News
UNICEF Clarifies Origin of Viral Messi and Lamine Yamal Photos Before World Cup Final
By Rukevwe Odeh
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has shed light on the widely shared photographs showing Argentine football legend Lionel Messi holding and bathing a baby who later grew up to become Spanish star Lamine Yamal.
The organisation explained that the pictures were captured in 2007 during a UNICEF charity campaign held at Barcelona’s Camp Nou. At the time, Messi was a 20-year-old rising star, while Yamal was only a few months old. The child’s family had been selected through a newspaper raffle to participate in the fundraising project.
The images have resurfaced across social media ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where Argentina and Spain are expected to meet in what will be the first senior competitive encounter between Messi and Yamal.
In a statement, UNICEF confirmed the authenticity of the photographs, describing them as part of a campaign designed to support children through charitable fundraising efforts.
The agency also highlighted that both footballers now serve as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, using their global influence to advocate for children’s rights and welfare around the world. According to UNICEF, their journey from that memorable photo session to becoming two of football’s biggest stars reflects a remarkable full-circle moment.
The story first gained worldwide attention during the 2024 UEFA European Championship after the photographs resurfaced online. With the World Cup final approaching, the images have once again sparked conversations among football fans, many describing the moment as a symbolic link between one generation of football greatness and the next.
News
Warri Group Withdraws Support for Ereyitomi, Backs Mulade for 2027 Reps Election
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
News
DELTA: Persistent Flooding Raises Concerns Over Warri Airport Road
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
News
Heavy Rainfall Floods Ekpan Link Road in Delta
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
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