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)
Lagos Employers Prioritise AI Skills as Job Market Shifts Towards Digital Efficiency
Major recruiters now seek professionals who can blend technology with creativity, as AI reshapes employment criteria in Nigeria
Major recruiters now seek professionals who can blend technology with creativity, as AI reshapes employment criteria in Nigeria
Top employers in Lagos are increasingly prioritising candidates with artificial intelligence (AI) skills, signalling a major shift in recruitment practices across Nigeria’s commercial capital. The development, which became evident on Tuesday, follows growing industry emphasis on digital competence and adaptability in the workplace.
According to insights from leading recruitment platform Jobberman, companies are no longer simply looking for traditional qualifications but are actively seeking professionals who can combine human intuition with the speed and accuracy of AI tools. Employers say that while AI will not entirely replace workers, those who fail to adopt emerging technologies risk being left behind by colleagues who do.
Industry stakeholders note that staying relevant does not necessarily require programming knowledge. Rather, it involves learning to leverage AI solutions for tasks such as research, automation of repetitive duties, and enhancing daily productivity. As digital tools become standard in offices from Victoria Island to Ikeja, core human qualities like creativity, critical thinking, leadership and emotional intelligence have become more valuable than ever.
Speaking on the trend, a Jobberman spokesperson explained: “We are seeing employers move beyond just academic certificates. They now want staff who can use technology to add value—whether it is automating reports or finding smarter ways to work.” The spokesperson advised job seekers to remain curious and open to new skills, stressing that willingness to learn will be a key factor in securing jobs moving forward.
Labour market analysts believe this evolution will continue as Nigerian firms face increasing global competition and pressure to deliver results faster. Many predict that those who view technology as a collaborator—rather than a threat—will be best positioned for career growth. As at press time, several multinational firms operating in Lagos had rolled out internal training programmes aimed at upskilling employees in AI literacy.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/ai-wont-take-your-job-but-someone-using-ai-might-2026062511122451400
Nigeria News (Standard)
Wike Urges PDP Aspirants in Rivers to Prepare for Tough 2027 Power Contest
Former Governor warns party hopefuls that reclaiming political control will require serious effort and unity
Former Governor warns party hopefuls that reclaiming political control will require serious effort and unity
Former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has called on Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates in the state to brace themselves for a challenging struggle ahead of the 2027 general elections. Wike gave this charge on Thursday, 25 June, during a meeting with party stakeholders in Port Harcourt.
He emphasised that the road to regaining political power will not be easy for the PDP, warning aspirants that victory will only come through determination and hard work. According to him, “Politics is not served à la carte. You must be ready to fight for it if you want to win.”
Wike’s remarks come at a time when internal divisions and defections have weakened the PDP’s hold in several states, including Rivers. The All Progressives Congress (APC) has continued to consolidate its position in the South-South zone, raising concerns among PDP loyalists about the party’s readiness for future polls.
Addressing the gathering, Wike urged all aggrieved members to put aside personal grievances and work towards a common goal. He insisted that unity within the party is crucial if it hopes to challenge APC dominance in subsequent elections.
The former governor also cautioned aspirants against relying on external influence or expecting an easy ride in clinching party tickets. He maintained that only those who are prepared to mobilise grassroots support stand a realistic chance of success.
As preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 polls, political observers say the outcome of intra-party reconciliation efforts will play a key role in determining the PDP’s performance across Rivers State and beyond.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Supreme Court of Nigeria Set to Launch Electronic Filing and Case Management Platform
Digital transition aims to improve case handling speed and transparency across courts; lawyers, litigants to access services remotely
Digital transition aims to improve case handling speed and transparency across courts; lawyers, litigants to access services remotely
The Supreme Court of Nigeria has announced plans to introduce an electronic filing system and case management platform, marking a significant step towards the digital transformation of the country’s judiciary. The new system, expected to be rolled out in Abuja before the end of June 2026, will allow legal practitioners and litigants to file cases and track proceedings electronically.
According to officials familiar with the development, the electronic filing platform is designed to reduce manual paperwork and improve efficiency in handling legal matters at the apex court. The move comes as part of broader efforts to address longstanding complaints about delays in case processing and limited access to court services.
The planned launch follows calls from legal stakeholders for greater transparency and faster adjudication of cases within Nigeria’s judicial system. The adoption of digital tools by the Supreme Court is expected to set a precedent for other courts nationwide. Legal experts have noted that such reforms are crucial for restoring public confidence and ensuring timely justice delivery.
While no official statement from the Chief Justice had been released as at Thursday, judiciary sources said training for court staff and lawyers on using the platform is underway. The Nigerian Bar Association has previously advocated for digitalisation as a means of reducing congestion in courtrooms and cutting costs associated with physical filings.
The introduction of electronic filing at Nigeria’s highest court could pave the way for similar innovations at lower courts across all geopolitical zones. Observers say successful implementation may help modernise legal practice in the country, though some have cautioned that adequate infrastructure and user training will be essential for sustained impact.
