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Oyo Reps’ Member, DoN, Appoints Secretary, 3 SSAs, 45 SAs, Inaugurates Team
Breaking NewsOyo StatePeople

Oyo Reps’ Member, DoN, Appoints Secretary, 3 SSAs, 45 SAs, Inaugurates Team

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle Enhances Governance with New Appointments in Ibadan North

Strategic Team Expansion to Foster Grassroots Engagement

On Thursday, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DoN), the federal representative for Ibadan North Federal Constituency, officially inducted a new team comprising a Secretary, three Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), and forty-five Special Assistants (SAs) at the Ibadan North Local Government Secretariat. These appointments took effect immediately, marking a significant step toward reinforcing inclusive governance and boosting political participation at the grassroots level.

Key Roles and Responsibilities Assigned

The newly appointed Senior Special Assistants will oversee critical portfolios including Media and Publicity, Political Affairs, and New Media, while the Secretary will manage the administrative coordination of the office. This structure is designed to streamline communication and enhance the efficiency of constituency services.

Endorsements from Political Leaders and Stakeholders

Hon. Comforter Olajide, the representative for Ibadan North State Constituency I, praised Hon. Oyekunle’s leadership, highlighting his commitment to inclusivity and effective representation. She encouraged the appointees to embrace their roles as both an honor and a duty to serve the community with dedication.

The inauguration ceremony drew a diverse crowd, including party officials, community elders, and supporters from all twelve wards of Ibadan North. Several prominent political figures delivered messages of goodwill, underscoring the importance of the appointments.

Alignment with Governor Seyi Makinde’s Vision

In his remarks, Hon. Oyekunle emphasized that these appointments reflect the core values championed by Governor Seyi Makinde, particularly inclusiveness and recognition of loyalty and hard work. He urged the new aides to maintain unwavering commitment to public service and to consistently promote a positive image of the government.

Unprecedented Prompt Salary Payment

In a move described as groundbreaking, Hon. Oyekunle announced that all appointees would receive their first salaries the very next day, Friday, January 30, 2026, covering the month of January. This prompt remuneration was met with enthusiastic applause from attendees, signaling a new standard in government appointments.

Local Government Chairman Highlights Importance of Performance

Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, lauded the inauguration as a testament to the rewards of loyalty and hard work within the party. He stressed that the appointees carry the responsibility of showcasing government achievements and sustaining public trust, which will be pivotal for the party’s success in the 2027 elections.

Guidance from Experienced Leaders

Hon. Demola Omotosho, former council chairman and current Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, encouraged the appointees to leverage this opportunity to gain valuable governance experience. He urged them to perform their duties with integrity and dedication.

Similarly, Hon. Prince Falana Adebowale, Chairman of the Oyo State Youth Agency, highlighted that these appointments reaffirm the capability of young people to hold significant responsibilities. He noted that the continuity of effective governance depends on how well the appointees fulfill their mandates across their respective zones.

Oath of Office and Commitment to Accountability

The oath of office was administered by Hon. Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, who called on the appointees to be exemplary representatives of the current administration, upholding the values of transparency and good governance.

Party Endorsement and Future Outlook

Representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman in Ibadan North, Hon. Mustapha commended Hon. Oyekunle for acknowledging the contributions of party members through these appointments. He reaffirmed the PDP’s dedication to delivering effective governance and assured continued progress at all levels.

The event was well-attended by political appointees, party leaders from all twelve wards, community stakeholders, and respected elders, reflecting broad support for the new team and the administration’s vision.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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Oyo Tourism Ministry Partners with NDTC on Domestic Tourism Empowerment Programme
Breaking NewsOyo StatePeople

Oyo Tourism Ministry Partners with NDTC on Domestic Tourism Empowerment Programme

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Oyo State Partners with Nigeria Domestic Tourism Club to Boost Local Tourism and Youth Empowerment

The Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism recently hosted representatives from the Nigeria Domestic Tourism Club (NDTC), also known as Capricorn Concierge Tourism Services Limited, alongside their collaborator, The Polytechnic Ibadan Consult. The meeting centered on a pioneering initiative titled “The Business of Domestic Tourism Promotion and Empowerment Programme.”

Introducing Nigeria’s First Domestic Tourism Club for Students

Mr. Ibitayo Araoye, CEO of Capricorn Concierge Tourism Services Limited, highlighted that NDTC is the world’s inaugural domestic tourism club dedicated to immersing Nigerian students in the country’s diverse cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and tourist destinations. This innovative platform aims to transform how young Nigerians engage with their nation’s rich legacy beyond traditional classroom learning.

“Our vision is to cultivate a generation of young patriots who not only appreciate Nigeria’s cultural wealth but actively promote it,” Araoye explained. “Domestic tourism here means exploring the hidden gems across Nigeria’s 36 states and six geopolitical zones. Oyo State has been selected as the pilot location for this transformative programme.”

Programme Structure and Empowerment Opportunities

The initiative is structured into two main empowerment phases. The first phase focuses on recruiting Domestic Tourism Promoters, while the second phase involves onboarding Facilitators who will guide and mentor club members. The programme is primarily targeted at recent graduates from tertiary institutions, offering them meaningful employment opportunities.

Participants benefit from a comprehensive package that includes steady income, paid training sessions, access to cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) tours valued at millions of naira, career advancement prospects, and official certification upon completion. Araoye outlined the four key stages of the programme: awareness and onboarding, enrolment and training, appointment and business engagement, and finally, rewards and graduation.

“By equipping young Nigerians with immersive knowledge and practical skills, we aim to nurture ambassadors who will proudly showcase Nigeria’s tourism potential both locally and internationally,” he added.

Government Endorsement and Collaborative Support

Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Oyo State, praised the NDTC team for their innovative approach to cultural promotion. He pledged the ministry’s technical support to refine and implement the programme effectively, urging the team to incorporate recent developments within the state into their proposal.

Mr. S.A. Agboola, General Manager of the Council for Arts and Culture, emphasized the importance of the NDTC as key partners in advancing the ministry’s goals, especially as the government intensifies efforts to develop skilled tourism personnel across Oyo State.

Educational Integration and Volunteer Engagement

Addressing inquiries about curriculum alignment and participant age groups, Mrs. O.T. Osundara, Director of Administration and Supplies, alongside Dr. Florence Oyebamiji from The Polytechnic Ibadan Consult, clarified that the programme employs a backward integration model. This approach involves graduates returning to secondary schools to teach both theoretical and practical aspects of tourism, thereby fostering early interest and knowledge among younger students.

“Our goal is to embed tourism education from secondary school through to higher education, using graduates as facilitators. This ensures that students become familiar with local tourist attractions early on, making tourism a natural part of their academic journey,” Dr. Oyebamiji explained.

Funding and Inclusivity for Public and Private Schools

In response to concerns about financing and the inclusion of public schools, raised by Mrs. B.A. Ajoje, Director of Finance and Accounts at the ministry, Mr. Araoye confirmed that the programme is designed to encompass both public and private educational institutions. He noted a growing trend of alumni associations stepping up to sponsor similar educational and cultural initiatives, enhancing sustainability and community involvement.

Looking Ahead: Empowering Youth Through Domestic Tourism

With Nigeria’s domestic tourism sector showing promising growth-contributing over 10% to the national GDP in recent years-programmes like NDTC’s are vital for harnessing this potential. By equipping young Nigerians with the tools and knowledge to explore and promote their country, the initiative aligns with broader national goals of economic diversification and cultural preservation.

As the pilot phase unfolds in Oyo State, stakeholders remain optimistic that this model can be replicated nationwide, inspiring a new wave of tourism enthusiasts and cultural ambassadors across Nigeria.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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‘Tinubu Has Done Nothing for Ndigbo’ — US-Based Igbo Groups
Breaking NewsSecurity

Premium Times Report: How Coup Plotters Allegedly Planned to Assassinate Pres. Tinubu, Vice, Others.

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

According to a report by Premium Times, Nigerian security agencies foiled an alleged coup plot on September 30, 2025, arresting key military and civilian suspects accused of planning to depose, and possibly assassinate, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his Vice Shettima, the Senate President Godswil Akpabio and the Speaker.

The operation reportedly coincided with the President’s official trip to Imo State, during which he was said to be unaware that a coordinated security sweep was underway. Premium Times reports that the joint operation led to the arrest of the alleged principal architects of the plot, alongside other accomplices drawn from both military and civilian circles.

Timipre Sylva, former Bayelsa Governor and the past Minister of State for Petroleum was named as a funding source of the failed coup.

Sources familiar with the investigation told the newspaper that the arrests followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance, culminating in a decisive crackdown aimed at neutralising what authorities described as a serious threat to national security and constitutional order.

While official details remain limited, Premium Times notes that the suspects are expected to face further investigation and possible prosecution in line with existing laws. Security agencies have not publicly disclosed the identities of those arrested or the full scope of the alleged plot.

The development underscores heightened vigilance by Nigeria’s security services amid concerns over internal stability, with authorities reiterating their commitment to safeguarding democratic governance and the safety of the President.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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AmericaBreaking News

Trump Sues IRS and U.S. Treasury for $10 Billion Over Alleged Tax Return Leaks

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the United States Department of the Treasury, alleging the unlawful disclosure of his confidential tax return information.

The lawsuit stems from claims that Trump’s tax records were improperly accessed and leaked, violating federal laws designed to protect taxpayer confidentiality. According to filings, the suit accuses government agencies of failing to safeguard sensitive financial information and allowing unauthorized disclosures that caused reputational and financial harm.

Trump has previously condemned the release of his tax records as politically motivated, insisting that the disclosures were part of a broader campaign against him. The latest legal action significantly escalates the dispute, seeking substantial damages and accountability from federal institutions.

The IRS and the Treasury Department have not yet issued formal responses to the lawsuit. Legal analysts say the case could test the limits of taxpayer privacy protections and raise broader questions about data security within federal agencies.

The lawsuit adds another high-profile legal battle involving President Trump as the matter is expected to attract intense political and legal scrutiny in the coming weeks.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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Moniepoint Extends N1 trillion in Credit to Small Businesses in Nigeria
Breaking NewsBusiness

Moniepoint Extends N1 trillion in Credit to Small Businesses in Nigeria

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

How Fintech is Revolutionizing Small Business Lending in Nigeria

Challenges Faced by Small Businesses in Accessing Bank Loans

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria continue to struggle with obtaining financing from traditional commercial banks. Heightened risk concerns, stricter regulatory frameworks, and persistently elevated interest rates have made banks more cautious in their lending practices. This cautious approach has particularly impacted smaller businesses, many of which lack the formal documentation, collateral, and credit history that banks typically require.

The Decline in Bank Lending to the Private Sector

Data from the end of 2025 reveals a contraction in credit extended to Nigeria’s private sector, dropping to approximately ₦75.8 trillion from ₦78.02 trillion at the close of 2024. This reduction underscores a broader tightening of credit availability, with banks prioritizing larger, more secure corporate clients over smaller enterprises. Consequently, SMEs often receive only a fraction of total bank credit, especially in the form of unsecured loans, which are critical for businesses lacking substantial assets.

Moniepoint‘s Innovative Approach to SME Financing

Amid these challenges, fintech companies like Moniepoint are emerging as vital financial allies for small businesses. In 2025 alone, Moniepoint disbursed over ₦1 trillion in loans to SMEs, demonstrating the growing role of digital lenders in bridging Nigeria’s SME credit gap. Unlike traditional banks, Moniepoint leverages its microfinance banking arm to extend credit to everyday traders such as grocery store owners, supermarket operators, and suppliers of construction materials.

Rather than relying solely on conventional credit scores, Moniepoint evaluates loan eligibility based on transactional data and payment behavior. This data-driven underwriting model allows the company to assess risk more dynamically and offer tailored loan amounts that better suit the needs of informal and semi-formal businesses.

Impact of Fintech Lending on Business Growth

Access to timely working capital through Moniepoint’s loans has proven transformative for many SMEs. The company reports that businesses benefiting from its credit facilities experienced an average growth rate exceeding 36% in 2025. This infusion of capital enables entrepreneurs to replenish inventory, scale operations, and maintain cash flow continuity, which is crucial in an environment where traditional bank loans are scarce or difficult to secure.

Moniepoint’s Expanding Role in Nigeria’s Financial Ecosystem

Since its inception in 2015, Moniepoint has evolved into a comprehensive financial platform serving over 6 million active businesses nationwide. Its suite of services includes digital payments, banking solutions, foreign exchange, and business management tools, positioning it as a one-stop shop for SME financial needs.

A key driver of Moniepoint’s lending capacity is its robust payments infrastructure. In 2025, the company processed transactions valued at ₦412 trillion and facilitated more than 14 billion individual transactions. Impressively, Moniepoint handles approximately 80% of all in-person payment transactions across Nigeria, underscoring its dominant presence in the country’s payment landscape.

The Future of SME Financing in Nigeria

As traditional banks continue to tighten lending standards, fintech innovators like Moniepoint are poised to play an increasingly critical role in supporting Nigeria’s SME sector. By harnessing technology and alternative data sources, these companies are not only expanding access to credit but also fostering economic growth and job creation across the country.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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Over 26 million Children Reached with the Recent Integrated polio vaccination campaign
Breaking NewsGlobalHealth

Over 26 million Children Reached with the Recent Integrated polio vaccination campaign

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 30, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Nationwide Polio Vaccination Drive Reaches Over 26 Million Children in Ethiopia

In a significant public health achievement, Ethiopia’s fourth round of the national polio immunization campaign utilizing the novel type 2 Oral Polio Vaccine (nOPV2) successfully vaccinated more than 26 million children across all regions. Notably, in 22 zones spanning seven regions-including Amhara, Oromia, Somali, Southern Ethiopia, Harari, Dire Dawa, and Afar-the campaign strategically combined nOPV2 with the bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV) to maximize immunity coverage.

Official Launch and High-Level Endorsements

The campaign was officially inaugurated on December 12, 2025, in Hawassa, Sidama Region, with prominent figures in attendance. Her Excellency Dr. Mekdes Daba, Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, alongside Mr. Beyene Berasa, Deputy Regional President of Sidama, Dr. Messay Hailu, Director General of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute, and representatives from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), underscored the national commitment to eradicating polio.

Government’s Pledge to Eradicate Poliovirus Transmission

Dr. Mekdes Daba reiterated Ethiopia’s unwavering dedication to halting poliovirus spread. “Since our country was declared free of wild poliovirus in 2017, we have been steadfast in our efforts to complete the final phase of polio eradication. Our goal is to ensure no child remains unvaccinated. This house-to-house campaign will also integrate critical health services such as enhanced surveillance for Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP), identification and follow-up of zero-dose and under-immunized children, nutrition assessments, growth monitoring, and surveillance for Marburg virus. Through collaboration with partners, communities, and healthcare workers, we aim to bolster immunity, improve disease monitoring, and safeguard our children’s health,” she affirmed.

Global Partners Applaud Ethiopia’s Strategic Approach

Representing the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Professor Francis Kasolo, WHO’s Ethiopia Representative, praised the Ethiopian government’s leadership, particularly the innovative decision to co-administer bOPV alongside nOPV2 in targeted zones. “This dual vaccination strategy is pivotal in accelerating the interruption of type 2 poliovirus transmission and enhances Ethiopia’s capacity to combat other poliovirus variants,” he stated.

Comprehensive Vaccination Efforts Throughout 2025

Throughout 2025, Ethiopia completed four rounds of nOPV2 immunization campaigns-one nationwide and three sub-national-between February and December. These efforts were spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), with vital support from WHO, UNICEF, Rotary International, Gavi, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and other immunization stakeholders.

Strengthening Surveillance and Immunization Systems for a Polio-Free Future

These vaccination rounds have been instrumental in Ethiopia’s broader strategy to halt variant poliovirus transmission, close immunity gaps, and enhance disease surveillance. Building on these successes, the country is intensifying efforts to improve vaccine-preventable disease monitoring, foster cross-border collaboration, and reinforce routine immunization programs to ensure comprehensive protection for every child.

Global Polio Eradication Initiative partners have reiterated their steadfast commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s mission, emphasizing that sustained collective action is essential to achieving a polio-free world.

January 30, 2026 0 comments
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Porto seal move for Terem Moffi as Super Eagles star leaves Nice nightmare behind – report
Breaking Newssports

Porto seal move for Terem Moffi as Super Eagles star leaves Nice nightmare behind – report

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 29, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Terem Moffi celebrates after scoring for Nice. Photo credit: IMAGO

FC Porto has secured the services of Nigerian international Terem Moffi from OGC Nice, marking a significant new phase in the striker’s career, according to Soccernet.ng.

This transfer signals the end of a turbulent period for Moffi in Ligue 1, as he prepares to join the Portuguese side on loan with an option to buy, reportedly valued at approximately €8 million.

Terem Moffi, Nigerian forward for OGC Nice
Terem Moffi representing Nigeria and OGC Nice. Photo by IMAGO

The 26-year-old striker is expected to undergo medical examinations and finalize the transfer details in Porto soon. Transfer expert Fabrice Hawkins has confirmed the completion of the agreement.

Porto emerged victorious in a competitive race for Moffi’s signature, outbidding clubs such as Turkey’s Besiktas, who reportedly offered a more lucrative salary package.

Interest also came from several French and Scottish clubs, but Moffi chose Porto, attracted by the club’s ambitious project and the opportunity to reunite with coach Francesco Farioli, who previously worked with him in France.

Terem Moffi, Nigerian forward for OGC Nice
Terem Moffi in action. Photo Credit: Moffi/X

For FC Porto, Moffi represents an immediate reinforcement in attack during a pivotal phase of the season. Should he perform well, the club retains the option to make his transfer permanent at the campaign’s conclusion.

Terem Moffi’s Revival: Moving On from a Difficult Spell at Nice

Moffi’s exit from Nice closes a chapter marked by challenges and limited opportunities.

Since the unsettling events following a 30 November defeat to Lorient-where players faced hostile fan confrontations-Moffi has been sidelined from the first team. His relationship with the club deteriorated, culminating in legal action to secure his departure during the winter transfer window.

Nigerian Super Eagles stars Paul Onuachu and Terem Moffi
Nigerian internationals Paul Onuachu and Terem Moffi. Photo by IMAGO

On the field, Moffi struggled to replicate his previous form, netting only two goals in 10 league matches this season-a stark contrast to his debut campaign at Nice, where he was the club’s top scorer with 11 goals after transferring permanently from Lorient.

Despite club-level difficulties, Moffi remains a prominent figure in Nigerian football. Since his debut for the Super Eagles in 2021, he has made notable contributions, including scoring twice in a commanding 10-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe in 2022. He was also called up as a late replacement for the injured Victor Boniface at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, although he missed out on selection for the latest tournament.

Now, with FC Porto, Moffi has the opportunity to rejuvenate his career and demonstrate his striking prowess on a new European stage.

January 29, 2026 0 comments
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Frank Lampard target Nigeria star who ‘wants to play for Manchester United’
Breaking Newssports

Frank Lampard target Nigeria star who ‘wants to play for Manchester United’

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 29, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Frank Lampard overseeing the Premier League clash between Watford and Everton. Photo credit: xAndyxRowlandximago

As Coventry City intensifies their push for Premier League promotion, manager Frank Lampard is actively seeking to reinforce his squad, with Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka emerging as a prime target, according to Scoccernet.ng.

The 28-year-old Brentford midfielder, who showcased impressive performances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, has openly expressed his ambition to eventually join Manchester United, adding an intriguing dimension to his potential transfer.

Reports indicate that Coventry City is engaged in advanced negotiations with Brentford regarding Onyeka’s transfer, exploring both loan and permanent deal possibilities.

Frank Onyeka during AFCON representing Nigeria
Frank Onyeka in action for Nigeria at AFCON. Photo by Thor Wegner/DeFodi Images

Coventry City Emerges as Front-Runners for Onyeka

According to Sky Sports News, Coventry City currently leads the race to sign Onyeka, outpacing Championship competitors Birmingham City and Sheffield United. Earlier in the transfer window, Spanish outfit Valencia also initiated contact with Brentford regarding the midfielder.

With just over 15 months remaining on his Brentford contract, Onyeka’s availability before the transfer deadline appears feasible, making him an attractive acquisition for clubs aiming to strengthen their midfield options.

Frank Onyeka during Nigeria vs Morocco AFCON match
Frank Onyeka representing Nigeria in the AFCON clash against Morocco. Photo by Segun Ogunfeyitimi, Copyright: Imagoxshengolpixsx

Onyeka’s consistent displays in four of Nigeria’s six AFCON fixtures, including the semi-final defeat to Morocco, have heightened interest from clubs seeking a dynamic and robust midfielder.

Frank Onyeka’s Aspiration to Join Manchester United

Despite not registering goals, Onyeka was a pivotal figure for Nigeria at AFCON, demonstrating exceptional control in midfield and disrupting opposing plays-qualities that have attracted attention from European clubs.

Adding to the narrative, Onyeka has candidly revealed his dream of playing for Manchester United in the future.

“Absolutely, I want to play for Manchester United,” Onyeka confirmed when responding to a fan’s query, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

Can we get Onyeka released, please? @BrentfordFC pic.twitter.com/KNVxkf96Xo

– Tom P (@TomPurchase6) January 11, 2026

While a transfer to Old Trafford remains a long-term ambition, clubs like Coventry are eager to capitalize on the opportunity to sign Onyeka now, enhancing their promotion prospects.

Frank Lampard’s Vision for Championship Success

Acquiring Onyeka would signal Coventry City’s serious intent to extend their three-point lead atop the Championship table and secure automatic promotion.

Coventry City Manager Frank Lampard
Coventry City Manager Frank Lampard. Photo credit: xPaulxChestertonximago

The former Chelsea midfielder turned manager values Onyeka’s physicality and international pedigree, qualities that could prove vital in Coventry’s quest for Premier League football.

In the coming days, attention will focus on Brentford’s stance and whether Onyeka will transition to the English Championship to continue his impressive AFCON form at club level.

January 29, 2026 0 comments
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UEFA Champions League: Osimhen, Lookman, all Nigerian players who have qualified for the knockout rounds
Breaking Newssports

UEFA Champions League: Osimhen, Lookman, all Nigerian players who have qualified for the knockout rounds

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 29, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

The group phase of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League wrapped up on Wednesday, featuring notable contributions from Nigerian footballers, according to Soccernet.ng.

Across multiple venues in Europe, 18 matches unfolded simultaneously as the continent’s top clubs battled fiercely to secure their spots in the knockout stages.

Several prominent Nigerian talents featured prominently for their respective teams. While all but one advanced beyond the group stage, none secured direct entry into the round of 16’s top eight automatic qualifiers. Instead, they ranked between 9th and 24th, meaning all will compete in the upcoming round of 16 playoffs.

Spot your team? 😏 #UCL pic.twitter.com/vwBYAqd0Ii

– UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) January 28, 2026

Below, Soccernet.ng highlights five Nigerian players who will be key figures in the knockout playoff phase of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League.

Victor Osimhen: Galatasaray‘s Forward Leading the Charge

Victor Osimhen with Galatasaray at Ajax, Champions League
Victor Osimhen in action with Galatasaray at Ajax during the Champions League. (Photo by Imago)

Heading into the decisive final group match, Galatasaray occupied a playoff position but needed at least a draw against Manchester City to guarantee advancement. Despite Osimhen’s persistent efforts-testing goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma on three occasions-the Turkish side succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against the English powerhouse.

Fortunately, favorable outcomes in other matches allowed Galatasaray to clinch 20th place in the overall rankings, securing their spot in the round of 16 playoffs.

Bruno Onyemaechi: Olympiacos‘ Defensive Asset

Bruno Onyemaechi of Olympiacos
Bruno Onyemaechi representing Olympiacos. Copyright: ImagoxONExINCHxPRODUCTIONSx637625

Onyemaechi came off the bench in the 87th minute during Olympiacos’ crucial final group game against Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Prior to this fixture, the Greek champions were outside the playoff bracket and required a victory to break into the top 24.

Thanks to decisive goals from Gelson Martins and Santiago Hezze, Olympiacos secured a vital win, ensuring their progression. Onyemaechi and his teammates now await the playoff draw, hoping for a favorable matchup to advance further.

Raphael Onyedika: Midfield Dynamo for Club Brugge

Raphael Onyedika embraces Vanaken at Club Brugge
Raphael Onyedika celebrating with teammate Vanaken at Club Brugge.

Club Brugge clinched a spot in the playoffs with a commanding 3-0 victory over Marseille on the final day of group matches-a historic result for the Belgian side. Onyedika, a pivotal figure in midfield, played the entire match, contributing significantly to the team’s dominant performance.

George Ilenikhena: Monaco’s Emerging Talent

Monaco secured their place in the round of 16 playoffs after a goalless draw against Juventus at home. This single point was critical, as any less would have jeopardized their 21st-place finish in the rankings. Although Ilenikhena did not feature on the pitch during this match, he remains an important squad member as Monaco prepares for the next phase.

Ademola Lookman: Atalanta’s Creative Force

Ademola Lookman celebrates a goal for Atalanta
Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring for Atalanta in Serie A, May 12, 2025. Photo by ImagoxAlberto Lingria/Xinhua

Atalanta fell 1-0 to Royale Union SG in their final group match, a result that dashed their hopes of automatic qualification. Had they won, Atalanta would have reached 16 points and 9th place, narrowly missing direct qualification due to goal difference. Instead, they finished 15th with 13 points.

Lookman started the match but was substituted in the 51st minute, as Atalanta now prepare for the challenging playoff round.

January 29, 2026 0 comments
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Super Eagles: Why Eric Chelle met NSC Chairman behind closed doors
Breaking Newssports

Super Eagles: Why Eric Chelle met NSC Chairman behind closed doors

by Ayodeji Onibalusi January 29, 2026
written by Ayodeji Onibalusi

Following Nigeria’s impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Eric Chelle has drawn attention from other African national teams, including Tunisia and Algeria.

Confidential Talks Between Eric Chelle and NSC Chairman

Eric Chelle recently engaged in a private meeting with Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), according to reports from Soccernet.ng. This discussion comes amid rising speculation about Chelle’s future with the Nigerian national team, especially with interest reportedly coming from Algeria’s football federation.

The confidential session, held on Tuesday at the NSC headquarters in Abuja, was reported by Footy Africa. It is widely believed that contract renewal talks were a central topic, as Chelle’s current agreement with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to expire in early 2027.

Victor Osimhen and Eric Chelle during AFCON Quarter-final Nigeria vs Algeria
Victor Osimhen alongside coach Eric Chelle during the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash between Nigeria and Algeria at Marrakesh Stadium, January 10, 2026. Copyright: ImagoxSFSIx

NSC’s Commitment to Retaining Eric Chelle in 2026

Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, has publicly affirmed that extending Chelle’s contract is a priority for the commission in the upcoming year. In a recent interview with Footy Africa, Olopade emphasized Chelle’s integral role in Nigeria’s football development strategy.

“Among our many objectives for 2026, securing Eric Chelle’s continued leadership is high on the agenda. He is content with his role here and has no plans to leave,” Olopade stated.

Having signed a two-year contract in January 2025, Chelle is currently midway through his tenure. Despite rumors linking him to other national teams, the NSC’s stance indicates a strong preference for stability and continuity within the Super Eagles’ coaching framework.

Eric Chelle, Nigeria's head coach
Eric Chelle, head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Copyright: xSFSIx

Insights Into the Closed-Door Negotiations

Sources from Footy Africa reveal that Chelle, accompanied by his team, met with NSC Chairman Dikko to discuss the future direction of the Super Eagles. While the specifics remain confidential, it is understood that contract extension and strategic plans for the national team were key points of discussion.

Although no official announcement has been made, the meeting strongly suggests that the NSC is keen on securing Chelle’s services beyond his current contract, aiming to preserve the momentum built under his guidance.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle
Eric Chelle, head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Photo by Segun Ogunfeyitimi. Copyright: xshengolpixsxIMAGO
January 29, 2026 0 comments
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