General
“I’m Young Enough to Become Governor in the Future” — Shaibu
Reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has stated that he has temporarily shelved his ambitions of becoming governor to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the upcoming September 21 governorship election in the state.
In a recent address at the Afemai World Congress in Detroit, Michigan, USA, Shaibu, who has been vocal about his political aspirations, criticized Governor Godwin Obaseki for allegedly thwarting his governorship ambitions. Despite this setback, Shaibu expressed optimism about his future prospects, highlighting his youth and the potential for future opportunities.
Shaibu’s Current Political Stance
In a video clip shared by the Afemai World Congress organizers, Shaibu detailed his shift in political allegiance, stating, “I have moved from the PDP back to the APC. I moved to the PDP because of the governor (Obaseki) and I am back in the APC because of the governor.” He emphasized that his decision to support Okpebholo stems from his belief that Okpebholo is a more suitable candidate for governor compared to the PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who is endorsed by Obaseki.
Shaibu described the challenges he has faced, including his impeachment, which he claims was part of a broader effort to undermine his political aspirations. “I wanted to become the governor and they said they would destroy me if I continued to nurse that ambition,” he said. “They have done everything but God has kept me alive.”
Despite these challenges, Shaibu remains hopeful about his future in politics, asserting, “I am supporting the APC candidate because he is a breath of fresh air. He doesn’t speak too much English. He talks less and does more.” He continued, “If God says I will be governor, then I will be. I have left my ambition to God.”
Call for Diaspora Involvement
The acting Chairman of the Edo APC, Jarret Tenebe, echoed Shaibu’s call for increased diaspora involvement in Edo State’s political landscape. He urged members of the diaspora to take an active interest in the election, stating, “If you fail to be interested you will allow idiots to rule you.”
Tenebe underscored the significance of diaspora support in shaping the outcome of elections, asserting, “Today, it is impossible to win the election at home without the support of the diaspora.” He further encouraged diaspora members to engage with and support political initiatives aimed at improving governance in Edo State.
A Vision for the Future
Both Shaibu and Tenebe highlighted the critical role of the diaspora in influencing positive change and building a better future for Edo State. Shaibu’s emphasis on his future aspirations and Tenebe’s call to action reflect a broader push for proactive involvement in Nigeria’s political and developmental processes. As the governorship election approaches, the focus will be on how these dynamics unfold and impact the political landscape of Edo State.
General
Arsenal Agree £50m-Plus Deal to Sign Aston Villa Defender Ezri Konsa
Arsenal have agreed a deal worth more than £50m to sign England international defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.
The 28-year-old is expected to undergo a medical before completing his move to the Emirates Stadium.
Konsa joined Aston Villa in July 2019 and has made 286 appearances for the club over the past seven seasons.
He featured 48 times in all competitions last season, scoring twice and providing one assist as Unai Emery’s side won the Europa League and finished fourth in the Premier League to qualify for the 2026-27 Champions League.
Konsa has not played during Villa’s pre-season campaign, including their 2-1 defeat by Paris St-Germain in the Uefa Super Cup.
Emery had given the defender four weeks off following England’s World Cup campaign, in which Konsa played in every match as the Three Lions finished third.
After England’s final warm-up game against Borussia Monchengladbach, Emery explained the absence of Konsa, Emiliano Martinez and Ollie Watkins, saying: “They are joining us after this match.”
Konsa’s arrival will strengthen Arsenal’s defensive options as they prepare for another Premier League title challenge and their return to Champions League football.
General
US and Saudi Arabia Set to Unveil Civilian Nuclear Cooperation Deal
The United States and Saudi Arabia are expected to announce a landmark agreement that would allow the Gulf kingdom to develop a civilian nuclear programme, in a deal that could be worth billions of dollars.
According to reports, the announcement is expected to be made by President Donald Trump’s administration on Wednesday. The agreement would pave the way for US companies to help build and operate Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear infrastructure.
As part of the proposed deal, American firms could construct a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia, enabling the kingdom to produce fuel for nuclear power plants on its own soil rather than relying on imported supplies. The project would reportedly follow a joint feasibility study conducted by the two countries.
The agreement is expected to generate significant commercial opportunities for US companies, although the firms involved have not been publicly identified. Any final arrangement would also require consultation with the US Congress.
The proposal has drawn concern from nuclear experts and several former Israeli officials, who warn that uranium enrichment technology could potentially provide Saudi Arabia with the capability to develop nuclear weapons in the future, despite the programme being intended for civilian energy production.
Saudi Arabia has consistently maintained that its nuclear ambitions are focused on diversifying its energy sector and meeting growing domestic electricity demand.
The White House has not officially commented on the reported agreement.
General
Spain Crowned World Champions After Dominant Victory Over Argentina
Spain have been crowned FIFA World Cup champions, adding global glory to their recent European success with a commanding performance in the final.
The celebrations erupted at the final whistle as Spain’s players and staff poured onto the pitch to mark a historic triumph, having controlled the match from start to finish. Dominating possession, creating the better chances and dictating the tempo, they proved worthy winners on football’s biggest stage.
Several players produced unforgettable moments throughout the tournament. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal lifted the World Cup at just 19 years of age, while Ferran Torres etched his name into history by scoring the winning goal in the final. Dani Olmo emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers, and Rodri added the World Cup to an already remarkable list of career honours.
At the opposite end of the emotions, Argentina captain Lionel Messi remained on the pitch after the final whistle, watching Spain’s celebrations unfold around him. The defeat has inevitably sparked questions over whether the tournament marked the final World Cup appearance of one of football’s greatest-ever players.
For now, however, the spotlight belongs to Spain, whose victory secures another major international title and confirms their status as the dominant force in world football.
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