Chelsea midfielder, Conor Gallagher, arrived in Madrid in the early hours of today to finalize his move to Atletico Madrid.

The LaLiga side have agreed a €42million fee for Gallagher after drawn out negotiations.

And according to football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, on X: “Conor Gallagher has just landed in Madrid, 2.06am local time.

“Medical tests in the morning as new Atlético Madrid player after €42m deal agreed with Chelsea.”

Meanwhile, Real Sociedad midfielder, Martin Zubimendi is set to join Liverpool this summer.

It would be an easy deal to do, as Zubimendi has a €60m release clause in his contract.

Both clubs are still in talks over the move, after the player expressed interest in signing for the Reds.

Abuja Youths Announce Week of Peace to Promote Unity Amid Nationwide Protests

The Abuja Residents Youth Association (ARYA) has declared a “Week of Peace,” beginning on August 11, to foster harmonious relationships and unity among youths in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative aims to promote peace and counteract the current climate of unrest linked to nationwide protests over issues such as hunger, economic hardship, and dissatisfaction with government policies.

-ARYA’s President, Mr. Akoshile Mukhtar**, made the declaration at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday. He emphasized that the association is not participating in the ongoing protests and is instead focusing on promoting peace and unity within the FCT.

Activities Planned for the Week:
Peace Walks: Organized marches to symbolize unity and peaceful coexistence.
Peace Talks: Forums for open dialogue and discussions on fostering harmony.
Prayer Sessions: Spiritual gatherings to pray for the city’s prosperity and stability.
Other Events: Various activities designed to engage youths in constructive and peaceful actions.

Mukhtar described the “Week of Peace” as a chance for residents to reflect on shared goals and reinforce their commitment to maintaining a peaceful and prosperous Abuja. He highlighted that the initiative is aimed at demonstrating solidarity and building a city that thrives on cooperation.

Support for the FCT Minister: Mukhtar praised FCT Minister Mr. Nyesom Wike for his proactive measures in addressing youth grievances and initiating developmental projects. He noted that Wike’s leadership is transforming Abuja into a city that all Nigerians can be proud of, citing improvements in governance and development.

Call for Peace and Responsibility: Mukhtar urged Abuja’s youth to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence. He stressed that Nigeria belongs to everyone and that responsible ownership and participation in governance are crucial for achieving inclusive and effective leadership.

-Encouragement for Constructive Engagement: Mukhtar also called on youths to collaborate with the government to ensure that Abuja remains a symbol of unity and progress. He urged them to provide the government with credible feedback to help shape policies that address their needs and aspirations.

The “Week of Peace” reflects a local effort to counterbalance the unrest from the nationwide protests and to promote a message of unity and constructive engagement within the community.

**NNPCL, NMDPRA, and Stakeholders Deny Economic Sabotage Allegations, Call for Transparent Senate Hearing**

In a recent Senate hearing, key stakeholders in Nigeria’s petroleum industry, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and others, strongly denied involvement in economic sabotage. The denial came amid an ongoing investigation into alleged sabotage within the sector.

**Key Points from the Hearing:**

– **Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri**, emphasized that misinformation has surrounded the role of his ministry and other agencies. He called for the planned public hearing to be televised live to provide transparency.

– **Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL**, defended the company’s integrity, asserting that NNPCL, owned by over 200 million Nigerians, is committed to maximizing value and is not involved in sabotage. He highlighted the company’s improved performance and commitment to national growth.

Engineer Farouk Ahmed, CEO of NMDPRA, supported the call for a live broadcast of the hearing, asserting that it would allow for a fair presentation of facts and counter negative narratives about the agency’s regulatory functions.

Dangote Refinery’s Group Chief Strategy Officer, Aliyu Sulaiman, acknowledged the significant supply of crude oil from NNPCL and called for support to help the refinery grow, rather than being subjected to undue criticism.

Abdulkabir Adisa Aliyu, National Chairman of the Depot and Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPMAN), criticized Dangote Refinery for its dominance in the sugar market and warned against monopolistic practices in the petroleum sector.

Alhaji Abubakar Shettima, National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), urged the committee to avoid monopolies and improve product supply to retail outlets to address fuel shortages.

Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele, Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee, clarified that the investigation aims to uncover those involved in sabotaging the petroleum sector, not to witch-hunt individuals or groups. He also highlighted concerns over the importation of substandard petroleum products and the inefficacy of government-owned refineries.

The Senate’s Ad Hoc Committee plans to conduct a public hearing from September 10 to 12, 2024, in conjunction with the House of Representatives, to address these issues transparently.

Kalu Aja Accuses Tinubu’s Media Team of Dysfunction Amid Video Dispute

Kalu Aja, a financial analyst and educator, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s media team, labeling it as dysfunctional. This criticism follows a public dispute between two of Tinubu’s media aides over a video posted on the President’s official social media page.

The controversy erupted when a video urging Nigerians to remain patient during economic hardships was shared on the President’s verified X (formerly Twitter) account. The video, which was part of a message from President Tinubu, reassured Nigerians of ongoing efforts to ensure a stable and prosperous future.

The video was initially posted by O’tega Ogra, a Senior Special Assistant to the President, on his personal X page at 1:49 pm, accompanied by the caption: “A Passionate Plea from President Bola Tinubu @officialABAT to all Nigerians.”

However, the situation took a turn when Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, claimed that the video was not new. Onanuga clarified on X that the video circulating was an old clip from a previous broadcast and that Tinubu had not made any new public statements since his last address on Sunday. He wrote: “Trending video of President Tinubu is an old video. A trending video of President Tinubu which came out on Wednesday is not a new video. It’s a clip from the broadcast he made last year.”

The conflicting statements from Tinubu’s media aides have led to confusion and criticism, with Kalu Aja highlighting the apparent disorganization within the President’s media team. Aja’s comments underscore ongoing concerns about the effectiveness and coordination of the communication strategies used by the President’s office.

Envoys from Britain, Poland, Côte d’Ivoire,and the U.S. Commend Nigeria’s Management of Nationwide Protests

Diplomats from Britain, Poland, Côte d’Ivoire, and the U.S. have praised Nigeria’s strategic handling of recent nationwide protests. Their remarks came during a briefing on Wednesday in Abuja by Foreign Affairs Minister Yussuf Tuggar.

Ambassador Kalilou Traore of Côte d’Ivoire lauded the briefing for addressing the spread of misinformation, aiding diplomats in their reporting. He commended Nigeria for maintaining order and President Bola Tinubu’s call for dialogue.

Stanislaw Gulinski, Charge d’Affaires of the Polish Embassy, appreciated the detailed update and sought clarification on the detention of seven Polish citizens during the protests.

British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery praised the security agencies for their non-lethal approach and commitment to proportional policing amidst the unrest.

U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills thanked Tuggar for the briefing and expressed condolences for the recent losses and hardships in Nigeria, acknowledging the challenges of President Tinubu’s reforms.

Cameroonian High Commissioner Salaheddine Ibrahim, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, thanked the minister for organizing the session, emphasizing the importance of accurate information for diplomatic reporting.

APC Chairman Ganduje: Protests and Challenges are Global, Not Unique to Nigeria

In a recent statement, Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), addressed ongoing protests in Nigeria, asserting that such public dissent is not unique to the country. Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja, Ganduje made this comment during a visit by APC leaders from the United States.

Ganduje acknowledged that both developing and developed nations face various challenges and public discontent. He emphasized that protests and obstacles are a common feature in the context of reforms and policy changes, asserting that Nigeria’s current difficulties are part of a broader, global pattern.

“Even developed economies have their turbulence,” Ganduje noted, highlighting that Nigeria’s current issues are not unprecedented. He assured that the country’s challenges would be resolved in due course, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda aimed at securing Nigeria’s future.

Ganduje pointed out that Nigeria’s institutions are currently weak and stressed the need for stronger institutions to implement effective policies. He expressed confidence that under President Tinubu’s leadership, the country would overcome its present difficulties and see positive results soon.

During the visit, which Ganduje described as historic, Prof. Adesegun Ladejo, who led the U.S. delegation, voiced support for the APC leadership and the Tinubu administration. Ladejo highlighted that despite receiving discouragement from some Nigerians in the diaspora, the delegation remained committed to supporting the President and the party’s national leadership.

The delegation also included Oyakhilome Bello, APC U.S. National Youth Leader, Alhaji Sama’ila Maigyara, National Publicity Secretary, and Alhaja Khirat Ajiboye, Deputy National Publicity Secretary. Their visit aimed to strengthen ties with the party’s leadership and reinforce their support for Nigeria’s current administration amidst ongoing challenges.

Nearly 100 gigabytes of content from Drake has leaked online, including unreleased songs and video recordings. The leaked files feature collaborations with Nigerian artists Rema and Tems, which has stirred excitement among fans.

Highlights of the leak include:

• Unreleased Songs with Rema: A video has surfaced showing Drake playing an unreleased track with Rema for his OVO associates. This follows an old post from Rema in 2022 about his collaboration with Drake.
• Collaboration with Tems: An unreleased track featuring Tems has also been leaked, believed to be an alternate version of their collaboration ‘Fountain’ from Drake’s album Certified Lover Boy.

Drake’s recent beef with Kendrick Lamar has left fans eagerly anticipating new material from the rapper. The leaked content might signal a new phase in Drake’s career, following his record-breaking achievements on Spotify.

The Plateau State Government has announced a relaxation of the 24-hour curfew imposed on the Jos-Bukuru metropolis following recent violent protests. Governor Caleb Mutfwang, through Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPPA), revealed that free movement will now be allowed between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm daily, starting from Wednesday, August 7.

The curfew was initially enacted to curb looting and other criminal activities that occurred in Jos North Local Government Area during the nationwide “End Bad Governance” protests. The decision to ease the curfew reflects improvements in the security situation, in consultation with security agencies.

Governor Mutfwang emphasized the need for continued vigilance and cooperation with security personnel. He also urged residents to report any suspicious activities and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being.

The Kano Progressive Movement (KPM) has lauded Emir Aminu Ado Bayero for his exemplary leadership during the recent protests in Kano State. The group highlighted the Emir’s role in maintaining peace by actively engaging with protesters, addressing grievances, and appealing for calm, which helped prevent violence and safeguard lives and property.

In a statement, Alhaji Lawal Mohammed, representing KPM, praised Emir Bayero for his wisdom, calm demeanor, and decisive actions. The Emir’s efforts were seen as crucial in diffusing tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence in Kano State.

KPM emphasized the significant role traditional rulers can play in fostering societal peace and stability. The group urged other monarchs to follow Emir Bayero’s example of promoting dialogue and constructive engagement over violence.

The call to action encourages all Nigerians to work together towards a more peaceful and prosperous society, inspired by the Emir’s leadership and commitment to harmony.

Dr. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra Governor Charles Soludo, has awarded an extraordinary scholarship to Chukwuemeka Nwuzor, an eight-year-old mathematical prodigy. The scholarship will cover Chukwuemeka’s education from primary school through to a Master’s degree level.

The decision followed Chukwuemeka’s viral video, where he was seen solving complex mathematical problems, including advanced formulas and numerical equations. Impressed by his talent, Mrs. Soludo met with Chukwuemeka and his family at the Governor’s lodge in Awka to announce the scholarship.

Mrs. Soludo explained that after discovering Chukwuemeka’s talent, she tested his skills further and was convinced of his exceptional abilities. She committed to supporting his education and providing mentorship to help him realize his full potential.

She advised Chukwuemeka’s parents to avoid pressuring him and instead allow him to progress at a natural pace through his academic years. Her goal is to ensure he receives the best educational opportunities and support throughout his academic journey.

The Edolites For Peace and Progress, a pro-democracy group in Edo State, has urged the Nigeria Police Force to maintain impartiality in the upcoming gubernatorial election. The group expressed concerns about recent media reports suggesting that the IGP Crack Team might be targeting supporters of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Madam Adesua Odigie, the group’s coordinator, emphasized the importance of police neutrality in maintaining the integrity of the election process. She called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure that the police act without bias and do not interfere in the political landscape of Edo State.

The group reassured residents not to be intimidated by recent developments and encouraged them to exercise their democratic rights by voting on election day. They stressed that the integrity of the electoral process relies on full citizen participation and the defense of their votes.

Edolites For Peace and Progress also reiterated their commitment to a transparent and fair election, urging all stakeholders to adhere to the rules and promote a peaceful environment as the election approaches.

President Bola Tinubu has once again appealed to Nigerians for patience with his administration, asserting that the country is on the brink of a new and promising era. In a video released by the State House on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Tinubu acknowledged the hardships resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies. He admitted that an “avoidable lag” between the subsidy removal and the implementation of his administration’s beneficial plans had exacerbated the difficulties faced by Nigerians.

“Fellow Nigerians, this period may be hard on us and there’s no doubt that it is tough on us, but I urge you all to look beyond the present temporary pains and aim at the larger picture. All our good and helpful plans are in the works. More importantly, I know that they will work. Sadly, there was an avoidable lag between subsidy removal and these plans coming fully online,” Tinubu stated.

The President urged Nigerians to have faith in his policies and assured them that the measures taken by his government would resolve the ongoing economic crisis. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to improving education by making it more affordable and providing loans to higher education students, ensuring no Nigerian student would have to abandon their education due to financial constraints.

“Our commitment is to promote the greatest good for the greatest number of our people. On principle, we shall never falter. I assure you, my fellow countrymen and women, that we are exiting the darkness to enter a new and glorious dawn. Now, I must get back to work in order to make this vision come true,” Tinubu added.

This marks the second time the president has addressed the nation amidst ongoing tensions and unrest across several states. In a national broadcast on Sunday, August 4, 2024, Tinubu acknowledged the grievances of protesting Nigerians and promised that his administration would address their concerns.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo North) has distributed 1,200 bags of NPK 50kg fertilizer to farmers in his constituency, aiming to boost agricultural activities and alleviate hardship among the farming community. The distribution ceremony took place in the Iyamoh community, where Oshiomhole was represented by Alhaji Abubakar Akokhia, the Chairman of the Committee for the distribution.

Each farmer received one bag of fertilizer along with a token amount of money to cover transportation costs to their respective communities. Oshiomhole emphasized that the initiative is designed to enhance agricultural productivity and support food security in Edo North. He also highlighted that the distribution was carried out across party lines, reflecting his commitment to representing all constituents.

Oshiomhole urged the beneficiaries to use the fertilizer for their crops instead of reselling it, stressing that the Federal Government’s support aims to improve food production and ensure better yields. The farmers who benefited from the distribution expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the positive impact the fertilizer would have on their farming activities and the overall food supply in the senatorial district.