SPECIAL REPORT
Obama issues statement on Biden’s announcement
Following the withdrawal of Joe Biden from the US Presidential Race later this year, his predecessor, Barack Obama has issued the following statement;
“Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded — again — that he’s a patriot of the highest order.
“Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe’s remarkable career in public service. But what I came to admire even more was his character — his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts.
“Since taking office, President Biden has displayed that character again and again. He helped end the pandemic, created millions of jobs, lowered the cost of prescription drugs, passed the first major piece of gun safety legislation in 30 years, made the biggest investment to address climate change in history, and fought to ensure the rights of working people to organize for fair wages and benefits. Internationally, he restored America’s standing in the world, revitalized NATO, and mobilized the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine.
“More than that, President Biden pointed us away from the four years of chaos, falsehood, and division that had characterized Donald Trump’s administration. Through his policies and his example, Joe has reminded us of who we are at our best — a country committed to old-fashioned values like trust and honesty, kindness and hard work; a country that believes in democracy, rule of law, and accountability; a country that insists that everyone, no matter who they are, has a voice and deserves a chance at a better life.
“This outstanding track record gave President Biden every right to run for re-election and finish the job he started. Joe understands better than anyone the stakes in this election — how everything he has fought for throughout his life, and everything that the Democratic Party stands for, will be at risk if we allow Donald Trump back in the White House and give Republicans control of Congress.
“I also know Joe has never backed down from a fight. For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest in his life. But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America. It’s a testament to Joe Biden’s love of country — and a historic example of a genuine public servant once again putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own that future generations of leaders will do well to follow.
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead. But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges. I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.
“For now, Michelle and I just want to express our love and gratitude to Joe and Jill for leading us so ably and courageously during these perilous times — and for their commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality that this country was founded on.”
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI on Friday called on members of Morocco’s Parliament to prioritize social equity, local development, and national unity as the country enters the final legislative year of the current term.
The King, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prince Moulay Rachid, delivered his address during the opening of the first session of the fifth legislative year of the 11th Legislature in Rabat.
King Mohammed VI flanked by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan (left) and Prince Moulay Rachid
In his speech, the Monarch commended Parliament’s work in legislation, government oversight, and public policy evaluation, while urging lawmakers to complete pending legislative plans and projects with renewed diligence and responsibility.
“This is an opportunity for me to express my appreciation for the work you do,” King Mohammed VI said. “I invite you to devote this final year to serious, responsible work to complete legislative plans, implement ongoing programs, and address citizens’ pressing needs.”
The King stressed the need for harmony between major national projects and social programs, emphasizing that both serve the goal of advancing Morocco’s development and improving citizens’ living standards.
He urged parliamentarians, political parties, elected officials, the media, and civil society to play an active role in communicating policies that affect citizens’ rights and freedoms. “It is, first and foremost, your duty as parliamentarians, given that you represent the citizens,” he said.
Reflecting on his earlier Throne Day Address, King Mohammed VI reiterated his call for a new generation of local development programs based on social justice, territorial balance, and equal opportunity. He said achieving these goals would require collective mobilization, a shift in mentality, and a stronger results-oriented culture supported by digital tools and accurate field data.
“I seek to ensure everyone benefits from the fruits of growth and from equal opportunities among the citizens of our unified country,” the King said, describing local development as “the mirror that truly reflects the progress of the emerging, united Morocco.”
The Monarch outlined three key priorities for the coming year:
- Empowering Fragile Areas: A new policy for mountainous regions and oases, which cover 30% of Morocco’s territory, to promote solidarity and regional integration.
- Sustainable Coastal Development: Better use of coastal laws and national plans to balance rapid development with environmental protection and build a strong maritime economy.
- Strengthening Rural Centers: Expansion of rural development programs to manage urban growth and improve access to services in remote areas.
King Mohammed VI urged both government and Parliament—across majority and opposition—to act in the nation’s best interest and uphold integrity, commitment, and selflessness in public service.
“The coming year will be replete with projects as well as challenges,” he said. “Live up to the trust placed in you; be worthy of the responsibility falling upon you, and of the integrity and commitment required by the mission of serving the nation.”
He concluded with a verse from the Holy Qur’an underscoring accountability: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it; and anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it.”
The royal speech sets the tone for a decisive year aimed at consolidating Morocco’s path toward inclusive development, transparency, and social justice.
SPECIAL REPORT
Morocco to Showcase Tourism and Football Heritage at African Football Exhibition in Abidjan
BY KUNLE SOLAJA
The Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO), in collaboration with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), will be actively participating in the upcoming African Football Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on June 28 and 29, 2025.
The joint participation underscores Morocco’s commitment to leveraging its rich football heritage and dynamic tourism industry to foster cultural diplomacy and pan-African collaboration. The two-day event, expected to attract thousands of visitors, including football legends, officials, fans, and media professionals from across the continent, is being billed as a unique convergence of sport, culture, and tourism.
The MNTO will be showcasing Morocco’s diverse tourist offerings—from its vibrant imperial cities like Marrakesh and Fez, to its scenic coastlines, desert adventures, and cultural festivals—while highlighting the kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for sports tourism.
Visitors to the Moroccan stand will experience immersive presentations, destination marketing materials, and interactive sessions designed to promote travel to Morocco, especially ahead of upcoming global football events.
Meanwhile, the FRMF will spotlight Morocco’s footballing milestones, including the historic semi-final run by the Atlas Lions at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and the country’s increasing influence in continental football development.
The exhibition comes at a time when Morocco is gaining prominence on the international sporting stage, especially in light of its successful bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
According to organizers, the African Football Exhibition aims to celebrate Africa’s rich football heritage while serving as a platform for strategic networking among federations, tourism boards, sports ministries, and private sector stakeholders.
Morocco’s participation reflects its broader vision of using sports, particularly football, as a soft-power tool to deepen ties across Africa and position the kingdom as a leading destination for major events and experiential tourism.
Further announcements regarding Morocco’s exhibition activities, special guests, and cultural showcases are expected in the coming days.
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SPECIAL REPORT
Thirty-two years after the June 12 saga, there is no one like MKO Abiola, Africa’s Only Pillar of Sports
BY KUNLE SOLAJA.
Today marks 32 years since the historic Nigerian presidential election of June 12, 1993—an election widely regarded as the most credible in the nation’s history. At its heart stood Bashorun MKO Abiola, a towering figure in Nigerian public life whose legacy continues to resonate in both politics and sports.
Despite widespread pre-election challenges—including fuel shortages, a media blackout, and deliberate attempts to incite unrest—Nigerians turned out en masse to vote, transcending ethnic, religious, and social boundaries. Much of this unity was inspired by Abiola’s unifying campaign, “Hope ‘93”, and the credibility he brought through his pan-Nigerian identity, philanthropy, and deep-rooted support for the masses.
One of his most enduring legacies was his lifelong commitment to sports, often described as the “opium of the masses.” No individual in Africa has been more closely associated with the advancement of sports on the continent than MKO Abiola.
Africa’s Pillar of Sports
In 1980, the African Sports Journalists Union (ASJU) awarded Abiola the unique title of “Africa’s Pillar of Sports“—a distinction no one else has held since. His support for sports was vast and pan-African, encompassing not just Nigeria but 14 other countries, including Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Tunisia, and Zambia.
In January 1992, during a ceremony in Dakar, Senegal, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) inducted Abiola into its Hall of Fame, bestowing upon him its Order of Merit in Gold—CAF’s highest honour. On that occasion, Abiola also donated and endowed the CAF Cup trophy with $100,000, further solidifying his role as one of Africa’s greatest sports philanthropists.
A Life Deeply Interwoven with Sports
Unlike many business and political leaders, Abiola’s devotion to sports was unwavering. He sponsored events, clubs, and athletes across various disciplines and countries. Yet, his foray into politics in the early 1990s ultimately overshadowed his contributions to sports, cutting short a golden era of private-sector support.
The annulment of the June 12 election by General Ibrahim Babangida’s military regime set off a chain of political crises. Abiola, who had won the election, was arrested and detained for over a year as he insisted on his right to the presidency. He died in detention on July 7, 1998, under unclear circumstances.
It wasn’t until 2018 that June 12 was officially recognized as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, replacing May 29.
January 11, 1993: The Quiet Prelude to June 12
Before June 12 came January 11, 1993, a lesser-known but significant moment in Nigeria’s political history—and in Abiola’s personal journey.
I was part of MKO Abiola’s delegation to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, for the inaugural CAFSuper Cup match between Africa Sports and Wydad AC of Morocco. The match, attended by CAF President Issa Hayatou, was preceded by discussions about donating a new trophy on behalf of President Babangida for the continental U-17 football tournament. The “Renaissance Cup”, designed by Patrick Okpomo, was born.
Earlier, I had submitted the design for the CAF Cup, which featured a gold-plated map of Africa on a stylised base—produced in Germany, just like the Renaissance Cup. That night at Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire, Okpomo and I were tasked with drafting a speech for Babangida’s formal presentation of the trophy to CAF. When asked how much to include as the president’s endowment, Abiola—true to form—quoted a Yoruba proverb: “You can’t shave a man’s head in his absence.” He left the amount blank and faxed the speech to the State House.
A Turn of Events in Abuja
Two days later, we boarded Abiola’s private jet to Abuja with Hayatou and other Cameroonian officials. Also on board were journalists Paul Bassey and Tony Nezianya (NAN). It was my first visit to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
At the event, Babangida formally presented the Renaissance Cup. But what followed shocked us: he announced the re-composition of the Local Organising Committee(LOC) for the postponed 1995 FIFA U-20 World Cup and removed MKO Abiola as head of the Presidential Monitoring Committee (PMC), replacing him with Major General Yohanna Kure.
Had Abiola fallen out of favour? We were left to speculate.
After the ceremony, Abiola informed us of a change in plans. Quoting another proverb—“When two logs fall on each other, you attend to the one on top”—he instructed that travel arrangements be altered. Dr. Doyin Abiola (his wife and Managing Director of Concord Press) was to ensure CAF officials got to Dakar. Three days later, Abiola returned to Lagos and declared his presidential ambition.
From Calabar to Barcelona: The Long Road to Politics
Back in 1990, during the Nigeria Universities Games (NUGA) in Calabar, I asked Abiola if he would consider running for office again. He said his wife, Simbiat, a fellow sports enthusiast, would never approve.
Her passing in 1992 marked a turning point. In light of the repeated delays in the transition programme, I asked if he believed Babangida genuinely intended to hand over power. Abiola replied with a cryptic proverb:
“It’s like a man who claims he has no interest in a woman but gets agitated when another man courts her.”
It was clear that he remained cautious, yet hopeful.
I recall another conversation during the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, when the political climate in Nigeria was tense and uncertain. Abiola remained a loyal interpreter of Babangida’s shifting actions, always trying to make sense of the unfolding drama.
Legacy and Loss
Abiola’s death in 1998 shocked the world. Yet his contributions to sports and democracy endure. For many, June 12 represents not just a stolen mandate. It is also a national aspiration. Abiola remains its most potent symbol.
In sports, his legacy remains unmatched. In politics, he is remembered not just as a martyr of democracy. He is also remembered as a man of vision, passion, and immense generosity.
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