The Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe and former Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, has formally declared his intention to contest for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidacy ahead of the 2028 general elections.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, June 18, Dr Adutwum announced his resolve to join the race once nominations are officially opened by the party.

“With humility, conviction, and a resolute heart, I, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, declare my intent to run for the flagbearership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), should nominations be officially opened by the party,” he stated.

Dr Adutwum becomes one of the prominent figures to publicly declare interest in the party’s top leadership role, joining an emerging list of contenders which includes Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, businessman and Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, and Minister for Agriculture Bryan Acheampong, among others.

His announcement comes a day after the NPP formally scheduled January 31, 2026, as the date for its presidential primaries to elect a flagbearer for the 2028 elections. The decision was confirmed following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Tuesday, June 17, and later endorsed by the National Council of the party.

Thr General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua explained that the decision to hold the primaries on that date does not require a constitutional amendment or approval by the national delegates conference, as it falls within the Council’s mandate.

“The date for our presidential primaries is set for January 31, 2026. That will be the date that we shall hold our presidential primaries,” Mr Kodua stated.

Dr Adutwum, a respected educationist and reform advocate, is widely credited for several policy shifts in the education sector during his tenure, including reforms to the Free SHS programme and the promotion of STEM education. He is seen by his supporters as a candidate who combines technocratic competence with political experience.

In his declaration, Dr Adutwum appealed to the grassroots of the NPP and urged unity as the party prepares for what could be a keenly contested leadership race.

Meanwhile, a nine-member committee chaired by former Bekwai MP Joseph Osei Owusu has been tasked to plan the NPP’s National Delegates Conference in July 2025. The conference will review and adopt constitutional amendments ahead of the primaries.

As the 2028 electoral cycle edges closer, the January primaries are expected to be a defining moment in determining the future leadership of the NPP and its chances of returning to power.

Profile

Born on April 9, 1964, at Jachie in the Ashanti Region, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum holds a PhD in Educational Policy, Planning and Administration from the University of Southern California. He also holds master’s and postgraduate degrees in education and teaching from universities in California, and a bachelor’s degree in Land Economy from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He is married with four children and serves as a member of several international advisory boards in education.

The final forum of the 2025 Citi Business Festival is scheduled for today, at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.

The event will focus on the theme: “Harnessing Agribusiness Potential for Economic Growth: Expanding Agricultural Frontiers and Maximising Productivity in Ghana.”

The forum will explore strategies to unlock Ghana’s vast agricultural potential as a catalyst for economic resilience, job creation, and export diversification. It follows last week’s discussions on tariff reforms and trade competitiveness and is strictly by invitation.

Key speakers include:

Prof. Roger Kanton, Research Scientist
Davis Korboe, President, Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE)
William Nettey, Head of Agribusiness, Absa Bank Ghana
Dr. Mavis Owureku-Asare, Food Scientist and CEO, Impact Food Hub
Bright Edward Kodzo Demordzi
Coordinator, Feed Ghana programme
Starting at 8:30 a.m., the forum will convene stakeholders from agribusiness, finance, academia, and policymaking to generate actionable solutions for revitalising Ghana’s agricultural value chain — from production through to processing and export.

This event is part of the broader 2025 Citi Business Festival, a month-long initiative powered by 97.3 Citi FM and Channel One TV, aimed at driving innovation and economic transformation in Ghana.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensure the completion of the abandoned Nsawam Remand Prison project as part of the ongoing efforts to decon­gest Ghana’s overcrowded correctional facilities.

The announcement was made during a passing-out parade for Recruit Course 125 at the Prisons Officers Training School (POTS) in Accra yesterday.

In all, 408 newly trained officers com­prising 220 males and 188 females duly passed out and were duly inducted into the Ghana Prisons Service.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Mr Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, at the ceremony, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka said the government would resume work on the Nsawam facility, which has remained dormant for more than eight years.

“We are committed to completing this vital project to improve inmate accom­modation and reduce congestion in our prisons. Our vision is to transform cor­rectional facilities into humane, modern institutions focused not only on custody but also on rehabilitation and reintegra­tion,” he stated.

Mr Terlabi highlighted the urgent need for reforms, noting that Ghana’s prisons remain dangerously overcrowd­ed, posing serious risks to both inmates and officers.

He said the completion of the remand facility, along with the construction of a new, state-of-the-art prison complex, were key components of the govern­ment’s strategy to address the crisis.

Alhaji Muntaka further outlined the government’s broader prison reform agenda, which includes raising the Pris­oners’ Daily Feeding Rate to GH¢5, is­suing health insurance cards to inmates, expanding vocational and agricultural training programmes, and incorporating prison labour into national sanitation efforts.

“This is not an act of charity, it is a strategic investment in national security and human capital,” he emphasised.

The Minister reminded the new offi­cers of their critical role in supporting rehabilitation efforts.

“You are no longer just individuals; you are now officers of a noble institu­tion. Serve with integrity, fairness, and compassion,” Alhaji Muntaka urged.

The ceremony also celebrated ex­ceptional recruits for their outstanding performance during training. Female Recruit Officer (FRO) 23, Hlormenu Rebecca Mawusi was named Overall Best Recruit, while Recruit Officer (RO) .140, Boakye Paul received the award for Best in Physical Training. RO.58, Blandy Bright Azaa Sumah earned the Com­mandant’s Award, RO.10, Yamoah Fred­erick was recognized as Best in Drill, and RO. Essel Joseph was honoured as Overall Best Recruit (Academics).

The programme was in attendance by the Director-General of the Ghana Pris­ons Service Mrs Patience Baffoe-Bon­nie, Senior and Junior officers from the Ghana Prisons Service, Academia, and families of the newly recruits.

 BY RAYMOND APPIAH-AMPONSAH

A university in Nigeria has sparked outrage after a video went viral showing female students being touched to see if they were wearing bras before taking part in an exam.

In the footage, female staff at Olabisi Onabanjo University in south-western Ogun State are seen touching some students’ chests as they queue to enter an examination hall.

The university has not yet commented on the video, but a student leader defended the bra policy as being part of the institution’s dress code aimed at maintaining “a distraction-free environment”.

However, he acknowledged that other ways were needed to enforce the policy that has been condemned by critics as archaic, sexist and likened to sexual assault.

A senior official at campaign group Human Rights Network told the BBC that students could sue the university for violating their rights.

“Unwarranted touches on another person’s body are a violation and could lead to legal action. The university is wrong to adopt this method to curb indecent dressing,” Haruna Ayagi said.

A student who did not want to be named told the BBC that the university enforced a strict moral code despite not being a religious institution.

She said their clothes were always being checked.

In response to the outcry, the president of the university’s students’ union, Muizz Olatunji, said on X that the university promoted “a dress-code policy aimed at maintaining a respectful and distraction-free environment, encouraging students to dress modestly and in line with the institution’s values”.

He added that the policy was not new, and the union had “engaged with the institution to explore alternative approaches to addressing indecent dressing, focusing on respectful and dignified interactions between students and staff”.

He also published the dress code, which included a ban on any clothes “capable of making the same or opposite sex to lust after the student in an indecent manner”.

The university was founded in 1982 as Ogun State University when Olabisi Onabanjo was the state governor. It was renamed after him in 2001.

Source: BBC.com

Sibling nations, diverging paths

When Nigeria’s Super Eagles scored a goal against the Black Stars of Ghana during the semi-finals of the Unity Cup on May 28, 2025, at London’s Brentford Community Stadium, something unexpected happened. The Ghanaian DJ on duty cheekily blasted a popular Nigerian Afrobeats anthem.

The crowd erupted, some in laughter, others in utter amazement. One might argue the Ghanaian DJ should have known better than to celebrate with Nigerians against his home team. However, it was a light-hearted moment that reminded us of something deeper: these two West African nations share more than just geographical proximity. They share history, rivalry, and cultural influence. Yet, when it comes to consumer protection, product authentication, and traceability, they appear to be playing very different games. Whilst Ghana pushes ahead with digital compliance for public safety, Nigeria still struggles with faded or illegible labels, unverifiable NAFDAC numbers, and persistent risks of counterfeit products even on everyday products like sachet and bottled water.

Excise duty and digital safety: Ghana’s strategic use of QR codes

In Ghana, excise tax stamps are mandated on bottled water, alcoholic beverages and carbonated drinks. These stamps aren’t just tax tags; they’re QR-coded digital tools embedded directly onto the product, often on the bottle cap. A quick scan tells consumers the product’s origin, regulatory clearance and tax compliance..

Nigeria, in contrast, exempts bottled water from excise tax, creating a regulatory blind spot. While excise is now applied to carbonated drinks under the Finance Act 2021, bottled water remains outside the fiscal net, even as its safety & quality authentication remains challenging.

Dangerous waters: Why the issue is urgent

Sachet water, widely consumed in Nigeria, has long been linked to public health risks. According to THISDAY, unsafe sachet water has been cited in outbreaks of illnesses like cholera, dysentery, diarrhoea, and typhoid in Port Harcourt and beyond. In fact, studies confirm sources of harmful bacteria in sachets from commercial vendors in metropolitan Port Harcourt. These findings are backed by the shutdown of three unregistered sachet‑water factories in Port Harcourt due to hygiene violations by NAFDAC in mid-2024. Nonetheless, many consumers still rely on sachets often without means to verify safety, due to faint or fake NAFDAC numbers and an absentee QR code verification system that provides immediate feedback before a buying decision.

According to the World Health Organisation, safe and sufficient water facilitates the practice of hygiene, which is a key measure to prevent not only diarrhoeal diseases but also acute respiratory infections and numerous neglected tropical diseases.

In Ghana, supermarkets and neighbourhood stores reject products that lack QR labels. In Nigeria, lax quality & safety control measures mean counterfeit products can flow freely in clubs, supermarkets and street corners undetected and pose serious public health risks.

Read also: 10 everyday items you did not know have expiry dates

A wider crisis: Fake alcohol, risky cosmetics

NAFADC has occasionally raided markets and destroyed seized fake alcoholic beverages and carbonated drinks based on tip off, but the problem has persisted regardless. Some consumers now resort to drinking only water at public events, occasions, clubs, etc., for fear of injuring their health, and even the water too may not be safe!

It doesn’t stop at drinks. Imported beauty care products, creams, lotions, and and perfumes flood Nigerian

markets, often bearing vague inscriptions like “Produced and Marketed for” with no traceable address or QR data in violation of international product transparency standards,, which puts public health at risk.

What Nigeria needs: A unified digital window

Following the launch of the Single Window in 2024 and the planned phased implementation of the project, there is no better time to mirror or consider what Ghana has achieved in trying to stamp out counterfeited consumer goods by digitally verifying all consumable goods through QR codes. This practice will enhance consumer safety and public health, reduce counterfeit products in the market and supportAfCFTA implementation by improving cross-border product verification, trust, and regional trade compliance.

Countries like Ghana have already laid the groundwork. Global brands like Starbucks go even further, allowing customers to scan a QR code on their coffee cup and trace the product back to a cooperative in Ethiopia, with added assurance of fair-trade certifications, ethical sourcing, and quality control data. It’s not just about where the coffee came from; it’s about how it was grown, who grew it, and whether it passed global quality standards. If a cup of coffee in Seattle can be traced to Sidama or Yirgacheffe with verified quality markers, then a bottle of table water in Abuja should be traceable to a licensed bottling plant in Lagos complete with NAFDAC clearance, water treatment certification, and production batch testing and authentication.

This dual function: traceability and product quality authentication, is what’s missing from Nigeria’s current system. We don’t just need to know where a product came from; we need to be sure it’s safe, legal, and of acceptable quality. Without both, counterfeiters will continue to thrive, and trust in the market will remain dangerously low.

Leonard Ohakpugwu, MBA, CSCP, ACA, CIPS is a procurement and supply chain expert with over a decade and a half experience in FMCG and manufacturing industries. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Trade and Development Finance and is passionate about the impact of regulatory systems on African markets, public policy, governance & sustainability. Email:[email protected], +2348124029826

Experts have cast doubt on the Trump Organisation’s claim that its proposed smartphone can be entirely manufactured in the US.

One industry analyst told the BBC it would be “virtually impossible” for the gold-coloured handset, which will retail at $499 (£367.50), to be built in the United States.

Questions have also been raised about the ethics of what is the latest in a series of attempts to cash in on President Donald Trump’s name.

“It’s unbelievable that the Trump family has created yet another way for President Trump to personally profit while in office,” said Meghan Faulkner, communications director for Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.

The phone will also come alongside a mobile phone service with a monthly fee of $47.45.

The figure is a reference to Trump serving as the country’s 47th and 45th president.

Trump has said he has put his business interests in a trust, which is managed by his children. The White House has maintained that he acts in the interests of all Americans.

But Ms Faulkner said the latest venture raised familiar issues, including whether the new business will win customers from people hoping to influence Trump and how the president will craft policies and regulations for an industry in which his family now has a stake.

Made in America?

The Trump family has not said which company would manufacture its phone in the United States.

“Eventually, all the phones can be built in the United States of America,” Eric Trump said on “The Benny Show” podcast on Monday, suggesting the phones released in August may not entirely be manufactured within the country.

Technology experts have questioned what the Trump Organisation’s “built in the United States” claim about its handsets means and argued it is probably not currently possible to manufacture smartphones from scratch in the US.

“They don’t even have a working prototype. It’s extremely unlikely,” said Prof Tinglong Dai, who teaches operations management at Johns Hopkins’ Carey Business School.

“You would have to have a miracle. You would need to have economies of scale. You would need to have a sustainable demand for this kind of product,” Prof Dai added.

The decision comes as Trump tries to pressure Apple chief executive Tim Cook to manufacture iPhones sold to American buyers in the US.

Last month, the president threatened to place a 25% import tax “at least” on iPhones not manufactured in America.

Analyst Leo Gebbie of CCS Insight noted that the US currently “simply does not have the high-tech supply chain” required for smartphone assembly, especially not in time to be released in August, as the Trump Organisation has said.

“However, it’s possible that the device could be assembled in the US with parts imported from abroad. This might be the most likely outcome that lets the T1 claim American sovereignty,” Mr Gebbie said.

The announcement was light on details, including the name of the business partner that will run the service and is licensing the name.

The Trump Organization did not immediately respond to questions from the BBC about its business partner, criticisms around potential ethics issues and a request for details of its “built in the United States” claim.

In announcing its plans, it said “hard-working Americans deserve a wireless service that’s affordable, reflects their values, and delivers reliable quality they can count on”.

It pitched a policy of “discounted” international calls to families with members serving outside the US in the military.

The announcement said the mobile service would have customer support staff based in the US to answer questions, as well as the gold-coloured phone, which is currently available for pre-order.

Trump’s net worth has more than doubled

The deal is an extension of a business strategy that Trump embraced long before his presidency, striking deals to sell his name to hoteliers and golf course operators in exchange for fees and royalties.

But the opportunities to profit from his brand have expanded since he entered politics a decade ago.

In his most recent financial disclosure, Trump reported making more than $600m last year, including millions from items such as Trump-branded bibles, watches, sneakers and fragrances.

Forbes in March estimated his net worth was $5.1bn, more than double what it was a year earlier.

It said the surge was due in part to the president’s “diehard following”, which is credited with helping to prop up the value of Trump’s social media company that runs the Truth Social platform, which accounted for roughly half his wealth last year.

The idea of a Trump-related smartphone has received mixed reactions online, with some people ready to buy it and others mocking the concept.

“Where do I have to wait in line to buy the new Trump phone?” one X user wrote.

Others have mocked the design, and poked fun at the phone habits of the man it’s named after, asking if texts on the new handset will all be in capital letters.

The mobile phone market in the US is currently dominated by three major players: AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, which all offer phone service starting at less than $40 a month.

There is also a growing number of smaller firms paying to use those networks to target niche groups of potential customers by offering lower prices or tailored plans.

The largest of those companies, which are known as mobile virtual network providers, have less than 10 million subscribers, according to a 2024 report by the Federal Communications Commission.

Mint Mobile, which was backed by Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds, was sold to T-Mobile for $1.35bn in 2023. At the time, one analyst estimated the service had roughly two to three million subscribers.

The actor had a 25% stake in the business, giving him a potential payout of about $300m.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

An onion seller near Makola Market in Accra, Madam Faustina Djagbele Abbey, has filed a GH¢ 2 million lawsuits against telecom giant Telecel, operated by Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited, for what she describes as a gross violation of her privacy, personal liberties, and image rights.

According to court documents filed at the High Court, through her legal counsel Bernard Owiredu Donkor of Thompson Law Consult, Madam Abbey claims Telecel used her photograph without her knowledge or consent in marketing campaigns for the company’s “Telecel Red Save” product.

The said image has reportedly been circulated widely across billboards, traditional media, and social media platforms.

In her statement of claim, Madam Abbey avers that she only became aware of the unauthorised use of her image after being alerted by friends and customers. She says the unexpected publicity has led to psychological distress, strained family relations, and misconceptions about her financial status.

According to her, some family members now assume she has become financially well-off, resulting in tension and discomfort in her personal life.

“The use of my photograph without my consent has unnecessarily exposed me,” Madam Abbey noted in her writ.

“I am unable to deal with the enormous publicity. It has impacted heavily on my mental health.”

She also alleges that Telecel’s actions were deliberate and targeted, exploiting her vulnerable position as a market trader for corporate gain. She warns that the company is likely to continue its conduct unless the court intervenes.

Madam Abbey is seeking three key reliefs from the High Court:

1.A declaration that Telecel violated her privacy and personal liberties.

2.A declaration that her image rights were abused through the unauthorized use of her photo.

3.An order directing Telecel to pay GHC 2,000,000.00 as compensation for the alleged violations.

Additionally, she wants all advertisements bearing her image whether on billboards, social media, or any other platforms to be pulled down.

AM/KA

Ever heard of Nkofie, the legendary Kwahu cave believed to grant wishes? Join GhanaWeb’s People & Places as we take you on an exclusive tour of this mystical site:

The Economic Policy Advisor to the Vice President has described the reactivation of Ghana’s sinking fund as a critical step in shielding the country from future debt shocks.

Dr Sharif Mahmud Khalid, speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, June 17, argued that this move, along with fiscal discipline and targeted reforms, is what earned the country its latest credit upgrade by Fitch Ratings.

Fitch had upgraded Ghana’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) from ‘Restricted Default’ to ‘B-’ with a Stable Outlook, citing improved debt servicing prospects.

Dr Sharif Khalid said, “If you’ve activated a sinking fund, which is an insurance measure, to service most of these debts, and then you’ve committed to both external and domestic debt programs, invariably, it’s going to improve [your rating].”

He called the sinking fund a signal of commitment and responsibility.

“It’s not just about Fitch. It’s about what we’re doing internally. Reactivating the sinking fund tells the markets that we are serious about debt service. That’s insurance for our future.”

Dr Sharif Khalid was quick to clarify that this recovery isn’t accidental.

“The government’s commitment, initiative, and program have brought us here. This didn’t come from luck. It came from decisions—some of them difficult ones.”

Responding to co-panellist Prof. Godfred Bokpin’s concerns about premature confidence, Dr Sharif Khalid said the government isn’t acting with hubris.

“I wouldn’t say the government is getting bullish. What we’re doing is stabilising. That’s the priority. We’re tightening internal controls, reducing appointments, and managing spending. These are deliberate signals to the market.”

He explained that the impact of spending decisions is often preempted by the budget itself.

“Once the budget is read, the market responds—whether you’ve spent a penny or not. That’s because the market knows your allocations. So yes, spending matters, but perception drives market response too.”

On the bigger picture, Dr Sharif Khalid tied Ghana’s recovery trajectory to its domestic debt exchange programme, which helped calm investor fears and reduce short-term risk.

“Prof [Bokpin] mentioned that we started to make some gains thanks to the domestic debt exchange programme. That’s true. That alone sent a signal to rating agencies. And now that we’ve made external commitments through the Paris Club and China, those too feed into the outlook.”

Despite the external upgrade, Dr Sharif Khalid noted that the government isn’t rushing back to foreign capital markets.

“We’re not ready to push externally yet. We’re still focused on stabilising the domestic market. Until we see more consistency and resilience at home, we’re holding off.”

Dr Sharif Khalid was both optimistic and cautious. While celebrating the upgrade, he stressed that it should be seen as a “vote of confidence in our reforms”, not an invitation to relax.

“The last thing we want is to fall back. We’ve seen the bottom. We’ve taken the pain. Now we have to build. The reactivation of the sinking fund shows we’re planning ahead.”

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The credit rating upgrade aligns with improving macroeconomic indicators. Inflation slowed to 18.4% in May, down from 21.2% in April, marking the lowest reading since February 2022, according to data released by the Ghana Statistical Service in early June.

“This signals a potential turning point in Ghana’s post-Covid and post-debt-restructuring economic recovery,” says David Amuquandoh, a Ghanaian financial expert and the founder and CEO of Lyte Digital Inc., to FORBES AFRICA.

Ghana defender Baba Rahman

Ghana defender Baba Rahman says he has learned to cope with jeers from fans and remains open to returning to the Black Stars, after over a year away from the national team.

The left-back, who impressed for Greek side PAOK last season, says he remains in contact with the national team technical team and is preparing for a possible comeback.

Speaking on the boos, which many thoughts had contributed largely to his national team break, Rahman told Joy Sports, “The jeering didn’t faze me during the match, as a pro, you learn to handle that. But after the final whistle, as I walked to the team bus, it really hit home,” he said.

“We had just won, so naturally, I expected some enthusiasm or backing, but instead, I was still being jeered. That part was hard to swallow.”

Since that incident, Rahman has stayed away from the Black Stars despite being consistent for his club and being one of Ghana’s most improved defenders in recent seasons, playing at a high level, including excelling in European competitions such as the Europa League.

His last match was in September 2023, when he was subjected to boos by Black Stars fans, who felt he had underperformed in the 2-1 victory over the Central African Republic in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.

Ghana international Kamaldeen Sulemana

Atalanta have joined the race to sign Ghana international Kamaldeen Sulemana from Southampton this summer.

The Serie A outfit, who are keen to make a meaningful impact next campaign, have earmarked the pacey winger as one of their targets for the summer transfer window. The club is determined to add Sulemana to their ranks for the 2025/26 football campaign.

Amid growing interest in the attacker, Southampton are demanding a 10m euros valuation for the transfer of the talented Ghanaian winger.

Atalanta have already contacted Sulemana’s representative in an attempt to lure the winger to Italy this window.

The 23-year-old made 26 appearances in the Premier league in the recently concluded season, scoring one goal and providing an assist across the period.

Sulemana will compete in the English Championship in the upcoming campaign if he is unable to secure a move from Southampton this summer. The Saints struggled in the recently concluded Premier League season, finishing bottom with just 12 points from 38 matches.

Currently under contract until 2027, the pacey Ghanaian winger has yet to make a decision about his future. While on holidays, the former FC Nordjaelland and Stade Rennais star is weighing up his options having attracted interested from several clubs in Europe.

Aside, Atalanta, Sulemana is on the wishlist of fellow Serie A club Genoa and Turkish outfit Trabzonspor.

The English Premier League has released its full set of fixtures for the 2025/26 season, igniting excitement across the footballing world.

With new managers on the touchline, promoted clubs eager to make their mark, and title hopefuls ready to launch their campaigns, the opening weekend promises drama, intensity, and the return of the world’s most-watched football league.

From Liverpool’s Friday night clash at Anfield to a heavyweight battle between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford, all 20 clubs are set for action between August 15 and 18.

Below is a preview of each of the ten opening fixtures.

Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, begin their title defense against Bournemouth. Slot’s appointment marked a new era at Anfield, which saw immediate success as he led Liverpool to a record equalling 20 Premier League titles in his first season. The Reds have strengthened their squad with the signing of Florian Wirtz for a British record fee of £116.5 million, aiming to maintain their dominance in English football.

Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, will look to build on their mid-table finish from the previous season. The Cherries have been active in the transfer market, seeking to bolster their squad and challenge for a top-half finish.

Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery, embark on their Premier League campaign with a home fixture against Newcastle United. Villa have been quite busy strengthening their squad with key signings and will aim to replicate their European adventure from the previous season.

Newcastle United, managed by Eddie Howe, will look to build on their top-six finish and secure Champions League football for the upcoming season. The Magpies have made strategic considerations which will seek to bolster their squad to compete on multiple fronts. A win on the away front will send joy to the magpies.

Tottenham Hotspur, under new manager Thomas Frank, host newly promoted Burnley. Frank’s appointment brings a fresh approach to Spurs, and he will be eager to start his tenure with a victory.

Burnley, managed by Scott Parker, return to the Premier League after a season in the Championship. Parker’s leadership will be crucial as they aim to establish themselves in the top flight.

With Vítor Pereira at the helm of affairs, Wolverhampton Wanderers face a challenging opener against Manchester City. Wolves will look to improve on their poor premier league finish and challenge the established top teams.

Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, aim to reclaim the Premier League title. City’s squad depth and tactical prowess make them formidable opponents for any team.

Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea host Crystal Palace in a London derby. Maresca seeks to continue with bringing a change to the team in his second season at the Bridge, and he will be focused to start the season with a win.

Crystal Palace, on the other hand, under the management of Oliver Glasner, will look to build on their mid-table finish and book a spot in European competitions for the second season in a row. Glasner’s experience will be vital in guiding the team through the season.

Manchester United, led by Rúben Amorim, face Arsenal in a highly anticipated clash. Amorim’s appointment seeked to bring a fresh perspective to the Red Devils, which did not end so. But the Portugese manager will be eager to make an impact in his first full season in charge.

Arsenal will aim to improve on their previous season’s performance and challenge for the title, as has been the case in the past three seasons. Arteta’s tactical acumen and leadership will be key to their success.

Leeds United return to the Premier League after a season in the Championship. Daniel Farke’s leadership will be crucial as they aim to establish themselves in the top flight. They face Everton in their first game at Elland Road.

Everton, under the guidance of David Moyes, look to improve on their previous season’s performance and challenge for a spot in European competitions. Moyes’ experience in the premier league over the years will be vital in guiding the team through the season.

Sunderland, managed by Régis Le Bris, mark their return to the Premier League after a hiatus. Can Le Bris’ leadership help them re-establish themselves in the top flight? They face West Ham United in their opening fixture.

West Ham United, under the management of Graham Potter, will look to build on their previous season’s performance and challenge for a spot in European competitions. Potter’s tactical approach will be key to their success.

Managed by Nuno Espírito Santo, Forest are looking to build on their impressive 7th-place finish last season, which narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot. The Tricky Trees looks to make more strategic signings to strengthen their squad and are eager to start the season with a win at the City Ground against Brentford.

Under the guidance of Thomas Frank, Brentford have established themselves as a formidable Premier League side. The Bees are targeting a top-half finish and potential European qualification. However, they face challenges with the departure of long-term manager Thomas Frank and potential key player exits. Whoever the new manager will be, will aim to win their first game to bring some hope of continuous glory.

Under the guidance of Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton have shown significant progress. The Seagulls are targeting a top-six finish to secure European football for the upcoming season. However, they face challenges with a couple of key players unavailable due to injury. They hope their recovery will speed up before the begining of the new season. A win against fulham is all they are looking for.

Managed by Marco Silva, Fulham are looking to improve upon their previous season’s performance. The Cottagers have been active in the transfer market, strengthening their squad to compete for a top-half finish. A premier league opener win at an away grounds will serve as a big motivation for them going into the season.

The 2025/26 English Premier League season is shaping up to be an electrifying ride, with new managerial appointments, bolstered squads, and reigning champions Liverpool looking to defend their title.

As the fixtures unfold, fans can expect thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and unpredictable outcomes.

With top clubs like Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United vying for honours, the battle for the Premier League title is set to be fierce.

 

 

 

 

Story by: Simon Owusu Prempeh

A university in Nigeria has sparked outrage after a video went viral showing female students being touched to see if they were wearing bras before taking part in an exam.

In the footage, female staff at Olabisi Onabanjo University in south-western Ogun State are seen touching some students’ chests as they queue to enter an examination hall.

The university has not yet commented on the video, but a student leader defended the bra policy as being part of the institution’s dress code aimed at maintaining “a distraction-free environment”.

However, he acknowledged that other ways were needed to enforce the policy that has been condemned by critics as archaic, sexist and likened to sexual assault.

A senior official at campaign group Human Rights Network told the BBC that students could sue the university for violating their rights.

“Unwarranted touches on another person’s body is a violation and could lead to legal action. The university is wrong to adopt this method to curb indecent dressing,” Haruna Ayagi said.

A student who did not want to be named told the BBC that the university enforced a strict moral code despite not being a religious institution.

She said their clothes were always being checked.

In response to the outcry, the president of the university’s students’ union, Muizz Olatunji, said on X that the university promoted “a dress-code policy aimed at maintaining a respectful and distraction-free environment, encouraging students to dress modestly and in line with the institution’s values”.

He added that the policy was not new, and the union had “engaged with the institution to explore alternative approaches to addressing indecent dressing, focusing on respectful and dignified interactions between students and staff”.

He also published the dress code, which included a ban on any clothes “capable of making the same or opposite sex to lust after the student in an indecent manner”.

The university was founded in 1982 as Ogun State University when Olabisi Onabanjo was state governor. It was renamed after him in 2001.

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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Supreme Court nominee Justice Hafisata Amaleboba has backed proposals to place a limit on the number of justices serving on the Supreme Court bench but cautioned that such a move should follow reforms to address the operational challenges facing the judiciary.

She made the remark on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, during her vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee.

“I support capping the number of Supreme Court judges, but we should not rush to do so until we address the challenges facing the Supreme Court, such as case backlogs and its various jurisdictions,” Justice Amaleboba said in response to a question at the vetting.

According to her, placing a cap too early, without addressing the court’s growing workload and overlapping jurisdictions, could create more problems in the future.

“Prematurely capping the number could necessitate frequent constitutional amendments if increases are justified. Once these issues are resolved, we can better assess annual caseloads and establish a reasonable cap,” she added.

Ghana’s Supreme Court currently has 13 justices. If all seven nominees under consideration are approved, including Justice Amaleboba, the number will rise to 20. This prospect has stirred debate within Parliament and among legal professionals over its possible impact on the court’s effectiveness and public confidence.

Dr Amaleboba also spoke on the responsibilities of judges who hold traditional titles, stating that such judges must be cautious in public discourse.

“As a judge and a chief, one must be measured in political commentary, especially in supporting one group over another,” she said. “Judges should exercise restraint in their language to maintain neutrality.”

During the vetting, she explained that Ghana’s legal framework already allows for child maintenance under the Matrimonial Causes Act.

“In Ghana, we already have provisions for child support, referred to as maintenance,” she said. “Under the law, one can apply for maintenance without seeking divorce.”

She added that the adoption process begins with the Department of Social Welfare, which conducts an initial assessment before a court decision is made. A Central Adoption Authority, she noted, has now been established to manage such applications more efficiently.

The Appointments Committee is expected to complete its vetting of all the nominees in the coming days, after which it will present its recommendations to Parliament.

The minister invited more Hunan multinational companies to explore business opportunities

Ghana and China’s Hunan Province have committed to strengthening economic cooperation in agriculture and agribusiness, smart industrialisation, and sustainable mineral processing, following high-level talks at the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE).

Cao Zhiqiang, Vice Governor of Hunan, hosted Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, for bilateral discussions focused on building stronger trade, investment, and technical exchanges between Ghana and Hunan Province.

In her remarks, the minister commended the Vice Governor and the Hunan Province for their high level of industrialisation driven by innovation and underscored the need for partnership.

She indicated that the achievements of the province were a clear indication that, by walking shoulder to shoulder, Ghana could leverage this strategic relationship to leapfrog its industrialisation agenda.

Additionally, the minister highlighted Ghana’s stable business environment, adherence to the rule of law, competitive returns on investment, and a youthful and growing middle class as key factors that should attract potential investors from Hunan Province.

She also emphasised Ghana’s strategic location as a gateway to the West African region and global markets.

The minister invited more multinational companies from Hunan to explore business opportunities in manufacturing, garments and textiles, pharmaceuticals, and components manufacturing, and to take advantage of Ghana’s 24-hour economy policy.

Bilateral trade between Ghana and Hunan Province was estimated at USD 2.5 billion as of the end of 2024, with at least eight top multinational companies from Hunan operating in Ghana. These include Zonda, Sany, Hunan Construction, and Zoomlion.

The minister extended an invitation to the Vice Governor to lead a high-level delegation to Ghana to explore further business opportunities later in the year.

Cao Zhiqiang commended the minister for making a strong case for investment in Africa, particularly in Ghana, during the CEO Dialogue.

According to the Vice Governor, the province is committed to partnering with the government of Ghana and the private sector to enhance industrialisation for mutual benefit.

Touching on the province’s current economic development, the Vice Governor emphasised that Hunan is one of the fastest-growing provinces in China, with a 2024 GDP of approximately 5.4 trillion yuan (about USD 760 billion), growing around 5.5% year-on-year—slightly above the national average.

The tertiary sector (services) contributed significantly to this growth, while advanced manufacturing and the digital economy also expanded rapidly.

The Vice Governor noted that the province has positioned itself as a hub for industrial innovation and research, aerodynamics, logistics and infrastructure development, and education, among others.

He agreed to the minister’s proposal for technical exchanges between Ghana and Hunan to enhance skills and expertise development in critical sectors of the economy.

GA

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The platform was used by both African and Chinese business communities to deepen exchanges

The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has called for more strategic Chinese investments under the Belt and Road Initiative during the China-Africa CEO Dialogue held on Friday, June 13, 2025, in Changsha, Hunan Province.

The CEO Dialogue was one of the major highlight events of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), which took place from June 12 to 15.

The Dialogue attracted more than 500 high-level participants, including government officials, CEOs of state agencies and multinational companies, representatives from international organizations, African chambers of commerce, business associations and enterprises, financial institutions, and the China-Africa Development Fund (CADFund), among others.

The platform provided an opportunity for African and Chinese business communities to deepen engagement, with a focus on green energy and financial innovation as drivers of economic growth.

In her address, the Minister highlighted Ghana’s unique value proposition, anchored on a peaceful business environment, adherence to the rule of law, and its strategic location at the centre of the world—positioning the country as a gateway to the global market.

She noted that Ghana continues to attract significant Chinese private sector players, mentioning well-known names such as Zonda Sinotruk, Sunda, Keda, Sentuo, Sunon Asogli, and Huawei, which have become household names. The Minister therefore urged other potential Chinese investors to take advantage of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy.

Additionally, she made a strong case for Africa, emphasising that the continent is expected to be the second-fastest-growing economy in the world this year, with 40 countries—including Ghana—projected to achieve higher growth rates compared to 2023.

The Minister underscored that Africa stands at a pivotal moment of transformation, innovation, and industrial development.

According to her, the true potential of Africa lies not only in its natural resources but in its capacity to process, refine, and innovate—turning raw commodities into high-value products that generate jobs and drive sustainable economic growth.

“Let us move beyond traditional trade relationships and embrace transformational partnerships—ones that promote technology exchange, sustainable industrial practices, and globally competitive African enterprises,” she stated.

She also encouraged Chinese investors to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offers an unprecedented opportunity to access a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion and a rapidly growing middle class.

The just-ended 4th CAETE was expected to conclude 128 cooperation projects with a total value exceeding $7 billion through signed agreements and matchmaking sessions. These projects span sectors including manufacturing, energy, transportation, logistics, healthcare, and information services.

Other high-level speakers at the plenary session included Cao Zhiqiang, Vice Governor of the People’s Government of Hunan Province; Joseph Olasunkanmi, Director General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership; Miss Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa at UNDP; and Chief Diana Chen, Chair of Choice International Group.

GA

The minister invited more Hunan multinational companies to explore business opportunities

Ghana and China’s Hunan Province have committed to strengthening economic cooperation in agriculture and agribusiness, smart industrialisation, and sustainable mineral processing, following high-level talks at the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE).

Cao Zhiqiang, Vice Governor of Hunan, hosted Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, for bilateral discussions focused on building stronger trade, investment, and technical exchanges between Ghana and Hunan Province.

In her remarks, the minister commended the Vice Governor and the Hunan Province for their high level of industrialisation driven by innovation and underscored the need for partnership.

She indicated that the achievements of the province were a clear indication that, by walking shoulder to shoulder, Ghana could leverage this strategic relationship to leapfrog its industrialisation agenda.

Additionally, the minister highlighted Ghana’s stable business environment, adherence to the rule of law, competitive returns on investment, and a youthful and growing middle class as key factors that should attract potential investors from Hunan Province.

She also emphasised Ghana’s strategic location as a gateway to the West African region and global markets.

The minister invited more multinational companies from Hunan to explore business opportunities in manufacturing, garments and textiles, pharmaceuticals, and components manufacturing, and to take advantage of Ghana’s 24-hour economy policy.

Bilateral trade between Ghana and Hunan Province was estimated at USD 2.5 billion as of the end of 2024, with at least eight top multinational companies from Hunan operating in Ghana. These include Zonda, Sany, Hunan Construction, and Zoomlion.

The minister extended an invitation to the Vice Governor to lead a high-level delegation to Ghana to explore further business opportunities later in the year.

Cao Zhiqiang commended the minister for making a strong case for investment in Africa, particularly in Ghana, during the CEO Dialogue.

According to the Vice Governor, the province is committed to partnering with the government of Ghana and the private sector to enhance industrialisation for mutual benefit.

Touching on the province’s current economic development, the Vice Governor emphasised that Hunan is one of the fastest-growing provinces in China, with a 2024 GDP of approximately 5.4 trillion yuan (about USD 760 billion), growing around 5.5% year-on-year—slightly above the national average.

The tertiary sector (services) contributed significantly to this growth, while advanced manufacturing and the digital economy also expanded rapidly.

The Vice Governor noted that the province has positioned itself as a hub for industrial innovation and research, aerodynamics, logistics and infrastructure development, and education, among others.

He agreed to the minister’s proposal for technical exchanges between Ghana and Hunan to enhance skills and expertise development in critical sectors of the economy.

GA

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Ghana’s local currency, the cedi is trading at GH¢10.30 June 18, 2025

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has appreciated slightly on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.

In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢10.29 and a selling price of GH¢10.30 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢13.90 and sold at GH¢13.92, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢11.87 and a selling price of GH¢11.88.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on June 18, 2025, at 8:40 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢12.00, while the pound is selling at GH¢16.90 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢14.75 on the retail market.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has announced that Ghana is expected to receive $360 million from the IMF in July 2025 to further stabilise the cedi.

SP/AE

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