French international Theo Hernández is on the verge of completing a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, with a deal now sealed between the club and AC Milan, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Monday.
The left-back is expected to sign his contract in the coming days after a verbal agreement was reached two weeks ago. AC Milan will reportedly receive a €25 million transfer fee for the 26-year-old.
Hernández will become the latest addition to Al Hilal’s growing list of European stars and will be a key figure in the squad managed by Simone Inzaghi.
“Theo Hernández to Al Hilal, here we go! Agreement now being sealed after verbal pact made two weeks ago. AC Milan will receive €25m transfer fee as Theo will sign his contract in the upcoming days. New left back for Simone Inzaghi,” Romano wrote.
The former Real Madrid defender joined AC Milan in 2019 and quickly became one of the club’s standout performers, helping them secure the Serie A title in the 2021/22 season.
His departure marks a significant change in Milan’s defensive setup ahead of the new campaign.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz has reportedly agreed on personal terms with Bayern Munich ahead of a potential move to the Bundesliga club, according to German outlet BILD.
The Colombian international has been the subject of growing transfer speculation during the summer window, though he remains part of Arne Slot’s squad at Anfield for now. Diaz, who joined Liverpool in 2023, has established himself as one of the Reds’ key players on the left wing.
Despite his importance to the team, it appears Diaz is open to a new chapter, with BILD reporting that an agreement on personal terms has already been reached with Bayern. However, it remains unclear whether Liverpool are willing to enter negotiations over a transfer.
Diaz played a significant role in Liverpool’s successful 2024/25 Premier League campaign, during which the club secured the league title. Over 36 league appearances, he scored 13 goals, provided five assists, and was involved in 16 goal-creating actions across 2,399 minutes of play.
The 27-year-old’s potential departure comes as Bayern Munich look to strengthen their attack following a serious injury to Jamal Musiala during the FIFA Club World Cup. The German side may view Diaz as a key reinforcement ahead of the new season.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have made a strong start to their own transfer window, having secured the signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez.
Wirtz, in particular, is seen as a versatile option capable of filling in on the left if Diaz departs.
As of now, no official deal has been announced between the clubs, but the reported agreement signals that Diaz’s future at Anfield remains uncertain.
2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has urged President Bola Tinubu to show more compassion to Nigerians.
This is as he said that the office of the Nigerian president requires sacrifice and compassion, not detachment, luxury, or fear.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi said the Tinubu administration is disconnected from the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
He said, ”If I become president, I will use resources effectively. I cannot say, ‘buy a new jet.
“I don’t need one because I can go anywhere without a jet.
“I will not use N150 billion to buy a jet when 80 per cent of primary healthcare centres are not functioning.”
The former Anambra State governor said his time in office was marked by modest living and responsible governance.
“I was a governor, and for my first four years, I drove 406.
“For the rest of it, I didn’t drive bulletproof cars.
“Nobody will try to kill you if you do the right thing.
“It is when you do the wrong thing that you fear death.
“If your people are dying, you should be ready to die.
“The president should also be ready to die,” Obi said.
The former governor faulted Tinubu’s response to major tragedies in 2024, including the stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State, which led to the death of several children.
According to him, Tinubu opted to remain in Lagos for the holidays instead of visiting grieving families.
“There is no compassion; people lost their children who will lead this country in the future, and he went on a Christmas holiday,” he said.
He also criticised Tinubu for failing to visit Yelwata in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacked and displaced thousands.
Obi said, ”People want to get up and see a president that cares, a president that shows compassion.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away.
Olakulehin died at the age of 90.
The PUNCH Online learnt that the monarch died in the early hours of Monday.
Olakulehin died during the ongoing 90th birthday and first anniversary coronation celebrations.
He succeeded the late Oba Lekan Balogun.
A source close to the Olubadan-In-Council confided in our correspondent in Ibadan, the state capital, that “we received the message that the paramount ruler passed away this morning. He has joined his forefathers. Though it has to be officially announced by the state government.”
Another palace source, who confirmed the news, said the Otun Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who is the next in line to become Olubadan, is currently out of the country and he is expected back.
“We are expecting a former Governor of the State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who is currently out of the country, to come back home.
Former National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Ralph Nwosu, has disclosed that at least seven prominent figures in the coalition movement are being pushed by supporters to contest the 2027 presidential election against President Bola Tinubu.
Nwosu stated this amid growing speculation that some northern power blocs within the coalition movement are already backing the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate for a one-term deal.
The opposition coalition, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Wednesday, adopted the ADC as its platform for the 2027 presidential contest.
Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, Nwosu said there were seven coalition leaders being tipped to replace Tinubu in 2027, but the ADC would embrace an open selection process.
Aside from Obi, he said supporters of Atiku, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, ex-Kaduna and Osun states governors, Nasir El-Rufai, Rauf Aregbesola, and those of the Oyo State 2023 ADC governorship candidate, Bamidele Ajadi, were all rooting for their respective leaders to succeed Tinubu.
“We all have the right of expression. And as far as the coalition is concerned, everybody is important, and that is the beauty of the new party we are growing.
“There are some people who want Aregbesola to run. There are also people who are rooting for Dr Ganiyu Bamidele Ajadi to run. There are also people rooting for Amaechi to run. There are also those calling for Atiku to run.
“El-Rufai also has his own plan. Even Sule Lamido is also running. I have been part of the coalition conversations, and I know the personalities that are interested in running. So, I am telling you from the inside. Even the old ADC may be backing Ajadi. That tells you it is free, and that is democracy. But the selection process will be open and transparent,” Nwosu said.
He explained that as the coalition movement gathers momentum, supporters of the presidential hopefuls were holding engagements, even as the Peoples Democratic Party, and the All Progressives Congress continue to lose their membership base to the ADC.
“People are working together and having conversations. So, we will gradually start to see the leadership in each person. The real model will start to create the new Nigeria and the African renaissance that all of us are interested in. As I have said, it’s beyond politics and power. It is to rescue Nigeria from ICU to global reckoning.
“This is a big coalition. What we have built within this short time of coming together is bigger than any political party in Nigeria. Already, 95 percent of the PDP has collapsed into our party with all their networks and grassroots stuff. For the APC, over 35 percent of their membership is collapsing into this movement. The Labour Party is seeing over 80 percent coming to us,” he revealed.
Ondo State Governor Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on the stakeholders to come together and give more support to the Niger Delta Development Commission in order to address the challenges facing the Niger Delta region of the country.
The governor also commended the ongoing President Bola Tinubu administration for its commitment to the development of the region by ensuring that the NDDC received the needed support to deliver its mandate.
Aiyedatiwa stated this on Sunday, at the Thanksgiving service to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the commission, held at St. Thomas Anglican Church, Akure, the Ondo State capital.
According to the governor, the NDDC had made significant impacts in the development of the mandate areas, but said much still needed to be done, hence the call for more collaboration.
He said, “Let me use this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to Mr. President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region. His interest in the NDDC and its activities has been more than passing, and we appreciate his leadership in ensuring that the commission receives the support it needs to deliver on its mandate.
“As we celebrate the silver jubilee of the NDDC, it is imperative that we acknowledge the progress we have made and also recognise that there is still much work to be done as the Niger Delta region continues to face significant development challenges and we must work together to address these issues.
“I urge the NDDC to continue to improve on its activities, ensuring that projects are tailored to the needs of the communities we serve. Let us work together to unlock the potential of our region, promote economic growth and enhance the lives of our people. We are partners in progress, unity and development.”
The governor also commended the NDDC board and management for their outstanding work. He lauded the representatives of the state on the board of commission for their dedication, saying, “I look forward to continued collaboration and progress in the years ahead.”
In his remark, the Managing Director of the DDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, stated that the commission had undertaken major road construction and rehabilitation projects to improve connectivity and accessibility in the Niger Delta region.
He noted that the commission had prioritised youth empowerment through training programs, educational scholarships, and capacity-building workshops to equip the local workforce with necessary skills.
“Ondo State was chosen for the anniversary because of its principle, which believes that ‘Work is the Antidote for Poverty’. We are also here to spread the dividends of renewed hope. We have been accountable and we will be accountable at the end of our tenure,” the MD said.
The Edo State Chapter of the Social Democratic Party has suspended four members indefinitely for conduct deemed detrimental to the unity, integrity, and orderly functioning of the party.
Party members affected by the suspension are Organising Secretary, Tony Alile, Publicity Secretary, Chris Ojiekere, Youth Leader, Benjamin Omonzokpia, and Woman Leader, Yami Jatto.
The decision was contained in a communique released on Sunday after the meeting of the party in Benin, Edo State, on Saturday.
In the communique signed by state party chairman, Elder Felix Obayagbon, the secretary, Hyacinth Esangbedo, and 10 others, the party said it took the decisive disciplinary action against the members whose conducts constitute gross violations of Article 19, Sections 19.1, 19.2, and 19.3 of the party’s constitution.
The statement read, “The Edo State Chapter of the Social Democratic Party has suspended four members indefinitely for conduct deemed detrimental to the unity, integrity, and orderly functioning of the party.
“The party has taken decisive disciplinary action against four members whose actions constitute gross violations of Article 19, Sections 19.1, 19.2, and 19.3 of the Party’s Constitution.
” Their conduct has been deemed detrimental to the unity, integrity, and orderly functioning of the party.
“Effective immediately, Organising Secretary, Tony Alile, Publicity Secretary, Chris Ojiekere, Youth Leader, Benjamin Omonzokpia, and Woman leader, Yami Jatto have been suspended indefinitely from the party.
“Their infractions include, but are not limited to, convening unauthorised meetings in defiance of established party protocols, making disparaging and inflammatory remarks against the party and its leadership.”
Other violations committed by them also include illegally claiming to suspend the duly recognised state chairman and secretary, attempting to relocate the state secretariat without approval, thereby undermining the party’s operational structure.
“Others are using the state chairman’s name to issue a condolence message without his knowledge or consent and travelling to Abuja without obtaining the necessary approval from the state chairman,” It added.
The party said it was disturbing that Alile and Ojiekere, who only joined the party in April 2025, have quickly embraced a path of insubordination and anti-party activities, thereby tarnishing the image of the party and attempting to undermine its constitutionally established leadership.
According to the communique, these individuals are acting in open connivance with a group of well-known transactional politicians and opportunists who resurface during every election cycle to negotiate self-serving deals at the expense of the party’s integrity and mission.
This alliance has been rekindled ahead of the upcoming bye-election scheduled for August 2025, with the sole aim of hijacking the party structure for selfish political gain.
It also said, “Such actions represent egregious violations of the SDP constitution and are entirely incompatible with the party’s foundational principles.
“The SDP, Edo State Chapter, remains unwavering in its commitment to internal democracy, discipline, and unity.
“The party will not tolerate actions that jeopardise its integrity, legality, or collective vision.”
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Armed Forces and security agencies to decisively confront terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist agitators threatening the nation’s unity and peace.
Delivering the president’s message at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration held on Sunday at Murtala Square, Kaduna on Sunday, Vice President, Shettima declared that the military had the full backing of the Presidency to act without fear or hesitation.
“To the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now.
“You have my full authorisation and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.
“You are my confidence, my support, and my prayers,” Tinubu said.
The president described terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist movements as grave existential threats, warning that they must no longer be seen as minor disturbances.
“These evils do not discriminate, they destroy churches and mosques alike and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.
Tinubu pledged unwavering federal support for the military, promising sustained investments in modern weaponry, intelligence, and manpower to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty and security are protected.
“We are not oblivious to the challenges confronting our nation.
“But let it be said plainly: our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising.
” I assure you that this administration stands firmly with you on that path,” he added.
Paying emotional tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, the president vowed that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“Many of our finest have fallen in the line of duty.
“Some now lie in silence beneath the soil of a grateful nation, others carry the wounds of oath as living reminders of sacrifices made in our name.
“Their blood will not be shed in vain; their memory will endure through generations,” he stated.
Tinubu also acknowledged the critical support provided by the families of servicemen and women, especially through the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association and Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association, for sustaining morale on the home front.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay.
“Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and long live our Armed Forces,” Tinubu added.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the evolution of the Nigerian Army since its founding in 1863, noting that while structures and technologies have changed, the essence of the Army remains constant.
He explained that the theme of this year’s NADCEL: “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” placed troop welfare and professionalism at the heart of reforms.
“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier.
“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers.
“Their willpower, morale, and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security,” Oluyede said.
Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Army, in coordination with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, would continue to deny criminal groups any foothold in the country.
The grand ceremony featured military parades, tactical drills, and exhibitions of cutting-edge hardware, drawing cheers from dignitaries, traditional rulers, diplomats, and thousands of Kaduna residents.
Among the distinguished guests at the colourful event, included former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, former Army Chiefs Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya, service chiefs, federal lawmakers, and royal fathers
Defending champions Nigeria and Togo are preparing to retain their titles at the 2025 International Table Tennis Africa Federation West Africa Regional Championships in Lagos from July 16 to 19.
The event will take place at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, located within the Teslim Balogun Stadium complex in Lagos.
Nigeria, the region’s most decorated team, will defend the women’s team title it successfully retained in Lomé last year.
This confirmation was made in a statement on Sunday by ITTF Africa.
Togo will pursue back-to-back wins in the men’s team event, after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nigeria in the 2024 final.
That 2024 triumph came on home soil, spurred by strong local support from enthusiastic fans.
This year, Togo faces tough opposition from Nigeria and other countries including Benin Republic, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Other participating nations include Burkina Faso, Guinea, Liberia, Niger Republic, and Sierra Leone.
In the singles event, Nigeria’s top-ranked player, Matthew Kuti, will seek to retain his men’s singles crown.
Kuti won his first regional title last year in Lomé, defeating Oba Oba Kizito of Côte d’Ivoire 4-1 in the final.
Victory this year would make him the first male player to win consecutive singles titles at the tournament.
However, the women’s singles title is wide open due to the absence of reigning champion, Nigeria’s Hope Udoaka.
Her absence provides a golden opportunity for a new female champion to emerge from the competition.
The championship will also serve as a qualifier for the 2025 African Championships in Rwanda later this year.
With home advantage and the largest squad, Nigeria is eyeing a return to the top in the men’s team event.
Nigeria narrowly lost the men’s team title to Togo in last year’s hard-fought final in Lomé.
This year’s edition has seen increased participation, with over ten countries confirming their attendance.
This marks a rise from previous editions, which recorded a maximum of nine participating countries.
Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Niger Republic are returning to the championship after years of absence.
All eyes will be on Nigeria, a country that has dominated both men’s and women’s events in the region.
Ferdinand Sonou, ITTF Africa West Region Vice President, shared his excitement ahead of the event.
He said, “I’m thrilled we’re back in Nigeria for the regional championships. It’s always a favourite for visiting teams.
“Nigeria has a strong reputation for hosting international events, and teams look forward to the experience.
“This tournament signals the start of a packed international table tennis season in Lagos.
“I’m confident we’ll witness the rise of new talents alongside the established stars of the sport.
“The passionate Lagos crowd will certainly bring energy to the matches.”
Sonou also praised ITTF Africa President, Wahid Enitan Oshodi, for his unwavering support for the championships.
He noted that the growing number of teams reflects ITTF Africa’s commitment to developing the sport across the region.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the 2025 championship promises intense action and top-tier table tennis talent.
The Nigerian Postal Service has denied allegations linking it to drug trafficking activities, saying it does not engage in any form of illegal movement of narcotics.
NIPOST’s clarification follows an online publication that alleged the agency had been used to peddle drugs.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the Director of Corporate Communications at NIPOST, Franklin Alao, dismissed the report, describing it as baseless.
“There is no iota of truth in the allegation.
“NIPOST works closely with security agencies and logistics stakeholders, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Customs Service to deter illicit use of logistics channels,” Alao said.
The agency warned that any logistics operator found culpable of aiding criminal activity would face swift sanctions.
“Any operator found to be involved in criminal activity will face immediate regulatory sanctions.
“This includes licence suspension or revocation and reporting the operator to appropriate authorities for prosecution,” Alao added.
The statement came days after PUNCH Online reported that Oludotun Sounde, the General Manager of NIPOST Courier and Logistics Regulatory Department in Ondo State, raised concern about the illegal operations of unlicensed courier services in the country.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, Sounde described NIPOST as a critical national infrastructure that links communities and facilitates secure communication.
He warned that the unchecked activities of unauthorised logistics firms posed serious threats to national security and the economy.
However, Alao urged the public to disregard the false claims and to use only licensed courier providers.
He also appealed to media organisations and civil society groups to help promote public awareness and accountability.
“We encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activities to NIPOST or law enforcement agencies.
“We also call on the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to effectively discharge their roles in shaping public opinion and driving positive change.”
NIPOST spokesman Alao explained that its digital tracking systems are designed to prevent anonymity in parcel delivery.
“NIPOST’s robust digital infrastructure, including the Digital Postcode and Parcel Identification System, ensures full traceability of parcels from sender to recipient.
“These tools enhance screening capabilities and deter ‘anonymous’ individuals, who are usually exploited in illicit parcel transport,” Alao said.
