Algeria Coach Confident Ahead of Swiss Challenge

Algeria Coach Vladimir Petkovic feels his team is building a victorious mindset just when it matters most as the Desert Foxes get ready to play against Switzerland in their Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

North African teams advanced to the elimination rounds following a victory and a draw in their last two group games, coming off an underwhelming 3-0 loss to reigning champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi.

Following that defeat, Algeria has made an impression through their offensive efforts and determination, though Petkovic acknowledged his team needs to enhance their defense after enduring tense situations during their thrilling win against Austria.

The trainer believes his team is steadily improving as they strive to advance to the round of sixteen.

"We're developing a victorious mindset, bit by bit," Petkovic stated through CAF Online.

In big competitions, it's crucial to focus on progressing with each match, and that's exactly our approach.

Algeria will be appearing in their fifth FIFA World Cup, with their highest achievement occurring during the 2014 event held in Brazil, when they advanced to the Round of 16 but were defeated by champion Germany following a match decided through extra time.

The team known as the Desert Foxes did not manage to qualify for the 2018 World Cup held in Russia and the 2022 edition hosted in Qatar. They now aim to achieve better success during the upcoming tournament taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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King Charles Greets Crowds at Royal Ascot's Opening Day

June 16, Pakistan -- King Charles and Queen Camilla were present on the first day of the Royal Ascot, as various members of the royal family assembled at the renowned Berkshire racetrack for this esteemed yearly horse racing competition. The royal parade signified the official beginning of this highly anticipated event, drawing worldwide interest and a significant international viewership.

At the event, various high-ranking members of the royal family were present alongside the King and Queen, such as Zara Tindall, Mike Tindall, Peter Phillips, and Harriet Sperling, who all participated in the classic horse-drawn parade. The presence of these individuals underscored the ongoing significance of Royal Ascot as both a competitive equestrian event and an important social affair for the British royal household.

A significant event took place when Zara Tindall bowed respectfully to King Charles upon her arrival, then gave him a friendly kiss. This action immediately caught the eye of observers and journalists, becoming one of the top talked-about moments during the first day's festivities.

Additional members of the royal family, such as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and Alice Elliot, who is Queen Camilla's niece, were also part of the parade. Their attendance highlighted the longstanding custom within the family of being present at Royal Ascot and interacting with the public during significant national occasions.

Before the races began, King Charles and Queen Camilla released a statement greeting attendees at the event. They wished for an exhilarating week of horse racing showcasing elite equines from Europe, North America, and Australia, with viewers worldwide anticipated to watch the contest spanning almost 200 nations.

The Royal Ascot remains one of the key events in the British summer schedule, blending top-tier horse racing with royal customs and global interest. The first day this year once more highlighted the occasion's formal importance and its deep ties to the monarchy's official activities.

NDLEA Seizes 6,778 kg of Canadian Cannabis at Lagos Port

The Federal Road Safety Corps has officially assumed control of 6,778.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud, an extremely strong type of marijuana, which was seized at the Apapa Seaport in Lagos.

An illegal shipment was formally transferred to the NDLEA in a ceremony held at Apapa Port on Wednesday, after being discovered during a combined inspection of two containers conducted by agents from the NDLEA, the Nigerian Customs Service, and additional security organizations.

On Wednesday, a statement from the agency's spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, indicated that the Chairman/CEO of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (ret.), was represented by the head of seaport operations at the agency, ACGN Ibinabo Archie-Abia, who referred to the confiscation as a significant success resulting from cooperation among different agencies.

"Following two significant operations conducted on June 15 and June 24, 2026, we convey a strong and unambiguous statement that our resolve to break down organized crime groups and drug smuggling rings inside and outside our territory has never been stronger," Marwa stated.

He revealed that the arrests came after several months of intelligence-driven operations conducted jointly by the NDLEA Special Investigation Unit and the Marine Intelligence Unit, along with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Nigeria Customs Service.

As he stated, global drug cartels utilized intricate sea routes to avoid detection by authorities, yet continuous monitoring allowed agents to follow the shipments through various countries prior to their seizure in Nigeria.

It’s important to clarify the movement of these shipments. The initial container, CAAU 7569127, left Toronto on April 16, 2026. To avoid scrutiny, it was transported via train to Montreal prior to being placed aboard the ship Ghallow Express*. It reached Tangier Med, Morocco, on May 6, 2026, then transferred to the Spartel Trader, which docked at Tin Can Island Port on May 27, 2026.

"It was then relocated to the Global Bonded Terminal and later transported by water to Apapa Port on June 10, 2026, where it was discovered during a collaborative inspection of the cargo involving our team, our counterparts from the Customs Service, and other law enforcement bodies," he stated.

Marwa mentioned that the second container, labeled HAMU 3246311, departed Montreal on May 1 via the ship Africa Express and was later transferred to the Algeciras Express on May 15.

"It reached Tin Can Island Port and, after being unloaded on June 4, 2026, was transferred to Apapa Port on June 22, 2026, where it came under the control of our awaiting officials," he said.

The head of NDLEA emphasized that the organization will extend its efforts past seizing illegal drugs, focusing instead on disrupting the financial systems supporting drug trafficking activities.

We acknowledge that the enormous earnings from illegal drug trade still support atrocities against humanity and our country, even though these activities cause severe damage to people, their families, and society.

"Therefore, we stay determined. Our efforts do not conclude at seizing property. We are dedicated to locating, apprehending, and bringing to trial those involved, to taking away their illicit assets, and to making sure they gain absolutely nothing from their unlawful activities," he stated.

Marwa also commended the personnel from the NDLEA, the Nigerian Customs Service, and other security organizations for their expertise and dedication.

I strongly praise the commitment, expertise, and bravery of the personnel from the NDLEA, the Nigeria Customs Service, and all related security organizations who did not turn their heads but instead worked diligently to prevent these harmful materials from overwhelming our neighborhoods.

Your loyalty and steadfast dedication have once more demonstrated that you serve as capable protectors of our seaports.

"This achievement was enabled by the information exchange and coordinated efforts shown by all involved agencies. It serves as a strong example of what joint agency work, global partnership, and data-focused operations can accomplish in combating cross-border organized crime and illegal drug trade," he stated.

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Ministry Promises Stricter Protection for Seafarers' Rights

The Department of Ocean Affairs and Sustainable Development has announced its commitment to implementing relevant rules and labor guidelines to guarantee fair treatment of sailors and ensure that employers meet their responsibilities as outlined in domestic and global shipping agreements.

The Minister for Maritime Affairs and Ocean Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stated this lately in Lagos at the 2026 Seafarers' Day event.

The gathering had the theme, "Bearing Global Commerce, Bearing the Liability."

Oyetola, who was present at the gathering through the Executive Director of Marine Safety and Security within the Federal Ministry of Maritime and Blue Economy, Musa Makoji, emphasized that the well-being of the country's seafarers is not up for discussion.

"The department will keep implementing relevant rules and labor standards to make sure that sailors are treated justly and that employers meet their responsibilities as outlined in local and global maritime agreements. The well-being of our marine workers is not up for discussion. I praise the ship owners and employers who maintain the best levels of well-being, security, and expertise, and encourage them to strive further," Oyetola stated.

He urged continuous cooperation in advancing adherence to global standards and optimal methods, stating, "To our sailors, I extend my most sincere thanks. Although your duties frequently occur out of sight, their effects are experienced by all nations and economies."

Oyetola emphasized that even though sailors fuel worldwide trade, they shouldn’t have to face its dangers too, stating that safeguarding those who ensure global business continues is a collective duty needing support from governments, company executives, world bodies, and everyone in society.

"Today, we recognize not just your efforts but also your dedication, perseverance, and contribution to mankind. We acknowledge the essential part you have in uniting countries, aiding economies, and enhancing people's lives globally," said Oyetola.

He stated that, with their professionalism, perseverance, commitment, and sacrifices, sailors have maintained the movement of worldwide trade and ensured the continued operation of the global economy.

Oyetola stated that the topic of the gathering is powerful, accurately highlighting the fact that although sailors form the foundation of international commerce, "they are also some of the individuals who face the greatest dangers and unpredictability linked to this industry."

The ex-Governor of Osun State pointed out that each successful journey has a tale of dedication, perseverance, and giving up something for the sake of achievement.

"Mariners often remain separated from their loved ones for extended durations, perform their duties in challenging environments, and deal with ever more complicated operational and safety issues. This career demands not just technical skills, but also bravery, self-control, and remarkable endurance," he said.

He mentioned that the marine sector currently encounters extraordinary difficulties, such as political conflicts, interruptions in international trade routes, changing safety risks, environmental impacts, and increasing work requirements.

"Even with these challenges, sailors still show dedication in keeping global commerce moving smoothly. While recognizing their efforts, we should also renew our shared promise to safeguard their respect and entitlements," Oyetola said.

During his opening speech, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, stated that the yearly event offers a significant chance to honor and value "the essential roles played by sailors whose steadfast dedication not only supports economies but also reinforces the connections that bring together individuals around the world."

Mobereola emphasized that the theme highlights the vital contribution of sailors to maintaining global commerce, while also bringing focus to the significant dangers and difficulties they face in carrying out their responsibilities.

"Seafarers not only move goods but also face changing weather patterns, tough work environments, rising safety risks, and growing political challenges. They experience long periods away from their family and friends, along with dealing with both bodily and mental stresses of living on water. Despite this, they keep showing remarkable strength, dedication, and steadfast loyalty," Mobereola stated.

He emphasized that within NIMASA, the well-being, safety, security, and career development of sailors continue to be key priorities in maritime management.

Mobereola stated that the organization acknowledges safeguarding and supporting sailors goes beyond being just a legal requirement; it is also an ethical responsibility and a key factor in ensuring the continued development and stability of the shipping sector.

He stated, 'Governments, naval authorities, vessel owners, employers, educational bodies, worker associations, and sector representatives should keep working together to create a marine environment focused on security, respect, diversity, health, and career success.'

Previously, Wasiu Eshilokun, the Chairperson of the Senate Committee for Maritime Transportation, mentioned that sailors work in tough environments and frequently encounter substantial dangers such as harsh weather, safety issues, operational threats, and extended time spent apart from their loved ones.

"Nevertheless, they continue to be dedicated to maintaining the smooth flow of goods and services that society relies on every day. The committee has concentrated on backing projects that boost maritime safety and security, elevate the well-being of sailors, increase port effectiveness, reinforce local shipping capabilities, and provide job prospects for Nigerian maritime workers," he stated.

He pointed out that in alignment with the federal government's maritime growth plan, the committee will push for measures that promote the upgrading of port facilities, "the establishment of a viable ocean-based economy, greater involvement of Nigerian sailors in global shipping, and complete adherence to international maritime agreements that safeguard the rights and well-being of mariners."

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Nigerian Man Faces Deportation After Shooting in Ex-Girlfriend Dispute

A 23-year-old Nigerian student studying in the U.S., Godson Oghenebrume, received a sentence of 27 months in prison and will be deported following his admission to unlawfully owning a gun and discharging several rounds during an argument with his former girlfriend, who came to his residence with their newborn baby.

The U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, Kurt Wall, revealed this information in a statement released on Wednesday.

Wall mentioned that Oghenebrume received a sentence from U.S. Chief Judge Shelly Dick after being found guilty of possessing a weapon as "an alien who entered the United States on a non-immigrant visa."

He stated that the prisoner "may be removed or deported from the United States after serving their sentence."

As per the declaration, Oghenebrume acknowledged that "On February 7, 2025, Oghenebrume had a Glock model 43X, 9mm handgun with him when he entered the U.S. on an F-1 non-immigrant student visa."

Providing information about the event, the U.S. Attorney's Office stated that Oghenebrume was in his apartment with another woman when his ex-girlfriend, who is also the mother of his newborn child, came to the house carrying the baby.

It was mentioned, "Oghenebrume, who was in the apartment along with another young woman, stepped outside, leading to a confrontation between him and the mother of his child."

Throughout the disagreement, with the infant nearby, Oghenebrume fired the gun.

Wall mentioned that the suspect eventually went back to his apartment, yet the dispute persisted when his former girlfriend arrived and discovered him with another woman.

He stated, "This dispute originated from inside the apartment, and Oghenebrume fired the gun several times as the woman who was pregnant with his child ran away. Several bullet marks were seen on the walls of the building."

He also claimed that Oghenebrume broke his former girlfriend's phone and took the infant, who was present during the entire event.

Prosecutors further stated that Oghenebrume tried to avoid being taken into custody when officers from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Department showed up.

Oghenebrume's former girlfriend then went to the other woman, who was trying to depart, and requested her assistance in retrieving the infant. She consented to help and managed to take the child away from Oghenebrume.

When officers from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office reached the apartment complex, Oghenebrume moved away from them, disregarding their instructions, and threw the Glock model 43X, 9mm handgun into nearby bushes. Oghenebrume was shortly afterwards taken into custody.

As per the declaration, a neighbor reported having heard gunfire, informing authorities that "his ears were still buzzing."

He mentioned that following a Miranda warning, police questioned the Nigerian student about why he discharged the firearm.

The declaration stated, "He asserted that he wished for his former girlfriend to return home and that he fired the weapon to frighten her off."

Just over a week ago, PUNCH Metro stated that the United States expelled a Nigerian citizen named Ayodeji Ajayi, after he had several legal offenses, such as assault within the home, as part of their continuous actions related to immigration control.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has indicated that Ajayi has been residing in the country unlawfully since arriving on a student visa almost twenty years ago.

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Family Challenges Epe Land Ruling, Warns Against New Sales

The Soje family has challenged the decision made by the Lagos State High Court in Epe, which recognized the Adegbajo Ruling House as the traditional proprietor of a contested piece of land located in the Eredo Community within the Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The petition comes after the ruling issued on February 12, 2026, by Judge W. Animahun in Case Number EPD/5231LMW/2017, which was filed by members of the Adegbajo family against the Soje family concerning property rights to land situated in Atake-Mafara, Semisolose, Taramigbuya, Agodo, and Igbonla within Eredo.

The individuals filing the lawsuit were assisted by Honourable Sakiru Adesanya Adebanjo, Hon. Olusola Adebo, Adeleke Oshunkoya, Morufu Akodu, Keji Adewale, and Shona Owoseni, whereas the opposing party was supported by Tijani Ismaila Olalekan, Sadiku Fatai, Honourable Lateef Adesanya, and Waidi Tijani.

Unhappy with the ruling, the Soje family, represented by their lawyer James Alara, submitted an Appeal Notice numbered CA/LAG/CV/426/2026 at the Lagos Branch of the Court of Appeal, aiming to reverse the High Court's verdict.

During the appeal, the applicants contended that the trial court made a legal mistake by accepting the claim because, according to them, the plaintiffs did not meet the evidentiary requirements mandated by law.

They further disputed the conclusion that the Soje family provided tribute to the Adegbajo family, arguing that the court incorrectly determined that these payments proved the claimants were the traditional landowners.

As per the appellants, the trial judge did not adequately assess the conflicting customary evidence available in court and incorrectly viewed sporadic presents given to a traditional leader as indication of tribute and recognition of the claimants as rulers.

The Soje family is asking the Court of Appeal to overturn the ruling made on February 12, 2026, and approve their cross-claim submitted on June 26, 2025.

In a sworn statement submitted as part of the appeal, the petitioners mentioned that they and other residents have made significant financial commitments to the contested property, such as homes, agricultural areas, manufacturing facilities, and additional projects.

They also stated that hundreds of individuals live and carry out commercial operations on the land, with certain residents having been present since 1999 and having invested considerably.

They stated that these investments might be at risk if the land's status changes prior to the appeal being resolved.

In the meantime, the Soje family has warned the Adegbajo Royal Family not to sell, transfer, or handle the contested property until the appeal is resolved.

On June 8, 2026, in a correspondence numbered OC/JA/SOJF/26, directed towards the Adegbajo family and sent also to the Olisa of Odogbawojo, the legal representative for the Soje family cautioned against efforts to dispose of the property involved in the appeal.

The family claimed that individuals from the Adegbajo Royal Family started putting up signage on parts of the contested property, encouraging people to conduct business with them.

It cautioned that any such move might exacerbate the conflict and make any final ruling from the Court of Appeal meaningless.

The Soje family requested all involved sides to keep things as they are until the outcome of the appeal is decided.

The date for the appeal hearing has not yet been set.

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World Bank Recognizes Apapa and Tincan Ports' Transformation

The company responsible for managing the Electronic Call-up System codenamed 'Ètò', launched by the Nigerian Ports Authority to streamline truck movements into and out of port areas, has confirmed that the most recent World Bank assessment of the Apapa and Tincan Island ports supports the experiences reported by industry players since the implementation of Ètò.

As per a statement acquired by The PUNCH , the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of TTP Limited, Jama Onwubuariri, made these comments while responding to the latest World Bank rating.

According to reports, the 2025 Container Port Performance Index, released by the World Bank along with S&P Global Market Intelligence, highlighted Nigeria's Lagos Port Complex (Apapa) and Tincan Island Port as two of the top 20 container ports that have shown significant improvement globally during the past five years.

In the global enhancement ratings, Tincan Island Port secured the 10th position, whereas Lagos Port Complex (Apapa) came in at 12th place, achieving notable progress among container terminals globally from 2020 to 2025.

TTP emphasized that the acknowledgment highlights an impressive improvement in the functional efficiency of Nigeria's most active port routes.

Prior to 2021, long lines of trucks extended from Apapa all the way to Maryland and the Cele Expressway; drivers frequently had to wait between two to three weeks before being able to reach the ports, causing freight transportation expenses to increase by up to 450 percent because of traffic jams and operational problems. In February 2021, TTP Limited, working alongside the Nigerian Ports Authority, launched the Ètò Electronic Call-Up System to digitalize and manage vehicle entry into the Apapa and Tincan port areas, according to the statement.

The company stated that following the launch of Ètò in 2021, the platform has handled over 3.5 million truck movements, contributing to bringing structure and reliability to one of Africa's most active trading hubs.

TTP mentioned that the typical processing time for getting into ports and moving goods out has dropped to two days or fewer: "Logistics expenses related to cargo have decreased by approximately 65 percent, while containerized exports rose by 464 percent from 2020 to 2021. Currently, the system offers live tracking and access management at over 120 sites within the Lagos port network and has achieved full operational availability since its introduction."

TTP credited much of the ports' enhanced efficiency to the ongoing development of the Ètò platform.

The company noted that during the past five years, improvements including export truck pre-screening, simplified reservation processes, real-time vehicle monitoring, sophisticated time-to-turnaround analysis, smart forecasting systems, and stronger collaboration with port partners have decreased delays, boosted freight movement, increased transparency, and reinforced cooperation throughout the supply network.

"Collectively, these enhancements have facilitated the development of a more effective and robust port system, which has contributed to the operational advancements highlighted in the World Bank’s ratings," it noted.

In the meantime, responding to the rankings, Jama Onwubuariri, Managing Director and Co-founder of TTP Limited, stated that five years prior, Apapa and Tincan served as worldwide illustrations of the consequences of inefficiency.

"Currently, they are acknowledged as some of the top improving container terminals globally. This change didn’t occur randomly. It stems from courageous reforms, cooperation within the port network, and the use of technology that has introduced clarity, order, and reliability into vehicle and freight movements. The World Bank's rating confirms what those involved have witnessed firsthand since the launch of Ètò. More effective truck planning leads to quicker cargo removal, enhanced terminal efficiency, reduced transportation expenses, and a stronger seaport industry. We take pride in the fact that Ètò has been crucial in this process. Looking forward, we will keep innovating and introducing smart transport solutions designed to address operational issues not just inside ports, but along entire trade routes and at borders across Africa," Jama said.

He pointed out that the recent World Bank acknowledgment highlights the increasing influence of digital advancements within Nigeria's shipping industry and emphasizes the significance of continued funding for tech-based approaches that enhance trading effectiveness, minimize transportation delays, and boost countrywide competitiveness.

"For TTP, it further highlights the potential to utilize insights gained from the Ètò transition in addressing various transportation and trade issues throughout Africa's ports, logistical routes, and cross-border systems," he added.

TTP Limited is a Nigerian firm specializing in technological and infrastructural services, focused on crafting smart transportation solutions for seaports, supply chain routes, and cross-border systems. With its main product, the Ètò Electronic Call-Up System along with associated transport infrastructure, TTP assists government bodies and business operators in enhancing traffic regulation, entry monitoring, process effectiveness, and commerce promotion within intricate logistical setups.

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