Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya Elected 33rd NBA President

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, has been elected as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) after winning the association's 2026 national election.

The election results were announced on Sunday in Abuja by the Chairman of the NBA Electoral Committee (ECNBA), Aham Ejelam (SAN), following delays caused by technical issues and a cyberattack on the election system.

Badejo-Okusanya secured 12,317 votes (47.18%), defeating her closest rival, Lateef Akangbe (SAN), who received 7,934 votes (30.39%), while Olumuyiwa Akinboro (SAN) polled 5,855 votes (22.43%). A total of 26,106 votes were cast.

She will serve a two-year term (2026–2028) and becomes only the second woman to lead the Nigerian Bar Association, following Priscilla Kuye, who served as NBA president from 1991 to 1992.

Other officials elected include:

Oghenero Okoro – First Vice-President

Afam Okeke – General Secretary

Aghogho Gladys – Assistant General Secretary

Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam – Welfare Secretary

Badejo-Okusanya was not present during the announcement of the results. A member of her campaign team, Aminu Gadanya (SAN), explained that her absence was due to a flight delay. He added that the president-elect is committed to promoting unity within the association by reaching out to all candidates who participated in the election.

Outgoing NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) praised the successful conduct of the election despite attempts to disrupt the process through a cyberattack. He urged the newly elected officers to be gracious in victory and called on unsuccessful candidates to support the new leadership.

Osigwe also announced that the Electoral Committee would conduct a comprehensive review of the election process to strengthen cybersecurity, improve electoral integrity, and enhance confidence in future NBA elections.

Peter Obi Explains Choice of Kwankwaso as 2027 Running Mate

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has explained why he selected former Kano State Governor and Kwankwasiyya Movement leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking in an interview published on Sunday, Obi said the decision was based on their shared commitment to reducing poverty through education, economic growth, and human capital development.

According to Obi, both leaders believe education is the foundation for national transformation and improving the lives of Nigerians.

> "Kwankwaso believes in lifting people out of poverty through education, and I share the same philosophy. We have a common vision of building Nigeria by investing in its people," Obi said.

He dismissed reports of disagreements between himself and Kwankwaso, insisting that both leaders remain united and focused on providing transformational leadership rather than transactional politics.

Obi also said their alliance is driven by a desire to create a better future for Nigerians, adding that supporters of both the Obidient Movement and the Kwankwasiyya Movement are united by the common goal of national development.

Reflecting on why they did not contest together in the 2023 election, Obi said his attention is now on the future rather than past political events.

The Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is expected to be one of the major contenders in Nigeria's 2027 presidential election.

Five Rescued After Indonesian Passenger Boat Sinks, More Than 20 Still Missing.

Five people, including a seven-year-old girl, have been rescued after spending three days stranded at sea following the sinking of a passenger boat off Indonesia's Sulawesi coast. Authorities are continuing the search for at least 20 people who remain missing.

The survivors were found on Saturday by a fishing boat near Matallang Island. They had stayed alive by clinging to a fish trap and makeshift floating devices made from jerry cans, cork, and rope after the KM Nurul Salsa suffered engine failure and sank on Wednesday.

According to local search-and-rescue official Muhammad Arif Anwar, the rescued passengers were originally part of a group of 25 people but became separated due to strong winds and rough sea conditions.

The vessel was carrying 78 passengers and crew while travelling from Jampea Island to Benteng Port on Selayar Island in South Sulawesi. Reports indicate that 47 people were rescued shortly after the accident, while one person has been confirmed dead.

Search operations remain underway, involving five rescue ships, a reconnaissance aircraft, and a helicopter as authorities continue efforts to locate those still missing.

Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, relies heavily on passenger boats for transportation. However, maritime accidents remain common due to overcrowding, poor weather, and inadequate safety standards.

Gaza Fans Rally Behind Spain Ahead of World Cup Final

Excitement is building across the Gaza Strip ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with many football fans expressing support for Spain in Sunday's showdown against Argentina.

Many residents say their backing for Spain goes beyond football, citing the Spanish government's support for Palestinian statehood and public displays of solidarity from Spanish sports figures, including Barcelona star Lamine Yamal.

Ahmed al-Bozm, a football fan in Gaza City, said he hopes Spain wins the title, praising the country's support for the Palestinian cause. He also expressed hope that Spain's players would celebrate the victory in a way that acknowledges Palestine.

Despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis and widespread destruction caused by the conflict, football has continued to provide moments of hope and relief for many people in Gaza. Frequent electricity shortages and limited fuel supplies have made it difficult for fans to follow World Cup matches, but community groups have organised exhibition games and are planning public screenings of the final.

Former footballer and stadium manager Adnan al-Afifi said local organisers recently staged symbolic World Cup-themed matches in Gaza to keep the spirit of the tournament alive. He noted that most of Gaza's major stadiums remain unusable, forcing football activities to be held on small five-a-side pitches.

Hatem al-Maghribi, coach of Gaza's amputee football team, also voiced support for Spain, thanking countries and athletes who have spoken out about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

While many fans are backing Spain, they also acknowledged Argentina's footballing tradition and the quality of captain Lionel Messi. Al-Afifi stressed that supporting Spain does not reflect hostility toward Argentina, describing the South American nation as one of football's greatest teams.

As anticipation grows for the final, many Gazans hope the match will provide a brief escape from the hardships of daily life, with football continuing to serve as a source of unity and resilience.

Livestock Ministry Budgets N140m for Kaduna Emir Palaces, Mosques in 2026 Appropriation

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has allocated N140 million in the 2026 national budget for the construction and rehabilitation of emir palaces and mosques in Birnin Gwari/Giwa Federal Constituency, Kaduna State, despite the projects having no direct connection to livestock development.

The allocation is contained in the 2026 Appropriation Act under the ministry's headquarters capital projects. According to the budget, the funds are designated for the renovation and construction of emir palaces and mosques in the constituency.

The budget also includes several constituency projects that fall outside the ministry's core responsibility. These include:

N2.1 billion for the construction of schools in rural farming communities across the South-West.

N700 million each for rural roads serving farming communities in Anambra and Ogun states.

N595 million for the purchase of grains for vulnerable communities in the South-East.

N490 million for rural farm roads in Imo State.

N350 million for medical equipment for primary healthcare centres in five local government areas of Cross River State.

N210 million for a multipurpose hall, sports and event centre in Ifeanyi Ubah Senatorial District.

N210 million for hospital equipment in Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, Benue State.

N175 million for medical equipment in Idanre Federal Constituency.

N70 million for the renovation of nurses' quarters in Ojobo Community, Burutu Federal Constituency.

The allocations have drawn attention because several of the projects are not directly related to the ministry's mandate of promoting livestock development, raising questions about the inclusion of non-sectoral constituency projects in its budget.

Paris Grand Mosque Marks 100 Years as Symbol of Islam and French Unity

The Grand Mosque of Paris has marked its 100th anniversary, celebrating a century as France's oldest and largest mosque and highlighting its role as a symbol of both Islamic heritage and national unity.

Officially inaugurated on July 15, 1926, the mosque was built to honour Muslim soldiers from France's former colonies who fought and died for France during the First World War. Located in Paris' historic Latin Quarter, it remains a landmark for millions of Muslims and visitors.

Speaking to RFI, the mosque's rector, Chems-Eddine Hafiz, said the institution has always been part of the French Republic and represents the shared history between Muslims and France. He stressed that the mosque stands not only as a place of worship but also as part of France's cultural and historical heritage.

Hafiz said French secularism (laïcité) should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat to Islam, arguing that Muslims can be faithful to their religion while also being responsible and active French citizens.

He also highlighted the growing number of young Muslims attending the mosque and warned against misinformation spread by self-proclaimed religious figures on social media. According to him, the Grand Mosque is expanding its online presence to provide authentic religious guidance and promote moderation.

The rector acknowledged that France still faces a shortage of mosques, especially as religious participation has increased in recent years. However, he urged Muslim communities to build places of worship responsibly and ensure they remain sustainable in the future.

Looking ahead, Hafiz expressed hope that the next century would see Muslims become even more fully integrated into French society while preserving their religious identity.

The centenary celebrations recognise the Grand Mosque of Paris as a lasting symbol of remembrance, coexistence, and the contribution of Muslims to France's history.

Nigerian Troops Foil Attempted Mass Student Kidnapping in Borno, Rescue 46

Nigerian troops, working alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (MOPOL), have foiled an attempted mass abduction of students by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants at the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC) in Monguno, Borno State.

The attempted attack occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to Operation HADIN KAI. The school is currently serving as temporary accommodation for students of the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno.

Military authorities said the attackers reportedly gained access to the premises with the help of suspected collaborators and attempted to kidnap the students. Security personnel on duty engaged the terrorists immediately, while a Quick Reaction Force arrived to reinforce the school, forcing the attackers to flee without carrying out the abduction.

A total of 46 students were successfully rescued and evacuated to Kinnasara Barracks in Monguno, where they received medical attention. Officials confirmed that no student was abducted during the attack.

However, the military disclosed that some students were killed after being struck by stray gunfire fired by the attackers during the exchange of fire. Authorities expressed condolences to the victims' families.

The attack also caused damage to parts of the school's infrastructure.

Operation HADIN KAI said efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest individuals suspected of assisting the attackers. Troops and other security agencies have also launched operations to track down the fleeing terrorists.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying counterterrorism operations across Nigeria's North-East and strengthening security around schools and other critical public facilities.

Taiwan Must Never Become 'China's Taiwan' – President Lai

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has declared that the self-governed island must never become part of China, urging citizens to defend democracy and resist what he described as growing pressure from Beijing.

Speaking at the annual congress of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on Sunday, Lai called on party members and the public to unite against what he termed China's "red terror" and increasing political, legal, and military pressure on Taiwan.

He warned that China is using new laws and other measures to extend its influence beyond its borders, raising concerns in Taiwan that Beijing could target Taiwanese citizens it accuses of supporting independence.

"We must work together to protect our democratic and free way of life and never allow democratic Taiwan to become 'China's Taiwan'," Lai said.

The Taiwanese president also reiterated that Taiwan is already a sovereign country under its official name, the Republic of China, and is not governed by the People's Republic of China.

Lai stressed that Taiwan's future should be decided solely by its 23 million people, regardless of their ethnic background or family history.

China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has refused to engage in talks with Lai, describing him as a separatist. Beijing continues to insist that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, while Taiwan's government maintains that only its people have the right to determine the island's future.

The long-standing dispute dates back to 1949, when the Republic of China government retreated to Taiwan after losing the Chinese civil war to Mao Zedong's Communist forces. Since then, both sides have been governed separately, and no formal peace agreement has ever been signed.

Israeli Strategy in Gaza Faces Scrutiny as Settlement Push Gains Momentum.

Israeli officials are facing growing international scrutiny after senior government figures renewed calls to establish Israeli settlements in northern Gaza, a move analysts say could further complicate efforts to end the conflict and rebuild the devastated territory.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz recently announced plans to establish three Nahal outposts in northern Gaza. The outposts, which combine military and agricultural activities, are intended to strengthen Israel's security presence in the area. Katz said the proposal would be implemented at an appropriate time and in coordination with relevant authorities.

The proposal follows similar remarks by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has repeatedly advocated for the full occupation of Gaza and the return of Israeli settlements. The settlement movement has long supported re-establishing communities in the enclave after Israel withdrew its settlers in 2005.

Palestinian officials and human rights advocates argue that the continued destruction of infrastructure, restrictions on humanitarian aid, and opposition to large-scale reconstruction are creating conditions that could force Palestinians to leave Gaza. They describe the policy as part of a broader strategy aimed at changing the territory's demographic makeup.

International law considers Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories illegal, a position rejected by Israel. The issue remains one of the most contentious aspects of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Humanitarian agencies continue to warn that Gaza faces severe shortages of food, clean water, medicine and other essential supplies, while much of the territory remains in ruins after months of fighting.

The renewed settlement debate comes ahead of Israel's October elections, with political analysts suggesting the issue could become a major campaign topic as right-wing parties seek to strengthen support among their voter base.

The Israeli government maintains that its military operations are necessary for national security, while Palestinians and many international observers continue to call for an immediate expansion of humanitarian assistance and accelerated reconstruction efforts in Gaza.

50 Malian Soldiers Killed in Joint Rebel-Jihadist Ambush

At least 50 Malian soldiers have been killed in a deadly ambush carried out by Tuareg separatists and jihadist fighters in northern Mali, according to local officials.

The attack took place on Saturday as a military convoy was leaving the strategic town of Anefis, following weeks of intense fighting over control of the area.

The Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an Al-Qaeda-linked militant group, both claimed responsibility for the assault.

A local official close to Mali's ruling military government said more than 50 soldiers were killed, while at least 24 others were captured. The official described it as the deadliest attack on the Malian army in years.

A military source said some soldiers were reportedly executed after the ambush and confirmed that an investigation has been launched to determine how the convoy became so vulnerable.

Russian paramilitary personnel from the Africa Corps, who support Malian forces, had already reached their destination in Gao before the attack and were not among the casualties.

Mali's military acknowledged that its convoy had been ambushed by what it described as "terrorist armed groups" but did not release an official casualty figure.

The attack underscores the continuing security challenges facing Mali's military government, which seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021 and has struggled to contain jihadist and separatist insurgencies across the country.

Why Some Children Don't Resemble Their Parents — Medical Experts Explain.

Medical experts have explained that it is perfectly normal for some children to bear little or no physical resemblance to their biological parents, stressing that inherited traits can come from grandparents, great-grandparents, and other ancestors.

According to child health and genetics specialists, characteristics such as height, skin tone, facial features, body shape, intelligence, and behaviour are influenced by a complex combination of genes passed down through several generations. As a result, a child may strongly resemble a distant relative instead of either parent.

The experts noted that genes can remain hidden for generations before reappearing in descendants. They also explained that environmental factors may affect how certain inherited traits are expressed.

Speaking on the issue, Professor Christopher Yilgwan, a paediatrician at the University of Jos, said no single gene determines a child's appearance. He explained that children inherit different combinations of genes from many relatives, making it possible for them to look unlike their parents.

He urged families not to judge paternity based on physical appearance alone, emphasizing that children should be raised in a loving and supportive environment rather than being subjected to suspicion because of their looks.

Also speaking, Professor Ish'aq Abdul, a prenatal genetics and fetal medicine specialist at the University of Ilorin, said it is common for children to resemble ancestors from several generations back. He stressed that physical appearance alone cannot determine biological parentage.

According to him, the only reliable method of confirming paternity is DNA testing. While blood group testing may rule out paternity in certain situations, it cannot conclusively prove that a man is the biological father of a child.

The specialists also advised intending couples to know their genotype before marriage to help reduce the risk of sickle cell disease in children. They further warned about the importance of Rhesus factor compatibility during pregnancy and encouraged anyone with concerns about inherited conditions to seek professional genetic counselling rather than relying on assumptions based on appearance.

The experts concluded that physical differences between children and their parents are a natural result of genetic inheritance and should not automatically raise doubts about parentage.

US Marshals Arrest Andrew Tate, Brother Tristan Over 59 Criminal Charges

Social media personality Andrew Tate and his brother, Tristan Tate, have been arrested in Miami by the U.S. Marshals Service following a request from British authorities seeking their extradition.

The brothers are wanted in the United Kingdom over a total of 59 criminal charges, including rape, human trafficking for sexual exploitation, assault, and offences related to indecent images of a child. Andrew Tate faces 42 charges, while Tristan Tate faces 17.

According to the UK Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), prosecutors authorized additional charges after receiving new evidence from Bedfordshire Police, increasing the number of alleged victims in the case to seven. The CPS has formally requested the brothers' extradition from the United States.

The U.S. Marshals Service confirmed the arrests but declined to disclose the specific charges, citing a sealed arrest warrant.

The Tate brothers' lawyer, Joseph McBride, maintained that both men are innocent and said they would challenge the legal proceedings.

Andrew and Tristan Tate, who hold dual British and U.S. citizenship, have also been under investigation in Romania over separate allegations involving human trafficking, sexual offences, and money laundering. They are additionally accused of tax evasion and financial crimes in the UK.

Andrew Tate, a controversial online influencer known for promoting "manosphere" content and misogynistic views, has millions of followers on social media and has remained a polarizing public figure.

The legal process will now focus on whether U.S. authorities approve the UK's extradition request so the brothers can face trial in Britain.