General news

• Gbenga Hashim: Patriot, Democrat and Bridge-Builder

  28-06-2026 02:21 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Hassan Mahmood Ibrahim Today, we celebrate the 57th birthday of His Excellency, Dr. Gbenga Joel Hashim, an exceptional Nigerian whose life has been defined by courage, enterprise, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to national unity.Born into a humble royal family, Dr. Hashim’s remarkable journey is a testament to the enduring values of hard work, integrity and visionary leadership. His life story continues to inspire countless Nigerians across generations.Blessed w
  
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• 72 hours to ‘spiritual warfare’: Oba of Benin mobilizes against terrorists

  28-06-2026 03:14 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ozioruva AliuBY Wednesday (72 hours away), diviners, priests, priestesses and various shrines in Benin Kingdom and their custodians would invoke “irreversible curse” on kidnappers, bandits and all involved in violent crimes in the seven local government areas that make up the Benin kingdom.The Benin monarch had, last Tuesday, met with various categories of spiritualists and leaders in the kingdom where he announced a ten-day period for them to consult with their powers
  
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• Pele versus Messi, by Patrick Omorodion

  28-06-2026 03:09 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The debate on who is football’s greatest player ever resurfaced again at the ongoing 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States after Lionel Messi struck a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 defeat of Algeria in their opening match.His brace in the 2-0 defeat of Austria reinforced the belief by his fans that he is the G.O.A.T (greatest of all times).However, a Nigerian fan, Aniele John Ukpe disagrees. He reasoned that Messi may be greater than Pele in some aspects of football
  
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• Why the centre and states’ partnership and alignment matter

  28-06-2026 02:37 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Tunde RahmanTwenty-seven years into unbroken democracy, Nigeria’s federal structure remains our best tool for managing diversity and delivering development. But federalism is neither a contest between Abuja and the sub-nationals, nor is it a zero-sum competition for relevance. It is a covenant, an agreement to work together – keep some powers and grant some others to the central government for proper coordination.The principle of federalism, as articulated by constitutional
  
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• SME growth requires more than capital

  28-06-2026 02:36 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By  George  OgbonnayaFor years, discussions about small and medium-sized businesses in Nigeria have focused on access to finance. While funding remains important, money alone will not drive the next stage of SME growth. We need to look beyond funding.Entrepreneurs across Nigeria face high costs, changing customer needs, rapid technology shifts, and more competition. At the same time, digital tools, regional trade, and new technology open new ways to grow. Because of these challen
  
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• Nigeria’s cassava boom needs an industrial leap

  28-06-2026 02:32 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Oska Seyi AiyelesoNigeria does not have a cassava production problem. For decades, we have been the world’s largest producer of cassava. Every year, millions of tonnes are harvested across the country. Yet despite this abundance, Nigeria continues to import many of the starches, sweeteners, flours and industrial derivatives that our manufacturers require.That contradiction should concern all of us.As we mark World Cassava Day 2026, the most important question is no longer whether
  
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• The Creed of Presence: How Okowa rewrote the rules of grassroots leadership

  28-06-2026 02:28 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Odna Frank-ChukkasIt is late evening somewhere in Delta North Senatorial District. The rain has beenfalling since the afternoon. The kind of Delta rain that does not apologise, that turns red laterite roads into rivers and sends most sensible men indoors. Yet, a vehicle pulls into the ward. A man steps out. He is not here for cameras. He is not here for applause. The crowd is modest, unhurried, and quietly surprised. He came because he said he would. That man is Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and that s
  
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• Jallo’s secret, by Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi

  28-06-2026 02:27 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Onceupon a time, there was a blacksmith called Jallo who was famous all over the land for his smithing skills. People came from far and near to seek him out. He had a number of young apprentices from nearby villages learning the trade from him. Jallo was a rather strict man but he was also very generous and kind. He never shortchanged his customers and he was fair to his apprentices. Whenever Jallo felt any of his apprentices had learnt enough, he would give them money and tools to go and
  
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• His visit ushers in joy, by Funmi Komolafe

  28-06-2026 02:24 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Brethren, welcome to the last Sunday in the month   of June.  In a couple of days, by the grace of God, we’ll be saying goodbye to the month of June.Significantly, it would be the end of the first half of year 2026.Beloved, we have reasons to thank the Almighty God that we are on ground and not in the ground.   Glory and adoration be to the King of kings.For every one of us that God has kept alive and still keeps alive, the Lord   continues to keep
  
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• Ladi Adebutu and Iyabo Obasanjo can deliver Ogun, by Dele Sobowale

  28-06-2026 02:23 via vanguardngr.com
  
  “History is a record of what has happened in the past.”That was the first sentence in the History book given to us at Igbobi College, Yaba; when, as an Area Boy from Campos, Lagos, I gate-crashed into the school. History became one of my favourite subjects since then till today.  However, it was not Igbobi College which stimulated my interest in History. Mr John Sagay, our History tutor at ICY, only nurtured a seed planted at St Peter’s Primary School, Faji, Lagos, by Mr
  
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• he Femi Gbajabiamila I know, by Femi Fani-Kayode

  28-06-2026 02:20 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Happy birthday to my dear friend and brother, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamilla, Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives.We grew up together with the likes of Folabie Caxton Martins, Wole Atunrase (both of whom lived just round the corner from you in Surulere), Deremie Ajidahun and so many others in those heady yet great days of the 1970s and 1980s in Lagos and London and have been closer than brothers for at least 50 years.In all
  
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• There is so much police can do to tackle under-aged sex

  28-06-2026 02:19 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Bunmi SofolaJOKE, a secondary school teacher married to James for close to 19 years tried not to raise her three children the way she’d been raised.  “My father was very authoritarian and we were all in awe of him He was such a bully that mum dared not cross him.  Prospective girlfriends and boyfriends were met furtively behind their parents back, because whenever dad cottoned on to any of the children being ‘tosted’ there would be hell to pay.“Af
  
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• Can any law restrain Nigerian governors? By Tonnie Iredia

  28-06-2026 02:16 via vanguardngr.com
  
  A few authoritative voices are beginning to make the rest of us think again about the state police issue. Until a week or so ago, some of us had no objection to the establishment of state police in Nigeria. Our position was influenced by the unending attacks on citizens particularly in rural communities. We had imagined that state police will bring in more hands into the fight against insecurity as the concept of state police will necessarily make each state see the need to protect its own boun
  
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• Datjoblessboi shares perspective on challenges artists face in sustaining fame

  28-06-2026 02:15 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiIdowu Olumide Babalola, President and Founder of DJB Media & Digital TV Broadcast Limited, recently shared his expert perspective on the challenges artists and public figures face in sustaining their fame. According to Babalola, who has built a modern media empire, making him a pioneer in digital media & public relations space in Nigeria, the true measure of success lies in an artist’s ability to continuously evolve, engage authentically with their audience, and stra
  
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• Stop trying to be like others, own your authenticity — OBA

  28-06-2026 02:13 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiNigerian gospel singer, songwriter and leadership coach Bamike Adeyemi, popularly known as OBA, has urged aspiring musicians, ministers and creatives to embrace their uniqueness instead of trying to imitate others in pursuit of success.Speaking during an appearance on Conversations With Kenni, OBA reflected on her journey of more than two decades in the music industry, noting that many people lose their identity because they are desperate for recognition and acceptance.According t
  
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• I can’t be a second or third wife for any man — Eyiyemi Afolayan

  28-06-2026 02:12 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiEyiyemi Afolayan, daughter of renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, has revealed that she would never agree to become a second or third wife, citing the challenges that often come with polygamous marriages.Speaking in a recent interview with BBC News Yoruba, the actress explained that her stance on polygamy is not driven by jealousy but by her observations of the conflicts and complications that frequently arise in polygamous homes.“I can’t be a second or third wife for a
  
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• We need things that will make us proud to be Nigerians — Deyemi Okanlawon

  28-06-2026 02:10 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiNollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon has called on creatives across music, film, fashion, and other sectors to create works that can compete globally and inspire pride among Nigerians.Speaking on the Creativitea podcast, Okanlawon said the country needs more creative exports that showcase the best of Nigeria to the world and give citizens a stronger sense of national pride.“We need things that will make us proud to be Nigerians. We need our creative people to create things, musi
  
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• Men cheat more but women cheat better — Gemgem

  28-06-2026 02:07 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiUK-based Nigerian business safety expert and content creator, Gemgem, has sparked conversations online after sharing her candid views on relationships, infidelity, and her personal dating experiences during a recent appearance on the Clarity Zone Podcast.Speaking during the interview, Gemgem described Nigeria’s relationship culture as one where infidelity has become increasingly common. According to her, many people have become accustomed to cheating regardless of their rela
  
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• Why Northern Nigeria must tell its own stories — Suchet Baba

  28-06-2026 02:05 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiKaduna-born writer, painter, and cultural entrepreneur Suchet Baba has stressed the importance of Northern Nigeria telling its own stories through art, literature, and creative expression, saying authentic narratives are vital to preserving the region’s cultural identity and challenging long-held stereotypes.Baba, who is the founder and festival director of Arts and Vibes, has built her work around amplifying underrepresented voices and creating platforms for young creatives
  
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• Yung Bos gains momentum with second album ‘Fast & Furious’

  28-06-2026 02:03 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiRising Nigerian music talent, Yung Bos, is enjoying a remarkable wave of attention following the release of his second studio album, Fast & Furious, as the 12-track project continues to gain traction across radio stations, streaming platforms and nightlife spaces.The album, which blends Afrobeats, Afropop and R&B influences, has further positioned the Jamika Entertainment artiste as one of the emerging voices to watch in Nigeria’s fast-growing music scene, with sever
  
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• Why I’m premiering organ music studies In Nigeria — Lanre Delano

  28-06-2026 02:02 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiClassical music virtuoso, Lanre Delano, has opened up on his decades-long crusade to rescue liturgical organ music from extinction in Nigeria, revealing how tactical advocacy and infrastructural investment paved the way for the country’s first university organ studies programmeDelano, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, is collaborating with his alma mater to launch a historic certificate and diploma programme in Organ Studies. The project represents a p
  
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• Actress Anita Joseph turns “Akara” seller

  28-06-2026 02:00 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiThere isn’t much superstar Nollywood actress Anita Joseph hasn’t done to remain afloat in her career and in life. She would get away with most things on account of her fame and positive vibes, even including selling what is known widely in local parlance as Akara (bean cake) to augment her livelihood.Before this little write-up hits home as a survival tactic to make sense of the hard times biting down on most Nigerians, Joseph, according to her in a chat with Potpourri
  
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• Beauty, sex appeal won’t take you anywhere in Nollywood – Ebun Hodo

  28-06-2026 01:58 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiBeautiful and alluring actress Ebun Hodo, who has ample experience in the make-believe industry, has declared that beauty and sex appeal are not enough to bring success in the movie industry.Speaking with Potpourri in a chat, the beauty delight asserted: “I personally do not think beauty and sex appeal are enough for you to succeed in the Nollywood industry. There is a saying that goes, ‘Many are called, but few are chosen.’“I’m sorry, ma’am, yo
  
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• I chose acting over marriage-bound relationship, says Olamide Odunlade

  28-06-2026 01:57 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiYoruba Nollywood actress Olamide Odunlade has opened up about the difficult choices she has had to make in pursuit of her acting career, revealing that she once chose her passion for acting over a relationship that could have led to marriage.The actress disclosed that her former fiancé’s mother gave her an ultimatum to choose between her son and her acting career, a decision she said ultimately led to the end of the relationship.Speaking in an interview with Potpourri
  
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• Cody Gakpo requests privacy after death of unborn son

  27-06-2026 23:40 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has asked for “privacy and space” following the loss of his unborn son, which was announced by his partner Noa van der Bij.Van der Bij posted a picture on Instagram of the pair holding hands over a blanket and knitted hat.“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” she wrote.“Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”She also
  
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• Nico Williams hits out at Uruguay over World Cup injury

  27-06-2026 23:17 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Spain winger Nico Williams said suffering a latest injury setback was “one of the worst days of his life” as he criticised Uruguay for lashing out in a 1-0 defeat that ended their World Cup.Williams could miss the rest of the tournament if Spain do not go far after picking up a muscle injury that was provoked by a lunge from Nicolas de la Cruz.Moments later, Agustin Canobbio was shown a straight red card for diving in on Pau Cubarsi as the two-time World Cup winners bowed out in dis
  
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• Netanyahu says deal with Lebanon a ‘blow to Iran, Hezbollah’

  27-06-2026 22:31 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed the US-brokered agreement with Lebanon, calling it a historic achievement that dealt a blow to arch-foes Iran and Hezbollah.“Yesterday … we achieved a historic deal for the state of Israel after direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon,” Netanyahu said in a televised briefing. “This is a blow to Iran and Hezbollah.”Netanyahu reiterated that Israeli forces would remain in the so-called securi
  
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• Saka, Rashford start as Rice rested for England at World Cup

  27-06-2026 22:25 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford will start for England for the first time at this World Cup, while Declan Rice drops out as one of five changes for the Group L finale against Panama on Saturday.Saka and Rashford, who both made substitute appearances in the first two games, were recalled by coach Thomas Tuchel as England seek to clinch top spot in the group.Nico O’Reilly returns at left-back while Morgan Rogers and Jarell Quansah make their first starts of the tournament. Quansah comes in
  
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• Uniosun student dies as colleagues allege negligence, varsity denies claim

  27-06-2026 22:04 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Shina Abubakar, OsogboStudents of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Ifetedo Campus, have alleged that negligence at the institution’s health centre contributed to the death of a final-year student, Grace Osunlakin, an allegation the university has denied.Grace, a final-year student of Criminology and Security Studies, reportedly died on Wednesday, prompting protests by students on the campus.The protesting students claimed that Osunlakin had earlier visited the university’s health
  
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• Quake damage cost equivalent to 6% of Venezuela’s GDP – UN

  27-06-2026 21:56 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The United Nations on Saturday estimated that the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela caused $6.7 billion in physical damage, equivalent to six percent of GDP.The preliminary assessment is based on seismic modeling, satellite imagery and population data. It accounts for losses to assets including housing but does not cover wider economic disruption from Wednesday’s disaster, the UN Development Programme said in a statement.UNDP said that the back-to-back quakes hit major population and
  
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