The Nation Newspaper

Tag: France

  • France invests N150 billion in Nigeria

    France invests N150 billion in Nigeria

    Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Dr Modupe Irele, yesterday announced that France invested about N150 billion(350 million euros) in Nigeria in 2017.

    Irele told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the amount was disbursed as soft loans to the federal and state governments, as well as the private sector.

    “It is estimated that in 2017 alone, France invested around 350 million Euros (about N150 billion) in Nigeria, mostly through soft loans to both the Federal and State governments and the private sector.

    “Available records also state that at the end of the first quarter of 2017, the trade volume between France and Nigeria stood at N668.75 billion (1.9 billion euros).

    “And in 2016, the volume of trade transacted between Nigeria and France was ?339.77 billion,’’ she said.

    Irele said that France and Nigeria’s economic relations had over the past 100 years been dominated by businesses in oil and gas, construction and other enterprises.

    According to her, Nigeria remains France’s first trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa.

    The Ambassador said that more French companies and businesses were prepared to take advantage of the nation’s ongoing initiatives at enhancing the Ease of Doing in Nigeria, for foreign investors.

    “The French, like many other business people, are showing interest in the drive to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria and welcome the policies as positive developments.

    “The over 100 years plus of Franco/Nigeria economic relations, have largely been dominated by big businesses in oil and gas, construction and others.

    “However, we are witnessing a significant shift of interest to areas, including the agro-allied industry, SMEs, renewable energy, technology and start-ups, among others,’’ she said.

    Irele said that she was currently working at increasing socio-cultural exchanges between France and Nigeria, as well as expanding mutually beneficial economic ties between both countries.

    The Nigerian Representative in France added that her embassy would also exploit unexplored investment and export opportunities between both countries.

    “We are also encouraging cooperation in the areas of technology, research and development, given the critical role technology is playing in defining our today and tomorrow,’’ she added.

    The trade volume between France and Nigeria hit 1.9 billion euros (about N668 .75 billion) in the first quarter of 2017.

  • France repatriates three children of suspected jihadists from Iraq

    France repatriates three children of suspected jihadists from Iraq

    Three French-born children belonging to suspected Islamic State ( IS ) militants and who were being held by Iraq authorities have been flown back to Paris, France Capital, a foreign ministry official said on Thursday.

    The International Committee of the Red Cross ( ICRC ) said it was the first such repatriation of French children from Iraq.

    It has suffered a series of deadly militant attacks over the past three years and is grappling with the threat of homegrown militancy as well as the risks posed by IS fighters slipping back across French borders.

    “Their return was organised in coordination with the authorities in Iraq,” a foreign ministry spokesman told Reuters.

    French media reported that the family had left France for Iraq in 2015.

    “The father was killed during the battle for Mosul and Iraqi forces later detained the mother and her four children in July.

    “She and her youngest child remain in detention in Iraq,’’ Vincent Brengarth said, the lawyer acting on her behalf.

    Her three older children, aged between three and eight years, were now in foster care after arriving back on December 18.

    Reuters revealed in September that Iraqi authorities were holding about 1,400 foreign wives and children of suspected IS combatants at a single camp after government forces routed the jihadist group from Mosul, its last major urban redoubt in Iraq.

    However, it was not clear if the three children had been among the same group.

    French officials have indicated a preference for their citizens held in Iraq and found to be affiliated to IS to be prosecuted there, although in mid-November President Emmanuel Macron said the fate of women and children should be examined on a case-by-case basis.

    The head of France’s domestic spy agency last month said some 700 men and women either of French nationality or who had resided in France, as well as 500 children, were in Iraq and Syria or linked to the militants.

    Meanwhile several hundred others have already slipped back into France.

    (Reuters/NAN)

  • World Cup 2018: team-by-team guide

    World Cup 2018: team-by-team guide

    The draw for the World Cup has been made; each country now know their fate. Though with over six months to go for the biggest Mundial in football, some countries might have already been gauging expectations on how far they would go.

    Most countries, immediately after the draw in Kremlin have started preparation for the Mundial; looking for suitable opponents to engage in friendlies to prepare their players, where to camp, modalities on players’ bonuses (conundrum in African football) and so on, we would ensure we don’t fail you in discharging one of our most sacrosanct duties; to inform you and feed you with some of the things to expect in 2018 World Cup.

    Without much ado, we preview each of the 32 countries that will participate at the World Cup:

    Note: the preview is done alphabetically.

    Argentina (Albiceleste)

    It took the Albiceleste three coaches and some magic from captain, Lionel Messi in the final qualifying game against Ecuador to book a place in Russia. Though they had a disastrous qualifying campaign, Argentina remains one of the most successful football teams in the world. Having won the World Cup in 1978 and 1986 and emerged as runners up on three occasions, including the last edition – the Albiceleste will be going into this competition as one of the favourites.

    How will they fare? They’ve been grouped alongside Nigeria, Croatia and Iceland – ceteris paribus, they should come out top in this group, setting up a probable meeting in Last 16 with any other team in Group C aside France, who will be expected to top that group. Argentina should see off any of the team in Round of 16, but from the quarter final no one knows.

    They are one of the favourites but the curse that South American teams don’t win the World Cup on European soil might be a big factor.

    Key Player: Lionel Messi.

    Manager: Jorge Sampaoli

    Australia (Socceroos)

    The Socceroos were the 31st team to qualify for the World Cup having had to defeat Honduras 3-1 in Sydney after they initially drew 0-0 away to their inter-confederation playoff counterpart.

    Three goals from Jedinak saw the Australia qualified for their fourth World Cup – the third in a row.

    How they will fare? After booking their place at the World Cup, coach, Ange Postecoglou stepped down for reasons best known to him. This might go a long way as the Socceroos now have less than seven months to find a new manager, who will definitely start afresh.

    In Group C with France, Denmark and Peru, Australia, as always should be pleased with only group stage appearance as the other teams seem to be better off, although with veteran Tim Cahill in the side, they might fancy their chances.

    Key player: Tim Cahill

    Manager: —-

     

    Belgium (Red Devils)

    Belgium was one of the best teams during the qualifying series. They broke a couple of records in the qualifying stage – as they were unbeaten in all 10 games, they dropped just two out of 30 points and scored 43 goals in the process.

    But with the unconvincing draws against Russia and Mexico and complaints by Kevin de Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois on the tactics of manager Roberto Martinez, much is left to be worried about the Belgians going to the World Cup. The Belgians always seem to walk on thin fence between class and capitulation.

    How they will fare? The Red Devils lost in the quarter final of the last edition to eventual runners-up Argentina in the last edition but with permutations they should reach same stage or possibly matched their 1986 semi-final’s feat.

    Whether they finish first or second in Group G; same group that houses England, Tunisia and Panama, they should easily dispatch any team that comes their way in Group H in Round 16.

    Key Player: player for player, it’s only the French national team that seems better than Belgium – as this team is star studded. Tough call between Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne but the latter edges the former based on his present stellar form.

    Manager: Roberto Martinez.

     

    Brazil (La Selecao)

    La Selecao were unbeaten in all qualifying games under Tite, as they emerged as the winners of the CONMEBOL series. They didn’t only emerge as winners, they were the first nation to book a ticket for the World Cup in 2018 – qualifying with four games to spare.

    How they will fare? You won’t have so many things as sacrilegious as Brazil going to the World Cup and not being considered as favourites. The most successful team in the history of this Mundial – winners in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002- will also have to deal with the curse of no South American World Cup winner on European soil.

    You wonder no mention on their group? We don’t need to waste our time: we know what it’ll look like.

    Key player: Neymar

    Manager: Tite.

     

    Colombia (Los Cafeteros)

    Colombia emerged as the fourth best team in the CONMEBOL qualifying series – picking 27 points out of a possible 54. Their last game in the qualifying series left so many football fans with much to worry about match fixing in football.

    Radamel Falcao was caught on camera whispering to Peru players’ in the latter stage of a match that was at a stalemate to slow down the tempo of the game, as the draw was likely see the two sides through, knocking out Chile in the process.

    How will they fare? Colombia, who were knocked out in the quarter final of the last edition by Brazil should all things being equal progress in Group H; group that houses Poland, Senegal and Japan. But they haven’t quite hit the heights they did in Brazil, so the rest will more than fancy it against them.

    Key player: James Rodriguez

    Manager: Jose Pekerman

     

    Costa Rica (La Sele)

    La Sele qualified with two games to spare and came second in the CONCACAF qualifying series – five points behind Mexico. They’ve been a sensation and a joy to watch since the awesome performance in the last World Cup in which it took Netherland’s Tim Krul brilliances to keep them from reaching the semi-finals.

    How will they fare? In a group that comprises Brazil, Switzerland and Serbia, La Sele will be fighting not for the presumed heir to the top of the group but find a way to wrestle both Serbia and Switzerland for the second spot. Then again, they were written off four years. Remember how that turned out?

    Key Player: Keylor Navas

    Manager: Oscar Ramirez

     

    Croatia (The Blazers)

    Croatia was second to Group D opponents, Iceland during the qualifiers but dispatched Greece in the play-off to book their way to Russia. Though they struggled at the initial stage of the qualifiers, a new manager looks to have brought some form of light to the team.

    How will they fare?: In the same Group with Iceland, Nigeria and Argentina, they might find it tough to progress as Argentina are favourites to top the group and they were bested by Iceland qualifying. Their star-studded midfield has always underperformed in tournaments, and this might be their last.

    Key player: Luka Modric

    Manager: Zlatko Dalic

    Denmark (Danish Dynamite)

    Denmark came second to Poland in the European qualifying series but went on to play off to annihilate Republic of Ireland – thanks to star man, Christian Eriksen who was awesome in the two-legged affair.

    With a fifth World Cup appearance, Denmark will be looking at the 2018 World Cup to match or better their record at the Mundial – a quarter final appearance at France 1998.

    How will they fare? In Group C with France, Australia and Peru, the Danish Dynamite should be looking at the second spot in the group – setting up a possible second round meeting with Argentina– we probably know the end of the story.

    Key player: Christian Eriksen

    Manager: Age Hareide

     

    Egypt (The Pharaohs)

    The Pharaohs, who last qualified for a FIFA World Cup in 1990, toppled the Black Stars of Ghana in the qualifying series. Though a household name when it comes to the Nations Cup, not many fancied them qualifying for the World Cup.

    Going to the World Cup, the Pharaohs defensive solidity in conjunction with the greatness of speedster, Mohammed Salah, might see them go far.

    NOTE: Legendary goalkeeper, Essam El-Hadary is set to become the oldest player at the World Cup at 45 – usurping that set by Colombian goalkeeper, El Mondragon, 43, at the 2014 World Cup

    How will they fare? In Group A, with Russia, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, Egypt should fancy their chances against these teams. But either they come first or second in the group, they will most likely meet their waterloo in Round 16.

    Key player: Mohammed Salah

    Manager: Hector Cuper

     

    England (Three Lions)

    Always one of the top performers at any qualifying series, the Three Lions kept the record of not losing any qualifying matches since 2009 intact – as they go through the 2018 World Cup qualifying phase without losing a game. Performing at major competition, they were always shambolic, appalling, devastating …. Maybe we stop at that and look at how they will fare at 2018 World Cup.

    They were winners of European Group F ahead of Slovakia and will be the only country representing Great Britain at the World Cup.

    How will they fare? Based on precedence, maybe another shambolic performance. But with the hype always around the team before any competition, we should assume for now that they will go pass the group stage. And whether they come first or second, they should be able to beat any team that comes their way in Group H in Round 16. Then again, it’s England…

    Key player: Harry Kane

    Manager: Gareth Southgate

     

    France (Les Blues)

    The star-studded French team will be going into the World Cup as one of the favourites to win it. The strength and capability of the Les Blues was shown at EUROS 2016, where they unluckily lost out to Portugal in the final.

    With even their third line-up, France should still be up to compete with the very best at this Mundial.

    The winners at the 1998 edition won their group during the qualifying stages ahead of Sweden.

    How will they fare? With the likes of Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, Ngolo Kante and the likes at Didier Deschamps’ disposal, no need to discuss about their group matches. And if the unlikely doesn’t happen and they avoid Argentina in the last 16, they should be at least in the semi-finals.

    Key Player: Paul Pogba

    Manager: Didier Deschamps

     

    Germany (Die Mannschaft)

    The defending champions remain one of the biggest favourites to win the World Cup. History wise, Germany will always be a team to beat at the World Cup – the last time they failed to reach the quarter final of the World Cup was in 1938, and since 2002, they’ve always been at the semi-finals. They emerged second in 2002, third in 2006, second in 2010 and won the last edition.

    Having top their group in the qualifying series as expected, the biggest worry for the Die Mannshaft as winning this competition is that no country that emerged as winner of the Confederations Cup has been able to win the World Cup.

    All fingers crossed till they upset and unseat the status quo.

    How will they fare? Grouping Germany in the same group with teams like Mexico, Sweden is almost demeaning to the strength of the Die Mannschaft. Anything less than reaching the semi-finals will always be a failure for Germany.

    Key Player: Toni Kroos

    Manager: Joachim Low

     

    Iceland (Strakarnir Okar)

    The meteoric rise of Iceland’s football is one of the biggest stories of this century. Whatever one has read or heard about how they rose, it’s still quite a miracle for a country with that kind of population. After an exhilarating performance at their first major competition; EURO 2016, which saw them dispatched England in the second round they refused to stop there as the Strakarnir Okar became the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, topping fellow group D opponent Croatia.

    How will they fare? Topping the group isn’t realistic (or isn’t it?), but they should stand their ground to compete with Croatia and Nigeria for second spot.

    Key Player: Gyfli Sigurdsson

    Manager: Heimir Hallgrimsson

    Iran (Team Melli)

    Iran are ranked 24th in the World and are one of the most successful football teams in Asia. They’ve qualified for the World Cup on five occasions but have failed to make it past the group stage on the all five – with their only win in the competition was against the United States in 1998.

    Team Melli was the first Asian team to qualify for the World Cup and did so with 12 consecutive clean sheets.

    How will they fare?  In the same group with Portugal, Spain and Morocco, let’s hope they record their second win at the World Cup against the African side.

    Key player: Sardar Azmoun.

    Manager: Carlos Queiroz

     

    Japan (Samurai Blue)

    Co-host of the 2002 World Cup, Japan have been mainstays in the competition since 1998. The Samurai Blue, who are famously known for their counter attacking style of play, emerged as winners of the Asian Group B ahead of Saudi Arabia in the qualifying series.

    How will they fare? Samurai Blue have reached the round of 16 on two occasions, but will find it hard to qualify ahead of Poland and Colombia, who are Group H favourites. And if they find their way past the group stage, most likely, the status quo of not getting beyond the last 16 is unlikely to change – as they will most likely face England or Belgium.

    Key Player: With the likes of Shinji Okazaki, Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda, finding it to hold a starting berth under the new system of coach, Vahid Halilhodzic, the key player for the Samurai Blue for the World Cup, should be Southampton defender, Maya Yoshida.

    Manager: Vahid Halilhodzic

    Korea Republic (The Reds)

    Historically, The Reds are the most successful football team from Asia and up till today they are the only team from Asia to have reached the semi-finals of the World Cup; a feat achieved when they co-hosted with Japan in 2002.

    Having qualified for their 10th World Cup – the highest of any Asian team, The Reds will be looking forward to making a statement.

    How will they fare? Making a statement by topping Germany is most likely out of hand for The Reds – they will be looking at cementing a second spot ahead of Mexico and Sweden.

    Key player: Heung-min Son

    Manager: Shin Tae-Yong

     

    Mexico (El Tri)

    El Tri had no problem qualifying for the World Cup but their performances at the Confederations Cup and Copa America Centenario have left people with worries as to what they will bring to the table in Russia.

    The Mexicans were the winners of the CONCACAF qualifying series ahead of Costa Rica and Panama.

    How will they fare? Mexico have reached the knock out stage in each of the past six World Cups and matching that record is a mountain that shouldn’t be too high this time around as well.

    The highest they have gone in the World Cup was a quarter final appearance in 1986, but that looks unachievable as they will most likely finish second, setting up a probable meeting with Brazil, who, all things being equal, should top Group E.

    Key Player: Javier Hernandez

    Manager: Juan Carlos Osorio

     

    Morocco (Atlas Lions)

    The Atlas Lions are first African team to win a group at the World Cup, a feat they achieved in 1986 – finishing ahead of England, Portugal and Poland. That year they also became the first African country to reach the knockout stage. Like their moniker ‘the Atlas Lions,’ Morocco have been roaring and ready to prey any team that comes their way. Their ability to not concede in the qualifying series is a testament on the preparedness of the Atlas Lions to devour any team that comes their way.

    How will they fare? In the same group with Spain and Portugal, Morocco will have to summon the spirit of ’86 once again.

    They unfortunately failed to reach the knockout stage in France 1998 but in Russia 2018, all things being equal they should successfully fail to break through pass the group stage as Spain and Portugal look like the outright favourites.

    Key Player: Hakim Ziyech

    Manager: Herve Renard

     

    Nigeria (Super Eagles)

    The three time African champions were placed in the toughest group in the African qualifying series but against all odds were able to book their sixth appearance at the World Cup with ease.

    They did not only see off the likes of Algeria, Cameroon (African champion), and Zambia, they became the first African country to qualify for the World Cup. The Super Eagles qualified with a game to spare and without losing a game in the qualifying series.

    How will they fare? After qualifying in style, many Nigerians have been dreaming and predicting that the team will go as far as reaching the semi-finals.

    Reality check, the Super Eagles will need to first battle for a second spot in Group D with Croatia and Iceland, and if they eventually make it through, a repeat of 2014’s round of 16 encounter with France is possible.

    France? Nigerians should be looking at going past the group stage first.

    Key player: Victor Moses

    Manager: Gernot Rohr

     

    Panama (La Marea Roja)

    La Marea Roja came third in the CONCACAF qualifying rounds, behind Mexico and Costa Rica, to qualify for their first ever World Cup.

    Just like Costa Rica in 2014, Panama will be heading to Russia with the hopes of pulling some surprises.

    How will they fare? Even if am to play a devils’ advocate, it will be on Tunisia. A group stage appearance should be well enough for Panama as they were handed a group that has England and Belgium

    Key player: Gabriel Gomez

    Manager: Hernan Dario Gomez

     

    Peru (La Blanquirroja)

    After a fifth place finish in their region’s qualifying series, Peru were able to book a play-off meeting with New Zealand whom they beat 2-0 in a two legged affair.

    Peru, who last played at the World Cup in 1982, emerged as the last nation to qualify for the 2018 edition.

    How will they fare? Grouped alongside France, Denmark and Australia, the Peruvians stand a very good chance of making it to the round of 16.

    And from there? Ceteris paribus, they should be on their way home.

    Key player: Jefferson Farfan

    Manager: Ricardo Gareca

     

    Poland (Bialo-Czerwoni)

    Having last qualified for the World Cup in 2006, the Poles will be making their seventh World Cup appearance – thanks to Captain, Robert Lewandowski, who netted a record 16 goals in the qualifying series.

    This present crop of Polish players is considered to be the best since the renowned set of 1970 – early 1980, and they are being rooted to go far in Russia. Their defence line could be the standing blocks to achieving this.

    How will they fare? : In a group considered the most balanced, Poland, with Lewandowski, should book a place in last 16. What happens if he does not come to the party? Maybe a group stage exit.

    On the other hand, the Polish team may look like a one-man team, but they fared well when Lewy floundered in France two years ago.

    Key Player: Robert Lewandowski

    Manager: Adam Nawalka

     

    Portugal (A Selecao)

    With their EURO 2016 triumph, Portugal will be going to the 2018 World Cup full of confidence and hoping to pull some surprises at the biggest stage. According to their coach, they are not part of the favourites to lift the World Cup – he considered his team as part of the second class teams, who only wanted to go far in the Mundial.

    They unsurprisingly won their group ahead of Switzerland in the qualifying series and will be hoping they make it pass the group stage this time around – having failed to break through the group stage in 2014.

    How will they fare? All things being equal, they should qualify alongside Spain in Group B – and whether they top or second the group, Portugal should conveniently dispatch with any team that comes their way from Group A in round 16.

    Key player: Cristiano Ronaldo

    Manager: Fernando Santos

     

    Russia (The National team)

    Having qualified for the World Cup on ten occasions, Russia will be making their eleventh appearance as the host.

    How will they fare?  Even with the home backings, Russia will hardly go past the round 16 stage. Their appalling display at the Confederations cup is an indication of what one should most likely expect next year.

    Key Player: Aleksandr Kokorin

    Manager: Stanislav Cherchesov

     

    Senegal (Teranga Lions)

    2018 World Cup will be the Teranga Lions’ second appearance at the Mundial. In their first, in 2002, they shocked the World, defeating World and European champions France 1-0 in the tournament’s opening game. They also reached the quarter final of the 2002 World Cup – making them one of the three African countries to have gone that far.

    Under the leadership of Aliou Cisse, who was the captain of the 2002 World Cup team, Senegal trumped the likes of South Africa, Burkina Faso and Cape Verde to book their spot in Russia.

    How will they fare? In a group considered as the most balanced that features the likes of Japan, Poland and Colombia, Senegal are not one of the two favourites to go through, but the upsets they caused in 2002, will surely be on the minds of their group opponents.

    Key Player: Sadio Mane

    Manager: Aliou Cisse

    Serbia (The Orlovi)

    Considered by both UEFA and FIFA as the sole and direct successor of the Yugoslavia and Serbia and Montenegro teams, Russia 2018 will be the 12th appearance of Serbia at the FIFA World Cup.

    After their last qualifying for a major tournament in 2010, Serbia qualified for Russia 2018 by pipping both Wales and Republic of Ireland to first place in the qualifying phase, although their decision to part company with Slavojab Muslin is still a mystery.

    How will they fare? With Germany, Mexico and Sweden in their group, Serbia will surely be vying for the second spot at least, or at best. Orlovi’s greatest achievement so far was defeating Germany 1-0 at the World cup in 2010 but that was not even enough to see them progress to the next stage.

    Key player: Branislav Ivanovic

    Manager: Mladen Krsajic (caretaker)

     

    Spain (La Furia Roja)

    The La Furia Roja will be looking at Russia 2018 to redeem their image as one of the super powers in football after shambolic performances at the last FIFA World Cup and EURO 2016. Though, on paper, the 2010 World Champion have been considered as one of the top sides for the World Cup but one cannot dispatch the ongoing Catalonia crisis. How well the squad manages this will go a long way in determining what they will bring to the table.

    They won their qualifying group over the Italians, who knocked them out at EURO 2016.

    How will they fare? Spain should progress through the group and should rise above any of the teams that comes their way in Round of 16. With the quality of players they have and their records in major tournament in the last 10 years, anything less than a semi-final appearance for the La Furia Roja would be considered a failure.

    Key Player: Isco

    Manager: Julen Lopetegui

     

    Switzerland (Rossocrociati)

    Switzerland national football over the years has been one that has always been knocking at the door – qualifying for tournaments is not a big deal but over the years, football fans have been longing for that tournament where they will make a statement.

    According to manager Vladimir Petkovic, they would be going to Russia hoping to at least reach the second round of the competition.

    How will they fare? Petkovic wasn’t dreaming too much when he said they would be looking at reaching the second stage of Russia 2018 – this looks realistic as the Swiss team stand a good chance to book the second spot ahead of both Costa Rica and Serbia – with Brazil destined for the number one spot.

    Key Player: Skodran Shaqiri

    Manager: Vladmir Petkovic

     

    Sweden (Blaguit)

    The Blaguit caused one of the biggest upsets in football’s history when they defeated four-time World champion Italy 1-0 en route to booking their eleventh World Cup appearance.

    Undeterred by their greatest footballer of all time and maybe the most popular man in the history of Sweden, Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s retirement after EURO 2016, Sweden were able to cement a place in Russia against all odds.

    How will they fare? With Mexico, Korea Republic and Germany in their group, Sweden should give a good fight for at least second spot.

    Key Player: And if Ibrahimovic decides not to call off his international retirement, how well RB Leipzig forward, Emil Forsberg, does will go a long way in deciding how Sweden will fair at the World Cup.

    Manager: Janne Andersson

    Tunisia (Carthage Eagles)

    After a below-par outings at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2004 AFCON champions had to introduce a new manager who championed the campaign that saw the Carthage Eagles book a place in Russia for their fourth World Cup appearance.

    How will they fare? : With Belgium, Panama and England in their group, as an African, I shall celebrate their group stage appearance.

    On the flip side, England could come doing what they know how to do best; disappoint. If this happens, they might find their way to the Round of 16 ahead of Panama.

    Key player: Aymen Abdenour

    Manager: Nabil Maaloul

     

    Uruguay (La Celeste)

    Uruguay, the winners of the first World Cup in 1930 and champions again in 1950, came second behind Brazil in the CONMEBOL qualifying series.

    In the last two editions of the World Cup, Uruguay have been one of the most talk about teams – will anyone forget the Uruguay-Ghana drama of 2010?

    How will they fare? : La Caleste are the favourites in Group A ahead of Russia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

    And if they qualify for the second round a big match awaits them as they would most likely meet either Spain or Portugal.

    Key player: Luis Suarez

    Manager: Oscar Tabarez. 

    Edited by Olakunle Ajao and Noah Honawon

  • Buhari returns to Abuja

    Buhari returns to Abuja

    President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Abuja after participating in the “One Planet” summit in Paris, France.

    The President’s aircraft landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 4:35 p.m. on Thursday.

    Buhari was received by senior government officials including his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Musa Bello.

    While in Paris, President Buhari had appealed to the international community to support Nigeria’s commitment to reduce the negative effects of climate change.

    Buhari told participants that Nigeria could not implement its Nationally Determined Contributions without adequate financial, technical and capacity building support from developed nations

    He said Nigeria had already ratified the Paris Agreement in May 2017 but its Nationally Determined Contributions to reduce emission by 20 per cent by 2020 and 40 per cent by 2030 could not be attained alone.

    Read also: Buhari seeks global support to tackle climate change effects

    According to him, the country is not under illusion of the challenges it is facing, having just come out of recession.

    The summit with the theme “Climate Change Financing,” was attended by over 60 heads of state and governments, as well as representatives of non-governmental and private organisations.

    NAN

  • Nigeria demands restructuring and expansion of UN Security Council

    Nigeria demands restructuring and expansion of UN Security Council

    Nigeria has demanded an immediate restructuring and expansion of the UN Security Council to correct the injustices meted out against Africa in the composition of the prestigious 15-member body.

    Nigeria’s position was delivered by Amb. Babatunde Nurudeen, Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS at the UN General Assembly Debate on ‘Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council’.

    The Security Council is UN’s most powerful principal organ charged with the maintenance of international peace and security, accepting new members to the UN and approving any changes to the UN Charter.

    Its powers include the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the establishment of international sanctions, the authorisation of military action and it is the only UN body with the authority to issue binding resolutions to member states.

    Nurudeen regretted that 72 years after its formation, Africa continued to be marginalised in the representation on the prestigious body in spite of its ability and capacity.

    He stressed that a reformed Council would entail a restructuring and expansion of its membership to take account of, inter-alia, the increased membership of UN and the need to reflect the interests of all the constituent regions.

    The Nigerian envoy said: “Nigeria and other emerging nations continue to demonstrate the capacity to add value to the work, of all the organs of the United Nations, including the Security Council.

    “For that reason, we must now commit ourselves to accelerating the long-overdue reforms of the Security Council. This will no doubt make the Council more equitable, more inclusive and more effective”.

    Russia, UK, France, China, and U.S. serve as the body’s only five permanent members that can veto any substantive Security Council resolution, including those on the admission of new member states or candidates for Secretary-General.

    Nurudeen stressed: “Nigeria believes that a reformed Security Council with expanded permanent membership would benefit from the unique experiences and capacities that regional representatives could bring to bear on its work.

    “Nigeria has always expressed its support for the advancement of the intergovernmental negotiations process in an open, inclusive and transparent manner”.

    The Nigerian envoy re-affirmed Nigeria’s very strong adherence to the Common African Union Position on the entire subject of Security Council reform.

    “That is important in order to correct the historical injustice done to the continent and its continued marginalisation over so many years.

    “For that reason, we wish to underscore the overriding need to ensure that the interests of Africa continue to be advanced and safeguarded.

    “African States have offered a coherent, practical and persuasive blueprint for the Council’s reform.

    “We have come up with a common position, which asserts the right of our continent that has for so long been marginalised, and we recognise the legitimate aspirations of other regions to be fully represented in the Council.

    According to him, the clear objective of the reform process is based on the sovereign equality of all Member States and on the need to adhere to the principles of democratisation and inclusiveness in the UN.

    “It is undoubtedly a worthwhile process. Therefore, we must muster the desired will that can lead to the achievement of a reformed Security Council sooner rather than indefinitely,” Nurudeen said.

    NAN

  • APDA to Akeredolu: Reduce your travels to focus on governance

    APDA to Akeredolu: Reduce your travels to focus on governance

    The Advance Peoples Democratic Alliance ( APDA ) in Ondo State on Tuesday advised Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu to reduce his frequent travels outside the state to focus on governance.

    Mr Dele Ogunbameru, the State Publicity Secretary of APDA, in a statement in Lagos, said that the frequent travels of the governor were affecting governance in the state.

    Akeredolu, on Monday, December 11, travelled to Paris, France, to attend a four-day summit on climate change by One Planet Summit.

    The governor had attended the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York held from September 12 to September 27.

    Ogunbameru said that since Akeredolu’s inauguration in February 2017, he had not stayed “at home to address the problems being faced by the people that voted him into power.’’

    “Aside from foreign trips, it is now a tradition for Gov. Akeredolu to leave the state on Thursdays and come back on Tuesdays, spending only two working days in the state.

    Read also: ‘APDA not in merger talks with PDP’

    “This action has really caused hardship on the masses who queued in the sun to vote for him on November 26, 2016.

    “As at today, December 12, Ondo State workers have not received November salary aside from the five months salaries and pensions arrears owed the workers and retirees,’’ he said.

    Ogunbameru advised the governor to cut down on his incessant travels to focus on governance and reduce the hardship on the people, who he said, were mostly tstate workers.

    He said the current petrol scarcity in the state was artificial and urged the government to check the excesses of petrol stations as we approach the Yuletide.

    NAN

  • Argentina must improve to succeed in Russia – Messi

    Argentina must improve to succeed in Russia – Messi

    Argentina captain Lionel Messi believes they need to improve if they are to stand a chance of winning next year’s FIFA World Cup in Russia.

    Argentina, who reached the final in 2014, struggled during qualification for Russia, going through three coaches before securing their place at the tournament.

    And it was all thanks to a Messi hat-trick in a 3-1 win away to Ecuador in the final qualifier.

    Messi’s side will kick off their World Cup campaign against Iceland on June 16, before facing Croatia and Nigeria in their other group stage fixtures.

    Next year’s tournament may be the last chance for the 30-year-old Messi to win a major trophy with Argentina and the FC Barcelona forward is already concerned.

    He says they need to make changes in order to overcome more fancied countries.

    “We had a difficult time (in qualifying), but we had our moments,” Messi said.

    “But it’s true that we need to improve if we want to be world champions. Right now we’re not far off, but there are better sides than us, such as Brazil, Germany, France and Spain.”

    As well as losing to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final, Argentina were also defeated by Chile in successive Copa America finals in 2015 and 2016.

    Messi, however, believes they should have celebrated at least two victories.

    “I never went back over the finals (we lost). We deserved to win them, in spite of not playing that well. We still had the best chances, both in the World Cup and Copa America,” he said.

    “I’d have to watch them again to see what we didn’t get right in order not to win them. But right here I believe we should have won at least two of them.”

    Messi and his team mates have had a tumultuous relationship with the Argentine media, boycotting them 12 months ago due to what the national team perceived as unfair treatment.

    He said that media criticism has created a culture of fear within the squad.

    “Criticism went above and beyond what is normal and became personal,” he said.

    “The bitterness we feel is because we know what’s coming if things don’t go well for us. People want results and if they don’t get them, they want to see fresh blood. We don’t feel that way.”

    NAN

  • Amun, Adepoju salute Yakubu Aiyegbeni

    Amun, Adepoju salute Yakubu Aiyegbeni

    Fanny Amun, a former Super Eagles Assistant Coach at the France `98 World Cup, has described Yakubu Aiyegbeni as a player who had paid his dues in domestic and international football.

    Amun spoke against the backdrop of Aiyegbeni’s retirement on Wednesday in Lagos after he turned 35.

    Shortly after he announced his retirement, the former Super Eagles striker thanked all who had played one role or the other in his career.

    “I would like to officially announce my retirement from professional football today,’’ Yakubu told Sky Sports on Wednesday in London.

    “Thank you for the memories,’’ he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Aiyegbeni played for Middlesbrough, Blackburn Rovers and Everton FC all of England and made 250 Premier League appearances as well as scored 96 goals in a career spanning 20 years.

    He started his professional career in the Nigerian league in 1997/1998 season when he plied his trade with Julius Berger FC of Lagos (now defunct).

    He also played in Israel with Macabi Haifa FC before moving to Europe in 2003.

    The “Yak’’ as he was fondly called is the 3rd best all-time scorer of the senior national team 21 goals.

    He featured three times for fourth-tier side Coventry City this year before being released by the club.

    The former assistant coach of the Super Eagles added that Aiyegbeni would be remembered for his selfless performance for the national teams.

    “Aiyegbeni is still young but the fact remains that he has paid his dues as a club player and a national team player who has represented Nigeria at the highest level of football.

    “He was most times noted for his response to national duties and did so well.

    “I think he must have prepared well for life after retirement because he is still young and not be in the ranks of those claiming that Nigeria has not done anything for them.

    “Nigeria has done everything for them at least they have the opportunity of wearing the national jersey which others did not have, they need to prepare well for the future and not wait on Nigeria,’’ he said.

    Similarly, a former international Mutiu Adepoju, said that Aiyegbeni would be remembered for his contributions to the national teams during his playing days, adding that he was dedicated.

    “Most of us will remember him for his contributions to the national team as a striker who scored many goals.

    “He is one of the few dedicated players around ready for call-up and wearing the national colours.

    “He has done well, he is a good player and very well respected; I wish him well,’’ he said.

    NAN

  • Austria, France and youth leadership myths

    Austria, France and youth leadership myths

    When on May 7 Emmanuel Macron, 39, was elected as the youngest president in France’s modern history, it was thought that it signalled a great generational shift not only in Europe but in the world. The election was even more significant considering that Mr Macron’s party, La Republique En Marche, and its ally, Democratic Movement (MoDem), took an absolute majority in the following month’s legislative poll with 350 seats out of 577. Even though the devil was in the detail in an election that was nearly not swung in Mr Macron’s favour, it was still significant that a young, fairly inexperienced man could head a nuclear-armed country, one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

    And with the election of Sebastian Kurz, 31, as Chancellor-designate in the October 20 Austrian legislative elections, where he took 62 seats in a 183-seat parliament, it appeared incontrovertible that the era of youths had opened. Mr Kurz’s Peoples Party will now likely and disquietingly form a governing coalition with the right-wing, anti-immigration Freedom Party which took 51 seats in the poll. To form a government, a party needs to have 92 seats. Both the Peoples Party and Freedom Party ran on anti-immigration, anti-multiculturalism platforms, the junior coalition partner more stridently so. While Mr Macron is centrist, meaning that France has therefore gone centrist by repudiating Marine Le Pen’s right-wing, anti-immigration Front National, Mr Kurz is right wing. It is not clear, therefore, what would dispel the confusion in Europe after Britian’s Brexit, France’s repudiation of populism, and Austria’s alarming embrace of populism.

    But one indisputable fact is that many nations, including Nigeria, are beginning to see the elections of far younger politicians into leadership positions in Europe as a signal for some sort of political revolution. In an article on this page a few weeks ago, this columnist warned against barking up the wrong tree in analysing leadership from the age prism. The column had warned that such an analysis would amount to a sweeping generalisation not backed by history. Mr Macron, for instance, despite his brilliance and perspicacity, and regardless of attending the Ecole nationale d’administration (ENA), or Enarque as it is more fondly called, won only because of the conjunction of certain events including contesting against scandal-hit frontrunners, and ultimately facing the less popular and offensively right-wing and fanatical Ms Le Pen in the run-off.

    Before Nigerian youths run away with the mistaken impression that the Age of Youths had come, let them consider that both France and Austria, because of their highly developed institutions, can indeed run on autopilot. Voters are less likely to be fearful of candidate’s lack of exposure and experience in those countries as they are likely to be scared in Nigeria and many other African countries. In addition, in those other countries, voters are more educated and have mastered the art of peacefully throwing out incompetent leaders. Comparisons, say the British, are odious. Nigerian youths must therefore be guided by the strictures of their social, cultural and political environments in drawing parallels and making comparisons.

    More importantly, as the Nigerian political environment has shown, too many extraneous and even completely irrelevant considerations come into play in electing state actors. How to transcend these limitations should preoccupy the youths. For if as voters they are themselves unable to grow the right perspectives on issues germane to social cohesion and development, how can they determine which leaders have the bold visions and inspiring messages needed for their country’s transformation? Austria and France, and to some extent even the United States, can afford to be insular and isolationist in their politics; it is indefensible that Nigeria produces leaders who have no transcendental vision of the black man’s place in the world. Worse, because they are limited in exposure and scope, these leaders are unlikely to conceive deep economic, social and political paradigms for the country. The country is entrapped.

    But if the election of youths into leadership positions in Europe inspires Nigerian voters into closely scrutinising their aspiring political leaders in order to weed out those without the depth of understanding required to transform the society — those who rely almost exclusively on populist and religious- and ethnic-driven policies to capture the imagination of fanatical voters — then maybe, some good may still come out of the stories from far-flung countries. Altogether, the story for Nigeria is hardly inspiring. If the present poorly equipped actors in office decide to run again in 2019, then it will be less likely that Nigeria will not finally encounter the tragedy it has so fatefully escaped for many decades despite its worst efforts.

  • French Senate to vote on security law as Macron addresses Police

    French Senate to vote on security law as Macron addresses Police

    The French Senate will on Wednesday vote on a controversial security bill proposed by the government to help deal with the threat of terrorism.

    The bill enshrines modified versions of emergency powers into ordinary law.

    It has been criticised by UN human rights experts and France’s rights ombudsman Jacques Toubon.

    President Emmanuel Macron’s government said that the law was needed for a state of emergency to be was imposed in Paris.

    The government said that the state of emergency was as a result of the 2015 attacks that claimed 130 lives, which could be allowed to lapse at the end of the month.

    The draft law incorporates into ordinary law, with some restrictions, emergency powers that allowed the authority to restrict the movements of people suspected of terrorist links and to search properties.

    It also allows authorities to close places of worship where extremist ideas are propagated.

    Security forces are empowered to stop any person and check their identity within 10 km of major international ports and airports.

    UN human rights experts Fionnuala Ni Aolain and Michel Frost in September warned of “vague wording’’ in the draft law and “grave consequences for the integrity of human rights’’.

    Toubon said that the proposed powers would allow the freedom of individuals to be restricted on the basis of suspicions or attitudes rather than as punishment for offences.

    Macron himself would also give a speech to police and military officers on the government’s security policy.

    More than 230 people have been killed since early 2015 in France in a succession of attacks by Islamist extremists.

    NAN