Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid on a five-year contract, marking the end of a remarkable 20-year journey with Liverpool.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a post on Monday via X, the deal is in place with a verbal agreement already reached.
“Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, here we go,” Romano reported. “Documents being prepared for Trent to join Real Madrid on a five-year contract.”
The move comes shortly after Alexander-Arnold publicly confirmed his decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the season.
The club’s vice-captain made the emotional announcement following Liverpool’s successful campaign to secure a 20th Premier League title.
“After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season,” the 26-year-old said. “This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.”
Alexander-Arnold, who rose through Liverpool’s academy to become one of the club’s most influential players, said he delayed speaking out to remain fully focused on the team’s title ambitions.
“I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet, but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests, which was securing No.20,” he explained.
The England international now looks set to begin a new chapter in Spain with the European giants, Real Madrid.
Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga has faulted recent claims by outgoing African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina that Nigerians are worse off today than they were in 1960, describing the assertion as “based on figures that do not align with available data.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Onanuga argued that Adesina’s comparison of Nigeria’s GDP per capita in 1960 and 2025 was flawed and misleading.
“According to Nairametrics, he claimed that Nigeria’s GDP per capita in 1960 was $1,847 and that it is $824 today. The quoted figures are not correct,” he wrote.
He cited data showing that Nigeria’s GDP in 1960 was $4.2 billion, with a population of 44.9 million, putting per capita income at just $93. “Ninety-three, not even one hundred dollars,” he emphasised.
Onanuga further noted that Nigeria’s economic growth only began to rise significantly in the 1970s due to oil revenue.
“Our country’s GDP did not rise remarkably until the 1970s, when crude earnings ballooned. In 1970, our GDP rose to $12.55 billion. In 1975, it was $27.7 billion, $64.2 billion in 1980, and $164 billion in 1981. Up until 1980, per capita income did not exceed $880. It rose to $2187 in 1981 and dropped to $1844 in 1982,” he said, adding that it reached a peak of $3,200 in 2014 after a GDP rebasing.
He questioned Adesina’s data sources, stating, “These facts raise questions about the source of Dr. Adesina’s figures.”
Beyond the figures, Onanuga said the real issue was the conclusion drawn from them.
“GDP per capita is not the only criterion used to determine whether people live better lives now than in the past. Indeed, it is a poor tool for assessing living standards,” he stated.
He argued that GDP masks economic realities such as wealth distribution, informal economic activity, and quality of life indicators.
“GDP per capita is silent on whether Nigerians in 2025 enjoy better access to healthcare, education, and transportation, such as rail and air transport than in 1960,” he added.
Highlighting the digital revolution, Onanuga recalled that in 1960, Nigeria had only 18,724 telephone lines for about 45 million people.
Today, over 200 million Nigerians have access to mobile and digital services.
“Does this MTN experience correlate with a country worse off than in 1960, when we had analogue telephones and the number of lines was fewer than 20,000?” he asked, referencing MTN’s N1 trillion revenue and 84 million users in Q1 2025.
He also criticised Adesina for what he described as a politically motivated statement.
“Adesina spoke like a politician, in the mould of Peter Obi, and did not do due diligence before making his unverifiable statement,” he said.
Onanuga concluded that Nigeria’s current economic scale is unrecognisable compared to the 1960s.
“Today, as we await the NBS’s recalibration of our GDP, we can comfortably say without contradiction that it is at least 50 times, if not 100 times, more than it was at Independence.”
The Peoples Democratic Party and a former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, have paid tributes to the late former president Umaru Musa Yar’Adua fifteen years after his passing.
PDP and Saraki hailed Yar’adua’s integrity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to national unity.
In a message posted on X on Monday, the PDP — the party that gave Yar’Adua the platform to serve as Nigeria’s president from 2007 until his death while in office in 2010 — described him as “a leader of integrity, humility, and vision.”
The statement read, “Fifteen years on, Nigeria still mourns one of its finest — and I still remember a friend whose quiet wisdom helped shape my understanding of service.
“President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua led with conviction, not commotion.”
Saraki led a chorus of remembrance for a man many still describe as one of Nigeria’s most honourable leaders.
“He listened more than he spoke — and when he did speak, it was with purpose, not politics.
“His legacy reminds us that leadership is not about power, but about duty, humility, and justice.
“May Almighty Allah (SWT) continue to grant him a place among the righteous in Al Jannah Firdaus. Ameen,” he prayed.
Also, the PDP, under whose platform Yar’Adua was elected president in 2007, paid homage to his enduring legacy in a solemn message shared on X.
Reflecting on his time in office, the party wrote, “Today, we honour the memory of our former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, a leader of integrity, humility, and vision.”
PDP lauds reforms
Described as a president who led with calm strength and deep conviction, Yar’Adua’s presidency was marked by quiet but meaningful reforms, particularly in the areas of electoral transparency and conflict resolution in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
His leadership style stood in contrast to the loud theatrics of politics, earning him respect across partisan lines.
The party’s message further read, “His commitment to Nigeria’s unity, electoral reform, and peace in the Niger Delta remains an enduring legacy.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and his values continue to inspire ethical governance. #YarAdua15.”
Yar’Adua, born on August 16, 1951, served as president from 2007 until his death on May 5, 2010, after a protracted illness.
His passing marked a significant moment, as widely reported, in Nigeria’s democratic journey, as then-Vice President Goodluck Jonathan was sworn in to complete the term, PUNCH Online reports.
Beyond his own presidency, Umaru was also the younger brother of the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua — a former Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters under General Obasanjo (1976–1979) and a key figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement during the military era.
The Yar’Adua family, is often regarded as one of the most politically influential in northern Nigeria.
This year’s anniversary comes barely eight months after the death of their mother, Hajia Aya Dada Yar’Adua, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 102.
The House of Representatives member representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency, Gboyega Isiaka, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for lifting restrictions on the sales and supply of petroleum products to communities that are within 20 kilometres of the country’s border with the Republic of Benin.
Isiaka said that though the lifting of the sanction imposed six years ago under President Muhammad Buhari will only allow five filling stations to operate among four border towns, including Imeko, Ilara, Oja Odan and Ihunbe, the magnanimity of President Tinubu has brought lots of relief to the residents of the Federal Constituency.
The federal lawmaker disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by his media aide, Femi Peters
The statement explained that the lifting of the restriction was a result of Isiaka’s series of engagement with critical stakeholders, including the Nigeria Customs Service, other security agencies, as well as his plea for the reversal of the policy on the floor of the House of Representatives, Abuja.
The statement disclosed further that one of such pivotal efforts was the recent oversight visit on the 9th of April 2025, when Hon Isiaka joined the House Committee on Customs and Excise on a fact-finding mission to the Nigeria Customs Service Ogun 1 Area Command in Idiroko, among other key NCS formations in Zone A.
He had during that visit addressed the ongoing frustrations of the communities regarding the six-year petroleum product supply restriction within 20 kilometers of the border.
The lawmaker said that the policy had imposed severe economic hardship on already vulnerable populations, significantly increasing transportation costs, hampering local businesses, and further marginalizing our people.
Isiaka stated further that “Today, we are proud to announce that normalcy is gradually returning to our border communities.
“Thanks to sustained engagement, and the listening ears of leaders at the highest level, five petrol stations—two in Imeko, and one each in Ilara, Oja Odan, and Ohunbe—have now been granted permission to resume fuel sales.
“This for us represents more than just a policy shift; it is a restoration of dignity, a rekindling of hope, and a step towards economic justice for the long-neglected people of our border communities.
“On behalf of the good people of Yewa North/Imeko-Afon, we express our profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his statesmanship and empathy, and to the management of the Nigerian Customs Service, led by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose cooperation has been instrumental in making this progress possible”.
While basking in this euphoria, Isiaka has however called on all fuel station operators and residents to act responsibly and strictly within the confines of the law.
He said “Let us ensure that this renewed trust is not misplaced, even as we continue to advocate for the complete reopening of our borders in a manner that balances national security with local prosperity”.
Brazilian winger Raphinha has revealed that he was on the verge of accepting a call-up to play for the Italian national team before ultimately representing Brazil.
Speaking to journalist Isabela Pagliari and posted on Monday, Raphinha admitted he was close to joining Italy’s Euro 2020-winning squad.
“I was close to accepting the Italian national team call!” he said. “I was supposed to go to the Euro they won in 2020. I was basically set to go. So luckily, since the passport didn’t come through.”
The Barcelona forward explained that he was being actively pursued by the Italian setup at the time.
“At that point, the people from the Italian national team were calling me. Jorginho used to call me all the time. The Italian staff had this amazing project for me, something that really caught my eye,” he added.
Despite the strong interest and the prospect of joining a major European tournament, Raphinha said he held onto a small hope of playing for his country of birth.
“But at the same time, deep down, I still had that one per cent of hope that I could wear the Brazil shirt. And luckily, my Italian passport didn’t get ready in time!” he said.
Raphinha has since gone on to feature for Brazil at the international level, fulfilling the dream he nearly missed out on.
Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has downplayed concerns over his recent goal drought, saying he remained unfazed despite going several months without scoring.
The Chelsea playmaker was on the scoresheet in Sunday’s 3-1 victory against Liverpool. Palmer’s stoppage-time penalty condemned the champions to only their third league defeat this season. The goal marked Palmer’s first goal since January.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Sunday after the game, Palmer admitted the dry spell had no significant emotional toll on him.
“No goals for months? I just felt normal. Obviously sh* happens, you know what I mean,” he said.
Palmer, who has is a key figure in Chelsea’s attacking setup this season, stated that the experience only fuelled his determination to improve.
“It gives me more fight and motivation to do more for myself and for the team,” he said.
Addressing the criticism he has faced online during the barren spell, the England international was dismissive of negative commentary on social media.
“Social media nowadays is full of idiots, trolls… I don’t care about that,” he said.
The family of the Late Convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, have announced that the final internment of the late elder statesman will be held on the 13th of May, 2025.
The announcement was made on Sunday by the eldest son of the family, Mr Penaowei Clark, during a press briefing, where he stated that the programme of events will run from Wednesday the 7th of May, 2025, to Sunday, the 18th of May 2025.
The PUNCH reports that Chief Edwin Clark died at his Abuja residence on the 17th of February, 2025 aged 97, after a brief illness.
Until his death, Chief Clark, who was one time Federal Commissioner for Information in 1975 was an advocate for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta regions, and also founded the Southern and Middle-Belt Forum
Edwin Clark for burial May 13
In his address, Mr Clark said the program of events was put together with the collective effort and partnership of the Delta State Government, the Federal Government, PANDEF, and community leaders “to honour and celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of my father, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.”
“Today we are gathered to announce the date and full programme of events for his (Chief Clark’s) funeral, which will run from Wednesday 7th May 2025 through Sunday 18th May 2025.
“On Wednesday, 7th May 2025, Memorial Lecture and Tributes at NAF Conference Centre and Suite Abuja at 11am. Thursday, 8th May 2025, Valedictory Session at Senate Chambers, National Assembly Complex in Abuja at 11am. Saturday, 10th May 2025, Wrestling Contest in Yenagoa. Service of Songs at St. James’s Anglican Church at Asokoro, Abuja at 5pm. Candlelight Memorial at 43 Haile Selassie Street, Asokoro, Abuja, 7pm-8pm,” he said.
On Sunday, 11th May 2024, a Service of Songs will be held at the Royal House of Grace International Church, Port Harcourt, at 4pm. On Monday, the 12th of May 2025, a Commendation Service will be held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, at 8am, while a Simultaneous Valedictory Court Session will be held at the High Court of Justice, Warri, Delta State, at 10am.
“Following this, my father will depart Abuja for Yenagoa and Warri with lying in state and commendation services at key locations, Ijaw House at Yenagoa, 1.30pm to 2.30pm; Warri lying in state from 6.30pm to 7pm at No. 5 Swamp Road, GRA. The body will then proceed to Kiagola Town, Delta State.
“Tuesday 13th May 2025, lying in state in Edwin Clark University in Kiagbodo, 10am to 10.30am. Commendation Service, 10.30am to 11am. Funeral Service, St Peter’s Anglican Church in Kiagola, 11am. Reception and internment, 1pm onward. All night vigil from 5pm,” he added.
Mr Clark also disclosed that there will be a novelty match between Team Clark (Izon, Urhobo and Itsekiri) and the Rest of Nigeria on Saturday 17th May, 2025, at the Mein Grammar School Field in Kiagbodo, and the programme will culminate in a Thanksgiving Service on the 18th of May.
He thanked friends and well-wishers of the family for their support since the passing of his father, whom he described as “a relentless advocate for justice, equity, and unity of Nigeria,” who had left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
“We are humbled by the immense support, prayers, and tributes we have received since the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, CON, OFR, who peacefully passed away on the 17th of February 2025, dedicating his nearly century-long life to the service of Nigeria.
His contributions as a visionary leader, founding father of PANDEF, a founding father of the Southern and Middle Belt Forum, (1:07) and a relentless advocate for justice, equity, and unity of Nigeria, have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” he said.
United States tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has announced the successful deployment of 29 more Starlink satellites into Earth’s orbit.
The satellites were launched from Florida, further expanding the Starlink constellation operated by SpaceX.
Musk made the announcement on Sunday via a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“29 more Starlink satellites were added to the constellation,” he wrote.
According to figures from Space.com, the new addition brings the total number of Starlink satellites in orbit to 7,135 as of March 28, 2025. Of those, 7,105 are reported to be operational.
Starlink, a project under Musk’s aerospace company SpaceX, aims to provide high-speed internet access to underserved and remote regions across the globe.
The latest deployment came shortly after Musk announced the activation of Starlink services in Armenia, reflecting the company’s ongoing international expansion.
In recent months, Musk has also taken on a more visible political role. He currently serves as a special adviser to US President Donald Trump, a position that has attracted significant public and media attention.
Neither SpaceX nor the US government has released further details about the recent launch, including the specific mission objectives or satellite configurations.
Donald Trump said in a Sunday interview that the “good parts” of today’s US economy flow from his policies, while the bad can be blamed on his predecessor, Joe Biden, who “did a terrible job.”
“Ultimately, I take responsibility for everything,” the US president said in an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press” talk show.
“But I’ve only just been here for a little more than three months.”
At a time of mixed economic signals and mounting concerns over his aggressive use of tariffs, Trump said “certain aspects” of the economy are his doing. “I was able to get down the costs,” he said.
“I think the good parts are the Trump economy and the bad parts are the Biden economy because he’s done a terrible job.”
While surveys point to growing public concern over the economy, most official indicators are not yet flashing red, with unemployment last month at a moderate 4.2 percent and inflation in March at 2.3 percent, just above the Federal Reserve’s target.
But Fed bankers and others have downgraded their predictions for the world’s leading economy, pointing to slowing growth and rising inflation, and unemployment.
Asked whether a US recession is possible, Trump said, “Anything can happen.”
“This is a transition period,” he said, adding that ultimately “we’re going to do fantastically” with “the greatest economic boom in history.”
Concerning trade with China — badly shaken after Trump imposed tariffs of 145 percent — he said, “We’ve essentially cut off trade relationships by putting that much of a tariff on.”
But, he added, “That’s okay… That means that we’re not losing.”
Trump said the Chinese “want to make a deal very badly,” and he anticipated eventually lowering the tariff rate.
The billionaire Republican has been a sharp and persistent critic of Fed chair Jerome Powell — whom Trump appointed in 2018, during his first term — telling NBC that “he should lower interest rates.”
Now is the “perfect time” to do so, he said.
Fed governors are expected, when they meet Tuesday and Wednesday, to extend a pause in rate cuts while they see just how tariffs affect the economy.
Most analysts expect the Fed to leave rates in the 4.25 to 4.50 percent range where they have been since December.
Even last month, Trump floated the possibility of firing the Fed chair from a position meant to be largely insulated from politics.
But he told NBC that he now expects to wait until Powell’s term ends in May 2026 to name a successor.
The Head of Corporate Communications at a Nigerian carrier, Air Peace, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo has resigned barely four months after his appointment.
His sudden departure was confirmed in a statement made available to The PUNCH on Sunday.
While the official reason cited for the resignation was for a “higher calling,” insiders in the industry suggest the move may be linked to a series of recent negative media reports involving the airline, which have put its corporate communications team under increasing pressure.
Dr. Ndiulo, a seasoned communications strategist, joined Air Peace earlier this
year.
Though details about his next destination remain unknown, another source hinted our correspondent that he is poised to take up a senior role in a prominent organisation, likely outside the aviation sector.
Dr. Ndiulo brings with him a strong academic and professional pedigree.
He holds a PhD. in Strategic Marketing Management from Babcock University, an MSc in Marketing from the University of Lagos, and an MBA from Lagos State University.
He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Additionally, he is certified in External Relations and Reputation Management from Pan-Atlantic University and has undergone Hostile Environment and Emergency First Aid Training in the UK.
In his resignation letter to Air Peace, Dr. Ndiulo expressed gratitude to the airline for the opportunity to serve, describing his time there as a valuable phase in his professional journey.
“I wish to resign my appointment as Head, of Corporate Communications at Air Peace Limited. My family and I are grateful for the wonderful opportunities for growth and development that I have had during my time at Air Peace.
“Your guidance and support have played a crucial role in my professional journey, and I appreciate the trust you placed in me.”
He further stated that he looks forward to maintaining a cordial relationship with the airline even after his departure.
Air Peace is yet to release an official statement regarding Ndiulo’s resignation or possible potential replacement.
