Omokri Expresses Unwavering Admiration for Jonathan Amid Support for Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration

Lagos, Nigeria – March 23, 2025 – Renowned Nigerian author and political analyst Reno Omokri has aroused debate with a passionate speech that combines strong support for President Bola Tinubu's recent activities in Rivers State with almost reverent adoration for former President Goodluck Jonathan.

In an emotional Facebook post, Omokri emphasised his unwavering view that President Tinubu's decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspend Governor Simi Fubara, and dissolve the State House of Assembly for a six-month term is "in the best interests of Nigeria." Omokri emphasised his commitment, declaring, "I stand very strongly by my opinion, under the rain and under the sun," highlighting his unflinching support for the contentious move.

However, Omokri's speech took an interesting turn when he expressed his deep affection for former President Goodluck Jonathan, whom he characterised as "the person I admire most in the world of politics." In a stunning display of allegiance, Omokri declared that if his viewpoint differed from Jonathan's, the former president's judgement would be "automatically superior, above, and less fallible" than his own. "Perfection belongs only to God," he continued, recognising human limitations while raising Jonathan to near-iconic status.

Omokri's admiration for Jonathan, whom he described as "the face of democracy in Africa," was evident. "Former President Jonathan is my leader, and flesh and blood cannot separate us," he said, implying a kinship that goes beyond political differences. The statement ended with a prayer, "May God bless Dr. Goodluck Jonathan."

Omokri's unwavering support for Tinubu's emergency measures, combined with his near-idolatrous adoration for Jonathan, has piqued political watchers' interest. While Omokri did not say whether Jonathan had publicly criticised Tinubu's activities in Rivers State, his preemptive deference to the former president suggests an internal conflict between personal conviction and allegiance to a revered character.

Tinubu's emergency declaration in Rivers State has already sparked controversy across Nigeria, with advocates claiming it addresses regional insecurity, while others see it as an overreach of federal power. Omokri's perspective offers a new dimension to the discussion, combining policy backing with a compelling personal experience. 

As Nigeria navigates this politically volatile period, Omokri's statements serve as both a rallying cry for Tinubu supporters and a tribute to Goodluck Jonathan's long-lasting influence in the country's politics. It is unclear whether Jonathan will weigh in on the Rivers State conflict, but the former president's legacy is significant to Omokri.

Three Nigerians Freed in Saudi Arabia After Wrongful Drug Trafficking Charges

In a significant diplomatic achievement, three Nigerian women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gambo—were acquitted of drug trafficking charges in Saudi Arabia after enduring 10 months in detention. They had been arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah.

The trio’s arrest was linked to a previous incident where two Nigerian nationals were caught with cocaine totaling nearly 1.7kg. Accused of complicity in the case, the three women faced a legal battle that attracted significant attention both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that their acquittal was the result of rigorous diplomatic and legal efforts by the Nigerian government. These engagements led to their discharge and subsequent release to the Nigerian Consulate-General in Jeddah.

Ambassador Muazam Nayaya and the Honourable Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah personally received the women, who are now awaiting the completion of immigration processes to return home and reunite with their families.

The Ministry emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad and ensuring due process in all cases involving citizens. Their release serves as a testament to the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts and international cooperation in addressing complex legal challenges.

Napoli fans and Nigerian football supporters clash over Osimhen's reception

Victor Osimhen 

In a digital showdown that exemplifies the passion and intensity of football popularity, fans of Serie A champions Napoli got into a heated debate with Nigerian football fans. The spark? The Italian club posted an innocent yet symbolic photo to welcome their star player, Victor Osimhen, who had recently played for the Nigerian team that reached the African Cup of Nations final.

The photo on Instagram, accompanied by the seemingly innocuous caption "Back to Business," sparked a firestorm of comments, garnering about 5,000 responses in just few hours. Trouble erupted when a Nigerian fan asked Napoli supporters, "Why the Osimhen hate, Napoli fans?" "Isn't he your player?"

What followed was a flurry of back-and-forth exchanges as both sets of fans vied for allegiance, with some defending Osimhen's honour and others criticising his dedication to the club. A Napoli fan described Osimhen as "spoiled and ungrateful," emphasising the club's preference for players who are professional and dedicated.

The debate heated up as fans expressed their displeasure, accusing Osimhen of a lack of passion and commitment to the club's cause. During the commotion, accusations of racism were refuted, with one fan blaming Osimhen's strained relationship with supporters on his rumoured desire to leave the club.

As tensions rose, differing perspectives emerged on Osimhen's contribution to the team. While some lamented the possibility of losing their talisman, others were confident in finding a suitable replacement. Nigerian fans rallied around Osimhen, defending his honour and emphasising his unwavering commitment to the club.

The schism spread to discussions about Napoli's reception of Osimhen, with some doubting the sincerity of his welcome and predicting the consequences of his departure. Among the vitriol, poignant reminders of previous departures emerged, serving as a sobering reality check for the club and its fans.

Ultimately, amidst the tumult of opposing views and emotions, one fact remains undisputed: Osimhen's time at Napoli will soon come to an end. Regardless of the outcome, his legacy as a key figure in the club's recent successes, including their first Serie A title in over 30 years, will live on.

In the dynamic arena of football fandom, where passions run high and allegiances are fiercely defended, clashes like these demonstrate the sport's extraordinary power to spark heated debates and inspire unwavering loyalty.

Super Eagles Captain Musa Calls for an End to Cyberbullying Against Iwobi

Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa issued a heartfelt plea to his fans and supporters on Monday, condemning the cyberbullying directed at teammate Alex Iwobi. Musa emphasised the gravity of cyberbullying in a recent social media post, describing it as both a violation of decency and a serious crime.

Musa highlighted the irony of claiming unity in football while engaging in behaviour that undermines individual players. He emphasised that, while losing a game is undoubtedly difficult, blaming a single player for the team's shortcomings is both unfair and unjust. Musa reiterated the fundamental principle that victories and losses are the result of collective efforts, with each team member contributing to the overall performance.

Musa praised Alex Iwobi's dedication and efforts on the pitch in his message, and urged fans to channel their support constructively rather than spreading negativity. He emphasised the importance of expressing genuine affection and encouragement to players, especially during difficult times.

The captain urged fans to support one another and stand united, regardless of the outcome of the game. He thanked the team for its continued support and urged everyone to rally behind their players in a positive and united manner.

Musa's message, as captain of the Nigerian national team, serves as a reminder to the football community about the importance of respect, unity, and support. His call to end cyberbullying of Alex Iwobi reflects a broader commitment to fostering an inclusive and encouraging sports culture.

The Brain Drain Challenge: Why We Must Improve Doctors' Wages

It's disheartening to see the growing number of Nigerian doctors seeking opportunities abroad due to better compensation. According to recent data, 281 Nigerian doctors are now practicing in other African countries, and a staggering 11,872 in the UK!

This alarming trend not only poses a significant loss of talent for our nation but also impacts the quality of healthcare services in our hospitals, which are left understaffed.

The situation highlights the urgent need to improve doctors' wages and working conditions in Nigeria. Our healthcare professionals deserve better recognition and compensation for their dedication and expertise.

Let's not forget that these doctors are being actively recruited by other nations, offering higher pay. To retain our healthcare workforce and ensure the well-being of our citizens, we must address this issue promptly.

The brain drain is not just a loss for our healthcare system but a loss for our entire nation. It's time for us to invest in our doctors and healthcare infrastructure to build a healthier and brighter future for Nigeria. 🇳🇬 💪

 #HealthcareMatters #BrainDrain #NigeriaHealthcare

http://victorikoli.blogspot.com/

Neymar's Influence: A Social Media Phenomenon

Neymar's Social Media Stardom

In the world of professional football, few players can match the electrifying charisma and global impact of Neymar Jr. His on-field skills are only rivaled by his social media presence, making him a true influencer both on and off the pitch. One remarkable testament to his influence is the unprecedented growth that clubs experience across their social media platforms when Neymar is associated with them. One such example is Al Hilal, a football club that saw an astounding 100% growth in its social media following after the announcement of Neymar's involvement. In the realm of drawing numbers and attention, Neymar stands tall alongside legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Neymar's prowess on social media platforms is nothing short of astonishing. With over 200 million followers on Instagram alone, he ranks among the most-followed individuals on the platform. His vibrant posts, engaging stories, and interaction with fans create a sense of intimacy and connection that transcends the distance between stadiums and screens. Neymar's content strategy skillfully balances his personal life, training glimpses, and philanthropic efforts, endearing him to a diverse audience that includes football aficionados and casual fans alike.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Neymar's influence is its direct correlation with the growth of clubs' social media platforms. The announcement of Neymar's association with a club has consistently resulted in a surge of followers and engagement. A prime example is Al Hilal, a Saudi Arabian club that witnessed an extraordinary 100% increase in its social media following following the revelation of Neymar's involvement. This phenomenon showcases the profound influence Neymar wields, turning him into a catalyst for generating online attention and buzz.

Neymar's ability to pull numbers and capture attention puts him in the same league as football's most iconic figures, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. While Ronaldo and Messi have been dominant forces on and off the pitch for years, Neymar has managed to carve out his own niche, harnessing the power of social media to solidify his status as a global icon. The trio represents an elite group of players who transcend traditional boundaries, shaping the landscape of modern football and setting new standards for influence and engagement.

Neymar's influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the football pitch. His mastery of social media platforms has transformed him into a global influencer, capturing the hearts and attention of millions around the world. The exponential growth witnessed by clubs like Al Hilal upon Neymar's association underscores the magnitude of his impact. As he stands alongside legends Ronaldo and Messi in terms of pulling numbers and commanding attention, Neymar's influence remains an unparalleled force in the ever-evolving world of football and digital media.

“All Eyes on the Judiciary”: Reassessing the Decision to Dissolve the Advertisement Body

A decision to dissolve the Secretariat of

the Advertising Standard Panel (ASP) by the Federal Government (Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria-ARCON) following the clearance of the billboard captioned "All Eyes on the Judiciary" in recent days has prompted a debate about the delicate balance between freedom of expression and responsible regulation. This decision, motivated by worries that the billboard could be interpreted as a threat and intimidation to the judiciary, particularly the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, raises significant questions regarding the role of advertising in expressing viewpoints and creating transparency in society.

The Importance of Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of any democratic society. It allows individuals to express their opinions, engage in public discourse, and hold those in power accountable. In the context of the advertisement in question, "All Eyes on The Judiciary," it is crucial to consider the broader message being conveyed. The phrase may have been intended as a call for transparency, accountability, and public scrutiny in the judicial process rather than a direct threat or act of intimidation.

A Question of Intent

It is essential to recognise the difference between expressing concern and issuing a threat. The assumption that the advertisement constitutes a threat to the judiciary, particularly the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, hinges on interpreting the intention behind the message. Instead of assuming nefarious motives, there is a need for a balanced approach that acknowledges the potential for diverse interpretations of such advertisements.

Preserving Transparency and Accountability

Advertisements, like any form of media, have the power to influence public perception. However, it is crucial not to stifle public discourse or suppress criticism in the name of protecting institutions. The decision to dissolve the ASP Secretariat and suspend individuals seems to raise questions about whether such actions inadvertently undermine the principles of transparency and accountability that both the judiciary and regulatory bodies aim to uphold.

Balancing Regulation and Expression

While it is understandable that regulatory bodies should uphold ethical standards in advertising, it is equally important to ensure that decisions are based on a thorough and fair assessment. The knee-jerk reaction of dissolving the secretariat and suspending individuals without comprehensive investigation might risk undermining the credibility of regulatory processes.

Conclusion

In our pursuit of a just and transparent society, it is essential to foster an environment where citizens can freely express their opinions, even when those opinions concern institutions as critical as the judiciary. The assumption that the advertisement "All Eyes on The Judiciary" is a threat and intimidation should be critically examined, taking into account the potential for diverse interpretations. Rather than reacting hastily, a measured response that balances the principles of freedom of expression and responsible regulation can contribute to a healthier public discourse and the ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability.

Ukraine-Russia story briefs Monday February 28

Latvian citizens will be able to volunteer to fight for Ukraine

Latvia's parliament in Riga unanimously passed the necessary legal framework on Monday, allowing its citizens to join the fight against Russia's military advances in Ukraine.

IOC wants Russia and Belarus athletes banned; Putin loses Olympic order

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) called on sports federations to deny athletes and officials from Russia and Belarus entry into international events on Monday. In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin and two other top political figures have had their Olympic Orders revoked.

Over 500,000 people have flee Ukraine

The number of people fleeing war in Ukraine has risen to over 500,000, while a scandal erupted at the country's border with Poland over alleged racist treatment of African refugees. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, over 500,000 people have fled the conflict in Ukraine to neighboring countries.

US closes its embassy in Minsk and authorises diplomats in Russia to leave.

According to the State Department, the United States is suspending its embassy operations in the Belarusian capital of Minsk. It has also authorized the voluntary departure from Russia of non-essential personnel from the US Embassy in Moscow, as well as their family members.

Russia declares tit-for-tat closure of 35 countries' airspace.

In response to multiple countries' decisions to close their airspace to Russian aircraft, Russia's aviation authority Rosaviatsiya announced on Monday that it would close Russian airspace to 35 countries.

All EU member states and Canada are affected by the indefinite ban.

.

As a Russian ally, Japan imposes sanctions on Belarus

Japan intends to impose sanctions on Belarus as a Russian ally, according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, as Moscow continues its attacks on Ukraine. According to Kishida, Tokyo's sanctions will target Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and other government officials.

FIFA expels Russia from Qatar 2022 World Cup

The governing body of football FIFA and UEFA, the European Union's governing bodies, have suspended Russian clubs and national teams from all competitions "until further notice," the federations announced on Monday. As things stand, Russia will be unable to compete in the World Cup play-offs next month or the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to FIFA's decision.

Russian-Ukrainian peace talks end without a breakthrough

On Monday, peace talks between Russia and Ukraine ended without a breakthrough.

"We're travelling back to the capitals for consultations," Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said as he exited the meeting on the Belarus-Ukraine border.

Homecoming to Nigeria Is Dangerous

                                                                                                                                                                              

Reviewing the Assassination of Ogacheko Atanu and a Warning to Nigerians in Diaspora on the State of Insecurity in Nigeria

                                                             

Ogacheko Atanu, an Idah born, world acclaimed and Saudi Arabia based drilling engineer was assassinated by unknown gunmen on Saturday, 9th of January, 2021 while holidaying in his country home in Idah, Kogi State of Nigeria. He was scheduled to travel back to Saudi on the morning of the next day before he was killed on that night in his hometown.

Ogacheko had such a brilliant career while he was at Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Nigeria. It was his sheer brilliance and distinction while at Shell that got him headhunted by Saudi Aramco, the world largest oil company based in Saudi Arabia, where he worked until his assassination in his house in his hometown of Idah.

Homecoming for Ogacheko has had a bad history. Some years ago, after he started work at Saudi Aramco, he decided to visit his hometown and in course of the journey, on his way to Idah, he had a terribly fatal car accident which broke his limbs. Saudi Aramco did not take chances regarding the treatment of one of its best executives. So the company flew a special air ambulance (a chartered plane equipped with specialised medical equipment) into Nigeria and evacuated Ogacheko for treatment in Saudi Arabia. That’s how valuable he was to the company. And it didn’t matter whether he was a Nigerian and a non-national of Saudi Arabia.

So why would Ogacheko choose to come to his hometown under the present circumstances and be brutally murdered in his country home in such a wicked manner? Reports say he was asked by the gunmen to say his last prayers and despite offering them so much money, probably in dollars, they shot at him several times and he died instantly. Why?

Shouldn’t Ogacheko have taken the state of affairs in local security seriously enough to stay away from Nigeria at this time? With his status, he had enough money to arrange armed private guards or special police protection but why didn’t he do that? He also had the means to obtain a licence to own guns with which he could have repelled the assassins or defended himself. Why would uneducated, barbaric, unskilled hoodlums just kill an expatriate of that repute just like that without any resistance? Ogacheko was helpless even in his hometown; he was murdered mercilessly in his country home. Why?

Some Nigerians in diaspora get so accustomed to their host countries which have secure environments that they underestimate the Nigerian security situation. These members of the diaspora should seek proper travel advisory before coming home for holidays and other purposes. But they are usually overconfident in their belief that Nigeria is their original country where they started. So they don’t feel so threatened as if things are not as bad as when they were once here. No! Things are no longer as they were. The security situation in Nigeria seems to be deteriorating by the day. Those of us who live here know the daily risks we face and we trust in God in unusual terms, everyday for our security. Why do you think many Nigerians say crazy prayers using terms like ‘fire and die’ and ‘Holy Ghost fire’?

The Nigerian government needs to do more to assure Nigerians in diaspora and indeed all Nigerians that there is enough security before certain travels can be made in our country.

In the meantime, all Nigerians in diaspora, especially the successful ones who are popular for their generosity, should weigh carefully all their travel plans to Nigeria. A direct advice is for them to stay away completely until the security situation improves or they should be prepared to learn and adopt the needed skills together with resources required to survive in Nigeria, in these precarious times of insecurity, whenever they visit.

Frank Tietie
Human Rights Lawyer
& Executive Director, Citizens Advocacy for Social & Economic Rights (CASER),
Writes from Abuja

French woman told not French enough for Quebec residency

-->

Montreal: A French woman seeking permanent residency in Quebec was turned down on grounds on her French was not good enough.
Emilie Dubois, 31, has lived in the mainly French-speaking province since 2012, completed her doctoral thesis at Laval University in Quebec City in French started a small business in the province and even passed a language test.
But all that wasn't enough to convince Quebec officials to give her an immigration suitability certificate that is a prerequisite to gaining permanent residency.
"It's absurd," she told AFP.
French is the official language of government, commerce and the courts in Quebec -- a former French colony ceded to Britain in 1763.
But the province's French majority has often faced criticism for its arguably heavy-handed defense of the language of Moliere.
Most recently a backlash ensued over plans to require anyone wanting services in English to prove their ancestral English roots in the province.
According to a letter from the Quebec immigration ministry, Dubois was turned down because she had not completed her dissertation entirely in French.
One chapter of her doctoral thesis on cellular and molecular biology was written in English because it was a scholarly article published in a scientific journal. But the other four chapters were written in French.
"It's absurd, but I must believe that someone just made a mistake," said Dubois, a Francophone from Burgundy in eastern France.
"You just have to look at the reality of things and not consider that we are just boxes, folders, numbers, but that we are real people and if they have doubts, they can also reach out to us."
Quebec's immigration minister, Simon Jolin-Barrette, is reportedly aware of the case and has asked for a review.
Determined to press on, Dubois said "my desire to stay in Quebec is stronger."
 

AFP

The University of Ibadan ranked 17th top university in Africa

The University of Ibadan has been named the top university in Nigeria and the 17th best university in Africa for 2019, according to US News & World Report’s sixth annual Global Universities survey. 

The Best Global Universities rankings encompass the top 1,500 institutions spread across 81 countries. Universities were ranked on 13 indicators, including global and regional research reputation, publications, conferences, and international collaborations.

The University of Ibadan, UI as it is fondly referred to, overall ranked 733rd of all universities worldwide and the University of Nigeria Nsukka is ranked at 1393.

Ul ranked 299 in the world's top universities for clinical medicine. The University of Lagos ranks 560 and the University of Nigeria 740. The world's top universities for clinical medicine have shown strength in producing research related to a variety of medical and biomedical topics. These include anesthesia, cardiology, general and internal medicine, gastroenterology, obstetrics, ophthalmology, radiology and surgery. These are the best global universities for clinical medicine, based on their reputation and research in the field.

Established in 1948, the University of Ibadan is the first university in Nigeria.

 

 The full details on 2019 Best Global Universities can be found here: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities.

Strong first half of year for German incoming tourism

With an increase of 3.3 percent in June, German incoming tourism is continuing its steady growth. According to provisional figures from the Federal Statistical Office, 39.8 million international overnights were registered across hotels and accommodation establishments with more than ten beds between January and June – a three percent (1.2 million) rise on the equivalent period of the previous year.

“Destination Germany is positioning itself well within the increasingly competitive market“, says Petra Hedorfer, Chief Executive Officer of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB).“According to the latest trend analysis by IPK International to develop international travel in line with the World Travel Monitor, Germany’s incoming tourism is performing better than the worldwide average (plus 3.5 percent) with an increase of 3.7 percent. Germany is even generating a growth of four percent from European source markets, according to IPK, placing it well ahead of the European average (plus 2.5 percent).“

There was a 4.7 percent increase on comparative figures of the previous year in flight bookings made by overseas visitors throughout the first half of 2019, according to analyses by market research company Forward Keys. The segment of advance bookings (at least 120 days prior to departure) grew far above average by 11 percent.

Destination Germany’s partners confirm positive development

Gabriela Ahrens, Senior Director of Leisure Sales Home Markets (DACH) at Lufthansa Group, explains: “As our home market, Lufthansa’s focus is on Destination Germany. We have recognised the importance and potential of Germany’s incoming tourism, and are increasingly targeting the segment with various target group-orientated activities with the German National Tourist Board.” Andreas von Puttkamer, Head of Aviation at Munich Airport, adds: „In the first half of 2019, Munich Airport registered a new record of 22.7 million air passengers, with an increase just short of five percent (more than one million additional passengers). Once again, the intercontinental segment proved to be the driver of growth, seeing a rise of over ten percent within this period.” And there is a further record year in sight for Germany’s hotels, according to Markus Luthe, Managing Director of the German Hotel Association (IHA): “Holidays in Germany are back in trend in Germany in particular. In addition, bookings made by international guests are continuing to rise. With an increase of four percent, the average return per room (RevPAR) is even above the European average of 3.3 percent.”

With its “German Summer Cities” campaign, the German National Tourist Board has already been able to strengthen the popularity of Destination Germany this year. Visitor attractions are enjoying an especially dynamic increase in demand. Dr.-Ing. h.c. Roland Mack, Managing Partner of Europa-Park GmbH & Co Mack KG, explains: “Europa-Park kicked off the 2019 season with many new, exciting attractions. “Krønasår – The Museum-Hotel” was completed in May and is welcoming its first guests. In addition, we have recently celebrated the reopening of the Scandinavian themed area. These highlights have played a role in increasing our overnights from France, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates within the first half of the year already.“

Evelina Hederer, Director of Business Development at Expedia Group Media Solutions, comments: “The demand from Germany’s TOP 5 incoming markets – the USA, Great Britain, Japan, Canada and Australia – increased by more than five percent in comparison to the previous year within the first half of 2019. Berlin and Hamburg were particularly popular with steady growth throughout the first six months, as were Cologne, Düsseldorf and the Black Forest, which even registered double-digit growth.”

Cautiously optimistic outlook for second half of year

Early indications for the second half of 2019 suggest ongoing stable development. According to Forward Keys, the advance bookings for flights from overseas markets to Germany were 2.1 percent above the comparative figures of the previous year at the end of July.

Petra Hedorfer adds: “These latest analyses should not let us forget that we still have major challenges such as weaker economic growth in the eurozone, climate discussions, trade conflicts and the possibility of a no-deal Brexit to overcome.”

Worshippers seek TB Joshua's blessing in Nazareth

NAZARETH: Celebrity Nigerian Pastor TB Joshua attracted Evangelical Christians to Israel for a crusade, a mass faith-healing service outside Jesus's hometown of Nazareth on Sunday.

Some worshippers sang in various languages during the powerful gathering, presided over by TB Joshua, who has amassed millions of followers on social media from his base in Lagos.

"Jesus's father, Joseph, and his mother, Mary, came from here. What a blessing. No other place would have been better for Jesus to come from. It was God's design," Joshua told the crowd gathered in a sun-baked stadium on Mount Precipice.

When the self-described prophet descended from the stage to bless attendees, placing his hand on their heads, several declared themselves healed from sickness or infirmity. Attendants stood ready to catch those who fainted in excitement.

Minerva Resendiz, from Mexico, said she had come to see Joshua as part of the two-day gathering "to ask for healing, for a breakthrough ... to resolve conflicts in the family".

"I would like that (all people) could see a miracle through Jesus Christ," Resendiz, 40, said. Other pilgrims came from China, Russia, and African and South American countries.

Joshua founded and leads an evangelical ministry called The Synagogue, Church of All Nations. His Christian television network, Emmanuel TV, says its Youtube's channel is the most subscribed with well over one million followers.

Evangelicals made up roughly half of the more than 2 million Christian pilgrims who visited Israel in 2018, according to the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, which oversees evangelical outreach to Israel. 

REUTERS

Nigeria’s Oshoala scores in record crowd women's match between Barca and Atletico

Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala and Toni Duggan scored in Barcelona’s women’s 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid in Spanish Liga Femenina with a record crowd of 60,739 Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday, less than three months before the start of the World Cup.

The attendance is the largest ever for a top-flight club match in European women's football while Atletico claimed the number also sets a new world record.

"A historic record attendance for a club match! Today we have at the Wanda Metropolitano 60,739 spectators!” read a post from the club's official Twitter account.

"The crowd cheered up our girls and set a world record for attendance at a women's club match," Atletico added in a statement.

The 2-0 win means the Catalan giants now sit just three points behind Atletico at the top of Liga Femenina.

The bumper attendance exceeds the previous European record set, also in Spain, on January 30, when a crowd of 48,121 turned out to watch Athletic Bilbao play Atletico Madrid at San Mames stadium.

The overall record for women's football remains the 90,185 spectators that attended the final of the 1999 World Cup at the Rose Bowl in California, when the United States beat China.

This year's World Cup in France will begin on June 7. Spain have qualified and will be in Group B, with Germany, China and South Africa.

Nigerian football officials charged with $9.5m fraud

Abuja Three Nigerian football officials have been charged with fraud after allegedly diverting $9.5 million in FIFA grants for personal use, the country's anti-corruption unit said Thursday.
Christopher Andekin, Jafaru Fadanari Mamza, and Rajan Zaka allegedly committed the crime in 2015, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said in a statement.
"The money was a grant given by the Federation of International Football Association, FIFA, for the development of football in Nigeria," it added.
EFCC lawyer Steve Odiase told reporters outside the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja that the case had been adjourned to a further hearing on November 28.
The body's spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, told AFP separately that the defendants pleaded not guilty, and were given bail on condition they surrendered their passports and paid a five-million-naira ($13,755, 12,000-euro) surety.
Andekin is the director of administration and finance at the NFF while Mamza heads the finance and accounts department. Zaka is a cashier.
The court case is the latest to hit the embattled NFF, which has been embroiled in a leadership struggle for control that has brought Nigeria to the brink of FIFA sanctions.
Football's governing body and its equivalent in Africa, CAF, have called for calm and reforms to heal the rifts in the running of the sport in Nigeria.

Adidas takes 12-10 lead over Nike in World Cup shirt deals

BERLIN: Adidas can declare itself the winner over arch-rival Nike in the upcoming FIFA World Cup even before the first match kicks off as it is kitting out the most teams.
However, the German sportswear brand, which is also the official sponsor of the tournament, expects only a limited financial impact, partly because this year's World Cup takes place in Russia, where the economy is in the doldrums.
"The World Cup in Russia does carry lower financial opportunities than the similar event four years ago in Brazil,"
Adidas Chief Executive Kasper Rorsted said earlier this month.
"At the same time, we're looking forward to it. It's going to be a fantastic way of bringing our brand to life globally," Rorsted added.
Since the last tournament in 2014, Adidas has grown sales rapidly in areas other than soccer, capitalising on booming demand for its retro basketball sneakers and springy Boost running shoes to outpace Nike, particularly in the U.S. market.
Nevertheless, soccer remains important for the image of the German brand, which has supplied the World Cup match ball since 1970 and has a deal to sponsor the event until 2030.
It also announced last week it will extend its partnership with the UEFA Champions League until 2021.
After Nike kitted out more teams for the first time in Brazil in 2014, Adidas has fought back, this year sponsoring 12 of the 32 participating teams, including strong contenders like Germany and Spain, along with hosts Russia.
Nike, which only got heavily involved in soccer when the World Cup was played in the United States in 1994, is supplying shirts for 10 countries, including Brazil, France, and England.
"The World Cup is such a powerful moment in sport, and we look forward to amplifying its energy," Nike Chief Executive Mark Parker said in March.

NO IRANIANS WEAR NIKE
While team deals are important for sales of soccer jerseys, more critical for sales of boots is the sponsorship of top players, particularly the likes of Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, who wears Nike, and Argentina's Lionel Messi, in Adidas.
Nike expects 60 percent of all the players heading to Russia will be wearing its boots, including almost half the German and Spanish team and three-quarters of the Russians, even though they will be wearing Adidas shirts.
An exception is Iran, which faces new sanctions after U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal. Nike says none of the country's players are wearing its shoes, while Adidas is providing the team's jerseys.
German brand Puma is a distant third, sponsoring just four relatively lowly teams in the competition, compared with the eight it kitted out in 2014, dented by the failure of its top team Italy to qualify.
Still, Puma Chief Executive Bjorn Gulden says the World Cup has helped its order book for the second and third quarters.
Adidas reported soccer-related sales of 2.1 billion euros ($2.4 billion) in 2014, when it sold 14 million official match balls and 8 million jerseys, including 3 million for the winning German team.
Sales rose to 2.5 billion euros by 2016 but slipped as a proportion of total Adidas revenue to 13.5 percent from 14.5 percent in 2014. It has not disclosed figures since then.
Nike saw soccer sales fall a currency-adjusted 4 percent to $2 billion for its fiscal year ended May 31, 2017, accounting for less than 6 percent of group revenue.
The World Cup could add about 3 to 4 percentage points to Adidas group revenue growth in 2018, lower than previous tournaments due to the fact it is happening in Russia, according to Piral Dadhania, an analyst at RBC Capital Markets.
However, Dadhania noted much of the benefit occurs before the event as the jerseys have already been sold to retailers.
"Any incremental boost during or after the event relating to jersey sales depends on the extent to which specific teams progress through the competition," Dadhania said.

By Emma Thomasson
REUTERS