Paphael News

In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship and African unity, players of Nigeria’s Super Falcons visited South African midfielder Gabriela Salgado at the Mohamed VI Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Salgado is recovering after undergoing surgery following an injury sustained during the semifinal clash between South Africa and Nigeria in the ongoing 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The semifinal match, held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, was intense and closely contested, ultimately ending in favor of Nigeria. However, midway through the second half, Salgado suffered a serious injury during a tackle and had to be stretchered off the pitch. She was immediately taken to the Mohamed VI Hospital, where medical officials later confirmed she had undergone a successful surgical procedure (CAF Medical Update, 2025). In a commendable act of goodwill, the Super Falcons team, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, took time out of their recovery and training s...

In December 2024, during a conversation with the Head of ICT Directorate Adron Homes, "Mr. Mubarack Suleiman", in his office, he asked me a question that I found myself unable to answer: "How do you feel when you solve people's problems?" I remained silent, unsure of how to respond. He then said, "There is always joy in solving people’s problems unless you don’t love what you are doing." At the time, I did not give much thought to his statement, but a recent experience made me fully understand its significance. Overcoming a Major Internet Downtime Issue Just two weeks ago, after migrating from a Starlink connection to a fiber-optic network at Trinity Tower, we successfully completed all installations. The connection between Adron Court’s server and the Trinity server was established using a transceiver and receiver, with a properly tested ISO-standard fiber-optic cable. Given the broadband upgrade to 150 Mbps—sufficient for any small and medium-sized e...

  A popular Facebook page known as Music Head has sparked conversation online after sharing an intriguing post about Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The post, framed as a "fun fact," aimed to remind fans, particularly smokers who idolize Fela for his well-known cannabis use that he was far more than just a cultural rebel or a smoker. In the post, Music Head sought to challenge those who regard Fela as a role model primarily for his lifestyle choices. “Because Fela dey follow una smoke Igbo, you think say na common man,” the post read, mocking the tendency of some admirers to draw shallow comparisons between themselves and the late music legend. The page further emphasized that Fela Kuti’s legacy stems not just from his controversial lifestyle, but from a deeply rooted heritage and intellectual background. According to the post, Fela's father was the uncle of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, a connection that ties him directly to one of Nigeria's most revered li...

A former Fox News reporter, widely recognized for her past allegations of misconduct against a senior network anchor, has now found herself in the spotlight once again, this time for legal reasons. Her recent arrest and the subsequent release of her mugshot have stirred public reaction and renewed media interest in her story. According to law enforcement officials, the ex-journalist was arrested earlier this week in connection with an alleged domestic incident. Authorities responded to a call involving a dispute at a private residence. After assessing the situation on the ground, officers placed her under arrest. While specific charges have not yet been disclosed, the case remains under investigation, and official court documents are expected to be made public in the coming days. The arrest marks a striking turn of events for the former reporter, who rose to national prominence several years ago after accusing a well-known Fox News anchor of sexual harassment. Her claims, reported b...

Following Nigeria’s recent victory over Zambia in a thrilling women’s international football encounter, social media has been flooded with a wave of celebratory memes and banter, especially from jubilant Nigerian fans. The Super Falcons’ commanding performance not only silenced pre-match critics but also sparked a humorous online reaction that has now become a staple of post-match entertainment across the nation. Prior to the match, Zambian fans had taken to social media with confidence, projecting bold predictions and engaging in playful trolling. One Nigerian social media user noted that Zambians had been particularly vocal in the hours leading up to kickoff, targeting Nigerian football pages with mockery and jibes. However, following Nigeria’s triumph on the pitch, those same Zambian voices appeared to vanish without a trace. "Whilst Zambians made noise, the Super Falcons were busy preparing to show workings," said a Nigerian fan on X (formerly Twitter), referencing the...

New York City was plunged into chaos on Monday following hours of torrential rainfall that caused severe flooding across all five boroughs. Subway stations were inundated with water, major roadways became impassable, and the National Weather Service (NWS) was forced to issue urgent flash flood warnings for the entire city. The storm, which began early Monday morning, quickly overwhelmed the city’s aging drainage infrastructure. Videos shared on social media showed floodwaters pouring down the stairs of subway stations, turning platforms into makeshift basins. According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), several subway lines were temporarily suspended or rerouted due to water damage and safety concerns (MTA, 2025). Commuters were left stranded during peak travel hours, with many describing the experience as “a complete disaster.” “This is one of the most significant rainfall events we’ve seen in recent years,” said meteorologist John Murray of the National Weather Se...

Fauja Singh, the iconic British-Sikh runner celebrated as the world’s oldest marathon participant, has passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that inspired millions across generations and continents. Although his exact age remained a subject of debate, Singh was widely believed to be over 100 years old at the time of his historic athletic achievements. Singh gained international fame in 2011 when he completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, becoming what many regarded as the first centenarian to finish a full 26.2-mile race. According to BBC News , Singh completed the marathon at the reported age of 100, finishing in just over eight hours and earning global recognition for his endurance and vitality. While official documents confirming his birth year have been elusive, Singh himself maintained he was born on April 1, 1911, in Punjab, India. Dubbed the "Turbaned Tornado" for his flowing beard and traditional Sikh attire, Singh began long-distance running in his 80s...

Hundreds of thousands of workers across India staged a nationwide strike on Wednesday to protest against the economic policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, particularly the push toward privatizing state-run enterprises and implementing other structural reforms. The large-scale industrial action, spearheaded by a coalition of trade unions, disrupted several sectors including transportation, banking, and manufacturing. The protest, dubbed “Bharat Bandh” (Hindi for “Shut Down India”), was organized by a coalition of ten major central trade unions. These include the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), and others. The strike also drew support from farmer organizations, rural workers, and public sector employees, making it one of the most wide-ranging labor actions in recent years. Union leaders argue that the government’s privatization drive threatens job security, reduces benefit...

In a dramatic turn of events, a man who spent 26 years in Lagos' notorious Kiri Kiri prison for a crime he did not commit has been exonerated and released. His case, which stemmed from an alleged involvement in a generator theft, was recently revisited, leading to the discovery of his innocence. The man, whose identity remains withheld for security reasons, was convicted in 1999 for his supposed role in a generator theft. Despite consistent claims of his innocence, the conviction held, and he spent more than two decades behind bars. His story gained traction when legal advocates and family members pushed for a review of his case, culminating in a landmark decision by the Nigerian judiciary to clear his name. Upon his release, the man wasted no time in reuniting with his family, especially his elderly mother. His first stop was her home, where the emotional moment of their reunion was captured. The mother, who had spent years praying for her son’s release, could not hold back tear...

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed the deaths of five Israeli soldiers during a combat operation in northern Gaza, marking one of the deadliest single incidents for Israeli forces in recent weeks. According to the military, two additional soldiers sustained serious injuries in the same engagement. The IDF released a brief statement on Monday, acknowledging the loss but refrained from providing specific operational details. “Five soldiers were killed during fighting in the northern Gaza Strip. Two others were critically wounded,” the military said in a statement, adding that families of the fallen had been notified. While the IDF did not elaborate on the circumstances, military sources speaking on condition of anonymity suggested the casualties may have resulted from an anti-tank missile strike or an accidental explosion during close-quarter combat with Hamas militants. The exact cause remains under investigation. The incident occurred amid renewed military activity in no...

In an electrifying display of dominance and precision, Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon shattered the women’s 1500m world record with a time of 3:48.68 at the Prefontaine Classic, part of the Wanda Diamond League Final, held on Saturday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. The 30-year-old Olympic and world champion not only defended her status as the world’s premier middle-distance runner but also redefined the limits of human endurance in the event. Kipyegon took control of the race from the outset, sticking closely to the pacemakers and guided by the innovative Wavelight pacing technology. She hit each lap with clockwork precision, pulling away in the final 400 meters to cross the finish line well ahead of her competitors and her previous world record of 3:49.11, set in Florence just months ago (World Athletics, 2025). “This means a lot to me,” Kipyegon said moments after the race, visibly emotional. “I came here with a goal, and I felt strong and confident. I just wanted to run free, follow...

Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson delivered a statement performance on Sunday, winning the highly anticipated Men’s 100m event at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic with a time of 9.85 seconds. The meet, part of the prestigious Wanda Diamond League, was held at Hayward Field in Eugene and attracted elite global talent across various track and field disciplines. Thompson’s victory not only marked one of the fastest times of the season but also affirmed his position as one of the leading sprinters heading into the World Athletics Championships later this year. The 22-year-old burst out of the blocks with explosive speed and maintained a clear lead through the finish line, stunning spectators and analysts alike with his composed and dominant run. British sprinter Zharnel Hughes finished second, clocking a season’s best of 9.91 seconds. Hughes, the European 100m record holder, showed great form and consistency as he held off a strong challenge from American Trayvon Bromell, who took third pla...

In a thrilling showdown at the latest Diamond League meeting, American sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden delivered one of the most impressive performances of her career by defeating Olympic champion Julien Alfred in the women’s 100 metres final. Jefferson-Wooden surged to the line in a blistering time of 10.75 seconds , narrowly edging Alfred, who followed closely at 10.77 seconds . The result came as a surprise to many athletics observers, as Alfred, the reigning Olympic 100m gold medallist and one of the season's top performers, was the favorite heading into the race. However, Jefferson-Wooden’s explosive start and strong finish proved decisive in securing the victory. The win marks one of her fastest times this season and signals a strong return to form as she builds momentum toward the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Ivorian sprint legend Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith also impressed, clinching third place with a Season’s Best of 10.90 seconds . The 35-year-old veteran continues to prov...

The Kano State Hisbah Board has officially dissolved the marriage of two young lovers, stating that the union contravened a key principle of Islamic marital law. The Islamic enforcement agency, which operates under the Shariah legal framework in Kano State, said the decision followed an investigation that found the couple failed to comply with one of the fundamental requirements for a valid marriage under Islam. Though the board did not publicly disclose the specific clause violated, sources within the agency revealed that the marriage may have occurred without the mandatory consent of a guardian (wali), a condition necessary for the legality of a marriage in Islamic tradition—particularly when involving young women. Speaking to journalists in Kano, Lawal Ibrahim Fagge, the Public Relations Officer of the Hisbah Board, confirmed the development and defended the board’s decision, saying it was based on due legal and religious consultation. “The Hisbah Board remains committed to upho...

In a remarkable turn of events that could have ended in tragedy, a Nigerian man has publicly expressed heartfelt gratitude to God after a hidden well unexpectedly collapsed in his yard, moments after his children had left the area where it occurred. The emotional incident, which has since stirred reactions online, unfolded when the man discovered that an old, unmarked well, believed to have been concealed beneath the surface for years, suddenly gave way, creating a large and dangerous sinkhole. According to the homeowner, his children had been playing directly over the hidden well just ten minutes before the collapse. Sharing his experience, the man said, “I thank God from the bottom of my heart. The hidden well in my yard just collapsed. Luckily, the children weren’t there, they had all gone out. And just ten minutes earlier, that’s exactly where they were playing. Imagine the scene! I’m deeply grateful to the Lord for protecting them.” While the location of the incident has not y...

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced the death of Sergeant Yair Eliyahou , a 19-year-old combat soldier who fell during ongoing military operations in the northern Gaza Strip. Eliyahou served in a specialized unit within the Combat Engineering Corps of the IDF’s Northern Brigade. In an official statement released early Thursday, the IDF confirmed that Sergeant Eliyahou was killed in action while carrying out operational duties as part of Israel’s ongoing security efforts in Gaza. The military did not disclose the exact details of the incident, citing ongoing operations and security protocol. “The IDF expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Sergeant Yair Eliyahou and shares in their grief,” the statement read. “May his memory be a blessing.” ( Israel Defense Forces, July 4, 2025 ) Sergeant Eliyahou is remembered as a dedicated and courageous young soldier who volunteered for combat duty, fully aware of the dangers involved. His role in the Combat Engineering Cor...

Former Nigerian international and Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai , has passed away following a brief illness. The news of his death sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s football community and beyond, as tributes continue to pour in for one of the nation's most iconic goalkeepers. According to sources close to the family, Rufai, aged 61, died on Tuesday after suffering health complications in Lagos. Although details of his illness have not been officially disclosed, family members confirmed that the former football star had been under medical care in the days leading up to his passing. Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Peter Rufai , fondly nicknamed “Dodo Mayana” , was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers. He made over 60 appearances for the Nigerian national team between 1983 and 1998, earning admiration for his composure, agility, and leadership on the pitch. Rufai was instrumental in Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 African Cup of Nations in Tunisia and playe...

The Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, has convicted and sentenced a man, Ayorinde Festus Morakinyo, for the illegal trading of Nigeria's legal tender in contravention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act. Justice Nkeonye Maha delivered the ruling on Tuesday, following the arraignment of the defendant by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibadan Zonal Directorate. Morakinyo was charged on March 26, 2025, on a one-count charge related to the unlawful sale of naira notes. According to court documents, Morakinyo was accused of selling ₦1,000,000 worth of ₦1,000 and ₦500 notes for a sum of ₦50,000, an act in violation of Section 21(4) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and punishable under Section 21(1) of the same legislation. The charge read in court stated: "That you, Ayorinde Festus Morakinyo, sometime in December 2023 in Ibadan, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did sell the sum of ₦1,000,000.00 in ₦1,000 and ₦500...

The footballing world is in mourning following the tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother, André Silva, in a devastating car accident in Spain. The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning along a highway near Salamanca, while the pair were traveling on a private vacation. According to Spanish authorities, the crash involved a single vehicle, which veered off the road at high speed and collided with a barrier before overturning. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the accident was reported but were unable to save the occupants. Both Jota and Silva were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently ongoing, but early reports suggest there were no other vehicles involved and no signs of foul play. Diogo Jota, 28, was a prominent figure in European football, known for his clinical finishing, versatility, and work rate. He joined Liverpool FC in 2020 from Wo...

Nigerian football sensation Victor Osimhen was recently seen enjoying a luxurious boat cruise in Dubai alongside billionaire businessman and nightlife mogul, Obi Cubana. The two high-profile figures were captured aboard a sleek private yacht, soaking in the opulence of Dubai’s waterfront with scenic views and luxury living on full display. The photos, which have gone viral on social media, have generated widespread admiration. Osimhen, fresh off a phenomenal 2024/2025 season with Turkish champions Galatasaray , appeared relaxed and jubilant in the company of the influential Cubana. The Super Eagles striker scored a staggering 36 goals across all competitions , playing a vital role in Galatasaray’s domestic and European campaigns. His performances not only helped secure the Süper Lig title but also earned him recognition as one of the most lethal strikers in European football. The 26-year-old’s standout form has placed him at the center of intense transfer speculation, with reports...

In a significant shift in policy, the University of Pennsylvania has barred transgender athletes from competing on women's sports teams, following a newly brokered agreement with the administration of President Donald Trump. The deal, which has sparked national debate, not only halts future participation of transgender women in women’s sports at the Ivy League institution but also retroactively removes recognition of their past athletic accomplishments. The agreement reportedly comes in response to broader Republican-led efforts to restrict the inclusion of transgender athletes in gendered sports categories across the United States. While the full terms of the deal have not yet been publicly released, University officials confirmed that the policy change aligns with the Trump administration’s long-standing stance on sex-based athletic classifications. “This move is part of ensuring fairness in women’s sports,” a senior official from the Trump camp said in a statement. “Athletics...

In a dazzling moment that highlighted the pride and progress of women’s football on the continent, Nigerian football stars Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade stole the spotlight during the official unveiling of the new CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy. The event, held under the auspices of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), showcased not only the beautifully redesigned trophy but also the stature and influence of African women in sports. Representing Nigeria with elegance and grace, Oshoala and Ajibade made a powerful statement — they didn’t just attend the unveiling; they owned the stage. “Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade brought pure steeze and composure to the trophy reveal,” CAF noted on its official social media platform, capturing the essence of their presence at the event. Dressed in coordinated, stylish outfits that blended athleticism with cultural pride, the two superstars symbolized both the legacy and the future of African women’s footbal...

A startling incident has gone viral on social media, showing the dramatic apprehension of a young man discovered hiding inside the ceiling of a commercial bank in Nigeria. The incident occurred at a branch of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), where the suspect reportedly attempted a covert break-in strategy by hiding within the bank premises during business hours. Eyewitnesses say the young man entered the banking hall during regular operations, quietly made his way into the restroom, and allegedly locked himself inside. From there, he accessed the building’s ceiling, where he concealed himself until the close of business. According to reports gathered at the scene, the suspect’s intention was to remain undetected inside the bank after working hours, presumably to carry out a robbery or gain unauthorized access to restricted areas overnight. However, his plan unraveled when security personnel and cleaners conducting end-of-day checks heard unusual noises from above the ceiling. A vi...

  As the war in Ukraine intensifies, Russia has dramatically increased its use of Iranian-designed Shahed drones, low-cost, long-range unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that have become a central element of Moscow’s evolving military strategy.  These drones, known for their stealth capabilities and effectiveness in night operations, have been deployed in growing numbers to target Ukrainian infrastructure, military installations, and civilian areas, creating a new wave of aerial threats across the country. In response, Ukraine has quietly developed and deployed a specialized counter-drone unit known as “Darknode.” Operating under a veil of secrecy, the unit represents a pioneering step in modern warfare — engaging enemy drones with Ukrainian interceptor drones in direct aerial combat, a tactic that just years ago seemed futuristic. Darknode’s mission is clear: intercept, disable, and destroy Russia’s incoming drones before they reach their targets. These operations take place i...

In a major legal development, a U.S. federal judge has blocked a controversial Trump-era policy that barred most migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border from seeking asylum. The ruling, issued on Tuesday by Judge Jon Tigar of the U.S. District Court in Northern California, marks a significant victory for immigrant rights advocates and a reaffirmation of long-standing principles in U.S. asylum law. The rule, originally implemented by the Trump administration in July 2019, sought to render migrants ineligible for asylum if they failed to apply for protection in a third country—such as Mexico or Guatemala—before reaching the United States. Under the regulation, migrants who did not meet that criterion were automatically denied the opportunity to present their cases for asylum on American soil. Judge Tigar struck down the policy, declaring it “both substantively and procedurally invalid.” In his ruling, he wrote that the regulation was inconsistent with the Immigration and Nationality Act, w...

The track and field world is bracing for a sprint showdown that feels like a preview of the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships. The women’s 100m event at the 50th edition of the Nike Prefontaine Classic , scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025 , promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the year, as some of the globe’s fastest women line up at the iconic Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. The entry list reads like a who's who of sprinting royalty, featuring top-tier talent from across the world. Leading the pack is Sha’Carri Richardson (USA) , the reigning World Champion and crowd favorite, looking to reaffirm her dominance after an impressive start to the season. She will face stiff competition from Julien Alfred (Saint Lucia) , the 2023 NCAA Champion and rising international star. The American contingent is bolstered by Melissa Jefferson-Wooden , the 2022 US champion, and Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry , known for her explosive finish and strong relay performances. Great...

Nigerian football star Asisat Oshoala proudly represented Team Nigeria at the grand unveiling of the new Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy, signaling a renewed era of recognition and respect for women's football across the continent. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) revealed the redesigned trophy in a ceremony aimed at elevating the status of the women’s game, ahead of the 2025 WAFCON tournament scheduled to be hosted in Morocco. The new trophy, which boasts a modern, elegant design, is part of CAF’s broader campaign to promote gender equality and amplify investment in women’s sports. Asisat Oshoala, a six-time African Women's Footballer of the Year and current forward for Bay FC in the United States, was chosen as Nigeria’s ambassador for the event. Her presence underscored her influence as a trailblazer in African football and a vocal advocate for female athletes. "This is more than a trophy; it is a symbol of how far we’ve come and how much fu...

American music mogul and entrepreneur Sean "Diddy" Combs has been acquitted of the most serious criminal charges brought against him in a closely-watched federal trial that has gripped the public for the past eight weeks.  The 54-year-old former rap star was found not guilty on counts of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, but was convicted on lesser federal charges related to the unlawful transportation of individuals across state lines to engage in prostitution. The trial, held at a federal courthouse in New York, featured explosive testimony and disturbing allegations. Prosecutors had originally accused Combs of orchestrating a criminal enterprise spanning several years—claims that included sexual exploitation, coercion, and participation in a widespread network of illicit activities. The government’s case hinged on testimonies from multiple accusers and alleged former associates, some of whom described troubling incidents dating back over a decade. However, af...

In a dramatic move that has stirred political and traditional circles, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi Aromire, has removed six of his chiefs from office for allegedly attending the campaign flag-off of the Labour Party in the Apapa area of Lagos State. According to a report by Sahara Reporters , the traditional ruler viewed the presence of the chiefs at the opposition party’s political event as a violation of palace protocols and a betrayal of the throne's neutrality in political affairs. The incident reportedly occurred during a Labour Party rally held in Apapa to launch its campaign activities ahead of the 2025 local government elections. Oba Aromire, in a statement issued by the palace, described the chiefs' attendance as “an act of disloyalty and a breach of the traditional code of conduct.” The monarch emphasized that their participation could be interpreted as political endorsement, which undermines the apolitical stance expected of titl...

In a dramatic and unexpected twist at the FIFA Club World Cup, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal delivered a stunning blow to reigning English and European champions Manchester City, knocking them out with a 4-3 victory after extra time on Monday. The match, held at a packed stadium in Jeddah, marked the most significant upset of the tournament so far and a defining moment in Al Hilal’s footballing history. The game started with Manchester City asserting early dominance, controlling possession and creating a flurry of chances. Their efforts paid off in the 18th minute when Bernardo Silva slotted in a well-placed shot to give City a 1-0 lead. However, Al Hilal quickly responded through a clinical counterattack finished by Malcom, leveling the score before halftime. The second half turned into a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Erling Haaland restored City’s lead in the 55th minute with a trademark strike, but Al Hilal refused to be subdued. Former Porto striker Moussa Marega brought the S...