New Kaduna federal varsity matriculates 1,909 students
The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia (FUASK), Kaduna State, on Saturday matriculated 1,909 pioneer students, marking a major milestone since the institution began academic activities in September 2025. Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnaba Qurix, said the university was established to promote applied sciences, innovation, and practical skills, with a focus on bridging the gap between theory...
Gov Adeleke raises the alarm over bandits’ infiltration into Osun
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has raised concern over the movement of bandits into the state from neighbouring areas, particularly Kwara State, calling for sustained military operations along border communities. The governor spoke on Saturday in Osogbo at the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake at the Nigerian Army Depot, where he described the security situation as...
EPL: Man City thrash West Ham to go top as Chelsea fightback frustrates Newcastle
Erling Haaland fired Manchester City to the top of the Premier League by beating West Ham 3-0, while Chelsea fought back to salvage a 2-2 draw at Newcastle on Saturday. Arsenal can retake top spot for Christmas when they visit Everton later, but City ramped up the pressure on the Gunners with a seventh consecutive win in all competitions. West Ham...
ExxonMobil ex-contract staff dies during fight at beer parlour
A former ExxonMobil contract staff, Essien James, has died following a fight with a man in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. A family source who spoke on condition of anonymity said the fight between the former ExxonMobil staff and the suspect happened in a beer parlour. He said: “While they were drinking in a beer parlour, an argument...
From cattle rustling to bloodshed: How 12 miners were killed in Plateau
The killing of 12 illegal miners at an abandoned mining site in Fann District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, has highlighted the deepening insecurity and recurring cycle of reprisal attacks between herders and local communities in the state. The incident occurred on the night of December 16, 2025, when armed men, reportedly wearing military-style uniforms, invaded a...
U.S court convicts Nigerian for $7.5m charity fraud
A 32-year-old Nigerian national, Olusegun Adejorin, has been convicted by a U.S. federal court for defrauding two charitable organisations of more than $7.5 million and now faces up to 20 years in prison. In a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and cited by PUNCH Online on Saturday, Adejorin—who was extradited from Ghana—was found guilty after a...
AFCON to hold every four years after 2028 edition
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be held every four years following an edition planned for 2028 in a major change to what is currently a biennial showpiece. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, announced this in Rabat on Saturday, on the eve of the opening game of this year's Morocco-hosted Cup of Nations. Motsepe revealed the...
Why U.S. halted green card, citizenship application for Nigerians, others
The United States government has suspended the processing of permanent residency (Green Card) and citizenship applications for certain foreign nationals already living legally in the country, including Nigerians. Unlike earlier restrictions that focused on blocking entry at U.S. borders, the latest measure targets immigrants who are already resident in the country and seeking to regularise or adjust their status. The policy...
Funke Akindele marks 27 years in Nollywood
Renowned actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has celebrated 27 years in Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, describing the journey as one shaped by hard work, discipline and focus. In a post shared on her Instagram page, Akindele expressed gratitude to God for His favour and direction throughout her career, while also appreciating her fans for their continued support. Reflecting on her decades-long...
World Bank approves $500m to expand MSME financing in Nigeria
The World Bank has approved a $500 million financing package aimed at improving access to finance for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria under the Fostering Inclusive Finance for MSMEs in Nigeria (FINCLUDE) project. In a statement issued on Saturday, December 20, the Bank said the package comprises a $400 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction...
