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Kieran McKenna has made the stunning decision to leave his role as manager of Ipswich Town and step away from football altogether just a month after leading the club back into the Premier League.

The 40-year-old Northen Irishman, says he wants to take a break from management to spend time with his family, according to a statement released by the club.

McKenna will go down as one of the club’s greatest ever managers after leading the Tractor Boys to the Premier League twice, ending their 22-year wait to return to the top flight in 2024 and then taking them straight back up this season after their relegation a year ago.

Those exploits had him atop Fulham’s wishlist to replace Marco Silva at Craven Cottage, however McKenna’s unexpected U-turn will take him out of the game altogether.

“It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club,” wrote McKenna on Ipswich’s website.

“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye. However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club.

“Ipswich Town will always have a special place in our hearts.”, he said.

McKenna took over at Ipswich when the club were in League One after an humiliating FA Cup loss to Barrow, and ended a 22-year wait for the side to return to the Premier League with their promotion in 2024.

Kieran McKenna Resigns As Ipswich Town Manager is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Abia State is set to host transport experts, policymakers, investors, researchers, regulators and industry stakeholders from across Nigeria for the South-East Zonal Transport Conference 2026, a gathering aimed at promoting sustainable urban mobility and green energy solutions in the transportation sector.

The conference is being organized by the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) in partnership with the Abia State Government, to be held from June 17 to 19, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for June 18 at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Umuahia.

Addressing journalists during a media briefing on Wednesday, the South-East Zonal Coordinator of CIOTA and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mrs Ijeoma Okere, described the conference as a strategic platform designed to tackle emerging transportation challenges and explore innovative solutions capable of driving economic growth while addressing environmental concerns.

The conference is themed: “Advancing Urban Transport Through Sustainable Urban Mobility and Green Energy Solution.”

According to Okere, the theme reflects the urgent need for Nigerian cities and urban centres to embrace transportation systems that are innovative, environmentally responsible and economically sustainable.

“The theme reflects the urgent need for Nigerian cities and urban centres to embrace innovative, environmentally sustainable and economically viable transportation systems capable of meeting the mobility needs of our growing population while contributing to national development and environmental sustainability,” she said.

She noted that despite the South-East’s position as one of Nigeria’s most vibrant economic regions, it continues to face major transportation challenges, including traffic congestion, inadequate public transport infrastructure, environmental degradation, road safety concerns and the increasing demand for efficient mobility solutions.

“These realities demand coordinated action, strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration,” Okere stated.

She explained that the conference has been carefully structured to facilitate discussions on sustainable urban mobility, transport infrastructure development, clean energy transportation technologies, smart mobility systems, logistics efficiency, transport policy reforms, investment opportunities and public-private sector partnerships.

The CIOTA coordinator said the event would bring together transport professionals, government officials, development agencies, academics, captains of industry and transport operators to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions for the future of transportation in the region and across the country.

Okere disclosed that Governor Alex Otti will serve as the Chief Host of the conference, citing his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and economic transformation as one of the reasons Abia was selected to host the event.

She also announced that the conference will feature a keynote presentation by Prof. Innocent Ogwude, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, whom she described as one of Nigeria’s foremost scholars in transport technology.

Other notable speakers expected at the conference include the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, among other transportation experts and policymakers.

Okere expressed optimism that the conference would produce recommendations capable of influencing transportation policies, investment decisions, institutional reforms and sustainable mobility initiatives across the South-East and Nigeria as a whole.

“Together, we can build a transport system that not only supports economic growth but also enhances quality of life, promotes environmental sustainability and strengthens regional integration and national prosperity,” she added.

Speaking further, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, said Abia earned the hosting rights due to the ongoing transport reforms being implemented by the administration of Governor Otti.

According to him, initiatives such as the deployment of electric vehicles, the introduction of the Tap-and-Pay transport system and the establishment of the Nnenna Otti Transport Terminal have positioned Abia as a leading example of smart and sustainable urban mobility in Nigeria.

He noted that the conference would provide participants with the opportunity to witness firsthand the state’s progress in green transportation while contributing to discussions that will shape future transport policies and master plans for the South-East region and the nation at large.

Abia Hosts South-East Transport Conference On Green Mobility Solutions is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of defender Marcos Senesi on a free transfer.

The experienced Argentina international defender will join Spurs on 1 July, subject to international clearance, following the expiration of his contract with AFC Bournemouth.

Sporting Director Johan Lange said: “Marcos is a defender who brings a combination of quality, intelligence and leadership to our squad.

“His experience at the highest level, his composure in possession and his desire to compete for every ball make him an excellent fit for the way we want to play.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the Club and believe this is the perfect place for him as he enters a great stage in his career.”

Also, head Coach Roberto De Zerbi said: “Marcos’ experience, quality on the ball, and competitive edge will strengthen us defensively, as well as giving us flexibility in formation.

“I also love his mentality and desire to keep improving and I’m looking forward to working with him and seeing the big contribution he can make to the team.”

The 29-year-old left-footed centre-back played 128 times for Bournemouth in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing 10 assists over four seasons.

LaLiga and Serie A sides tabled offers for Senesi but he wanted to stay in the Premier League and was keen on a move to London

Spurs are looking to bolster their team after finishing 17th last season, only assuring survival on the last day.

Marcos Senesi Joins Tottenham On Free Transfer is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern over the rising cost of elections in Nigeria, disclosing that some governorship aspirants spend between N20bn and N30bn to secure electoral victory

Olukoyede disclosed in Ilorin on Wednesday while speaking at the inaugural High-Level Guest Speakers’ Series organised by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS), University of Ilorin, themed “De-risking and Mobilising Critical Stakeholders for Peaceful and Credible 2027 Elections in Nigeria.”

He warned that the huge financial outlay involved in elections often pressures elected officials to divert public funds after assuming office in an attempt to recover campaign expenses, describing the trend as a major threat to democratic governance.

“The commercialisation of votes weakens the foundation of good governance because it compromises the political recruitment process. Leaders who buy their way into office are more likely to focus on recovering their investments rather than serving the public interest,” he said.

The EFCC boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling vote-buying and other electoral offences, noting that several arrests and convictions had already been made across the country involving politicians, electoral officials, and citizens.

He also warned that impunity in the electoral process could undermine democracy and national stability, stressing that there must be no sacred cows in enforcing electoral laws. According to him, the commission plans to deploy drones and other technological tools to enhance election monitoring ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Olukoyede further called on political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of inciting violence.

He urged collaboration among stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, and political actors, to ensure peaceful and credible elections.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), described electoral corruption as a major threat to national security and democratic development, stressing the need for credible elections to strengthen public confidence in governance.

Also speaking, the Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, Professor G.A. Animasawun, said the lecture series was designed to foster proactive engagement on threats to Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

The event had in attendance representatives of security agencies, electoral bodies, civil society organisations, members of the academic community, and students.

Some Governorship Aspirants Spend N30bn To Win Elections—EFCC Boss is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Chelsea have announced the departure of Richard Olise from the club after a decade.

He is included in the list of players released following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season.

The Blues have confirmed that Olise will leave Stamford Bridge when his contract concludes on June 30, 2026.

Richard is the younger sibling of Michael Olise, who received an invitation to join the Super Eagles in 2021 but ultimately chose to represent France internationally.

The Bayern Munich player is anticipated to play a significant role for Les Bleus in the forthcoming World Cup.

The younger Olise concludes a ten-year relationship with Chelsea, having entered the club’s academy at the U9 level.

He advanced through every age category within the Blues’ youth system and gained recognition during the 2024-25 season when he was named in the first team squad for a UEFA Conference League match against Astana.

However, his final season at the club saw limited opportunities, with the right-back making only four starts across all competitions for Chelsea’s development squad.

Olise is viewed as a composed and steady defender, capable of making significant contributions at both ends of the field.

He is comfortable in possession and tactically astute, embodying many qualities typical of the modern fullback.

Born in London 21 years ago, Olise has represented England at the U18 level and is now poised to advance his career following his exit from Chelsea.

Transfer: Chelsea confirm decision on Olise

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has dissolved the board and management of Nigeria National League, NNL, side Bayelsa United.

The governor also sacked all players after the club’s relegation from the 2025-26 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, despite what officials described as huge financial backing from the state government.

The actions were taken to hold the club accountable for its performance.

The governor’s directive takes immediate effect as the state government begin the restructuring of the club ahead of its campaign in the lower division.

A new management team is expected to be announced in the coming days.

Bayelsa United, El-Kanemi Warriors, Wikki Tourists and Remo Stars were relegated from the NPFL last season.

NNL: Gov Diri sacks Bayelsa United management, players after relegation

The Nigerian Army says troops of 82 Division Garrison, operating under Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, Enugu State Command, have achieved a significant operational success in the ongoing Operation Eastern Sanity II.

According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayani,

Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, the operation was in an effort to consolidate the peace building process in the South East.  

According to the statement, acting on credible intelligence derived from previously arrested suspects affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, security forces conducted a precision follow-up operation in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area.

“Troops uncovered a clandestine arms hideout concealed within a zinc structure disguised as a piggery. A thorough exploitation of the site led to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition.

“These include General Purpose Machine Guns, RPG-7 launcher tube, AK-47 rifles, hand grenades, tear gas gun with cartridges, AK-47 magazines, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 478 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.  

“All recovered items and arrested suspects have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and appropriate legal action,” the statement said.

It said that the intelligence-driven operation underscores the effective interagency collaboration in the region, resulting in proactive measures to counter threats to national unity and public safety.

“It also reflects the Operation UDO KA’s unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive actions against criminal and terrorist networks that undermine peace in the region,” it said.

The statement added that Operation UDO KA reaffirmed its dedication to protecting citizens and preserving national sovereignty.

It encouraged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces, thereby enhancing collective efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the South East.  

Nigerian Army uncovers ‘IPOB, ESN’ arms cache in Enugu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, says the green chamber is set to take a decisive step toward establishing state police.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Kalu said lawmakers are preparing to vote on key constitutional amendment bills, including provisions for decentralized policing.

He said the House has decided to prioritise the establishment of state police ahead of other bills.

According to him, the House has directed all members currently outside Abuja on oversight functions to suspend their activities and return to the parliament on Thursday for the voting procedure.

Recall that the state police bill is sponsored by the Deputy Speaker and 14 other members of the House.

Reps to vote on state police bill Thursday – Deputy Speaker Kalu

Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish to Reward Consumers with Big Prizes, Promotions and Unforgettable Fan Experiences Nationwide

International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), part of AB InBev – the world’s largest brewer and proud makers of more than 500 iconic brands – has officially unveiled its FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad, featuring four of its leading brands: Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish, each set to bring Nigerians closer to the excitement, passion and celebration of the world’s biggest football tournament ever; the World Cup featuring 48 teams across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Led by Budweiser, the Official Beer Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1986, the squad will deliver a season of football excitement through consumer promotions, immersive viewing experiences and rewarding engagements designed to unite fans across the country. Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish have each received FIFA authorisation to activate the tournament in Nigeria using the official FIFA trademark – the most comprehensive World Cup brand mandate held by any Nigerian brewer. For IBPLC, the mandate is not just an activation vehicle – it is a platform to shape how Nigeria’s beer industry is seen, valued and governed long after the final whistle.

Nick Kade, Managing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“As part of AB InBev – the world’s largest brewer – we are activating the FIFA World Cup 2026™ across four FIFA-authorised brands simultaneously. We are elated and honoured that we that Nigerian brewer that holds a mandate this comprehensive, and we are determined to honour it – not just through fan experiences and promotions, but through lasting impact for the bars, communities and people that make Nigeria’s football culture what it is. “Kade added that “Our FIFA World Cup 2026™ sponsorship reinforces the uniqueness of beer in being Local, Neutral and Inclusive in bringing people together for a future with more cheers”

Throughout the tournament period, consumers will have the opportunity to participate in exciting promotions for a chance to win a range of prizes, while also enjoying electrifying match-viewing experiences at selected bars, outlets and fan locations across Nigeria. Each brand will play a unique role in amplifying the FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience:

• Budweiser will bring fans closer to the global spectacle as the Official Beer Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1986.

• Trophy Lager will rally football-loving Honourables through exciting fan engagement initiatives and rewarding promotions.

• Hero Lager will champion community pride and football passion with experiences designed to unite fans in celebration.

• Flying Fish will bring a vibrant and refreshing twist to match day occasions, creating fun and social moments for consumers.

From the opening whistle to the final match, the brands will create memorable moments that bring football fans together to celebrate every goal, every victory and every unforgettable World Cup moment.

Bamise Oyegbami, Marketing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“The FIFA World Cup is more than a football tournament; it is a global celebration that brings people together through shared passion and unforgettable moments. Through our FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad, we are excited to give Nigerians more reasons to celebrate, engage and enjoy the tournament with Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish. We have created experiences that will reward consumers, ignite fan passion and make this World Cup truly unforgettable.”

Fans can look forward to a packed calendar of activities, promotions and viewing experiences across multiple cities and locations nationwide, ensuring that no matter where they are, they can be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ excitement.

In her comments, Yvonne Onyejiaka, Route to Market and Trade Marketing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is an unparalleled opportunity to bring our brands to life at the point of purchase and across every bar, outlet and fan location in Nigeria. Our trade partners and retailers are central to delivering this experience, and we are equipping them with the tools, training and support to make every venue a destination for World Cup fans. When our trade partners win, Nigerian consumers win and that is exactly what this activation is designed to deliver.”

Consumers are encouraged to follow the official social media pages of Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish for updates on promotions, viewing party schedules, participation mechanics and prize announcements.

All events will feature no and low-alcohol options alongside responsible beverage service training for servers, consistent with IBPLC’s commitment to responsible consumption.

International Breweries Plc is a proud part of Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the world’s largest brewer with over 500 brands. As part of a global family, International Breweries has a dream of bringing people together for a Future with More Cheers – building great brands that stand the test of time using the finest natural ingredients

Headline: International Breweries PLC Fields Its Strongest-Ever FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad

Residents of Jalingo and Yorro Local Government Councils of Taraba State have appealed to their representatives in the National Assembly to urgently facilitate the reconstruction of the collapsed Mallam Audu Bridge, a critical link between the two councils.

The bridge, popularly known as Gadan Mallam Audu, was recently washed away by heavy rainfall that lasted several hours, cutting off the shortest route between Jalingo, the state capital, and Pantisawa, the administrative headquarters of Yorro Local Government Council.

A visit to the area revealed that the collapse of the bridge has severely disrupted movement between the affected communities, leaving residents stranded and forcing commuters to take longer and more difficult alternative routes.

For many years, the bridge served as a vital transport corridor for students, civil servants, traders, and farmers transporting agricultural produce from the fertile Yorro mountains to markets in Jalingo.

Its collapse has not only hindered mobility but has also negatively affected commercial activities and access to essential services.

Residents who spoke on Tuesday expressed concern over the hardship caused by the incident and called on the senator representing Taraba North senatorial district and the member representing Jalingo, Yorro and Zing federal constituency to urgently draw the attention of relevant authorities to the situation.

One of the residents, Ishaka Bala, described the bridge as an economic lifeline whose collapse has had far-reaching consequences on daily life.

“The collapsed bridge has disrupted transportation, economic activities, and access to healthcare, education, and other essential services. We are appealing to our representatives to intervene and ensure that the bridge is reconstructed as quickly as possible,” he said.

According to Bala, swift intervention by the lawmakers would go a long way in alleviating the suffering currently being experienced by residents of the affected communities.

Another resident, Musa Kasuwa, recalled that the bridge was originally constructed through the intervention of a former member representing the area in the National Assembly.

He noted that signs of structural weakness had been evident for months before the bridge was eventually washed away.

“We are calling on our senator and member representing us in the House of Representatives to emulate their predecessor by facilitating the reconstruction of this bridge. Movement from Yorro to Jalingo has become extremely difficult since it collapsed,” Kasuwa said.

Beyond the appeal to federal lawmakers, residents are also calling on the Taraba State Government to provide a temporary access route to ease transportation challenges while awaiting the reconstruction of the bridge.

As the rainy season intensifies, community members fear that continued inaction could further isolate several settlements, worsen economic losses, and limit access to critical public services.

For now, residents can only hope that urgent steps will be taken to restore the vital connection that has long served as a gateway between Jalingo and Yorro communities.

Collapsed bridge disrupts movement, economic activities in Taraba communities