Somali WC Ref Gets Hero's Welcome After U.S. Visa Denial

A Somali official named Omar Artan was celebrated as a hero in Mogadishu on Wednesday following his exclusion from the U.S. and subsequent removal from FIFA's refereeing roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Artan, poised to be the first Somalian official to referee at a World Cup, came back to a welcoming crowd including numerous fans, government representatives, and individuals from Somalia's soccer scene at Aden Adde International Airport.

A respected official, who was recognized as Africa's Top Male Referee in 2025, has secured a position on FIFA's ultimate list of referees for the competition.

Nevertheless, he was not allowed to enter when he arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday because of "vetting issues" according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Additional information was not shared.

FIFA later took Artan off its list of referees for the World Cup. The Somali Embassy in Kenya stated that he received a legitimate U.S. visa prior to his travel to meet other officials at their World Cup preparation site in Miami.

After coming back, Artan appreciated the Somali population, authorities, and FIFA for their assistance, and stated he believes his World Cup aspiration continues to be possible.

I pledge to you, with Allah's permission, that I will be present at the next event," said Artan to supporters who were holding Somali flags at the airport. "I hope the Somalian people find reassurance in this and continue to have faith.

Artan was accompanied by law enforcement officials to the airport's executive lounge, where he was received by Somalia's sport minister and various high-ranking guests prior to speaking with regional journalists.

It is our responsibility to protect the Somali identity," he stated. "Somalia is ours, regardless of whether it is in a difficult situation or a favorable one. That flag is ours, and that passport is also ours.

The choice of refusing access to a World Cup representative selected by FIFA drew global backlash and prompted certain analysts to question the U.S.'s position as co-host along with Canada and Mexico.

Several nations, including Somalia, have been impacted by the broader U.S. travel bans implemented during the tenure of former President Donald Trump.

Although he was unable to participate in the tournament, Artan's success has received significant recognition throughout Africa and further afield. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, commended the Somalian official recently, stating that his groundbreaking achievement remains valid despite the situation.

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Rivers School Proprietress Charged in Teen Assault Case

PORT HARCOURT – The owner of Phronesis Nursery, Primary and Secondary School, Mrs. Orjiugo Udeala, has appeared in front of a magistrate court in Port Harcourt following accusations of assaulting a 16-year-old pupil.

Udeala appeared in court on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, before the Rumuepirikom (Kala) Police Division under the Rivers State Police Command, facing two charges related to conspiracy and causing injury through assault.

As per the document labeled REMC 94C/2026 and authored by CSP Ahmed Abubakar Umar, the accused together with an individual who remains at large are said to have planned, on June 8, 2026, at the School situated on NTA Road, Rumokwuta, within the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, to carry out an attack resulting in injury.

The prosecutor added that Udeala and her co-conspirator illegally attacked a 16-year-old pupil named Gift Nwala Onyeche, beating him with a stick and striking his ears and head, resulting in physical injury.

They further revealed that these offenses are subject to penalties outlined in Sections 516(A) and 355 of the Criminal Code, Chapter 37, Volume II, Laws of Rivers State of Nigeria, 1999.

The accused woman declared her innocence when the allegations were presented in court.

In the meantime, Presiding Magistrate Charles Wobisike Akpeh has approved bail for the accused person amounting to ₦100,000, along with one guarantor also in the same amount, who needs to live within the court's area of authority.

However, Akpeh postponed the case until August 10, 2026, for additional proceedings.

Our reporter learned that an activist group called Lawyers Watch for Justice International Initiative has been monitoring the case closely, starting from the initial stages of the police investigation through to the defendant's appearance in court.

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Tinubu Urges Abuja Residents to Pay Taxes – Wike Unveils 'Road N5' Plan

Toyin Adebayo

On Wednesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged inhabitants and commercial entities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to settle their tax obligations, property charges, and site rentals without delay, emphasizing that public adherence is essential for maintaining construction projects throughout the country's capital region.

Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed this message during the inauguration of the Dape District segment of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III. According to Tinubu, income collected from citizens' duties will allow the FCT Authority to construct additional roads and essential facilities.

"Settle your taxes. Pay off your land charges and property rentals. Your cooperation empowers the FCT Administration to construct additional roads similar to this one," stated the President.

Tinubu further commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, hailing him as the government's "Engine of Execution" due to his role in accelerating the completion of infrastructure developments in Abuja.

Minister Wike, you and your group have demonstrated what occurs when determination aligns with responsibility. We finance initiatives to achieve outcomes, not to focus on linguistic accuracy.

"Nor would it be under the supervision of 'the Engine of Execution' himself, the Honorable Minister of the FCT, Lawyer Nyesom Wike," he stated.

The Leader mentioned that finishing the road kept a commitment pledged to locals when the Gwarinpa I District part of the initiative was launched in June 2025.

As he stated, contrary to numerous public initiatives that take years to finish, the N5 highway project was planned, financed, and completed within the scheduled time frame.

Let’s make one thing perfectly clear: this area was not passed down to us from previous years. We created it, financed it, and brought it into existence.

"Previously, initiatives such as these turned into long-term funding allocations—ten, fifteen years of justifications. That won't happen under this administration," he said.

Tinubu stated that the project would reduce traffic congestion near Life Camp Junction and enhance connections between Dape, Karmo, Gwarinpa, Kado, Idu, and Mbora areas, as well as provide better access to the Idu Industrial Zone.

He mentioned that the initiative would lower transportation expenses, draw in capital, and generate employment opportunities for locals.

Previously, the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike stated that the inauguration signified the second activity in a 31-day series of project launches planned to commemorate Tinubu's third year in power.

The official remembered that the FCT Authority initiated programs for nine days on the occasion of the President's first year and 19 days during the second anniversary, with the present 31-day initiative being seen as proof of faster progress within the region.

"Glory be to God, during this third year, we have reached 31 days dedicated to launching initiatives," Wike stated.

He credited the changes in Abuja to Tinubu's administration, emphasizing that progress was no longer limited to the central area but had extended to surrounding suburbs.

"Development has, for the first time, reached the satellite towns within the Federal Capital Territory. This marks an unusual occurrence," he stated.

The official claimed that the effects of good leadership were now visible in the form of roads and various development initiatives throughout the FCT.

"When individuals are asked about the concept of government and governance, they often respond by pointing and saying, 'There’s the government.' They refer to things like roads and infrastructure," he stated.

Wike also supported the administration's payment procedure for property owners impacted along the highway route, maintaining that every valid claim had been resolved.

"We made payment. If your property was destroyed and you didn't receive compensation, please step forward and speak up. I dare anyone to dispute this. It isn't accurate," he said.

The official ignored demonstrations from certain people during the gathering, maintaining that nothing short of political resistance could mask the evident successes of the government.

During her speech, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, referred to the initiative as yet another achievement within the framework of the Renewed Hope Agenda and praised Wike for his dedication to revitalizing the capital city via extensive construction projects.

She conveyed assurance that the recently finished highway would boost transport, encourage business growth, and raise the standard of living for people in the impacted areas.

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Gunmen Kidnap Tribal Leader in Osun

Gbenga Faturoti

On Tuesday night, armed individuals stormed Ora-Igbomina within the Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State and took the chairman of the local government council, Debo Faroumbi.

Reports indicated that the attackers rushed into the neighborhood and fired randomly into the sky, sparking fear throughout the town.

It was reported that the attackers kidnapped four locals, among them two Fulani females, one community member, and Mr. Faroumbi.

Nevertheless, security officers allegedly confronted the assailants, as armed forces positioned in the town chased after them, compelling them to leave behind three of the hostages, while taking the local council member into the woods.

Verifying the event, Abiodun Ojelabi, a press officer from the Osun State Police, stated that the injured person is the deputy head of the Ifedayo local government area, mentioning that law enforcement has initiated a search operation to locate the perpetrators and save the individual.

Indeed, unidentified armed individuals attacked Ora-Igbomina within the Ifedayo Local Government Area, kidnapping four people. However, military action compelled them to leave behind three of the captives.

"They ultimately managed to take Debo Faroumbi into the woods with them, and law enforcement along with other security organizations have initiated a search for the perpetrators," he stated.

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Dennis Takes Helm as NSCDC Commandant in Rivers

PORT HARCOURT – Commandant Reuben Dennis has formally assumed command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Rivers State Command, following Joachin Okafor.

The transition of leadership was officially confirmed during a short handover event conducted at the Command’s office located on Olu Obasanjo Road in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, signifying the conclusion of Okafor’s time as Commander of the Rivers State Command.

On Wednesday, a press release from the Rivers NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Ihemnacho Umeado, revealed that the previous Commandant ceremonially passed the emblem of power to Dennis, who had previously held the position of Deputy Commander (2i/c) for the Rivers State Command and more recently acted as Chief of Operations for Zone 9 in Port Harcourt.

During the event, Okafor thanked the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for granting him the chance to be part of the Corps and play a role in enhancing national security throughout his time with the organization.

The previous State Commandant also thanked the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, for his assistance to the Command, notably the gift of 10 Hilux police cars, which he stated greatly improved its ability to carry out operations.

Having emphasized significant accomplishments achieved throughout his time in office, Okafor encouraged his replacement, Dennis, to focus on securing a long-term location for the Rivers State Command.

During his speech accepting the position, Dennis committed to continuing the successes of his predecessor and enhancing current partnerships with other security organizations within the state.

He additionally pledged to collaborate effectively with key stakeholders to maintain the ongoing safety and security of Rivers State. The newly appointed Commandant also committed to increasing initiatives aimed at safeguarding vital national assets and infrastructure throughout the state, cautioning offenders and those undermining the economy to avoid involvement in River, as the command will take firm action against incidents of sabotage and other risks to public well-being.

Dennis also committed to focusing on staff development and reskilling, data collection, and enhanced well-being for the personnel within the Command.

He cautioned staff and officials about actions involving disorderly behavior and improper conduct, emphasizing that his government would not refrain from taking disciplinary action against any officer who failed to meet standards.

Stressing that safety is everyone's duty, Dennis urged locals to back initiatives designed to fight crime throughout the state.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the NSCDC Chief Commander, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for appointing him to head the Rivers State Command.

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Bayern Munich Targets Manchester City's Gvardiol

Bayern Munich was previously connected with Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol, but the German club has now withdrawn from the competition for the Croat. In contrast, Real Madrid has joined the contest in an attempt to lure him away from Manchester City:

Josko Gvardiol faces a decision between two possibilities: extending his contract with ManCity past 2028 — an official proposal has been made — or moving to Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. Real’s interest is genuine. Nevertheless, #MCFC are striving to retain his services.

FC Bayern have completely withdrawn from contention. The 24-year-old leading center-back has received significant admiration, yet he is seen as overly costly, and there is presently no requirement for another player in that role, according to reports.

It would be intriguing to find out precisely what price Manchester City was seeking for Gvardiol, who would have made an excellent addition for Bayern Munich. The most likely outcome is that Gvardiol will extend his deal with Manchester City, although Real Madrid might become increasingly eager to secure a high-profile acquisition.

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HabariPay Unveils First "Impact Report 2025," Tracing Its Digital Payments Journey

HabariPay Limited, the financial technology branch of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc ( “GTCO” or the “Group” ), has revealed its first-ever HabariPay Impact Report 2025 offering investors a detailed overview of the company's development, path of innovation, financial outcomes, and influence within the digital payment sector.

The document outlines HabariPay's evolution from an emerging fintech startup to one of Nigeria's top payment system operators, emphasizing key achievements, tactical choices, and funding that influenced its development. It demonstrates the firm's role in promoting online trade, assisting enterprises, enhancing payment systems, and increasing financial inclusion via tech-based approaches.

The 2025 HabariPay Impact Report also emphasizes the firm's solid financial and operational achievements, expansion of the Squad platform, and progress in building the infrastructure supporting payment processing, transaction routing, fund transfers, merchant offerings, and additional service enhancements. The report additionally examines how innovation, workforce training, and collaborations within the broader ecosystem contribute to the company's accomplishments.

Commenting on the release of the report, the Managing Director of HabariPay, Eduofon Japhet, stated: "Being a tech-focused organization, we feel that influence goes further than just monetary outcomes. It shows through the enterprises we empower, the vendors we assist, the systems we develop, and the prospects we offer to upcoming creators. The HabariPay Impact Report 2025 outlines this path and highlights our dedication to generating long-lasting benefits for clients, collaborators, and the larger economic landscape."

She also stated: "The HabariPay Impact Report 2025 goes beyond showcasing our accomplishments; it serves as proof of the intentional efforts we've invested in developing lasting payment systems, supporting enterprises, encouraging creativity, and generating enduring benefits for our partners. Moving forward, we continue to focus on enhancing our skills, increasing our influence, and defining the next era of digital transactions with tech-based approaches that are safe, adaptable, and accessible."

The publication further highlights HabariPay's commitment to innovation via programs like the Take on Squad Hackathon and the Squad Hackademy, which are instrumental in nurturing upcoming tech professionals and speeding up the development of effective answers to everyday problems.

In the coming years, the report details HabariPay's aspirations for what lies ahead, encompassing ongoing support for payment systems, tools for merchants, advancements in digital technology, and smart innovations set to influence the evolution of banking services.

To view the HabariPay Impact Report 2025, kindly go to https://squadco.com/impact-report/

About HabariPay

HabariPay Limited operates as the financial technology arm of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), which stands among the leading financial service providers in Africa. The company has both direct and indirect investment interests in a range of operational businesses spread across ten African nations and the United Kingdom.

Authorized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), we aim to assist small and medium enterprises, micro traders, big companies, and other fintech startups (Tech Stars) with the resources required for success within a changing digital landscape and to grow past their present customer base. HabariPay offers several services such as Squad, a comprehensive digital payment system designed to simplify both physical and online transactions, HabariPay Storefront, an e-commerce platform allowing customers to shop online easily, Value-Added Services enabling business owners to obtain affordable and adaptable mobile top-up and internet packages, along with a switch infrastructure helping technology-driven firms reduce expenses and improve transaction efficiency.

The efforts of HabariPay in promoting digital adoption across Africa have been recognized—Mastercard honored it with the Innovative Mobile Payment Solution Award at TIA 2022 for its groundbreaking platform, SquadPOS.

About Squad

Squad offers an all-in-one digital payment system that is dependable, safe, and cost-effective, streamlining both face-to-face and online transactions.

Numerous vendors presently utilize Squad's financial services for their everyday commercial activities. The present range of products and services provided by Squad consists of SquadPOS, Squad Payment Links, Squad Virtual Accounts, USSD, and an E-Commerce Storefront.

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