By Rofiat Olokuta 

The United States has confirmed the deployment of a small military team to Nigeria to support efforts to address the country’s security challenges.

The US Africa Command (AFRICOM), disclosed the deployment, saying it followed engagements between US and Nigerian authorities amid renewed attacks by insurgent and extremist groups in parts of the country.

AFRICOM said the personnel will provide specialised support, including intelligence and advisory assistance, to strengthen Nigeria’s counter terrorism operations. It, however, did not disclose the number of troops deployed or their locations.

A US military official said the team is not on a combat mission, but is part of ongoing security cooperation between Abuja and Washington.

Nigeria has battled Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in the northeast, alongside banditry and kidnappings in other regions.

By Samuel Adeola

The UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-offs have thrown up blockbuster fixtures following Friday’s draw in Nyon, Switzerland, as Europe’s elite clubs battle for places in the round of 16 under the new competition format.

Holders Real Madrid will face Benfica, while Paris Saint-Germain are drawn against fellow French side Monaco. Borussia Dortmund take on Atalanta, Galatasaray clash with Juventus, and Atlético Madrid were paired with Club Brugge.

Other ties will see Olympiacos face Bayer Leverkusen, Qarabağ meet Newcastle United in a first-ever encounter, and Inter Milan take on Norway’s Bodø/Glimt, who are making their maiden appearance in the Champions League knockout stage.

The Madrid-Benfica fixture carries added intrigue following their dramatic league-phase meeting on January 28, 2026, when Benfica stunned the Spanish giants 4-2 in Lisbon. Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a sensational 98th-minute header, a result that pushed Real Madrid into the play-offs.

UEFA deputy general secretary Giorgio Marchetti described the league phase as an “emotional rollercoaster,” while former Arsenal and France star Robert Pires praised the new format for delivering excitement and entertainment.

By Omoniyi David

India has pledged to strengthen its bilateral relations with Nigeria across key sectors, including trade, energy, defence, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and technology.

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Amb. Abhishek Singh, made the pledge on Monday in Abuja at India’s 77th Republic Day Reception, where he highlighted India’s development progress and growing engagement with Nigeria.

Singh said the partnership is anchored on shared democratic values and South-South cooperation, noting that India has invested nearly $27 billion in Nigeria.

He added that cooperation continues to expand in defence, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and information technology.

According to the envoy, India remains committed to partnering with Nigeria to support inclusive growth and sustainable development.