Nigerian Weightlifter Ruth Ayodele Shines Bright with Three Medals at IWF World Championship

Nigerian weightlifter Ruth Ayodele etched her name in the annals of the sport by clinching three medals at the prestigious IWF World Championship held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 23-year-old athlete’s remarkable feat brought glory to Nigeria and showcased her prowess on the international stage.

Competing in the women’s 64kg category, Ayodele’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. She secured two silver medals and one bronze, demonstrating her extraordinary abilities. In the Snatch event, she lifted an impressive 100kg, setting the tone for her remarkable campaign. Her Clean and Jerk performance saw her hoisting a formidable 122kg, further solidifying her position as a top contender. With a total lift of 222kg, Ayodele’s consistency and determination earned her another medal, securing her place in weightlifting history.

While Ayodele’s achievements were monumental, she faced formidable competition. Mosquera Llamosa of Colombia emerged as a formidable adversary, clinching three gold medals by lifting 101kg in the Snatch, 122kg in the Clean and Jerk, and 223kg in the Total category. Korea’s Minkyung Park also showcased her prowess, securing one silver and two bronze medals in the women’s 64kg.

In the women’s 59kg category, Nigeria’s Rafiatu Lawal, a 2022 Commonwealth gold medallist, displayed her dedication, finishing in the sixth position. Her lifts included 100kg in the Snatch, 125kg in the Clean and Jerk, and 225kg in the Total. Adijat Olarinoye, another talented Nigerian weightlifter, secured the 15th position with lifts of 95kg in the Snatch, 120kg in the Clean and Jerk, and 215kg in the Total.

In the men’s 73kg category, Edidiong Umoafia represented Nigeria with a strong performance. His lifts included 140kg in the Snatch, 170kg in the Clean and Jerk, and 310kg in the Total, earning him the 18th position.

Ruth Ayodele’s remarkable achievements at the IWF World Championship serve as an inspiration to aspiring sportswomen in Nigeria and around the world. Her discipline, and relentless pursuit have earned her a place among the sport’s elite.

British Warship Returns to Nigeria to Enhance Maritime Security

In a bid to combat maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, a Royal Navy warship, HMS Trent, has made its second visit to Nigeria in three years. The vessel arrived in Lagos on Sunday, and its crew is set to meet with Nigerian Navy authorities.

HMS Trent’s first visit to Lagos in 2021 marked the ship’s first port of call in the Gulf of Guinea. This return visit reaffirms the United Kingdom’s commitment to maritime security cooperation with West African nations to counter piracy, armed robbery, and other maritime crimes.

Commander Tim Langford, the commanding officer of HMS Trent, expressed his team’s readiness to work closely with the Nigerian Navy to identify potential solutions for safeguarding the Gulf of Guinea and the wider region. The focus will be on counter-piracy, counter-terrorism, and addressing illegal activities at sea.

Counter-piracy remains a major concern, and Commander Langford stressed the importance of international collaboration to combat this issue effectively. He emphasised the friendly nature of the exercise and the historical ties between the Royal Navy and the Nigerian Navy.

HMS Trent is equipped with surveillance drones to enhance its operational capabilities, allowing officers on board to identify potential threats from a distance.

Mr. Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner, acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Navy during the visit. He highlighted the tangible evidence of the UK’s relationship with countries like Nigeria and the importance of working together to address maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.

Maritime security is a significant concern, and the stability and prosperity of Nigeria, as a populous and economically vital country, are essential for the region’s overall stability. The visit of HMS Trent underscores the UK’s commitment to promoting security and cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.

HMS Trent’s mission involves enhancing stability in the Gulf of Guinea through training, working alongside African allies, and representing the UK and Royal Navy. The warship has integrated a boarding team from 42 Commando and collaborated with the 700X Naval Air Squadron to learn about drone technology deployment.

As maritime security threats persist in the region, cooperation between nations is crucial in addressing these challenges effectively. HMS Trent’s visit reaffirms the commitment of the UK and its partners to securing the vital maritime routes of the Gulf of Guinea.

Springboks Roar to Victory Against Scotland at Rugby World Cup

The Springboks secured a statement-making win against Scotland at the Rugby World Cup. The match, which took place at Stade Vélodrome in France with temperatures soaring to 28C and high humidity, witnessed the Springboks’ dominance from the very first kick-off.

Manie Libbok, with his strategic kicks, kept the Scots under pressure right from the start. While the high up-and-unders to the wings posed a challenge for Scotland, they managed to hold their ground initially. South Africa earned a crucial scrum penalty, but Libbok missed the penalty, leaving the score at 0-0. However, he redeemed himself with a penalty conversion, giving the Springboks a 3-0 lead.

Scotland, struggling in the set pieces, narrowly avoided conceding points due to their own lineout errors. The Springboks, applying consistent pressure, earned another penalty, which Libbok converted, extending their lead to 6-0.

The game saw a temporary setback for the Springboks as Eben Etzebeth left the field due to injury. Scotland’s Finn Russell escaped with a marginal shoulder charge on Kurt-Lee Arendse.

Despite neither team making significant gains over the advantage line, the Springboks appeared more organised. On the half-hour mark, Darcy Graham’s clever dummy put Scotland in a promising position, but a try-saving tackle from Libbok prevented Scotland from scoring. Scotland started finding their footing and competing effectively in all phases.

As halftime approached, a rare sight unfolded as the Springbok scrum conceded a penalty, allowing Russell to convert and reducing the deficit to three points.

The second half began with a clear scrum penalty in South Africa’s favor, but Libbok’s range fell short. The Springboks regrouped and launched a determined attack, finally breaking through with a dominant try from Pieter-Steph du Toit.

Libbok, who had struggled with kicking accuracy, found his rhythm with a sublime kick pass to Kurt-Lee Arendse, who scored in the corner. Adding to the spectacle, Faf de Klerk nailed the conversion from the edge of the field, extending South Africa’s lead to 18-3.

Scotland displayed determination but struggled to gain ground as the Springbok forwards asserted their dominance. Despite a brief period of Scottish control, Cheslin Kolbe’s electrifying run shifted the momentum back in South Africa’s favour.

A thrilling moment came when Grant Williams embarked on a remarkable break, sprinting the full length of the field before being halted by a desperate ankle tap from Finn Russell.

In the end, the Springboks not only secured a convincing victory but also delivered a powerful statement to their competitors. Scotland, known for their bravery and resilience, found themselves facing an uphill battle as South Africa’s dominance shone through.

With two tries to their name, the Springboks emerged victorious with a final score of 18-3 against Scotland. This impressive performance sets the stage for an exciting Rugby World Cup journey, with South Africa making a resounding statement of their tournament-winning ambitions.

Super Eagles Soar to Victory: Nigeria 6-0 São Tomé and Príncipe

The Super Eagles of Nigeria closed their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series with a resounding 6-0 triumph over São Tomé and Príncipe. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, was a testament to the team’s unwavering spirit and exceptional talent. With this victory, Nigeria secured their place at the top of Group A, amassing an impressive 15 points and a staggering 22 goals throughout the campaign.

From the very first whistle, it was clear that the Super Eagles meant business. The game was marked by relentless attacks and precision passing that left their opponents struggling to keep up. Leading the charge was Victor Osimhen, whose stellar performance earned him a well-deserved hat-trick.

The first half of the game showcased the Super Eagles’ dominance as they swiftly took control of the field. Victor Osimhen, a prolific striker currently plying his trade with Napoli in Italy, demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess. His clinical finishing and impeccable positioning resulted in two well-taken goals that set the tone for the match.

Adding to the spectacle was Ademola Lookman, an Italy-based talent whose contribution was pivotal in the first 45 minutes. Lookman’s finesse and creativity added an extra dimension to Nigeria’s attacking play, leaving the opposing defence bewildered and unable to contain the relentless onslaught.

If the first half was impressive, the second half was nothing short of sensational. The Super Eagles continued their relentless pursuit of goals, and Victor Osimhen was far from finished. The Napoli star struck twice more, bringing his tally for the game to an astounding three goals.

But Osimhen wasn’t the only hero of the day. Taiwo Awoniyi and Samuel Chukwueze joined the scoring spree, each finding the back of the net to further solidify Nigeria’s dominance. The synergy among the players was evident, with seamless passes and coordinated attacks that São Tomé and Príncipe simply couldn’t withstand.

With this resounding victory, Nigeria not only secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations but also claimed the top spot in Group A. The Super Eagles accumulated 15 points, leaving no doubt about their supremacy in the group. What’s even more astonishing is their goal-scoring record, with a staggering 22 goals over the course of the campaign.

As Nigeria prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations, this sends a clear message to the competition. The Super Eagles are ready to take flight and soar to new heights. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents, the future looks promising for the Nigerian football team.

Nigerian Appeals Court Rejects Majority of Petitions Challenging President’s Election Victory

An appeals court in Nigeria has dismissed two of the three petitions challenging the legitimacy of President Bola Tinubu’s victory in the February election. The remaining petition is still under deliberation, causing tension in Africa’s most populous country.

Three opposition parties had contested the election results, alleging illegal announcements and arguing that Tinubu was not qualified to run for president due to his alleged Guinean citizenship and purported lack of academic credentials. The opposition had hinted at potential protests if the court ruled in favour of Tinubu.

In Abuja’s Court of Appeal, a five-member justice panel ruled that Peter Obi, the third-place finisher, and his Labour Party could not prove their claims of irregularities in the election results or that Tinubu had been indicted on drug charges in the United States, which would disqualify him from the presidency.

The court also rejected a petition by the Allied Peoples Movement, which sought to nullify Tinubu’s victory based on the alleged improper nomination of his running mate, Vice President Kashim Shettima.

President Tinubu, who is attending the G20 summit in India, has denied all the allegations against him.

Security was heightened in Abuja, with support groups demonstrating near the court premises to express their solidarity with their political parties and to urge the judiciary to make a just decision.

The tribunal has the authority to uphold Tinubu’s election win, declare another candidate the winner, annul the vote, or call for a new election. Any decision made can be appealed at Nigeria’s Supreme Court within 60 days.

If the last petition is upheld and the presidential election is annulled, it would be unprecedented in Nigeria’s history. Presidential elections have been contested in court since the country’s return to democracy in 1999, but none have been overturned.

Nigeria’s police issued a statement warning citizens to be cautious in their actions and statements, emphasizing that security forces would not tolerate activities that could incite violence or lead to anarchy.

Tinubu won the election with less than 50% of the vote, marking another first in Nigeria’s history. Opposition candidates argue that delays in announcing election results may have provided opportunities for ballot tampering.

Critics have also accused the president of introducing economic reforms that have exacerbated the plight of millions of poor and hungry Nigerians during his first 100 days in office.

In response, Nigeria Labor Congress workers staged a two-day “warning strike” to protest rising living costs due to the removal of gas subsidies. They threatened to “shut down” Africa’s largest economy if their demands for improved welfare were not met.

The Nigerian government has urged citizens to be patient with President Tinubu, stating that the current inconveniences are necessary to save the country from crisis.

Tunisia’s Boxing Contenders Chase Olympic Dreams in Dakar Qualifier

The stage is set, the stakes are high, and Tunisia’s national boxing team is gearing up for an intense battle at the Boxing Africa Qualifier, a critical stepping stone on the path to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Hosted by Dakar, Senegal, from September 9-13, this tournament is where dreams are forged and futures determined.

Heading the Tunisian delegation is Zied Barbouche, President of the Tunisian Boxing Federation, whose dedicated support for the team reflects the nation’s collective aspiration. Alongside him are key figures like Montassar Guennouni, the national technical director, and Khemais Arfaoui, the national coach, all working tirelessly to guide their talented boxers towards Olympic glory.

Ten determined pugilists have journeyed to Dakar, each carrying the hopes of a nation on their shoulders. The roster includes Hamza Ghazouani (71 kg), Youssef Rafrafi (80 kg), Mehdi Dridi (63.5 kg), Amor Khelifa (57 kg), Alaeddine Zidi (51 kg), Khouloud Hlimi (57 kg), Wafa Hafsaoui (50 kg), Chedha Jelassi (54 kg), Islam Ferchichi (60 kg), and Molka Ben Mabrouk (75 kg).

The competition in Dakar is fierce, as boxers from across Africa vie for coveted spots at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This is a trial by fire, where resilience, skill, and determination will determine who secures those precious quota seats.

For the athletes who miss out on qualification in Dakar, all hope is not lost. They will have another opportunity to clinch their Olympic dreams at the two world qualification competitions set to unfold in Busto Arzizio, Italy.

The journey to the Olympics is a relentless pursuit of excellence, and these Tunisian boxers are prepared to go the distance. Every punch, every jab, every round is a testament to their dedication and the unwavering support of their nation.

As they step into the ring in Dakar, Tunisia rallies behind its boxing heroes, wishing them the strength, courage, and skill needed to secure those golden tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Whatever the outcome, these athletes are already champions, embodying the spirit of determination and representing Tunisia on the world stage.

Ugandan Church Sets Guinness World Record for Longest Claps

A church in Uganda, Phaneroo Ministries, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest applause.

In celebration of the church’s ninth anniversary, members of Phaneroo Ministries in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, gathered for a special event known as “Clap For Jesus.” During this extraordinary event, the congregation embarked on a continuous clapping session that lasted for an astounding 3 hours and 16 minutes, all while maintaining an average sound level of 88.5 dB. To qualify for the Guinness World Record, they had to sustain a sound level above 80 dB throughout the entire duration.

A total of 926 participants came together to create this thunderous applause. Guinness World Records issued a statement confirming that they successfully met the required sound level criteria.

Grace Lubega, the leader of the church, explained that the purpose of “Clap For Jesus” was to unite people in a spirit of thanksgiving and celebration. The event was conducted with great enthusiasm, with stewards ensuring that participants continued clapping without any breaks.

This extraordinary achievement was not only witnessed by those present in the hall but also livestreamed to a wider audience. Observers from Uganda’s standards agency and the national basketball governing body closely monitored the event to verify its authenticity.

In accomplishing this remarkable feat, the Ugandan church surpassed the previous record of two hours and five minutes, held by Clark Stevens and The Festival of Awesomeness in the United Kingdom in 2019.

Phaneroo Ministries church’s achievement of setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest applause is a testament to their unity, celebration, and unwavering faith.

Sierra Leone Hit By Power Cuts After Turkish Power Ship Switches Off Supply

Sierra Leone’s capital Freetown has been hit by power cuts after Turkey’s Karpowership switched off the electricity supply due to an unpaid debt of around $40 million, the energy minister said on Friday.

Minister Kanja Sesay told Reuters that the outstanding amount “was accrued over time because the government subsidises more than half the cost the ship charges per kilowatt hour”.

He said the government had to spend more on the subsidy because it charges consumers in the weak local Leone currency, one of worst performing against the dollar in which it pays the power provider.

A government commission has been set up to review consumer electricity tariffs which could double.

Karpowership, one of the world’s largest operators of floating power plants and part of the Karadeniz Energy Group, signed deals in 2018 and 2020 to provide electricity to Sierra Leone’s state power utility.

The company has made similar deals with several Africa countries that are struggling with electricity supply.

Karpowership could not be reached for comment.

The company says on its website that it had deployed around 65 megawatt power generation capacity to Sierra Leone since 2020 and has been supplying 80% of its total electricity needs.

Sesay said the switch-off by Karpowership had reduced electricity supply to the capital by 13%. Electricity is now being rationed in the capital with homes and business going without electricity for hours daily.

Karpower is one of three sources of electricity to the city – the other two includes the country’s hydro dam, and power from the from an interconnection with Ivory Coast which also supplies Guinea and Liberia.

Sesay said Karpower supply is mostly needed during the dry season when water levels at its dam are low. Dependence on the firm is reduced during the rainy season. The country is currently at the peak of its May to November rainy season.

Ezra Collective Takes Home Coveted Mercury Prize for “Where I’m Meant To Be

In a dazzling celebration of musical talent, Ezra Collective emerged victorious at this year’s Mercury Prize, claiming the coveted award for their outstanding album, “Where I’m Meant To Be.” This instrumental jazz ensemble outshone formidable competitors such as Raye, Jessie Ware, and J Hus, clinching the prestigious accolade and the accompanying £25,000 prize. The electrifying ceremony unfolded amidst a star-studded audience at London’s illustrious Hammersmith Apollo.

Nine of the twelve nominated acts graced the stage with their performances before the eagerly awaited announcement. To honour Arctic Monkeys and Fred Again, who were both absent due to tour commitments, and J Hus, who couldn’t attend due to illness, captivating live performance films were showcased on screen.

Bandleader Femi Koleoso, brimming with gratitude, accepted the award and extended heartfelt thanks to God, their families, and dedicated team members. He also reminisced fondly about their beginnings in a youth club before treating the audience to another mesmerising performance.

Ezra Collective comprises Femi Koleoso, bassist TJ Koleoso, keyboardist Joe Armon-Jones, saxophonist James Mollison, and trumpeter Ife Ogunjobi. Their remarkable journey in music includes the release of their debut album, “You Can’t Steal My Joy,” in 2019, followed by the captivating “Where I’m Meant to Be” in November 2022.

The Mercury Prize 2023 featured an eclectic array of talent, with the following albums making the shortlist:

  1. Arctic Monkeys – “The Car”
  2. Ezra Collective – “Where I’m Meant to Be”
  3. Fred Again – “Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9, 2022)”
  4. J Hus – “Beautiful And Brutal Yard”
  5. Jessie Ware – “That! Feels Good!”
  6. Jockstrap – “I Love You Jennifer B”
  7. Lankum – “False Lankum”
  8. Loyle Carner – “Hugo”
  9. Olivia Dean – “Messy”
  10. Raye – “My 21st Century Blues”
  11. Shygirl – “Nymph”
  12. Young Fathers – “Heavy Heavy”

Speaking with Sky News prior to the ceremony, Femi Koleoso highlighted the significance of introducing their style of music to a broader audience. He remarked, “You can’t help but type your name into X and see what people are saying, and there’s been a bunch of people saying things along the lines of, ‘never heard of a jazz band or this jazz band before, never listened to a jazz album before, but I can’t believe it, I actually liked it,’ and that’s exciting.”

Jessie Ware, a nominee for the second time, reflected on her musical journey and the sense of community she has found through her music. She shared, “I found my place in music – maybe it’s from raving when I was younger and that feeling of community on the dance floor, and I’ve found the most beautiful community in my fans, and I’m having a good time.”

Raye, who recently embarked on a new musical journey by leaving her label to release her first album, expressed her gratitude. She said, “Being here today, it just takes me back to two years ago or whatever where I was so disappointed in myself as an artist – I was the opposite of what I feel like I am now… I didn’t ever think I would get the chance to almost start again or go again.”

This year’s panel of judges featured esteemed figures from the music industry, including former nominees Anna Calvi and Hannah Peel, as well as musician Jamie Cullum, broadcaster and DJ MistaJam, and music critic Will Hodgkinson.

Since its inaugural year in 1992, the Mercury Prize has been a beacon for celebrating British and Irish musical talent. Recognising the twelve best albums of the year across diverse genres, the award has introduced groundbreaking records and artists to a broader audience. The Mercury Prize is renowned for championing artists at all stages of their careers, from emerging talents to established veterans, often catapulting lesser-known artists into the spotlight. Recent winners include Primal Scream, Little Simz, Arlo Parks, Michael Kiwanuka, Dave, and Wolf Alice.

 

Source: Sky News

Nigerian Sensation Burna Boy Lands Seven BET Hip Hop Awards Nominations

Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has been nominated for seven awards at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards. The awards ceremony is set to celebrate the best of Hip Hop music across 17 categories, with the nominees selected based on their achievements in the last year.

Here are some key takeaways from the BET Hip Hop Awards 2023 nomination list:

1. Burna Boy is one of the leading nominees
Burna Boy has been nominated for seven awards, putting him in the same league as DJ Khaled. This is a testament to the incredible year he has had, with his album “Twice as Tall” receiving critical acclaim and commercial success.

2. Cardi B and 21 Savage lead the way
Cardi B and 21 Savage are the leading nominees, with 12 nods each. The two stars are going head-to-head in seven categories, including Best Hip Hop Video, Best Collaboration, and Best Live Performer.

3. Drake is not far behind
Drake is right behind Cardi B and 21 Savage with nine nominations. He is up for awards in categories such as Best Hip Hop Video, Best Collaboration, and Best Live Performer.

4. The awards ceremony will be a star-studded event
The BET Hip Hop Awards 2023 is set to be a star-studded event, with some of the biggest names in Hip Hop expected to attend. The ceremony will take place on October 10, 2023, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.

5. The awards celebrate the best of Hip Hop music
The BET Hip Hop Awards is an annual event that celebrates the best of Hip Hop music across various categories. The awards are a recognition of the hard work and dedication of artists in the genre, and they serve as a platform to showcase their talent to a wider audience.

Burna Boy’s seven nominations are a testament to his incredible talent and hard work. He has been making waves in the music industry for several years now, and his latest album “Twice as Tall” has cemented his status as one of the biggest stars in the world of Hip Hop.

The BET Hip Hop Awards 2023 is set to be a night to remember, with some of the biggest names in the industry expected to attend. Fans of Burna Boy and Hip Hop music in general will be eagerly anticipating the ceremony, which promises to be a celebration of the best of the genre.