Diomande Joins Oliseh in World Cup Lore

Ivory Coast Young star Yan Diomande has made his mark on African soccer history during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, entering an elite group once led by Nigerian icon Sunday Oliseh, as he became just the second African male player to feature in four World Cup games before reaching adulthood.

A 19-year-old winger for RB Leipzig reached this achievement even as Ivory Coast faced a disappointing end to the competition, after Erling Haaland scored an incredible last-minute goal to secure Norway a 2-1 win in the Round of 32—marking the conclusion of the Elephants' most successful World Cup run in the elimination phase.

Another African player to achieve this milestone was Oliseh, who featured in all four games for the Super Eagles during the 1994 World Cup held in the U.S. At just 19 years old, he emerged as one of the standout youthful midfielders of the competition, as Nigeria marked their significant entry onto the international football scene.

Oliseh was an essential part of that legendary Super Eagles team, playing as a defensive midfielder and almost never skipping a single minute during the four games.

He recorded more than five tackles and nine ball possessions each match, passed with an accuracy exceeding 80 percent, and was instrumental in setting Nigeria's pace during a tournament that concluded with a penalty shootout loss against Italy in the Round of 16.

His appearances during the competition, which took place prior to his 20th year, introduced him to the global stage and set the groundwork for an accomplished professional journey throughout Europe.

After more than three decades, Diomande has become part of this elite group — although his departure was just as difficult for the African champions.

Côte d'Ivoire, entering the elimination rounds with high confidence following a strong performance in the group phase, held their own against Norway for much of their Round of 32 clash, ending the game with 14 shots compared to Norway's nine and earning 14 set pieces. Diomande, who impressed during the group stage with his bold ball control and composure well beyond his age, showed moments of brilliance throughout the match—such as a promising pass that led to one of Côte d'Ivoire's best chances in the first half—but Norway's solid defense restricted his influence.

Norway took the lead when Antonio Nusa scored, but Manchester United forward Amad Diallo shifted the momentum shortly afterward. Coming on as a substitute, he maneuvered past multiple defenders and netted an extraordinary equalizer that quickly became a contender for the best goal of the competition. This goal also placed Diallo among an elite group, becoming just the third African player to score twice as a sub in a single World Cup, following Cameroon's Roger Milla and Senegal's Pape Gueye.

Nevertheless, the festivities didn't last long. Just moments after Ivory Coast equalized, Haaland once more proved why he is considered among the most lethal strikers globally, reaching the far post to score from Patrick Berg's low pass and secure a 2-1 triumph. This outcome secured Norway's first World Cup knockout stage win since 1998 and set up a Round of 16 clash with Brazil.

Although the loss ended Ivory Coast's journey, Diomande's reputation has greatly improved through this experience. The young player scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 33 Bundesliga matches with RB Leipzig during the previous season, aiding their qualification for the UEFA Champions League, and has drawn interest from some of Europe's top teams.

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PwC Nigeria Welcomes Four New Partners

PwC Nigeria has confirmed the addition of four new partners starting from 1 July 2026, as part of PwC Africa's selection of 20 new partners throughout the region.

The latest additions include Adesola Abiodun (Advisory Services), Oluwadamilola Dada (Assurance Services), Ugochi Ndebbio (Tax & Regulatory Services), and Emeka Chime (Tax & Regulatory Services).

As stated by PwC, their acceptance marks a critical time for organizations dealing with fast-paced technology changes, changing expectations from stakeholders, and moving regulations and economic conditions. The newly appointed partners offer the knowledge and guidance required to help businesses succeed in this ever-changing landscape.

The current year's partnership admissions further demonstrate PwC Africa's ongoing dedication to diversity and inclusion, as women make up 55 percent of the entire group.

Speaking about the appointments, Sam Abu, the Country Senior Partner at PwC Nigeria, stated: "I am pleased to welcome four additional partners into our firm in Nigeria. This appointment acknowledges many years of outstanding work and signifies their advancement to the top tier of the industry."

For many years, they have assisted our customers and contributed to shaping both our team members and the company itself. In today’s rapidly changing business environment, companies require reliable advisors who can guide them with assurance. The addition of these new partners offers valuable insights and guidance to enable clients to establish trust, transform their operations, and discover fresh avenues for expansion.

Abiodun works with PwC Nigeria's Deals Advisory division, leading the company's efforts in securing private capital through areas such as private credit, private equity, green finance, and both operational improvement and turnaround initiatives. Additionally, he assists with full-cycle merger and acquisition consulting services. His expertise includes guiding clients on direct investment financing, temporary financial support, corporate funding, short-term liquidity options, and mergers and acquisitions within various industries.

Having over 20 years of industry expertise, Abiodun has established and maintained connections with global, regional, and local financial organizations, such as development banks, state-owned investment funds, retirement funds, insurance entities, and various institutional backers. He has spearheaded financing deals surpassing $10 billion within different industries.

Before joining PwC, he was employed with Infrastructure Credit Guarantee Company Limited, where he oversaw strategic planning and implementation of new business initiatives, along with handling investor communications, building client partnerships, and promoting market growth. Additionally, he held a position at Vetiva Capital Management Limited, providing guidance to both government and corporate clients regarding fundraising through debt and equity instruments, project financing, merger and acquisition strategies, as well as asset disposals.

He earned a first-class qualification in accounting from the University of Lagos and obtained a master's degree in accounting and finance with high honors from Alliance Manchester Business School at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom. He is recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

As a collaborator, Abiodun will remain dedicated to assisting clients in obtaining funding, spearheading intricate deals throughout the transaction process, and identifying avenues for growth. Additionally, he will aid in broadening PwC’s Deals Advisory offerings within Nigeria and the Western market region.

Dada works alongside PwC Nigeria's Assurance team, providing services to prominent organizations within the energy, utilities, and resource industries both in Nigeria and globally. Her expertise spans audit and assurance, internal control systems, financial reporting, and risk management. Before becoming part of PwC Nigeria, she was employed at PwC USA, where she offered guidance to large utility and energy firms adhering to U.S. GAAP, SEC regulations, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Over the course of her professional journey, she has taken on various leadership positions, such as acting as Chief of Staff to the head of PwC Africa's Assurance division.

Dada earned her MBA at the Imperial College Business School in London and is recognized as an Associate Chartered Accountant, a Certified Public Accountant (in Texas, United States), and possesses the ACCA Diploma in International Financial Reporting Standards. She has provided guidance to board members, senior management teams, regulatory bodies, and global companies regarding compliance, financial disclosure, control enhancement, and organizational development efforts.

Her fields of specialization encompass auditing and assurance, internal controls over financial reporting, risk management, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance, and financial reporting according to IFRS Accounting Standards as well as US GAAP. She is known for assisting organizations in improving their internal control frameworks, elevating the accuracy of financial reports, and fostering trust among stakeholders within intricate and heavily regulated sectors.

As a collaborator, Dada will concentrate on assisting clients in establishing confidence via top-notch quality assurance, robust internal control systems, and creative approaches to managing risks. Additionally, she will contribute to the ongoing expansion of PwC Nigeria's Assurance services within the Energy, Utilities, and Natural Resources sectors, emphasizing the advancement of tech-driven assurance methods and enhancing client interactions throughout the industry.

Ndebbio works with PwC Nigeria's Tax and Regulatory Services division as a collaborator and is the key person responsible for the company's Regulatory Business Solutions offering. Having dual qualifications in both law and accounting, she provides thorough regulatory and taxation compliance services to customers from various sectors including legal guidance, investigative reviews, health assessments, deal setup, and obtaining tax and financial benefits.

Ndebbio leads PwC Nigeria's conflict resolution division, advising clients at the Tax Appeal Tribunal, and promotes the company's policy advocacy initiatives, collaborating with customers to develop evidence-based analyses and interact with governmental bodies along with sector representatives to achieve practical outcomes.

In her role as General Counsel at PwC Nigeria, she offers comprehensive legal direction throughout all aspects of the company's business interactions, guiding the internal legal department to maintain robust legal compliance at each stage.

Ndebbio is affiliated with the Nigerian Bar Association, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants UK, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria—a broad-based organization that enables her to provide cohesive, business-savvy guidance where legal, taxation, and regulatory matters converge.

As a collaborator, Ndebbio will remain at the forefront of the Regulatory Business Solutions initiative, act as General Counsel for PwC Nigeria, and offer expertise in intricate tax issues.

Chime works alongside PwC Nigeria's Tax and Regulatory Services team, bringing over 16 years of expertise in guiding both local and international companies on taxation, regulation, and business strategy. Since becoming part of PwC in 2010, Chime has provided guidance to clients spanning various sectors such as consumer goods, finance, energy, and technology.

He worked for three years at PwC in Houston, Texas, offering tax consulting to privately owned companies and acquiring substantial expertise in international taxation.

His fields of specialization encompass tax planning and guidance, global tax consultancy, tax investigation and merger & acquisition advice, corporate and indirect taxation consultation, company restructuring, and corporate compliance solutions within multiple industries. He has overseen many projects related to investment setup, assistance with transactions, tax inspections, and strategies for entering new markets.

Chime is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, and has earned an Executive Certificate from the University of Southern California.

As a collaborator, he will remain committed to assisting both local and global companies with intricate tax and compliance issues, enabling entities to handle risks, adapt to changes, and seize expansion prospects confidently.

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Why SME Growth Needs More Than Just Capital

For many years, conversations regarding small and medium enterprises in Nigeria have centered around access to financial resources. Although financing is still crucial, simply having capital will not propel the next phase of SME development. We must consider factors outside of just funding.

Business owners throughout Nigeria encounter significant expenses, evolving consumer demands, fast technological changes, and increased rivalry. Meanwhile, digital platforms, local commerce, and emerging innovations provide fresh avenues for expansion. Due to these obstacles and possibilities, establishing a more robust business environment has become increasingly crucial.

The central issue is no longer whether Nigerian small and medium enterprises can endure. Numerous ones have demonstrated their ability to manage challenging periods and shifts in the marketplace. Today, the true challenge lies in whether they can expand responsibly and stand up to competition in an increasingly interconnected global environment.

The main focus should be on developing more robust business environments that aid small and medium enterprises.

Throughout the globe, the most effective methods for supporting small and medium enterprises extend past simply providing financial loans. These approaches emphasize developing frameworks that link companies with infrastructure, technology, marketplaces, expertise, connections, and capital sources. Enterprises thrive not only due to access to funds but also because of the supportive ecosystems that enhance their efficiency and expansion. Nigeria ought to adopt and expand upon this approach.

The development of such an ecosystem for Nigerian small and medium enterprises involves four key focuses.

One of the major obstacles hindering business expansion in Nigeria remains infrastructure development. Access to consistent power supply, efficient transportation systems, and robust connectivity are crucial elements that companies require to remain competitive.

Many small and medium enterprises face high energy expenditures, which negatively impact their profitability and hinder expansion. This is why cost-effective and dependable energy has become essential for business operations, rather than merely a concern related to sustainability.

As an increasing number of private enterprises focus on renewable energy initiatives. For instance, our collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency facilitates the establishment of microgrids, providing businesses and localities improved electricity availability. Utilizing cheaper diesel allows companies to operate more effectively, reduce costs, and achieve greater sustainability. Sustainable infrastructure goes beyond just energy supply. Enhanced transportation systems, broader internet connectivity, and robust digital links will determine which businesses can serve larger customer bases and participate in the digital market. These combined elements enhance business competitiveness.

The advancement of technology is transforming how companies operate, vie for market share, and achieve growth. Today, even a small enterprise located in Aba, Kano, or Lagos has the ability to offer goods throughout Nigeria and beyond through online platforms. However, numerous micro, small, and medium enterprises face challenges due to labor-intensive processes, fragmented financial systems, and restricted availability of digital resources. As a result, not all individuals have the means to benefit from these possibilities.

The top-performing small and medium enterprises of tomorrow will be those that leverage technology not only for managing operations, but also as a central element of their expansion strategies.

Digital transactions, e-commerce platforms, cloud-based business solutions, data analytics, and machine learning technologies are enabling companies to operate more effectively, gain deeper insights into customer behavior, and expand at an accelerated pace.

Due to these developments, banks must go beyond providing services — they ought to assist businesses in leveraging technology. For instance, FCMB Collect integrates payments, collection processes, and inventory control to enable businesses to operate more efficiently and monitor their finances more effectively. Through collaborations with various firms and commitment to robust digital infrastructure, we are enabling businesses to engage within the digital economy.

Possessing the correct abilities and understanding can hold equal significance to having sufficient financial resources.

Numerous small and medium enterprises possess promising business concepts and recognize potential market prospects, yet frequently face challenges due to insufficient managerial, financial, and technological expertise required for sustained expansion. In today's environment, competition hinges more than ever on how effectively entrepreneurs make informed decisions, leverage technology, and respond swiftly. This underscores the significance of possessing the correct skills, which is equally vital as having adequate capital.

Entrepreneurs must enhance their ability to handle finances, lead groups, sell products online, make choices based on data, get ready for international trade, and adopt emerging tools like artificial intelligence. Mastering these competencies can distinguish companies that remain limited in size from those that achieve sustainable growth.

This is why training initiatives remain essential for supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises. By offering seminars, advanced classes, and access to our Business Zone e-learning system, FCMB equips business owners with hands-on expertise to develop more robust and adaptable companies. With continuous advancements in technology and evolving market conditions, consistent education will offer significant benefits, increasing the importance of these programs.

Money remains highly significant, yet the method of its delivery is evolving.

Traditional methods of lending frequently exclude companies without official documentation or conventional assets. However, modern technologies like data analytics, online systems, and alternative approaches to assessing creditworthiness are enabling more enterprises to obtain financial support. This shift is enhancing the inclusivity of financial services.

Additionally, collaborating with development financial institutions and distributing risks is facilitating better access to cost-effective funding for companies operating in critical areas like farming, medical services, schooling, sustainable power, and ventures led by women.

The success of small and medium enterprise financing will rely not only on the amount of capital accessible, but also on the prudent manner in which it is utilized. Funding must align with the requirements of various industries, company phases, and operational structures. In this manner, financial support can create greater value.

The small and medium-sized enterprise segment in Nigeria remains among the nation's most significant contributors to the economy.

Its ability to generate employment, foster innovation, and promote development for all will determine the nation's destiny.

However, the subsequent phase of small and medium enterprise development will not focus on which entity offers the highest number of loans. Instead, it will center around establishing the most effective assistance network for business owners. This shift is currently underway.

Companies require entry into markets, technological resources, infrastructure, information, connections, and financial support, which must function collectively as an integrated system. When these elements combine, small and medium enterprises can not only endure challenging periods but also expand, introduce innovations, and rival global competitors. To put it simply, the environment should operate cohesively.

At FCMB, our history of collaborating with companies in various industries has strengthened our conviction that long-term development goes beyond just financial support. It involves providing businesses with chances to obtain information, innovation, customer bases, collaborations, and cost-effective strategies that enhance their ability to compete effectively.

The success of Nigeria's economic outlook hinges on our ability to support entrepreneurs efficiently. Reaching this objective demands a shared dedication to developing an environment where companies receive both financial backing and the tools necessary for expansion, creativity, and long-term impact. As small and medium enterprises thrive, local areas flourish, employment opportunities increase, and overall economic growth accelerates. Creating such a future should continue to be a top national focus.

George Ogbonnaya serves as the Senior Vice President and Head of the Business Banking Group at First City Monument Bank.

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Oborevwori Approves 13th Month Salary for Delta Workers

The head of security for Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that government workers in the region will receive an additional month’s salary as a bonus.

The leader made this statement on Tuesday at the Dinner and Awards Evening organized in Asaba as part of events celebrating the 2026 Public Service Week.

The declaration generated enthusiasm among government employees and additional attendees, who cheered the choice.

Oborevwori stated that the incentive was awarded as acknowledgment for the employees' dedication, efforts, and roles in advancing and promoting the state's progress.

He mentioned that the authorization is anticipated to enhance employees' well-being and raise spirits throughout the state government workforce.

By making this choice, Oborevwori marks history as the first leader of Delta State to grant a 13th-month salary incentive to government workers.

The event of Public Service Week was held to recognize public officials and emphasize their contribution to executing governmental plans and providing vital services to citizens.

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Ogazi Makes History as Fourth Nigerian Bowerman Finalist

Samuel Ogazi has now joined just three other Nigerians in history who have made it to the finals of the Bowerman Award, following the University of Alabama runner being selected as one of the top three contenders for college track and field's highest individual honor, announced by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association on Tuesday.

A sprinter from Kaduna has been selected following what many consider one of the finest 400-meter college seasons in history. The 21-year-old made headlines by breaking NCAA records and establishing himself as one of the most promising talents in international athletics.

Ogazi claimed both the NCAA Division I indoor and outdoor 400-meter championships this year, then delivered the standout moment of his college athletic journey at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, where he ran an impressive 43.38 seconds, breaking Michael Norman's longstanding collegiate mark of 43.61 seconds established in 2018.

His performance earned him the title of the quickest 400m runner in NCAA history and represented the fourth instance where he broke the Nigerian record within 2026, following previous times of 44.02, 43.95, and 43.82 seconds. Additionally, he was the first college athlete to achieve more than one sub-44-second run in this event.

Previously during the indoor season, Ogazi won the NCAA indoor championship with a time of 44.57 seconds, matching the officially recognized indoor world record and sharing third place on the all-time indoor world rankings. His outstanding performance has also earned him the distinction of being the first male athlete from Alabama to advance to the Bowerman finals.

He has now joined Blessing Okagbare, who made it to the final in 2010, Divine Oduduru from 2019, and Ezekiel Nathaniel, who was a contender last year, as one of the few Nigerians to have appeared at the closing phase of the awards.

Ogazi will encounter strong opposition from New Mexico’s long-distance athlete Habtom Samuel and Auburn’s hurdle specialist Ja’Kobe Tharp, as the victor will be revealed at the USTFCCCA Convention in Grapevine, Texas, on December 17.

Samuel concluded his undefeated college career by securing victory in all 13 competitions against NCAA competitors, capturing both the 5,000 meters and 10,000-meter championships at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, and setting a new collegiate best for the 5,000 meters with a time of 12 minutes 57.22 seconds.

Meanwhile, Tharp delivered one of the most remarkable hurdle performances ever seen in the sport, shattering Aries Merritt's world record in the 110-meter hurdles with an impressive 12.75 seconds during the NCAA Outdoor Championships semifinals, then coming back to claim the national championship with a time of 12.90 seconds. Earlier in the season, he had also surpassed Grant Holloway's university record in the 60-meter hurdles by clocking 7.32 seconds indoors.

The selection of Ogazi as a finalist occurs during an impressive year for Nigerian athletes within the American college sports scene. Kanyinsola Ajayi from Auburn had an exceptional running season, securing both the NCAA indoor 60-meter and outdoor 100-meter championships. He matched Christian Coleman's university record of 6.45 seconds in the 60 meters indoors, then achieved a legal-with-wind time of 9.84 seconds in the 100 meters—shattering the 20-year-old Nigerian mark previously held by Olusoji Fasuba since 2006—and subsequently clocked a wind-supported 9.72 seconds, which stands as the second-quickest overall result in collegiate history under any conditions.

Chinecherem Nnamdi from Texas A&M created history by claiming the NCAA javelin championship following a seasonal best distance of 84.68 meters, securing a spot in the top four on the overall college record list. In the women's category, Temitope Adeshina from Texas Tech dominated the NCAA indoor and outdoor high jump events throughout an undefeated collegiate campaign, achieving heights of 1.97 meters indoors and 1.96 meters outdoors, although she fell just short of qualifying for the women's Bowerman final trio.

Together, the three Bowerman nominees achieved seven NCAA championships, set four university records, and recorded 13 career top-10 finishes throughout the 2026 indoor and outdoor campaigns, highlighting the exceptional level of competition Ogazi faces in winning the award. The voting process involves the Bowerman Advisory Board, chosen journalists, college officials, past recipients, USTFCCCA participants, and the general public.

Regarding Ogazi, who has recently declared his intention to go pro, this nomination marks yet another achievement in an extraordinary year where he has broken numerous records. He is now just one step closer to being the first Nigerian to claim college track and field's top individual honor.

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Nwankwo Joins Commonwealth Games Team as Others Withdraw

The young Nigerian sprinter, Rosemary Nwankwo, has received an invitation to join the national Commonwealth Games training session in Abuja after several athletes had to withdraw from the track team.

The announcement of Nwankwo's invitation was made on Wednesday by her institution, Nigerian Tulip International College, along with her athletics group, N-Youth Sports Academy.

She wasn't part of the original 29-athletes list announced by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, but her inclusion seems to have occurred after the departures of U.S.-based sprinter Tima Godbless and Ella Onojuvwevwo.

Nevertheless, the young athlete might not be able to attend the camp right away as she is scheduled to participate in the CAA African U-18 and U-20 Championships in Dakar, Senegal, between July 4 and 5.

Although she is still attending school, Nwankwo has had a remarkable season. She took part in all three stages of the MTN Champs and contributed to Nigeria's success in qualifying for the World Championships in the women’s 4x100m relay at the World Relays held in Gaborone, Botswana.

She participated in the African Championships prior to fighting for a spot in Nigeria's Commonwealth Games team during the National Trials in June.

After accepting the invitation, she is set to be part of the group including fellow runners Blessing Ogundiran, Rosemary Chukwuma, Miracle Ezechukwu, Olayinka Olajide, and Obi Chukwuka at the training facility.

An athlete from the N-Youth Sports Academy achieved personal bests this season with times of 11.42 seconds in the 100 meters and 23.19 seconds in the 200 meters.

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Gunmen Abduct Benue Cleric, Two Followers

A preacher named Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde, along with two others from his church, were taken by armed individuals from his home in Benue State.

The event was revealed in a statement released on Tuesday by the Executive Committee of the Nongo u Kristu u i Ser u Sha Tar Church.

As per the church's statement, the victims were taken during the early morning hours of Tuesday from the pastor's home located at NKST Church in Andyar, within the Ishan Classis region of Benue State.

With deep sorrow, but firm belief in the authority of the Supreme Lord, we regretfully report the kidnapping of our pastor, Reverend Doctor Samuel Gbinde, together with two churchgoers, during the early morning hours of today, 30 June 2026.

"They were taken from the pastor's house at NKST Church, Andyar, within the Ishan Classis of Benue State," the statement said.

The congregation urged its priests, followers, communities, and supporters to pray for the secure and complete return of those who were taken.

The declaration further stated, "The leadership of the NKST urges all priests, followers, assemblies, and associates of the church to come together through sincere prayers during this challenging period for the secure and complete return of Reverend Doctor Gbinde and the two church individuals."

We further ask that God provides power, solace, and optimism to their loved ones, the community in Andyar, and the whole NKST group.

The church further urged law enforcement authorities and both the Benue State and federal governments to step up actions aimed at rescuing those affected and holding the offenders accountable.

"We also urge the appropriate security organizations, along with the authorities of Benue State and the Federal Government of Nigeria, to take prompt and firm action to safely recover the kidnapped individuals and make sure that those involved in this crime are caught and held accountable," it stated.

It called upon both governments to implement more active and ongoing actions to address abductions and various security issues.

"Additionally, the Church calls upon both the Benue State Government and the Federal Authorities to implement more active and continuous actions in tackling abduction and other security threats. It is crucial to confront the offenders directly instead of just reacting following these terrible offenses," the declaration stated.

The congregation showed faith that the affected individuals would come back home securely and asked for tranquility and safety throughout the nation.

The Benue State Police Command has not released any official comment regarding the event at the moment this report was submitted. Continuous attempts are being made to secure the command's response.

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