• info@dailyoracleng.com
  • adsales@dailyoracleng.com
Sunday, 14 DecemberWeather Icon-11.28°C
site logo

December 5, 2025

News, Sports, Trending

Troost-Ekong’s Emotional Exit: Super Eagles, CAF Pay Tribute To Retiring Captain

/

Nigeria’s football fraternity has poured heartfelt tributes on Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, who on Thursday officially stepped away from international football—bringing to a close a decade of leadership and service less than three weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco.

The 32-year-old defender confirmed his decision in an emotional video posted on social media, ending a wave of speculation that began after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles were eliminated in a dramatic playoff against DR Congo, losing 4–3 on penalties.

Troost-Ekong’s journey with Nigeria began in 2015 when the late Stephen Keshi, fondly known as the Big Boss, handed him a life-changing late call-up. From that moment, the Dutch-born defender grew into one of the team’s most admired figures, eventually rising to captain the national side.

“Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football,” he said in the emotional farewell message. “A late call from coach Stephen Keshi in 2015 changed everything for me. His belief ignited a fire that shaped the rest of my career. Wearing the Nigerian jersey has been the greatest honour of my life.”

He reflected proudly on his Super Eagles tenure—83 caps, eight goals, five major tournaments, and three medals—calling the experience “a dream fully lived.”

The announcement triggered a flood of tributes from teammates, fans, and the wider African football community. Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers hailed him simply as “Legend.”

Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina celebrated him as “My champion!!!” while Ademola Lookman praised his leadership. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also joined in, writing: “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”

Interestingly, Troost-Ekong’s retirement came just 48 hours after his name appeared in head coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man squad for AFCON 2025.

Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong represented the Dutch youth sides before pledging his senior future to Nigeria.

He made his debut in an AFCON qualifier against Chad and went on to feature at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and successive AFCON tournaments. His performances at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast—where he scored three goals and captained the team to a silver medal—earned him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award, an uncommon honour for a centre-back.

Also Read: Grow Up – Davido, Sanwo-Olu’s Aide Clash Over Wizkid Promotion

As Nigeria heads into AFCON 2025 in Group C alongside Uganda, Tunisia, and Tanzania, the Super Eagles will be without one of the most influential and respected players of their modern era.

Troost-Ekong departs having etched his name into Nigerian football history—a leader, a warrior, and a captain who gave the green-and-white everything.

News, Politics, Technology, Trending

Oshiomhole Demands Tougher Regulation for Fintech Firms After Account Hack

/

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has urged the National Assembly to impose stronger regulatory controls on financial technology platforms operating outside Nigeria’s traditional banking system. His call came during Thursday’s plenary as lawmakers debated a bill to amend the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA).

The proposed amendment, sponsored by Senator Tokunbo Abiru (APC, Lagos East), seeks to enhance oversight, registration requirements, and classification of systemically important financial institutions—particularly non-bank fintech companies that now play major roles in Nigeria’s payment ecosystem.

‘They Used Only Fintech Channels’, Oshiomhole Says of Account Breach

In a passionate contribution, Oshiomhole revealed that his recent experience with cyber fraud exposed troubling gaps in the current regulatory framework.

According to him, perpetrators who hacked his bank account carried out their transactions exclusively through digital financial platforms.

“When they hacked into my account, every fraudulent transfer was done through OPAY and Moniepoint. Not one conventional bank was involved,” he told the chamber.

He expressed concern that many of these fast-growing fintech operators lack physical branches, visible leadership structures, or clear accountability mechanisms.

“They don’t have offices in Abuja; they don’t employ workers; they provide no social responsibility. Yet millions of Nigerians rely on them daily,” he said.

Fintech Growth Demands Real Accountability, Senator Warns

Oshiomhole argued that although the Central Bank of Nigeria can issue guidelines, only legislation enacted by the National Assembly can provide the firm legal backing needed to hold operators accountable.

He warned that if any major non-bank financial platform were to collapse, the consequences could be catastrophic for users—and for the government that would likely bear the responsibility for the fallout.

“These institutions have become critical players in our economy. If they go under, Nigerians who lose their savings will look to political authorities for answers,” he cautioned.

Oshiomhole also noted a stark contrast in transparency between traditional banks and newer digital platforms.

“I know the directors of First Bank, Access Bank, and Zenith Bank. But who are the directors of OPAY? Who are the owners of Moniepoint?” he questioned.

Senate Advances Bill After Heated Debate

He applauded the intent of the amendment bill but pressed for deeper scrutiny to ensure no regulatory loopholes remain open, especially regarding ownership, supervision, and statutory obligations of fintech operators.

You May Like: New Defence Minister Christopher Musa Pledges Swift Security Reforms in Nigeria

After deliberations, the Senate passed the bill for second reading, paving the way for further legislative work by the relevant committees.

Edo: Gunmen Kill 8 NSCDC Officers, Kidnap Chinese Expat in Okpella Ambush
News, Trending

Two Chinese Nationals Kidnapped at Kwara Road Construction Site

/

Kwara State has witnessed a disturbing security breach as two Chinese nationals were reportedly kidnapped by gunmen from a road construction project.

The victims were employed at the BUA Group’s road development site along the Bode Saadu/Kaiama/Kosubosu corridor.

According to local sources, the abduction took place in the early hours of December 1, 2025.

A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, provided details of the incident to Sahara Reporters. “Between 11 pm and 4 am, heavily armed individuals stormed the construction site, located less than two kilometers from the villages of Bielesin/Fallah and near Olokiti. They fired sporadically for two to three hours before forcibly taking two Chinese workers. Thankfully, there were no other casualties,” the source said.

As of now, there has been no communication from the kidnappers, and the whereabouts of the victims remain unknown. Authorities are reportedly investigating the incident and coordinating efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted workers.

Also Read: Troost-Ekong Retires From Super Eagles Weeks Before AFCON 2025

This alarming event underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Kwara State, raising concerns about the safety of foreign nationals involved in infrastructure and construction projects across the region.

News, Politics, Trending

New Defence Minister Christopher Musa Pledges Swift Security Reforms in Nigeria

/

Newly appointed Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), has pledged that the Federal Government’s revamped security agenda will begin yielding visible results sooner than Nigerians expect.

Speaking on Thursday after taking his oath of office before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Musa said his immediate mission is to reposition the nation’s defence architecture and strengthen cooperation across all security institutions.

“My focus from day one is to ensure that the defence sector fully assumes its rightful place in securing the nation,” he told journalists after the ceremony.

General Musa underscored the importance of unity within the armed forces and seamless collaboration with the police and other security outfits. According to him, Nigeria’s security challenges can only be effectively tackled when all stakeholders work as one.

“Security is a collective duty,” he stressed. “We will build on existing structures, reinforce synergy, and deliver practical solutions. Nigerians will not wait long before they begin to see positive changes.”

The Defence Minister, who expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received, assured citizens of his commitment to restoring safety and stability nationwide.

“Nigerians have shown me tremendous goodwill,” he said. “In return, I will give everything required to ensure this country is secure.”

Speaking on President Tinubu’s charge to him, Musa disclosed that the President was unequivocal about the urgency of restoring peace across the country.

“I’ve just met with Mr President,” he revealed. “His directive is clear—Nigeria must be secured without delay. We must create an environment where citizens can sleep peacefully, return to their farms, send their children to school, and go about their daily lives without fear.”

Also Read: Is This The Renewed Hope You Promised Nigerians? – Yul Edochie Slams Tinubu

He reaffirmed that the renewed security blueprint aligns with the administration’s broader agenda to foster national growth and stability.

Entertainment, Music, News, Trending

Grow Up – Davido, Sanwo-Olu’s Aide Clash Over Wizkid Promotion

/

A fresh social media skirmish erupted after Nigerian music star Davido took aim at Jubril A. Gawat, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The friction began when Gawat shared a promotional poster for Wizkid’s December 28 concert at Tafawa Balewa Square, captioning it with the Yoruba phrase “Ọmọ wa ni”—a warm, endorsing remark meaning “He’s our own.”

Gawat’s praise struck a chord with fans, one of whom hailed Wizkid as “the face of Lagos.” Gawat promptly agreed, saying the state was proud of the Grammy-winning singer.

But when another user brought Davido into the conversation—*“Ore oga nko?”*—the aide doubled down, again affirming his principal’s admiration for Wizkid.

Davido didn’t take the comment lightly. In a swift response on social media, he accused Gawat of holding onto old grievances and advised him to move on.

“Bro, it’s been a year. Let it go… why e still dey do you? Grow up. Since yesterday… let it go nah… cheer up,” Davido wrote, referencing an earlier post he believed Gawat hadn’t forgiven.

This latest back-and-forth adds another chapter to their long-running tension.

Their feud traces back to September 2024 after the Edo State governorship election, when Davido publicly criticized INEC, calling the electoral body “dangerous.” Gawat, a staunch APC supporter, offered a cryptic rebuttal at the time—sparking a heated exchange in which Davido brought up previous interactions involving Governor Sanwo-Olu.

Also Read: Troost-Ekong Retires From Super Eagles Weeks Before AFCON 2025

Now, with both men revisiting old wounds online, their rivalry continues to spill into public view—this time under the spotlight of Wizkid’s upcoming Lagos concert.

News, Sports, Trending

Troost-Ekong Retires From Super Eagles Weeks Before AFCON 2025

/

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has shocked Nigerian football fans after announcing his retirement from international duty, just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco.

The 32-year-old defender made the announcement on his 𝕏 account on Thursday, posting a concise but emotional message confirming that his decade-long journey with the national team had come to an end. In the post, Troost-Ekong described himself as “honoured” and “forever a Super Eagle,” signalling the close of a remarkable international career that included 83 caps, eight goals, and three AFCON medals.

“Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle,” he wrote.

“Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”

Troost-Ekong’s rise began in 2015 when he earned his first senior call-up. He soon became a cornerstone of the national defence, admired for his consistency, leadership and determination.

His crowning achievement came at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he captained Nigeria to a second-place finish and earned the tournament’s Player of the Tournament award—an accolade that cemented his legacy among the country’s modern greats.

The timing of his retirement, however, has intensified concerns ahead of AFCON 2025. Nigeria is already grappling with the loss of promising young defender Benjamin Frederick, who has been ruled out of the tournament and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers due to injury.

For head coach Eric Chelle, the sudden departure of Troost-Ekong—combined with Frederick’s absence—poses significant challenges. The team must quickly reorganize its defensive structure, find suitable replacements, and build cohesion at a critical time.

Also Read: Ambassadorial Nomination Of Ex-INEC Chairman, Mahmood Presents Terrible Optics’ – Atiku

Troost-Ekong leaves behind big shoes to fill and a legacy that fans believe will be difficult to replicate. His leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the green-and-white remain hallmarks of his decade with the Super Eagles.

Atiku: I’ll Step Down If a Younger Candidate Defeats Me in ADC Primaries
News, Politics, Trending

Ambassadorial Nomination Of Ex-INEC Chairman, Mahmood Presents Terrible Optics’ – Atiku

/

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the nomination of former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu for an ambassadorial appointment, calling it a dangerous signal for Nigeria’s democracy.

Yakubu was recently listed among more than 30 individuals President Bola Tinubu forwarded to the Senate for ambassadorial screening.

But Atiku, reacting via his 𝕏 account on Thursday, said the decision raises troubling questions about the administration’s judgment and commitment to electoral integrity.

The 2023 PDP presidential candidate argued that appointing the nation’s immediate past chief electoral umpire to such a high-profile diplomatic position risks creating the impression of political compensation rather than genuine merit.

According to him, the message this sends to the current INEC leadership is particularly alarming.

“At no point, if I were President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, would I nominate the outgoing INEC Chairman for an ambassadorial role,” Atiku declared. He added that the move “raises serious concerns” and “appears more like a quid pro quo than a reward for excellence.”

He further stressed that the nomination is damaging for an administration already battling credibility issues, noting that it wrongly suggests that flawed, biased, or poorly managed elections could be rewarded instead of scrutinized.

“Most importantly,” Atiku continued, “it is morally indefensible for an umpire at the centre of one of the most disputed elections in our history to become a beneficiary of its outcome.”

Also Read: Nigeria–US Relations Remain Strong Despite Visa Restrictions, Says Information Minister

He concluded that such political decisions undermine efforts to build public trust and weaken ongoing attempts to strengthen democratic institutions.

Entertainment, News, Politics, Trending

Is This The Renewed Hope You Promised Nigerians? – Yul Edochie Slams Tinubu

/

Nollywood star Yul Edochie has taken a swipe at President Bola Tinubu, expressing deep frustration over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship.

The actor, in a strongly worded message shared on his Facebook page, lamented that kidnapping has become a frightening daily reality in many parts of the country. According to him, bandits appear to be operating with little restraint while citizens live in constant fear.

Edochie stressed that the rising cost of living has pushed many Nigerians to the brink, noting that basic items are now beyond the reach of ordinary families.

“Dear President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he wrote, “bandits are gradually taking over the country, shedding innocent blood without consequences. Nigerians are being kidnapped in large numbers every day. Prices of goods have skyrocketed, and the suffering is unbearable. Is this the ‘renewed hope’ you promised?”

Beyond national security and economic woes, the actor also recently voiced concern over the fading use of the Igbo language among younger generations. In another Facebook post, the father of five lamented that many Igbo children can no longer communicate in their mother tongue—a situation he described as an indictment on parents and the community.

Also Read: Court of Appeal Upholds VIO Ban, Awards Lawyer N1 Million Costs

“Today,” he wrote, “many Igbo children cannot speak Igbo. It’s a failure on our part, and we must correct it moving forward.”

Edochie’s comments have stirred conversations online, as many Nigerians resonate with his concerns over both national challenges and cultural preservation.

Scroll to Top
site logo

Politics

Photo

News

Music

Lifestyle

Health

Gym

Games

Food

Fitness

Feature

Fashion

Entertainment

Education

Design

Dental

Construction

Business

Building

Beauty

Award

Join our newsletter channel