Nigeria News (Standard)
Ikpeba Visits Port Harcourt Stadium as Egbe Backs Upgrade for National Competitions
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
Former Super Eagles winger Victor Ikpeba paid an unscheduled visit to the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend to inspect ongoing redevelopment works at the iconic sports facility. The visit, which took place on Saturday, allowed Ikpeba to see first-hand the progress made in upgrading both the playing surface and general infrastructure.
Project coordinator and FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe, who is also Chief Executive Officer of Monichille Sports Management Company, told journalists after Ikpeba’s tour that the stadium overhaul aims to position Rivers State as a leading destination for national and international football competitions. According to Egbe, quality pitches are essential for player safety, match quality, and attracting global tournaments.
The Yakubu Gowon Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile matches in Nigerian football history but has faced criticism in recent years over its deteriorating pitch and facilities. Stakeholders believe the current upgrades will restore its status as a preferred venue for Super Eagles matches and other elite competitions.
Egbe said: “The ongoing transformation here will not only benefit players but also create opportunities for local talent development and encourage greater youth participation in sports.” He maintained that with proper maintenance, the stadium could meet FIFA standards and boost economic activities through sports tourism.
With works ongoing at the Port Harcourt facility, Rivers State government and sports authorities are expected to intensify efforts to ensure timely completion ahead of upcoming tournaments. Observers say a modernised Yakubu Gowon Stadium could serve as a catalyst for grassroots football growth and enhance Nigeria’s chances of hosting international fixtures in future.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Declares Victory, Calls for Unity After Governorship Election
APC candidate extends olive branch to Oluyede, Bejide and other rivals in post-election speech in Ado-Ekiti
APC candidate extends olive branch to Oluyede, Bejide and other rivals in post-election speech in Ado-Ekiti
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State delivered his victory speech on Sunday, following the conclusion of the 2026 governorship election in the state. Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji, who contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), extended what he described as ‘hands of fellowship’ to his main opponents — Oluyede, Bejide and others — urging them to join him in moving the state forward.
The governor’s remarks came shortly after electoral officials announced the final results, confirming his return to office for a second term. Addressing supporters and stakeholders at the government house, Oyebanji expressed appreciation to residents of Ekiti for their peaceful conduct during the polls and reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance. He specifically called on opposition candidates to set aside political differences for the benefit of all citizens.
The election, which drew attention across South-West Nigeria, was closely watched by political observers given Ekiti’s history of fiercely contested polls. In previous cycles, aggrieved parties have often challenged outcomes in court or staged parallel celebrations. This year’s poll was seen as a test of APC’s influence in the region ahead of national elections.
In his statement, Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the contributions of his rivals and invited them to work together towards development goals. “We must put politics aside now that the people have spoken,” he said. There was no immediate response from Oluyede or Bejide at press time.
Observers say attention will now shift to how opposition parties respond and whether any legal petitions will be filed. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is expected to issue certificates of return later this week.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta Police Confirm Death of Twin Infants Abandoned in Drainage by Parents
Authorities say tragic incident occurred in Warri South LGA; investigation ongoing, community expresses shock over loss
Authorities say tragic incident occurred in Warri South LGA; investigation ongoing, community expresses shock over loss
Police in Delta State have confirmed the death of twin infants who were discovered lifeless in a drainage channel after allegedly being dumped by their parents. The incident took place in Warri South Local Government Area on Sunday, 21 June 2026, according to the state police command.
The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer stated that the infants were found by residents who immediately alerted law enforcement. Preliminary findings suggest that the babies had been abandoned in the drainage, leading to their eventual death. The police have launched an investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the act and to identify those responsible.
This development has drawn concern from many residents and child rights advocates within Delta State, as similar incidents have been reported in parts of the South-South zone. Community members expressed sadness at the loss of innocent lives and called for increased vigilance and social support to prevent such occurrences.
While speaking on the matter, the Delta State Police Command assured that efforts are ongoing to bring any culprits to justice and urged members of the public to report suspicious behaviour around their neighbourhoods. As at press time, no arrests had been announced, but police said investigations are progressing.
Authorities emphasised that cases involving child abandonment or endangerment will be prosecuted under Nigerian law. The police also appealed to families facing hardship to seek help from appropriate government agencies rather than resorting to actions that could endanger lives.
Nigeria News (Standard)
APC Hails Oyebanji’s Re-Election, Says Victory Reflects Ekiti People’s Confidence
Party leadership describes result as endorsement of Governor Oyebanji’s performance; opposition parties yet to issue formal response
Party leadership describes result as endorsement of Governor Oyebanji’s performance; opposition parties yet to issue formal response
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his re-election in Ekiti State, stating that the outcome of the poll demonstrates the confidence and trust the people have in his leadership. The party made this known in a statement released on Sunday, 21 June 2026.
According to APC officials, Oyebanji’s victory at the polls is a clear indication of the electorate’s satisfaction with his administration’s achievements over the past term. The party leadership commended voters across Ekiti for what it described as peaceful conduct and active participation during the governorship election.
The re-election comes at a time when political observers had raised concerns about voter apathy and heightened competition from opposition parties in the South-West state. However, APC argued that the result is an affirmation of its policies and the Governor’s performance in areas such as infrastructure, education, and social welfare programmes.
While congratulating Oyebanji and all APC supporters in Ekiti, party leaders urged him to continue prioritising good governance and inclusive development. The statement read: “Governor Oyebanji’s re-election shows that our people believe in his vision for Ekiti State.” As at Sunday evening, no official statement had been released by major opposition parties regarding the outcome of the election.
With Oyebanji set for another term, attention is now turning to how his administration will consolidate on existing projects and address key challenges facing residents. Political analysts expect heightened scrutiny on policy implementation as Ekiti remains a critical state in South-West politics.
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