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Israel Adesanya Set For UFC Return In Abu Dhabi With Paulo Costa Rematch In The Works

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Israel Adesanya Set For UFC Return In Abu Dhabi With Paulo Costa Rematch In The Works

Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is reportedly on the verge of making his long-awaited return to the octagon, with a blockbuster rematch against Brazilian contender Paulo Costa in the works for UFC 321 on October 25, 2025, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

According to UFC media outlet @OctagonPulse, the fight is not yet officially confirmed by UFC President Dana White, but negotiations are advancing quickly and fans should expect an announcement in the coming weeks. If finalized, the bout will serve as one of the headline attractions of UFC 321, potentially on the same card as the heavyweight title clash between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane.

A Rivalry Reignited

Adesanya and Costa last faced each other in September 2020 at UFC 253 in Abu Dhabi, in a fight that ended in a decisive second-round knockout victory for the Nigerian-New Zealander. That performance cemented Adesanya’s dominance at the time, extending his undefeated run and solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic strikers in mixed martial arts.

The rematch comes nearly five years later, but with very different circumstances. Adesanya, who once held the middleweight crown for over three years, is now seeking redemption after a difficult run of form that saw him lose three consecutive bouts following his spectacular knockout of Alex Pereira at UFC 287.

Costa, meanwhile, has been on a rebuilding journey of his own. The Brazilian, known for his aggressive power striking, earned a unanimous decision victory over Roman Kopylov at UFC 318 in July, reasserting himself as a dangerous presence in the middleweight division.

Stakes Could Not Be Higher

For Adesanya, nicknamed “The Last Stylebender”, UFC 321 could be a career-defining night. Despite setbacks, his record remains one of the most decorated in the division. He boasts victories over elite opponents including Robert Whittaker (twice), Yoel Romero, Marvin Vettori, and even the legendary Anderson Silva. His creative striking, feints, and counter-attacking style have long set him apart from his peers.

Currently ranked #4 in the UFC middleweight rankings, Adesanya needs a victory to prove he is still among the division’s elite. A loss, however, could push him further from title contention and raise questions about the twilight of his fighting career.

For Costa, ranked #12, a win over Adesanya would be the biggest of his career. It would not only avenge his UFC 253 defeat but also catapult him back into the upper echelon of contenders. With Khamzat Chimaev now holding the middleweight belt, both Adesanya and Costa see this fight as their best chance to position themselves for a future title shot.

Global Spotlight on Abu Dhabi

The Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi has become a regular venue for some of the UFC’s biggest events, thanks to the UFC’s long-standing partnership with the UAE Department of Culture and Tourism. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, when “Fight Island” first captured the imagination of fans worldwide, Abu Dhabi has established itself as a global hub for MMA.

According to ESPN MMA, UFC cards hosted in Abu Dhabi often attract international audiences and boost the UFC’s reach in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The presence of Adesanya — one of Africa’s most celebrated fighters alongside Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou — is expected to generate significant interest, particularly among fans in Nigeria, New Zealand, and the African diaspora.

Adesanya’s Legacy on the Line

Adesanya’s recent struggles do not erase his dominance from 2019 to 2022, when he defended his middleweight belt seven times, a feat matched only by the great Anderson Silva. But critics argue that his creative flair has been less visible in his recent outings, and his confidence has waned after suffering defeats against Sean Strickland and Dricus du Plessis.

Still, Adesanya has built a reputation as one of MMA’s biggest box office draws. His return is likely to boost pay-per-view sales and global viewership. Speaking to BT Sport earlier this year, Adesanya emphasized his determination: “Every setback is just a setup for a greater comeback. I’m still hungry, and I still believe I can beat anyone in this division.”

Costa Hungry for Revenge

Costa has not forgotten the humiliation of his 2020 defeat. In past interviews with MMA Fighting, he described that night as the lowest point of his career, vowing that a rematch would be different. With his improved conditioning and recent performances, Costa believes he has the tools to pressure Adesanya and avoid falling into the same trap.

Analysts, however, note that Costa’s aggressive style could once again play into Adesanya’s strengths. If Costa charges recklessly, Adesanya’s counter-striking could prove decisive — just as it did in their first encounter.

What Fans Can Expect

If confirmed, Adesanya vs. Costa II is expected to be part of a stacked UFC 321 card that includes high-stakes heavyweight and lightweight contests. For casual fans, it represents a chance to see one of the UFC’s most entertaining rivalries reignited. For diehard followers, it is a crossroads fight that could reshape the middleweight division for years to come.

Conclusion

While official confirmation is still pending, anticipation is building for Israel Adesanya’s potential return at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. A rematch with Paulo Costa offers drama, redemption, and perhaps the last chance for The Last Stylebender to reclaim his place among MMA’s greatest. For African fight fans and the global MMA audience, October 25 could deliver another unforgettable night inside the octagon.

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Cooking Gas Prices Drop In Nigeria – See New Average Cost In July 2025

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Cooking Gas Prices Drop In Nigeria – See New Average Cost In July 2025

Cooking Gas Prices Drop

For many Nigerian households, the price of cooking gas has become a constant source of worry over the past year. Families who rely on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) have been caught between rising costs and stagnant incomes, forcing some to cut back usage or switch to less efficient alternatives like kerosene, charcoal, or even firewood. But there’s finally a small relief on the horizon: the price of cooking gas is beginning to ease, at least for now…..CONTINUE READING

The Latest Figures

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the average retail price of refilling a 12.5kg cylinder of LPG fell from ₦21,010.56 in June 2025 to ₦20,609.48 in July 2025. That’s a 1.91% decrease month-on-month, which, while not dramatic, is still a welcome change for struggling households.

However, the year-on-year comparison tells a different story. In July 2024, the same quantity cost ₦14,261.57. That means Nigerians are still paying 44.5% more today than they did just a year ago. In other words, while the month-to-month dip is good news, the bigger picture remains one of steep inflation.

Regional Variations

Interestingly, not all states are experiencing the same reality. States like Imo, Delta, and Rivers recorded some of the highest LPG prices, while Kebbi, Nasarawa, and Kwara enjoyed the lowest. This disparity often reflects transportation costs, supply chains, and even local market competition. For example, states closer to major gas depots or coastal areas may benefit from slightly cheaper prices compared to those further inland.

The Bigger Picture – Why Prices Are Still High

To understand why LPG prices remain elevated, it’s important to look beyond the numbers:

  1. Global Energy Market Volatility – International gas prices have been fluctuating due to shifts in demand, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical issues. Nigeria, despite being a gas-rich country, still ties its domestic prices partly to global trends.

  2. Dollar Exchange Rate – Since LPG imports rely on foreign exchange, the naira-to-dollar rate heavily impacts the cost. The weakened naira continues to put upward pressure on prices.

  3. Infrastructure & Supply Gaps – Nigeria has abundant gas reserves, but limited infrastructure for processing, storage, and distribution. Until the country expands its domestic capacity, prices will remain vulnerable to external shocks.

What It Means for Nigerian Households

For families already stretched thin by rising food and fuel costs, the slight reduction in July is a breath of fresh air. As of September 1, 2025, some Abuja residents were able to refill a 12.5kg cylinder for around ₦15,000, showing that market realities on the ground sometimes move faster than official averages.

Still, the larger problem remains: energy poverty. When gas prices are high, more people turn to cheaper, dirtier fuels, which affects not only household health (due to smoke inhalation) but also the environment through deforestation and carbon emissions.

Looking Ahead

The government has consistently spoken about making gas the “fuel of the future” in Nigeria, with initiatives to deepen LPG penetration and reduce reliance on kerosene and firewood. However, for this vision to become reality, pricing must be stable and affordable. Investments in local processing, distribution, and subsidies for households could go a long way in making LPG accessible to all.

Final Thoughts

The slight dip in cooking gas prices is good news, but it’s not enough to erase the burden of energy inflation on Nigerian families. Policymakers need to act fast to stabilize the market, support local production, and shield households from volatile global energy trends. For now, Nigerians can breathe a little easier when refilling their gas cylinders — but the bigger struggle for energy affordability continues.

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Edo Govt Under Fire Over Allegations Of Forcing Teachers Into Menial Labour

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Edo Govt Under Fire Over Allegations Of Forcing Teachers Into Menial Labour

The Edo State Government is facing backlash after reports emerged that public school teachers were allegedly compelled to cut grass and perform menial jobs on the orders of the Ministry of Education.

The claim, raised by the Edo State Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights, has sparked outrage and debate across the state. According to the group, teachers were being treated as “gardeners and janitors,” a move they described as degrading, unconstitutional, and a slap in the face of Nigeria’s educators…..CONTINUE READING

Civil Society Raises Alarm

In a strongly worded statement signed by Marxist Kola Edokpayi and Comrade Aghatise Raphael, the group condemned the practice and threatened protests and legal action if the government does not put an immediate stop to it.

“Teachers are the backbone of society and nation-builders entrusted with shaping the minds of our children. Reducing them to gardeners and cleaners is a shameful act of abuse and a slap in the face of every hardworking educator in Edo State,” the statement read.

The group reminded the government that Section 34 (1)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution forbids forced labour, warning that the alleged directive amounted to a breach of teachers’ fundamental rights.

The Bigger Picture: Respecting the Teaching Profession

Beyond the legal implications, the controversy highlights a broader societal issue — the undervaluing of teachers in Nigeria. For decades, teachers have battled low pay, poor working conditions, and lack of respect. Forcing them into menial jobs, civil rights groups argue, is yet another reminder of how the system undermines the very people tasked with building the nation’s future.

Rather than compelling teachers to double as gardeners, the group called on the government to employ support staff, cleaners, and maintenance workers who would be properly remunerated for such roles.

Government Responds: “It Was Voluntary CSR”

In response, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, denied that teachers were being forced into menial work. He claimed available information suggested the activities were voluntary Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by some teachers — not an official directive.

He assured the public that a full-scale investigation had been ordered and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting teachers’ rights.

“Teachers’ priority is the transfer of learning. We want to discourage in very strong terms teachers forcibly engaging in tasks that do not directly strengthen knowledge and learning outcomes,” Iyamu said.

The commissioner further noted that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration has made strides in improving teacher welfare, citing minimum wage increments, the regularization of casual teachers, construction of teachers’ quarters, and ongoing training programs.

Analysis: CSR or Coercion?

While the government insists the practice was voluntary, the backlash reveals a trust deficit between civil society and state authorities. If indeed voluntary, why would teachers feel compelled to participate? And if coerced, what does that say about the treatment of educators in Edo?

This is not just about cutting grass — it is about respecting professional boundaries. Teachers are employed to teach, not to serve as janitors. Blurring those lines risks eroding morale in an already struggling education system.

Conclusion: Time for Transparency and Reform

The uproar over this incident underscores the urgent need for clear policies on school maintenance, transparent use of education funds, and renewed respect for teachers.

Teachers deserve dignity, not degradation. Whether this was a case of miscommunication or systemic neglect, one truth stands out: a nation that disrespects its teachers risks sabotaging its own future.

The Edo government now has a chance to not just investigate but to restore trust — by ensuring that schools are maintained by trained staff while teachers focus solely on their sacred duty: educating the next generation.

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Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo, Odinkalu Over 2027 Eligibility Debate: “Your Unsolicited Advice Not Needed”

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Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo, Odinkalu Over 2027 Eligibility Debate: “Your Unsolicited Advice Not Needed”

Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo

The road to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is already heating up — and one of the names stirring the pot is that of former President Goodluck Jonathan (GEJ). Though he hasn’t formally declared his interest, speculation about a possible comeback has sparked fierce debate among political heavyweights, constitutional lawyers, and party insiders……CONTINUE READING

This week, the controversy reached a boiling point after Jonathan, through his cousin and confidant, Azibaola Robert, responded sharply to critics who questioned his eligibility to contest.

The Trigger: Keyamo and Odinkalu’s Warning

Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and renowned human rights lawyer, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, recently advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against fielding Jonathan in 2027. Their argument was straightforward: Jonathan has already been sworn in twice — once as Acting President (after Yar’Adua’s death in 2010) and again when he won the 2011 election — and a third attempt could face constitutional roadblocks.

According to them, such a move would not survive legal scrutiny and could plunge PDP into unnecessary controversy.

Jonathan’s Camp Claps Back

But Robert, speaking on Jonathan’s behalf, wasn’t having it. In a strongly worded statement, he dismissed their concerns as “unsolicited advice” and insisted GEJ’s eligibility had already been settled in court.

“Please note: GEJ is 100% constitutionally and legally qualified to contest, if he chooses to. If he decides not to yield to the overwhelming calls to run, it will not be because he is unqualified,” Robert declared.

He went further, reminding both men that Jonathan has access to “more cerebral and experienced SANs” who provide sound legal guidance — making outside commentary unnecessary.

Why This Matters: The Eligibility Question

The debate over Jonathan’s eligibility isn’t new. In 2022, ahead of the last elections, similar arguments surfaced but were largely dismissed after courts ruled in his favor, affirming that his brief stint as Acting President did not count against him.

However, in politics, perception often matters as much as legality. The fact that senior figures like Keyamo and Odinkalu are still raising the issue suggests the PDP may face fresh internal and external battles if Jonathan throws his hat in the ring.

The Bigger Picture: PDP’s Zoning Dilemma

Jonathan’s rumored comeback also touches on a deeper political fault line — zoning. The PDP recently zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South. On the surface, this seems like good news for Jonathan. But within the South itself, there are tensions:

  • The South-East feels it is their turn after decades of marginalization.

  • The South-South (Jonathan’s region) already produced a president in him.

  • The South-West currently holds the presidency through Bola Tinubu (APC).

A Jonathan candidacy could either energize PDP with his experience and name recognition — or fracture the South’s collective bargaining power.

Jonathan’s Silence: A Calculated Strategy?

Interestingly, Jonathan himself has remained silent on the matter. Robert stressed that his comments should “not be seen as confirmation that GEJ is running.” This silence may be strategic. By not declaring yet, Jonathan keeps speculation alive, maintains his relevance in political discourse, and allows his camp to gauge public opinion.

Conclusion: A Battle Beyond 2027

Whether or not Jonathan runs, this episode reveals a larger truth: Nigeria’s 2027 elections will not just be about candidates, but about constitutional interpretation, party unity, and regional politics. The PDP in particular faces a delicate balancing act as it tries to rebuild after its 2023 defeat.

For now, one thing is clear: Goodluck Jonathan remains a political force whose name alone can stir heated debate — even without a formal declaration. And that, perhaps, is the clearest sign that the countdown to 2027 has truly begun.

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