Nigeria News (Standard)
Norway Bans AI Tools for Pupils Under 13, Tightens School Tech Policy
New regulation follows successful smartphone ban as government targets core learning skills, plans social media age limits
New regulation follows successful smartphone ban as government targets core learning skills, plans social media age limits
Norway has introduced a new policy barring children aged 6 to 13 from using generative artificial intelligence tools in schools, with the ban set to commence nationwide in late August. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced the decision at a press conference on Friday, stating the measure aims to protect essential reading, writing and mathematics skills among primary school pupils.
Under the new guidelines, elementary school students (grades one to seven) will be prohibited from accessing platforms such as ChatGPT and similar AI tools during school hours. For older students aged 14 to 16, AI use will only be permitted under direct supervision of a teacher, while those aged 17 and above are encouraged to use such technology responsibly. Norwegian authorities said unrestricted access could lead children to skip important aspects of learning by relying too heavily on digital assistance.
This move comes after Norway’s earlier decision in 2024 to ban smartphones in schools — a policy that has since been linked with improved academic performance and reduced bullying. Research led by Sara Abrahamsson across over 400 middle schools reported a significant drop in visits to psychological specialists by about 60%, especially among female students. The Ministry of Education believes the new AI restriction could yield similar positive results by limiting classroom distractions and helping young learners build foundational skills before turning to advanced technologies.
Prime Minister Støre explained: “The most important thing in school is that our children learn to read, write and do mathematics.” According to government officials, the latest measure responds to growing concern over children’s exposure to technology both in and out of the classroom. The government is also preparing legislation that would ban social media use for those under 16 years old, mirroring recent laws introduced in Australia. The proposal is expected to go before parliament before the end of 2026.
Supporters argue that Norway’s approach allows children more time to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities without depending on AI-generated content. However, questions remain about how effectively such restrictions can be enforced outside school premises, given widespread access through personal devices at home. Similar debates are ongoing across Europe as governments weigh how best to regulate emerging technologies among younger populations.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Troops Repel Attacks, Rescue Abducted Victims in Sokoto and Katsina States
Military operations disrupt armed men’s raids in North-West, with several captives freed and communities secured
Military operations disrupt armed men’s raids in North-West, with several captives freed and communities secured
Nigerian Army troops have successfully repelled coordinated attacks by armed men in Sokoto and Katsina States, rescuing multiple abducted persons during operations carried out on Monday, 22 June 2026. The incidents occurred in separate communities across the North-West as security forces intensified patrols to curb escalating banditry.
According to reports from the affected areas, troops responded swiftly after receiving distress calls about the presence of armed men attempting to abduct residents. In Sokoto State, soldiers engaged the attackers in a firefight, forcing them to flee and enabling the rescue of several captives. Similarly, in Katsina State, security operatives intercepted another group of armed men, leading to the safe recovery of victims previously taken hostage.
These operations come amid growing concern over persistent insecurity and abductions in Nigeria’s North-West zone. Many communities in Sokoto and Katsina have faced repeated attacks by criminal gangs seeking ransom payments, prompting calls for stronger government intervention. The recent rescue efforts signal an increased tempo of military action in response to public outcry over rising kidnappings.
Military authorities commended the troops’ quick response and assured residents that security agencies remain committed to restoring peace. A spokesperson for the Army urged communities to continue providing timely information on suspicious movements. Meanwhile, local leaders welcomed the news of rescued victims but called for sustained action to prevent future abductions.
The situation remains tense across parts of Sokoto and Katsina as security forces maintain heightened vigilance. Analysts say ongoing military pressure could help disrupt criminal networks but stress that improved intelligence gathering and community cooperation are vital for long-term stability.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Senegal’s Mbaye Joins Pelé, Messi, Yamal in Elite World Cup Club
Youngster becomes one of few to play FIFA World Cup at age 16, matching records set by football legends
Youngster becomes one of few to play FIFA World Cup at age 16, matching records set by football legends
Senegalese footballer Amara Mbaye has joined a rare group of players who have featured at the FIFA World Cup at just 16 years old, matching the feats of football greats such as Pelé, Lionel Messi, and Spain’s Lamine Yamal. Mbaye’s inclusion in this exclusive club came after he made his tournament debut for Senegal during the ongoing World Cup.
Mbaye, who is regarded as a rising star in African football, made his first appearance for Senegal’s senior national team on Monday. This significant milestone places him among the youngest players to ever compete on football’s biggest stage, highlighting both his talent and the increasing trust national teams are placing in youth development.
Historically, only a handful of players have achieved such an early breakthrough at the World Cup. Brazilian legend Pelé was famously just 17 when he starred in the 1958 tournament, while Lionel Messi and Spain’s Lamine Yamal also entered the global spotlight as teenagers. Mbaye’s achievement underscores Senegal’s commitment to nurturing young talent and signals a new era for African participation in world football.
With Mbaye now part of this distinguished list, analysts expect more attention to be paid to youth scouting and development across African nations. The Senegal Football Federation has expressed pride in Mbaye’s progress and called on other young players to draw inspiration from his rapid rise. The federation said it will continue investing in grassroots programmes to ensure that more talents like Mbaye get opportunities on the world stage.
As the World Cup progresses, observers will be watching closely to see how Mbaye performs against some of football’s toughest opponents. His early debut may inspire a new generation of African footballers aiming for global recognition.
Nigeria News (Standard)
British High Commission Flags Vote Trading, Accessibility Gaps in Ekiti Governorship Election
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
The British High Commission has commended the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, while raising concerns about reports of vote trading and limited accessibility for persons with disabilities at several polling units. The commission made its position known in a statement released on Monday, following the re-election of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across all 16 local government areas in the South-West state.
According to the statement, the British mission welcomed the orderly nature of the poll and applauded the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders in delivering a largely credible process. It noted that effective cooperation between election officials and security personnel contributed to a calm atmosphere across most polling centres.
However, the High Commission expressed concern over persistent reports of vote trading—where votes are exchanged for cash or favours—and alleged interference by party agents at some locations visited by UK observers. It also highlighted technical challenges faced by voters and cited limited access for persons with disabilities as an area requiring urgent attention.
“The peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders is commendable,” the commission stated. “Nonetheless, we remain concerned about incidents of vote trading as well as accessibility issues that undermine electoral integrity.”
The commission’s statement comes as Nigeria prepares for further off-cycle elections ahead of the 2027 general polls. Stakeholders have called on INEC to intensify reforms that will address technical glitches and ensure inclusive participation for all eligible voters. As at press time, opposition parties had not issued formal reactions to either the conduct or outcome of Saturday’s election.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/uk-flags-vote-trading-accessibility-issues-in-ekiti-poll/
Troops Repel Attacks, Rescue Abducted Victims in Sokoto and Katsina States
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British High Commission Flags Vote Trading, Accessibility Gaps in Ekiti Governorship Election
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