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 ENERGY PROJECTS, BROKEN PROMISES AND FORGOTTEN CHILDREN: THE ROLE OF ARBITRATION Energy projects are frequently accompanied by promises of development, environmental protection, employment opportunities, and improved living standards for host communities. However, in many resource-rich regions, these promises remain unfulfilled, leaving communities to grapple with environmental degradation, poverty, and social exclusion. Children are often the most affected yet least represented stakeholders in disputes arising from such projects. Ts article examines the role of arbitration in addressing grievances resulting from failed commitments in energy projects, with particular emphasis on Nigeria's petroleum sector and the Host Community Development Trust framework established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. 1. Introduction The relationship between energy development and community welfare remains one of the most contested issues in contemporary resource governance. While govern...

 PRESS RELEASE CENTER FOR MEDIA CONNECT (CMC) HONOURS AZUH ARINZE WITH PRESTIGIOUS MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARD DURING BOOK SIGNING EVENT IN LAGOS Lagos, Nigeria – The Center for Media Connect (CMC) has honoured Azuh Arinze, Publisher of YES International Magazine, with its prestigious Media Excellence Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to journalism, publishing, media development, and literary excellence in Nigeria. The award was presented by Ambassador Cornel Udofia, Founder of the Center for Media Connect (CMC), alongside members of the CMC Gladiators, during Azuh Arinze's book signing session held at the Roving Heights Bookstore. The event attracted an impressive gathering of media executives, veteran journalists, publishers, authors, entertainment personalities, literary enthusiasts, and distinguished guests from across Nigeria's media and creative industries, all united in celebrating the remarkable achievements of one of the country's most respected medi...

 Why Kiekie Refuses to Collaborate with 'Vulgar' Skit Makers: 'It’s About Brand Alignment' Popular Nigerian content creator and media personality, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, widely known as Kiekie, has opened up about her strict boundaries when it comes to creative collaborations in the entertainment industry. Known for her high energy comedy, unique fashion sense, and stellar hosting skills, Kiekie has built a highly reputable brand that commands corporate respect. In a recent podcast appearance, the talented creator explained why fans might never see her team up with certain colleagues in the skit-making business, citing a stark contrast in content style and values. The Line in the Sand: No Vulgarity During the candid interview, Kiekie was asked about her criteria for selecting collaboration partners. She revealed that she draws a firm line at content that is overtly vulgar or relies heavily on sexualized themes to gain traction. "I would never collaborate with any sk...

 FIFA Clarifies Golden Boot Tie-Breaker Rules as Kylian Mbappe Leads Lionel Messi The race for the prestigious Golden Boot is heating up, and football's global governing body, FIFA, has officially clarified who holds the advantage heading into the crucial semi-final matches. In a statement released on Sunday, FIFA confirmed that France captain Kylian Mbappe currently leads Argentina's Lionel Messi in the battle to finish as the tournament's top scorer. The Current Standings: Mbappe vs. Messi Both superstars have enjoyed sensational campaigns, finding the back of the net eight times each. However, Mbappe holds the upper hand over the Argentine legend due to his superior playmaking statistics. The French talisman has registered three assists so far, compared to Messi's single assist, giving him the decisive edge in the standings. Understanding FIFA’s Tie-Breaker Criteria To clear up any confusion regarding how the individual accolade is awarded in the event of a tie, FIFA...

 GOVERNOR SOLUDO STRENGTHENS PENSION WELFARE IN ANAMBRA By MaryAnn Chukwuma. Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has strengthened pension welfare in Anambra State through consistent reforms prioritizing retirees' dignity, financial security, and improved access to their lawful retirement entitlements. Since assuming office in 2022, the administration has sustained regular pension payments, demonstrating commitment to improving retired civil servants' welfare while restoring confidence in government's responsibilities to pensioners. The Soludo administration has addressed inherited pension challenges by settling outstanding obligations in phases, bringing relief to many retirees burdened by years of uncertainty and delayed retirement benefits. To improve transparency, the government introduced credible verification exercises, eliminating irregularities while ensuring genuine pensioners receive their benefits promptly through a more efficient and accountable pension admini...

 NBA SECURES LANDMARK JUDGMENT ON THE STATUS OF LAWYERS IN THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE  Dear Coleagues, I am pleased to formally inform all members of our dear association of the landmark judgment delivered by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Abuja Judicial Division, on 10 July 2026 in Suit No. NICN/ ABJ/264/2025: Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Bar Association v. Police Service Commission &5 Ors. This public interest action was instituted by the Nigerian Bar Association through the Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) to seek judicial interpretation and enforcement of the provisions of the Police Act, 2020 and the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners, 2023, particularly as they relate to the status, functions, and deployment of legal practitioners serving within the Nigeria Police Force. In a well-considered judgment, the Court upheld substantial aspects of the NBA's claims and made important declarations and consequential o...

 CAN THANKS GOD OVER SAFE RESCUE OF ABDUCTED OYO SCHOOLCHILDREN, COMMENDS TINUBU, MAKINDE, SECURITY AGENCIES The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has joined the people of Oyo State and well-meaning Nigerians in thanking Almighty God for the safe rescue of the pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area after spending 56 difficult days in captivity. In a statement, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Intelligence Agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies for their efforts, which led to the successful rescue of the abducted schoolchildren. Archbishop Okoh described the rescue as a moment of great relief and gratitude, noting that the successful operation reflects the commitment of the nation's security institutions to protecting lives and rest...

 OPERATION HADIN KAI TROOPS CRUSH ISWAP INFILTRATION ATTEMPT IN CROSS KAUWA, INFLICT HEAVY LOSSES… Preliminary Forensic Findings Point to Foreign Facilitators Behind Failed Attack Troops of 19 Brigade, Sector 3, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have decisively foiled an attempted infiltration by ISWAP terrorists into Cross Kauwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers and forcing them to retreat in disarray. The successful defence of the location further demonstrates the vigilance, combat readiness and operational effectiveness of troops who continue to deny terrorist elements freedom of action across the North East Theatre. The failed attack occurred at about 2220 hours (10:20 p.m.) on 11 July 2026, when the terrorists attempted to exploit the cover of darkness to breach the troops' location. Alert troops swiftly detected the hostile movement and responded with coordinated and overwhelming firepower, compel...

 Blogger Ejike Ofoegbu Issues Public Apology, Retracts False Stories Against Anambra Governor Soludo and Son A Nigerian blogger, Ejike Ofoegbu, has tendered a public apology and unconditional retraction of a series of fabricated stories he published about Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and his son, Ozonna. Ofoegbu, owner and publisher of *Igbo Times Magazine and News*, admitted that the reports were entirely fake and were created solely to drive online traffic and generate financial gain. The apology was contained in a statement titled “Public Apology and Full Retraction,” which was shared on Saturday by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor of Abia State on Media and Publicity. In the statement, Ofoegbu explicitly admitted fabricating multiple stories attributed to Governor Soludo and his son. “I publicly admit that the stories I published concerning Governor Soludo and his son were completely fake, false, fabricated, and untrue. They did not come from ...

Veteran Nigerian comic actor Charles Awurum has emphasised that comedy extends far beyond mere laughter, urging practitioners to harness humour as a tool for addressing societal issues and delivering meaningful messages. In an interview with Saturday Beats, Awurum argued that the most effective comedies are those that entertain audiences while simultaneously educating them about the realities of society. “Comedy is not only for laughing. Comedy is supposed to teach you the ills of society. We do comedies to teach in a comic way so that people can learn,” he said. The veteran, who has been active in the Nigerian film industry for decades, contrasted the strong storylines and social commentary of earlier comedy films with some contemporary productions that prioritise entertainment value alone. “In every comedy we did in those days, there must be a good storyline. We didn’t put out films just to make people laugh. Beyond laughter, we had to pass very important messages. If anything is hap...

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has alleged that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, declined his invitation to a public debate because he could not defend his record in office. In a statement issued on Saturday by his media aide, Francis Nwaze, Umahi said the proposed debate was not politically motivated or related to the 2027 general election but was intended to assess the governance records of both former governors. According to the minister, the debate was designed to provide Nigerians with an opportunity to compare their achievements in public office based on verifiable records. Umahi said the invitation focused on governance, leadership and measurable results rather than personalities or political parties. Peter Obi had earlier rejected the invitation, stating that he was a presidential candidate of a national political party, while Umahi had not attained the same political status. Responding, Umahi maintained that the proposed debate was about accountability and perfor...

 Nigerian soldier who died during rescue of abducted Oyo students and teacher laid to rest The remains of Felix Ademe Isaac, a 28-year-old Lieutenant of the Nigerian Army, who was k!lled during the operation to rescue the teachers and pupils abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, have been laid to rest. DailyTrust reports that the deceased was killed while leading troops to rescue the victims who regained freedom on Friday, July 10. There are different reports on the de@th of the senior officer. While some said his convoy was hit by explosives set by terrorists at the National Park in Oyo, others said he ran into a landmine set by the Ansaru terrorists identified as the group behind the abduction. Born on August 25, 1997, Lt. Isaac was laid to rest, with full military honours, at the 23rd Armoured Brigade Cemetery in Yola, Adamawa State capital, on July 10, 2026. Isaac was not the only one who d!ed in the rescue operation that eventually yielded results, two days ...

 Lagos police seek help in reuniting 83-year-old man with his family The Lagos State Police Command has sought public assistance in reuniting an elderly man with his family.  A statement from the command says the man identified as Mr. Oriowo Gabriel, aged 83 years, was found by a kind-hearted member of the public and subsequently taken into protective Police custody at Ipaja Division, where he is currently safe and well cared for.  The police say efforts by the Police to trace his family using the addresses he provided yielded no result as the addresses have been visited and no one has been able to identify or locate his relatives. The Command humbly appealed to anyone who knows Mr. Oriowo Gabriel or has any information that could assist in reuniting him with his family or loved ones to kindly contact the DPO, Ipaja Division, on +234 803 799 3827.

Husband of abducted Oyo school principal holds thanksgiving in church following her rescue The husband of Mrs Rachael Alamu, the principal of Ahoro Esinle School in Oyo State, who was abducted alongside 43 students and pupils in Oriire local government area on May 15, went before God in thanksgiving today, July 12, following their release on Friday, July 12. Photos and videos shared online showed Professor Alamu and other members of First Baptist Church singing praises to God for the safe release of Mrs Alamu and others. The professor was seen dancing with other worshippers as they sang “Hallelujah” in gratitude for the safe return of his wife and the other victims after weeks in captivity.

 NIGERIAN EDUCATION LOAN FUND DEBUNKS SUSPENSION OF UPKEEP ALLOWANCE  The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has debunked a social media document claiming that upkeep allowances under the Federal Government's Student Loan Scheme for the 2025/2026 academic session have been suspended.   A statement by the NELFUND says the document, dated July 10 and attributed to its Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, is fake and did not originate from the Fund.  It urges beneficiaries and the public to disregard the misinformation and rely only on its official communication channels. The Fund further clarifies that neither the Federal Government nor NELFUND has announced any suspension of upkeep allowance payments, stressing that student loan and upkeep disbursements are continuing as scheduled for eligible students in public tertiary institutions nationwide.

 NGF CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT TINUBU, FAMILIES ON SUCCESSFUL RESCUE OF OYO SCHOOLCHILDREN, TEACHERS The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has expressed joy and relief over the successful rescue of all the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Community, Oyo State. The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum and Governor of Kwara State,  AbdulRahman AbduRazaq in a statement, congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the successful outcome of the operation, describing it as the result of months of high-level coordination, intelligence gathering, and disciplined execution by security agencies. The Forum also rejoiced with the families of the victims, noting that the successful rescue has reunited them with their children and loved ones. It commended the Oyo State Government for its collaboration with the Federal Government, which contributed to the success of the rescue operation. The Forum further praised the commitment and professionalism of the nation's security forces t...

 GOVERNOR ALIA ORDERS SECURITY AGENCIES TO HUNT DOWN PERPETRATORS OF OTUKPO ATTACK The Benue State ‎ Governor, Hyacinth Alia has  condemned the early morning attacks by suspected armed herdsmen on Akpachi Village and the Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area describing it as not only a breach of peace, but also a barbaric and inhuman assault on the sanctity of life and the collective soul of the people of Benue State. ‎ In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula the ‎suspected armed herdsmen reportedly invaded Akpachi Village between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. while residents were asleep killing scores of people, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries. ‎ ‎The Governor said he is particularly pained that the attacks occurred at a time when the state government was working closely with traditional rulers and security agencies to foster lasting peace and harmony.  ‎ ‎Governor Alia therefore directed the security agencies in the stat...

N10million Damages: EFCC Appeals Judgment Against Agunloye The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, Abuja, against the judgment of Justice Peter Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Abuja, finding it liable for defaming former Minister of Power, Olu Agunloye over a social media publication of an alleged $6billion Mambilla Power Project fraud. The Notice of Appeal was filed on Friday, July 10, 2026 by counsel to the EFCC, Wahab Shittu, SAN.   In the appeal contained in Suit No: FCT/HC/CV/1199/2024, the EFCC expressed dissatisfaction with the “whole of the judgment of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, sitting at Maitama, Abuja, Coram: Hon. Justice Peter O. Kekemeke, delivered on the 8th day of July, 2026….” Specifically, the appeal was hinged on 11 grounds and four different orders. The orders the Commission is seeking in the appeal, are orders allow...

 10 killed in Bahamas plane crash, including musicians and DJ  Ten people were killed in a plane crash in the Bahamas, including several musicians and a DJ, according to the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union. The crash occurred Friday in North Andros after the aircraft departed Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau on a flight to San Andros. Among those killed were members of The Pond Band and a DJ, whom the union remembered as talented performers whose contributions helped shape the country's cultural landscape. In response to the crash, the Bahamian government temporarily suspended Flamingo Air's air operator certificate as a precaution while investigators determine the cause. Officials said the suspension follows two separate safety incidents involving the airline on Friday. Earlier that day, another Flamingo Air aircraft experienced a reported issue while en route to Mayaguana and returned to Nassau. After the plane landed and passengers safely exited, the...

 Former Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan dies at 68 after battle with stage four prostate cancer Former Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan has died at the age of 68, one year after revealing he had been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer. His family confirmed that the veteran broadcaster died peacefully at his home in north London on Saturday, July 11, following a period of illness. A statement shared by his family said: “It is with great sadness that the family of Dermot Murnaghan announces that he passed away at home in north London earlier this morning at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer.” “He died peacefully with his family at his side.” The family also thanked the medical teams who cared for Murnaghan during his illness and acknowledged the messages of support he received after announcing his diagnosis. Murnaghan revealed in 2024 that he had stage four prostate cancer. At the time, he said he was responding positively to treatment and feeli...

 TROOPS OF 65 BATTALION INTERCEPT TRUCK CONVEYING LARGE CONSIGNMENT OF ILLICIT DRUGS ALONG LAGOS–CALABAR COASTAL ROAD Troops of 65 Battalion have recorded an operational success with the interception of a truck conveying a large consignment of illicit drugs along the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road following actionable intelligence received from a credible source. The intelligence-led operation, conducted on 9 July 2026, resulted in the successful interception of the vehicle and the arrest of its driver. Preliminary investigations revealed that the illicit consignment was being transported to the Berger general area of Lagos State. However, the suspect could not provide satisfactory information regarding the ownership or intended recipient of the drugs. In line with established procedures, the suspect and the recovered illicit drugs were subsequently handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lagos State Command, for further investigation and prosecution. The hando...

 ASUWAHC Begins Strategic Planning for 2027 Budget By Chikaodili Obinwa      The Anambra State Urban Water Asset Holdings Corporation (ASUWAHC) has begun preparations for its 2027 budget with an interactive management session focused on setting priorities to guide the Corporation’s operations and strategic development in the coming year. On July 9, the session was led by the Head of the Special Projects Department, Aloysius Aniazoba, who represented the Officer-in-Charge, Emmanuella Okafor, describing the exercise as a demonstration of ASUWAHC’s commitment to proactive planning and prudent resource management. speaking on behalf of the Officer-in-Charge, Mr. Aniazoba urged heads of departments and units to provide comprehensive, realistic, and implementable inputs for the 2027 budget, noting that each department has a critical role in developing a budget that aligns with the Corporation’s mandate and strategic goals. He emphasized that a carefully prepared budget ser...

Happy Birthday to the legendary @_olujacobs Your talent, grace, and remarkable legacy have inspired generations and enriched African cinema. Wishing you peace, good health, abundant joy, and many more blessed years. #Happybirthdaytoanicon #Birthdaycelebration #iconcelebration  #legendary  #faantv

 Sudan court sentences RSF leader Mohamed Dagalo to death in absentia A Sudanese court on Sunday sentenced paramilitary leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo and 15 others to death in absentia over the killing of a regional governor and committing war crimes in Darfur, state media reported. The ruling is the first against the leadership of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since war broke out between the paramilitary group and the Sudanese army in April 2023. The court in the Red Sea city of Port Sudan, the army's de facto capital, convicted Dagalo and the other defendants of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and attacks on civilians and public facilities, state news agency SUNA reported. Those sentenced include Dagalo's brother and deputy, Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, as well as several RSF officers and tribal leaders from communities in West Darfur. Killing of West Darfur governor The case centres on the killing of West Darfur governor Khamis Abbakar in June 2023, shortly after ...

Left: His Exellency. Amb Consul General Dr. Yakubu A. Dadu and Isaac Izoya _Right PRESS RELEASE GERMANY IS SET TO HOST AFRICA'S BIGGEST NOLLYWOOD FESTIVAL Frankfurt is set to Host Africa's Biggest Nollywood Celebration as Top Stars, political heavyweights, Business Leaders and Dignitaries are warming up to Converge for the 2026 edition of Nollywood Film Festival Germany (NFFG) and Nollywood Europe Golden Awards (NEGA). Frankfurt am Main, Germany; The stage is set for an unforgettable celebration of African cinema, culture and excellence as the Nollywood Film Festival Germany (NFFG) and the Nollywood Europe Golden Awards (NEGA) 2026 return to Frankfurt on 31 July to 1st of August 2026, bringing together some of Nollywood's biggest stars, distinguished diplomats, political leaders, renowned business personalities and film enthusiasts from across Europe, Africa and beyond. Organised by Ehizoya Golden Entertainment e.V. under the leadership of Cultural Ambassador Isaac Izoya wi...