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Nuno Mendes Secures Back-to-Back MOTM Awards Against Lamine Yamal
Nuno Mendes is on fire!
The PSG left-back has now secured the Man of the Match (MOTM) award in his last two consecutive games against Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.
Mendes’ defensive strength, pace, and tactical awareness proved decisive as he successfully neutralized one of Europe’s most talked-about young talents. His back-to-back MOTM performances highlight his growing influence in PSG’s squad and his reputation as one of the best young defenders in world football.
Fans and analysts alike have praised Mendes for his consistency, work rate, and maturity on the big stage. Meanwhile, the duel with Yamal is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about matchups in European football. ⚽🔥
Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase: Why Is Trump Desperate to Take It Back?
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked fresh debate by calling for the reclamation of Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase, a facility long regarded as one of America’s most strategically significant military sites in the region.
Bagram, once the largest U.S. military base in Afghanistan, played a central role during the 20-year war on terror, serving as a hub for air operations, intelligence, and logistical support. Following the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, the base was abandoned and later taken over by Taliban forces.
Trump argues that reclaiming Bagram is critical for U.S. national security, particularly given its proximity to both China and Iran. Analysts suggest that his renewed focus on the base underscores concerns about growing regional instability and the shifting balance of global power.
Critics, however, note that any attempt to retake Bagram would come with enormous diplomatic, military, and financial risks—potentially reigniting conflict in a region where the U.S. has already paid a heavy price.
The debate over Bagram highlights the enduring symbolic and strategic weight of Afghanistan in U.S. foreign policy and the complex challenges tied to America’s legacy in the region.
“SAFIRE” World Premiere in London: A Sierra Leonean Cinematic Masterpiece
Event Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as SAFIRE a breathtaking Sierra Leonean epic and SMA nominee makes its highly anticipated UK debut. The premiere will take place on September 27, 2025, at Tramshred Art Ltd, located at 51-53 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6ES.
This glamorous event will kick off with a red carpet ceremony at 5:00 pm, followed by the film screening at 8:30 pm. It’s a night to celebrate Sierra Leone’s storytelling, cinematic vision, and artistic talent.
Entrance Fee: £50
We invite cinephiles, cultural ambassadors, and supporters of African film to join us for this landmark occasion.
Why You Should Attend
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Cultural Showcase: Experience Sierra Leone’s rich heritage through a visually stunning and emotionally resonant story.
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Recognition & Prestige: SAFIRE has earned a nomination for the distinguished Special Movie Award (SMA), making this a landmark screening.
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Red Carpet Experience: Dress to impress and mingle with actors, filmmakers, and prominent guests.
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Networking Opportunity: A perfect occasion to connect with film professionals, creatives, and cultural communities.
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Exclusive Viewing: Be among the very first audiences in the UK to witness SAFIRE, in a top-tier cinema setting.
Event Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 27, 2025 |
| Venue | Tramshred Art Ltd, 51-53 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6ES |
| Red Carpet | 5:00 pm |
| Screening Time | 8:30 pm |
| Ticket Price | £50 |
| Contact | +44 7984 460762 (UK) / +232 777 00347 (Sierra Leone) |
How to Secure Your Spot
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Reach out via phone or WhatsApp at +44 7984 460762 or +232 777 00347.
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Confirm your purchase with payment and reserve your ticket.
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Be there early to enjoy the full red carpet experience.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness SAFIRE in all its glory, on the grand stage it deserves. We can’t wait to welcome you to a night of cinematic elegance.
See you on September 27!
— AWUJOR
SLPP Washington D.C. Metro Chapter Honors President Julius Maada Bio & First Lady in Washington
Washington D.C., USA On 26 September 2025, the Washington D.C. Metro Chapter of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) extended a warm reception to His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and National Leader of the SLPP, accompanied by Her Excellency First Lady Fatima Maada Bio. The event was held with great enthusiasm and affection by compatriots and supporters in the diaspora. Facebook
During the gathering, both the President and First Lady were honored with prestigious awards of appreciation. The recognitions acknowledged their deep compassion and consistent advocacy for the welfare of women and children, as well as their tireless service and leadership within the SLPP and broader Sierra Leonean community. Facebook
President Bio expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Washington D.C. Metro Chapter for the warm welcome and the meaningful awards. He underscored that such gestures reinforce the strong ties between Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad. First Lady Fatima Maada Bio similarly conveyed how honored she was, stating that recognition from the diaspora chapter serves as encouragement to continue promoting the causes of social justice, gender equity, and child welfare. Facebook
Significance & Context
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This event reflects the role of the diaspora community as a crucial stakeholder in Sierra Leone’s development and political life, offering appreciation, support, and advocacy from abroad.
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Recognition for advocacy in women and children’s issues aligns with both President Bio’s and First Lady Bio’s sustained efforts in policy and public engagement to strengthen protections, opportunities, and services in those sectors.
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Such occasions also have symbolic value: they reinforce party unity, boost morale among supporters, and remind leadership of the expectations and values held by Sierra Leoneans worldwide.
Source Credit:
Based on SLPP Washington D.C. Metro Chapter communications and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio’s post on social media, 26 September 2025. Facebook
ALGON Chair Suleiman Toungo Defends Overseas Leadership Training for Chairmen’s Wives
Adamawa State, Nigeria Suleiman Toungo, chairman of Toungo Local Government Area (LGA) and head of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Adamawa State, has defended the decision to send the spouses of local government chairmen and some senior local government officials on an overseas leadership training trip to Istanbul, Turkey. The training, according to Toungo, was designed to equip the wives with leadership skills to assist their husbands in advising and supporting governance at the local level. Sahel Reporters+2Daily Trust+2
What Toungo Has Said
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Toungo said that the wives “deserved capacity building,” explaining that many council chairmen had themselves taken similar international trainings about two months earlier. He stressed “we are looking at the importance of training them on leadership, not the cost.” politywatchonline.com+1
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He framed the training as a way to enable the chairmen’s spouses to better “assist and advise” their husbands, thereby implying their involvement in governance support and community engagement. politywatchonline.com+1
Public Reaction & Criticism
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The decision has sparked significant backlash — especially from workers, retirees, and public interest groups — who argue that the funds could better serve unpaid wages, pensions, or other pressing public needs. Critics call the overseas training “wasteful and insensitive.” Daily Trust+1
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Some council chairmen claimed they were not consulted before their wives were included in the programme, raising concerns about transparency. One chairman said he received notice for visa processes only after being asked to provide personal details. Daily Trust
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Retirees in the state have demanded investigations by anti-corruption agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), arguing that this sort of expenditure, particularly when public servants and pensioners are owed, represents misprioritization. Daily Trust
Context & Implications
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The training was part of a larger leadership masterclass in Istanbul that involved about 21 wives of the Local Government Chairmen, as well as some senior officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Sahel Reporters+1
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The argument by Toungo and supporters is that wives’ roles in supporting community development, social cohesion, and soft governance are often underappreciated, and that building their skills in leadership, communication, influence, and community engagement could have downstream benefits. Sahel Reporters+1
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On the other hand, the controversy highlights tensions between public expectations for accountability in local government spending and the perception of elite privileges. The criticisms focus not just on the idea of training, but also on timing, cost, and whether such training is the best use of scarce resources.
What to Watch Next
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Whether the EFCC or other oversight bodies open formal investigations into the disbursement of funds used for the training.
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How the Adamawa State government responds to criticism, possibly by publishing detailed cost breakdowns, participant lists, and expected outcomes to demonstrate value for money.
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Whether similar leadership training programs will become more institutionalized or transparent, with clearer guidelines for who participates and how such programs are funded.
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The public’s response in subsequent periods, especially if unpaid workers’ and retirees’ issues remain unresolved while such programs continue.
Source Credit:
Compiled from reporting by Daily Trust, Polity Watch Online, and Sahel Reporters, September 2025. Daily Trust+2politywatchonline.com+2
First Lady Fatima Maada Bio Attends Africell Reception at Times Square Garden in New York
New York, USA Her Excellency First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio was a distinguished guest at Africell’s special reception held at Times Square Garden in New York, an event that brought together Sierra Leoneans and friends of Africa from across the diaspora. The evening was marked by cultural displays, networking opportunities, and powerful reflections on identity, unity, and collaboration.
The First Lady praised Africell for its continued efforts to connect Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad, describing the event as “a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and connection with Sierra Leoneans and friends of Africa in the diaspora.”
She highlighted that gatherings such as these play an important role in strengthening national identity while fostering meaningful global partnerships. “I am deeply grateful to Africell for creating spaces that not only promote our Sierra Leonean identity but also inspire collaboration that makes us stronger as a people and as a nation,” she added.
A Celebration of Culture and Unity
The Africell reception underscored the importance of cultural preservation and community ties within the African diaspora. Through music, art, and shared experiences, the event reminded participants of the richness of Sierra Leone’s traditions and the need to uphold these values on the global stage.
For the diaspora community, the event was an opportunity to reconnect with their roots, celebrate national pride, and exchange ideas on how Sierra Leoneans abroad can contribute to the country’s growth.
Diaspora as a Force for Development
The First Lady’s participation also highlighted the government’s recognition of the diaspora as an essential partner in nation-building. From remittances to skills transfer, Sierra Leoneans abroad play a critical role in advancing development goals.
Africell, as one of the leading telecommunications companies in Sierra Leone, continues to position itself as more than just a service provider. By hosting events like this, the company is fostering dialogue, investment opportunities, and stronger networks that can translate into tangible benefits for Sierra Leone’s economy and society.
Looking Ahead
As Sierra Leone continues to strengthen its global presence, events like Africell’s Times Square Garden reception showcase the powerful role of cultural diplomacy and diaspora engagement in shaping a brighter future.
The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to championing causes that unify Sierra Leoneans while encouraging international partnerships that build resilience, prosperity, and hope.
Source Credit:
Compiled from Africell event reports and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio’s public statements, September 2025.
Ezekiel Nathaniel Makes History: First Nigerian in World 400m Hurdles Final Since 1987
Ezekiel Nathaniel, the 21-year-old Nigerian hurdler, is turning heads at the 2025 World Athletics Championships after running an electrifying 47.47 seconds in the 400m hurdles semifinals the fastest time across all semifinals.
With that performance, he has become the first Nigerian man to reach the men’s 400m hurdles final since Henry Amike did in 1987.
Already holder of the Nigerian record (47.31s from Chorzów, 2025) , Nathaniel is now being viewed as a global contender. He has specifically warned the established “Big 3” hurdlers that they’ll have to watch out.
Expectations are high: in the final, Nathaniel will aim not just for a medal, but to break more records and cement his standing among the world’s elite.
📌 Sources: Athletics Federation of Nigeria reports, Premium Times, Vanguard, Making of Champions
Financial Coach Geh Geh Splurges Millions on New G-Wagon After Criticizing Celebrities
Popular financial content creator and coach, Emmanuel Obrutse, widely known as Geh Geh, has set social media on fire after showing off his latest luxury ride — a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon.
The announcement, made in January 2025, came as a surprise to many because Geh Geh had only recently criticized celebrities like Davido, Wizkid, and Rema for spending lavishly on exotic cars instead of making wise investments.
Taking to Instagram, he wrote:
> “Mùmù don first you buy G-Wagon… CONGRATULATIONS to me. A lot of them Doubted… All thanks to @donjazzy and @mazitundeednut… Thanks Opueh Nation, God bless you all for me.”
While his supporters congratulated him on the milestone, many netizens were quick to call him out for contradicting his own financial advice. Some online reactions included:
“Geh Geh don make financial mistake money wey he suppose use open poultry.”
“Very big financial mistake!”
“I give you 24 hours to return this car!!”
Despite the backlash, Geh Geh’s G-Wagon has already become a hot topic across blogs, forums, and social platforms, proving once again that he knows how to stay in the spotlight.
Whether this was a “financial mistake” or simply a well-deserved reward for his hard work, one thing is certain — Geh Geh’s name is on everyone’s lips.
Anisimova Stuns Swiatek in US Open Quarterfinals, Avenging Wimbledon Rout
American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the 2025 US Open, defeating world No. 2 Iga Swiatek 6–4, 6–3 in the quarterfinals on September 3 at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The victory secured her first-ever semifinal berth in New York and served as redemption after a painful Wimbledon final loss to the Pole earlier this summer. (reuters.com, washingtonpost.com)
At Wimbledon in July, Swiatek had humiliated Anisimova in a 6–0, 6–0 “double-bagel” final — one of the most lopsided Grand Slam deciders in modern tennis. Wednesday’s match in New York, however, told a very different story. Anisimova showcased resilience and composure, breaking Swiatek’s serve at crucial moments while dictating rallies with her improved groundstrokes and tactical patience.
The first set swung in Anisimova’s favor after she fought back from an early break, while in the second she built momentum with aggressive returns that left Swiatek struggling to regain control. The match lasted just under 90 minutes, but it carried the emotional weight of months of hard work and recovery for the American. (tennis.com)
Speaking after the win, Anisimova called the result “a dream come true” and admitted it was particularly meaningful after the heartbreak of Wimbledon. She highlighted her ability to reset mentally and trust her game plan: “This was about believing in myself again.” (talksport.com)
Swiatek, meanwhile, cut a frustrated figure in her press conference, even sparring with a reporter over a pointed question about her performance. Despite the exit, she remains world No. 2 and is expected to regroup ahead of the WTA Finals later this year. (nypost.com)
For Anisimova, the victory sets up a high-profile semifinal clash against Japan’s Naomi Osaka, who advanced earlier by defeating Karolina Muchova. Tennis fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown, with both players known for their power-based games and strong baseline play. A potential final against either Coco Gauff or Aryna Sabalenka also looms, adding further excitement to the women’s draw. (independent.co.uk)
Osaka Powers Into U.S. Open Quarterfinals
New York, U.S. Open 2025 Naomi Osaka has surged back into Grand Slam contention with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory over Coco Gauff in the fourth round at Flushing Meadows, marking her first Grand Slam quarterfinal since 2021. Reuters+1
The match, played under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium, showcased Osaka’s renewed confidence. Her precise serving and aggressive baseline play allowed her to dominate from the outset. She broke Gauff early and kept the momentum facing zero break points throughout the 64-minute encounter.The GuardianESPN.comReuters
Beyond the scoreboard, this match represents a significant milestone. Osaka, who returned to the tour after maternity leave and battled postpartum depression, credited her new coach Tomasz Wiktorowski and supportive team for her resurgence.New York PostReuters
Reflecting courtside, she couldn’t hold back tears of joy, expressing: “This is my favorite court in the world… I had so much fun out here.”ReutersESPN.com+1
For Coco Gauff, the defeat was tough to swallow. Despite a strong tournament start, unforced errors and a faltering serve widely seen as vulnerable during this hard-court season contributed to her exit.New York PostReutersESPN.com
Looking ahead, Osaka is set to face the 11th seed Karolína Muchová in the quarterfinals. Historically, every time Osaka has reached this stage in a major, she has gone on to win the title a trend fans are eager to see continue.Reuters
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