By Huldah Shado

The Ondo State Government has declared Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as public holidays to mark the state’s 50th anniversary.

The announcement, contained in an official statement, said the holidays will enable residents to participate fully in activities lined up for the golden jubilee celebrations. Ondo State was created on February 3, 1976.

The government said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the state’s history, achievements and development over the past five decades, while promoting unity among its people.

Residents were urged to celebrate peacefully, as normal activities in public institutions are expected to resume on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

By Samuel Adeola

Premier League Matchday 24 delivered goals and drama on Saturday as Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea recorded key victories.

Arsenal strengthened their title push with a dominant 4-0 away win at Leeds United. Goals from Martín Zubimendi, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Jesus and an own goal kept Mikel Arteta’s side top of the table.

Liverpool bounced back at Anfield with a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United. After conceding early to Anthony Gordon, Hugo Ekitike struck twice, with Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konaté also on target to end the Reds’ poor run.

Chelsea produced a thrilling comeback to beat West Ham United 3-2. After going two goals down, João Pedro and Marc Cucurella levelled before Enzo Fernández fired the winner in stoppage time.

Elsewhere, Bournemouth beat Wolves 2-0, while Brighton and Everton played out a 1-1 draw.

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

President Bola Tinubu returned to Abuja on Saturday night after a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye, during which Nigeria and Türkiye reached several agreements to strengthen diplomatic, economic and security ties.

The visit recorded commitments to boost trade relations, with both countries targeting a $5 billion trade volume and agreeing to establish a Joint Economy and Trade Committee to facilitate commerce and Turkish investments in Nigeria.

Tinubu arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 8:55 p.m. and was received by senior government officials.

The trip, undertaken at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, featured high-level discussions on trade, investment, security, energy, education and defence cooperation.