten foreign-based stars as national athletics trials kick off in Lagos this week
Team Delta includes eight sprinters and ten foreign-based stars as national athletics trials kick off in Lagos this week
A total of 46 athletes from Delta State, alongside ten foreign-based stars, will represent the state at the 2026 Commonwealth Games National Athletics Trials scheduled to begin in Lagos. The trials, which are set to determine Nigeria’s representatives for the upcoming Games, will see local talents square off against U.S.-based competitors starting this week.
Among Team Delta’s contingent, eight young sprinters—including Osama Chibueze, Bright Gift, Saturday Godswill, Egbon Destiny Chinedu, Joachim Uyovwiyoma, Amreremenore Edesiri and Kwashi Aye Courage—are billed to compete in the men’s 100m and 200m events. Onyia Jeffrey Miracle is set for the boy’s long jump, while David Udoh, Erhieyovwe Kennedy, Isaac Chukwuwike Miracle, Okocha Ikechukwu, Ighogboja Michael, Onojuvwewho Moses and Kwashi Aye Courage will contest in the boys’ 400m race. Ugherakpoteni Timothy is entered in the men’s triple jump category.
The trials come as anticipation builds among athletics stakeholders nationwide. For Delta State—widely regarded as a powerhouse of Nigerian sports—the event offers another platform to cement its dominance on the national stage. With foreign-based athletes also participating under Team Delta’s banner, competition is expected to be intense as officials and fans look out for new records and standout performances ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
Preparations have been ongoing as athletes arrived in Lagos earlier this week. Organisers say they expect robust participation from all zones as states present their best homegrown and diaspora talents. The trials are seen as pivotal for Nigerian athletics following recent efforts by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to integrate international-based stars with local prospects.
As at press time, no official statement has been released by Team Delta officials regarding medal targets or final squad selection criteria. However, observers note that strong showings at the Lagos trials could influence final picks for Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games squad later this year.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Stylists Promote Vibrant Hair Colours as Women Embrace Creative Trends
Salons across Lagos report increased demand for bold hair tints, with experts advising clients on matching colours to skin tones
Salons across Lagos report increased demand for bold hair tints, with experts advising clients on matching colours to skin tones
Hair salons in Lagos State have witnessed a notable rise in women opting for creative hair colours, with stylists confirming that more clients now seek vibrant tints and extensions to enhance their appearance. This trend, which has gained momentum in recent months, is particularly visible in urban centres such as Ikeja and Lekki, where salons display a wide array of coloured hair options.
According to local hairdressers, many women are choosing colours that complement their skin tone and eye colour, aiming for a unique look that stands out. Stylists recommend that clients first determine their skin tone before selecting a hair colour. To do this, experts advise using a hand mirror in natural light while wearing neutral or white clothing and without any makeup, so as to observe the true undertone of the skin—whether warm or cool.
Beauty professionals further stress the importance of matching hair colour with eye hue, noting that this helps define facial features and ensures a harmonious overall look. As at June 2026, caramel balayage on natural curls remains one of the most requested styles among young women in Lagos. The move towards bold colours is also being fuelled by social media trends and celebrity influence.
A stylist at a leading Ikeja salon said many clients now come prepared with reference images from Instagram. “We always guide our customers to select shades that enhance their natural beauty and work well with their complexion,” she stated. Another expert added that hair extensions remain popular for those hesitant to dye their natural hair directly.
Industry observers note that this shift towards colourful hairstyles reflects wider changes in Nigerian fashion and personal expression. As more women embrace individuality through hair colour, salons expect the trend to continue, while advising clients to seek professional guidance to avoid damaging treatments.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/beauty/your-hair-colour-guide/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Fashion Enthusiasts Embrace Timeless Handbags as Style Statements
Classic tote and top handle bags remain popular among city’s trendsetters, defying changing fashion trends in Nigeria
Classic tote and top handle bags remain popular among city’s trendsetters, defying changing fashion trends in Nigeria
Handbag lovers in Lagos are increasingly turning to classic designs that never go out of style, with tote and top handle bags maintaining their place as must-have accessories for women across the city. The trend, which was evident at several fashion events this June, highlights how these bags have evolved from mere carriers to essential elements of personal expression.
Industry observers note that tote handbags, known for their versatility and spaciousness, have become staples for working professionals and students alike. These bags are commonly seen at offices in Victoria Island, religious gatherings across Surulere, and social functions throughout the metropolis. Their simple yet functional design allows users to carry multiple items without sacrificing style.
Fashion experts say the sustained popularity of these classic handbags is tied to their adaptability and the way they blend with both traditional and modern outfits. In a market where trends change quickly and imported designer labels dominate conversation, local stylists argue that investing in a timeless bag offers better value for money amid current naira fluctuations.
“A well-made tote or structured top handle bag complements almost any look and lasts longer than many trendy pieces,” said Folake Adeyemi, a fashion retailer at Balogun Market. She noted that while luxury brands are still sought after by affluent customers, many Lagosians now prefer quality craftsmanship and classic silhouettes due to economic realities.
With ongoing shifts in consumer spending and growing interest in sustainable fashion, industry insiders predict that demand for enduring handbag styles will continue to rise. Retailers across Lagos Island report steady sales of neutral-coloured totes and structured handbags—suggesting that practicality and elegance remain top priorities for Nigerian women navigating the city’s dynamic style scene.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/handbags-that-never-go-out-of-style/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Diaspora Nigerians Shine as Super Eagles Miss Out on 2026 FIFA World Cup in Lagos
Analysts say at least 12 players of Nigerian descent represent other nations, fuelling debate over talent drain
Analysts say at least 12 players of Nigerian descent represent other nations, fuelling debate over talent drain
The absence of Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup has been keenly felt by football fans and analysts in Lagos, as players of Nigerian descent continue to deliver impressive performances for other countries. The global tournament, which kicked off in June, has seen at least 12 footballers with strong Nigerian roots representing teams such as England, the United States, Austria, and France.
As matches unfold across North America, attention in Nigeria has shifted to these diaspora stars who could have potentially strengthened the national squad. According to recent analysis, an ‘imaginary’ team of diaspora Nigerians—featuring prominent names like Bukayo Saka (England), Folarin Balogun (USA), and others—could rival any team at the championship. Former international Sam Okpodu, who once coached the Super Falcons and chaired the Black Coaches Association of the USA, said a forward line combining Victor Osimhen with these diaspora talents would have been “unstoppable”.
The conversation around Nigeria’s absence has intensified after unexpected upsets and dramatic results at this year’s World Cup. Many stakeholders attribute the situation to gaps in player development, scouting, and administrative issues within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Football analyst Segun Odegbami noted that while Nigerian fans celebrate their compatriots abroad, the missed opportunity for national glory remains a sore point. “Every time a player of Nigerian descent scores or makes an impact for another country, it reminds us of what could have been for the Super Eagles,” Odegbami said during a post-match discussion in Lagos.
Officials from NFF have not issued a formal statement on the increasing number of eligible players opting for other nations. However, sports development advocates are calling for reforms to improve talent retention and ensure that promising young footballers are encouraged to commit to Nigeria from early stages of their careers.
With the next qualifying cycle approaching, experts say government and football authorities must address these challenges urgently if Nigeria is to return to the world stage with its best talent. For now, fans continue to cheer on players with green-white-green heritage—even if they wear different colours this summer.
Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/super-eagles-missed-at-the-world-cup/
