General news

• Over 18m Nigerians exposed to flooding, NiHSA warns

  07-07-2026 16:36 via vanguardngr.com
  
  …says 2,000 hectares of farmland, 8,794 educational facilities, 3,808 healthcare facilities to be submergedBy Gabriel EwepuAs floods ravage parts of the country, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NiHSA, has predicted that over 18 million Nigerians are exposed to heavy flooding in the 2026 flood forecast.Speaking exclusively with Vanguard, the Director General, NiHSA, Arc Umar Mohammed, said the predictions were made to ensure state governments do the needful to quickly put in pla
  
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• Iran announces closure of Strait of Hormuz after strikes on US targets in Middle East

  12-07-2026 12:04 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following a naval confrontation involving its forces and fresh strikes targeting US interests in the Middle East.The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it fired a naval cruise missile at a vessel it accused of using an unauthorised route through the strategic waterway.According to reports by the BBC, the IRGC said the vessel was struck with warning fire after allegedly ignoring repeated instructions to change course.Following the
  
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• 99 drowned in June as heatwave stifles Germany

  12-07-2026 12:03 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Ninety-nine people drowned in Germany last month, the most since a record heatwave swept Europe in 2003, according to official figures.Germany was among the nations hit by a stifling June heatwave in western Europe, which set temperature records in several places across the country as the mercury rose as high as 41.7C.The country “had not registered this many drownings since the heatwave of June 2003, when 107 people died”, the national lifeguarding federation (DLRG) said Sunday in a
  
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• England, Argentina to renew bitter rivalry in World Cup semi-final

  12-07-2026 11:56 via vanguardngr.com
  
  England and Argentina will meet on Wednesday in a blockbuster World Cup semi-final infused with decades of bitter rivalry after they battled past Norway and Switzerland respectively in the quarter-finals.The South Americans and their talisman Lionel Messi must defeat England in Atlanta to keep alive their hopes of becoming the first team to win back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962.England and their key partnership of Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane must win to have any hope of ending a 6
  
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• Ukraine sets Russian refinery ablaze in fresh drone attack

  12-07-2026 11:52 via vanguardngr.com
  
  A man was killed and three other people, including a child, were injured in Ukrainian drone attacks on Russia’s Volga region of Samara, regional Governor Vyacheslav Fedorishchev said on Sunday.Residential buildings and an industrial facility were damaged in the attacks, Fedorishchev said on Telegram, without providing further details.The independent Russian news outlet Astra, citing images and videos circulating on social media, reported that the industrial site was the Syzran oil refiner
  
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• Nigeria mourns Qatar’s Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

  12-07-2026 11:52 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Favour Ulebor, AbujaThe Federal Government has expressed condolences to the Government and people of Qatar over the death of the country’s Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.In a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria extended its sympathies to the Qatari leadership, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar.Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, was d
  
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• Rising costs of school graduations put parents under pressure

  12-07-2026 11:11 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The excitement that usually comes with school graduations is increasingly being overshadowed by rising costs, as many Nigerian parents say celebrations have become a measure of financial strength rather than academic accomplishment.In Lagos, July marks more than the end of school. Families are scrambling to cover graduation levies, costly outfits, tailoring fees and lavish parties, even amid the country’s prevailing economic challenges.A survey by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reveals
  
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• TikTokers Jarvis, Peller announce wedding date

  12-07-2026 11:03 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Jarvis and Peller, popular Nigerian TikTok content creators, have announced that they will tie the knot on Aug. 1.The announcement was made through a cinematic video shared on their social media platforms, ending with the inscription “Jarvis & Peller 01-08-2026.”The video has since gone viral, generating widespread reactions from fans and followers, many of whom congratulated the couple and commended the creativity of the announcement.Jarvis and Peller are among Nigeria’s
  
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• Oyo rescue shows Tinubu’s security strategy yielding results, says Kekemeke

  12-07-2026 10:21 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Commends troops, urges citizens’ support for security agenciesBy John AlechenuABUJA — All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Duerimini Kekemeke, has said the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State demonstrates that President Bola Tinubu’s security strategy is producing positive results.Kekemeke, who is the APC senatorial candidate for Ondo South in the 2027 election, stated this in Abuja on Saturday while reacting to the rescue operation.He describe
  
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• US Senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71

  12-07-2026 10:15 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Prominent United States Senator Lindsey Graham, a key ally of President Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71 following a “brief and sudden illness,” his office has announced.The Republican senator from South Carolina’s office said in a statement on his official X account that Graham died on the evening of Saturday, July 11.“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” the statement
  
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• Marwa calls for girl-child protection, seeks traditional rulers’ support against drug abuse

  12-07-2026 10:05 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Emir of Zazzau expresses hope for positive change at book launchBy Kingsley OmonobiChairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has called for stronger protection of the girl-child, saying addressing poverty, abuse and lack of education is critical to preventing drug abuse and exploitation among women and young people.Marwa made the call on Saturday in Kaduna during the public presentation of In the Shadow of th
  
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• SERAP sues INEC over ‘failure to probe alleged N800 billion FAAC diversion for campaign funding’

  12-07-2026 10:00 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) “over the failure to investigate the allegations that governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) diverted N800 billion for political and campaign purposes.”According to reports, APC governors are allegedly making monthly contributions from their Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) allocations to a dedicated campaign fund to suppor
  
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• Oriire pupils’ rescue: Collaboration key to tackling insecurity, says Gani Adams

  12-07-2026 09:53 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Commends FG, Oyo government, security agencies
  Calls for greater investment in intelligence gatheringBy Dapo AkinrefonThe Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has commended the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, security agencies and local security groups that led to the rescue of abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.The teachers and pupils, who were abducted by armed assailants from three schools in the Ahoro
  
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• Soludo appoints Prof. Chinelo Animalu special assistant on HIV diaspora coordination

  12-07-2026 09:30 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Vincent UjumaduAnambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed United States-based infectious disease specialist, Prof. Chinelo Ngozi Animalu, as Special Assistant on State HIV Diaspora Coordination and Development.The appointment was announced in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, who said it reflects the administration’s commitment to leveraging global partnerships to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.According to
  
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• Orire pupils’ rescue reflects Tinubu’s commitment to security, says Sanwo-Olu

  12-07-2026 09:22 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Olasunkanmi AkoniLagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as evidence of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting the lives of Nigerians.In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu commended President Tinubu and security agencies for the successful operation, which secured the v
  
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• ADC chieftain urges Tinubu to resign over insecurity

  12-07-2026 09:17 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Demola AkinyemiILORIN — A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kwara State and former Nigerian Ambassador to Japan, Prof. Gana Isa, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign, alleging that the administration has failed in its constitutional responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Wednesday, Isa said the Federal Government should relinquish power if it could no longer effectively address the country&
  
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• Igbo Leaders of Thought warn against weakening opposition, urge judiciary to safeguard democracy

  12-07-2026 09:15 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Anayo OkoliENUGU — The Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), a socio-political group comprising intellectuals, traditional rulers and other stakeholders from the South-East, has expressed concern over what it described as the weakening of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that a vibrant opposition is essential for democratic governance.In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Elochukwu Amucheazi, and Secretary, Prof. Jerry Chukwuokolo, the group cautioned th
  
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• Candidates’ List: INEC extends deadline to July 14

  12-07-2026 08:59 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Omeiza AjayiABUJA: The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has extended the deadline for submission of lists of candidates for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly Elections by political parties, moving the cut-off from Saturday, July 11, 2026, to midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.In a statement issued by the National Commissioner and Chair, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, on Sunday, the Commission said the deadline in the Revised Timetable
  
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• FG increases WAEC, NECO registration fees to N50,000

  12-07-2026 08:57 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Adesina WahabThe federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has given approval for the National Examinations Council, NECO and the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, to increase the registration fee for their Senior Secondary Certificate Examination, SSCE, to N50,000 per candidate beginning from 2027.
  The examinations are conducted for internal candidates who are finishing their Senior Secondary School education. WAEC just finished this year’s exam a few weeks
  
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• Military confirms death of Army lieutenant in rescue of abducted Oyo pupils, teachers

  12-07-2026 08:55 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Kingsley OmonobiMilitary sources have confirmed the death of an Army officer, Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, during the operation that rescued 44 abducted pupils and teachers from the Old Oyo National Park.The victims were rescued on July 10, 2026, in a coordinated operation involving security agencies after spending several days in captivity.According to the sources, Lieutenant Isaac was killed in the line of duty during the rescue mission and was buried the same day.Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde
  
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• FREED OYO SCHOOL CHILDREN:Medical checks must include mental evaluation, NMA warns

  12-07-2026 08:44 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Chioma ObinnaThe release of the Oyo schoolchildren after more than 50 days in captivity has once again brought to the fore the often-overlooked physical and psychological toll of kidnapping. While the return of victims is widely celebrated, medical experts warn that freedom from captivity does not necessarily mark the end of their ordeal. Sunday Vanguard spoke to the President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Prof. Afekhide Ernest Omoti, on the hidden health consequences
  
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• You learn more from the street than school — Portable

  12-07-2026 08:26 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiNigerian singer and entertainer Portable has opened up on his childhood struggles, street experiences and the lessons he learnt outside the classroom, stating that life on the streets taught him valuable skills.The singer shared his experience during an interview on The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he spoke about losing his mother at the age of 13 and how the loss affected his upbringing.According to Portable, although people were available around him, nobody could provide the same
  
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• Tinubu reiterates support for horse racing revival

  12-07-2026 08:22 via vanguardngr.com
  
  President Bola Tinubu says the Federal Government will promote traditional sports, especially horse racing, to empower youths, strengthen unity and stimulate economic growth.Tinubu spoke through Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, at Saturday’s Renewed Hope West African Horse Racing Derby grand finale at Murtala Square, Kaduna.Tinubu apologised for his absence, attributing it to pressing national engagements beyond his control.He congratulated the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria for uniti
  
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• US hit around 140 Iranian military targets in latest strikes

  12-07-2026 08:21 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The US military said Saturday it hit at least 140 targets in Iran in retaliation for an Iranian attack on another commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz.“U.S. forces hit approximately 140 Iranian military targets with precision munitions launched by land- and sea-based fighter aircraft, drones, and naval vessels,” the US Central Command said in a statement.The targets included missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, ammunition storage facilities, communication networks and coa
  
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• Ex-Defence Chief urges veterans to continue national service beyond uniform

  12-07-2026 08:18 via vanguardngr.com
  
  Former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Adm. Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, has urged retired military personnel to remain active contributors to national development.Ibrahim made the call at the 41st Anniversary Reunion Dinner of the 6th Regular Course Alumni Association of the Naval War College, on Saturday in Abuja.He said that retirement from service should not mean retirement from serving Nigeria, adding that experience, knowledge and leadership acquired during military service remained invaluabl
  
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• World Cup 2026: Senegal sack Pape Thiaw after disappointing campaign

  12-07-2026 08:13 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The Senegal Football Federation has dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following the country’s underwhelming performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The federation announced the decision on Saturday, saying a change in leadership was necessary after the Teranga Lions failed to meet expectations at the tournament.Senegal arrived at the World Cup with high hopes after lifting the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations title by defeating Morocco in the final earlier this year.However, their campaign unravel
  
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• People who believe Ronaldo is better than Messi are Psychos – Bovi

  12-07-2026 08:05 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo OnikoyiAce comedian and compere, Bovi has described as “Psycho” anyone who believes that Portugal superstar Ronaldo is better than Argentine legend Leo Messi, admonishing that one should not go into business with them.Speaking during a live session on his Instagram page, the ace comedian said a person’s opinion on the Ronaldo-Messi rivalry could reveal how they perceive reality, joking that it should serve as a test before entering into a business partnership.“If
  
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• World Cup 2026: List of top scorers as Bellingham joins race

  12-07-2026 07:53 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The race for the top scorer award at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified following the completion of the quarter-finals, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe leading the scoring charts.Both superstars have netted eight goals each heading into the semi-finals, placing them at the top of the standings as they continue their pursuit of the tournament’s top scorer award.Norway striker Erling Haaland finished the competition with seven goals after his country’s quarter-final exit to E
  
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• World Cup 2026: Semi-final fixtures confirmed — date, time and venue

  12-07-2026 07:43 via vanguardngr.com
  
  The semi-final fixtures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been confirmed following the conclusion of the quarter-final matches.England secured the final semi-final spot after defeating Norway 2-1 on Saturday night. Jude Bellingham scored both goals for the Three Lions to set up a mouthwatering clash with Argentina.Argentina, meanwhile, overcame Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to book their place in the last four.The first semi-final will see France take on Spain on Tuesday, July 14, at 9:00 p.m
  
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• No woman enters marriage planning to leave — Iyabo Ojo

  12-07-2026 06:19 via vanguardngr.com
  
  By Ayo Onikoyi
  Nollywood actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo has opened up about marriage, divorce, motherhood and societal judgement, stating that no woman enters marriage with the intention of walking away.The actress made the revelation while appearing as a guest on The Morayo Show, where she reflected on her personal experiences and the decisions she has made to protect her family’s peace.According to Iyabo Ojo, women often go into marriage with the hope of building a lasting relationship
  
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