NGOwnership & classification
Founded: 1971
Ownership
The Punch is a Lagos daily published by Punch Nigeria Limited, founded by accountant James Olu Aboderin and journalist Sam Amuka (who later left to start Vanguard). The Sunday Punch first appeared in 1971 and the daily in 1976; ownership has remained with the Aboderin family. After successive family chairmen (James, then Wale Aboderin), Angela Olufunmilayo Emuwa (nee Aboderin) chairs the company.
Funding
A privately owned commercial paper funded by advertising, print sales and online subscriptions, with no state or party backing.
Affiliation & stance
One of Nigeria's most widely read papers, with a reputation for press-freedom advocacy and adversarial coverage of those in power; editorially broadly centrist. Owned by the Aboderin family with no party, church or government control, it is INDEPENDENT (CENTER tags are accurate).
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 720
84/100
Factual
82/100
Objective
1129
Articles
1129
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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Recent coverage
Ancelotti says never doubted ‘suffering’ Brazil would score
In the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match between Brazil and Japan, Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 victory in the 95th minute thanks to a goal from substitute Gabriel Martinelli. The win advanced Brazil to the World Cup last 16, marking the latest instance of a last-minute winning goal in knockout stages since 1966. Despite Japan leading 1-0 at halftime due to some defensive errors by Brazil, the South American team dominated the second half with goals from Casemiro and Martinelli. Coach Carlo Ancelotti emphasized the team's resilience and patience, noting that he had confidence in their ability to overcome challenges. He also mentioned that Neymar, Brazil's top scorer, remained on the bench until the final moments, though he was not substituted due to the team's successful comeback.
A’ Court overturns Oyo court judgment permitting Hijab at UI International school
The Court of Appeal in Ibadan overturned a 2022 ruling by the Oyo State High Court that allowed Muslim students at the International School, University of Ibadan (ISI), to wear hijab as part of their school uniform. The appellate court, in a 2-1 decision, determined that the Supreme Court’s precedent allowing hijab in public schools does not apply to private institutions like ISI. The majority opinion, authored by Justice Biobele Georgewill, argued that students had waived their right to wear hijab by agreeing to follow the school’s dress code policies. Justice Fadawu Umar dissented, stating the appeal lacked merit. The case originated in 2018 when Muslim students challenged the school’s hijab ban, and the high court initially ruled in their favor in 2022.
African Union calls emergency meeting as US ends Somalia army funds
The African Union (AU) has called an emergency meeting regarding its military mission in Somalia, AUSSOM, following the United States' announcement to terminate funding to the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS). This funding supports AUSSOM, which provides around 12,000 troops to assist the Somali military in combating the Al-Shabaab insurgency. In a letter dated July 1, the U.S. stated it would stop funding UNSOS by the end of the year and block further UN logistical support to AUSSOM through the Security Council. The U.S. cited Somalia's failure to make progress against Al-Shabaab, take ownership of its security, or implement reforms. The AU and Somali government have not yet responded to requests for comment. Meanwhile, Somalia faces internal political instability due to recent constitutional changes that extended President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term, leading to opposition and violence. Analysts warn that the lack of progress in security and ongoing political conflict could allow Al-Shabaab to regain ground.
PFIPC scandal exposes depth of institutional decay, ADC slams presidency
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nigeria's main opposition party, has demanded an independent judicial commission to investigate the controversy surrounding the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC). The ADC accuses the government led by President Bola Tinubu of failing to clarify how an organization it now calls 'fictitious' allegedly operated within multiple federal institutions. The opposition argues that the government's defense of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has raised more questions than answers, suggesting deep institutional corruption. The ADC claims that if the PFIPC truly did not exist legally, it is concerning that it reportedly appeared in government budgets, communicated with public institutions, and engaged with foreign diplomats. The party asserts that this issue goes beyond individual misconduct and challenges the integrity of Nigeria's governance system.
VIDEO: I was in the wrong party called PDP — Akpabio
Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, stated that he was in the 'wrong party' during his time in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), claiming he found his political home after defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He made these comments during the inauguration of access roads in the Federal Capital Territory, marking President Bola Tinubu's third anniversary in office. Akpabio responded to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, who had previously called him an 'uncommon performer' in the PDP. Akpabio urged APC members to disregard this remark, stating it referred to a period before the APC was formed. He explained that he had served over seven years as governor of Akwa Ibom State before the APC was established in 2014 and felt compelled to join a 'progressive family.' Akpabio acknowledged Wike as the 'national leader of the winning faction' of the PDP, noting the party's fragmentation. Earlier, Akpabio recalled Wike's visit to Akwa Ibom during his tenure as governor and highlighted Wike's achievements as Rivers State governor.
50 European lawmakers urge FIFA to probe Infantino over Trump peace prize
FIFA president Gianni Infantino awarded the inaugural 'FIFA Peace Prize' to U.S. President Donald Trump on December 5, 2025, in Washington. Fifty European Parliament members (MEPs) from 13 countries have called on FIFA’s ethics committee to investigate Infantino for violating the organization’s code of ethics by presenting the prize to Trump, whom they view as a controversial figure. The MEPs echoed a complaint filed by the British-based NGO FairSquare, which questioned whether the decision to create and award the peace prize was made democratically within FIFA’s governance structure. The MEPs emphasized the need for political neutrality, transparency, and accountability within FIFA. Only Norway, whose football federation had previously criticized the prize, has joined this call for investigation. The MEPs also criticized FIFA’s partnerships with Saudi Arabia, including its 2034 World Cup hosting bid and a sponsorship deal with Aramco, which they labeled as environmentally harmful.
Fire breaks out at fuel terminal in Lagos
A fire broke out at the Bono Energy Terminal in Lagos, Nigeria, on Friday, prompting an emergency response from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS). The incident occurred along the Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway, though the cause remains under investigation. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby facilities. No casualties or damage details have been reported yet. The location is known for its concentration of petroleum storage facilities, highlighting the importance of swift emergency action to mitigate risks to life, property, and the environment.
The Nigerian SME Growth Playbook: How Digital Tools Are Turning Ambition into Reality
The article discusses the role of digital tools in transforming the growth potential of Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It highlights the resilience and ambition of Nigeria's nearly 40 million SMEs, which contribute significantly to the economy by driving innovation and job creation. According to Mastercard's SME Confidence Index, 81% of Nigerian SMEs are optimistic about the next year, with 68% expecting revenue growth. The report emphasizes the importance of digital payments for future success, noting that all surveyed businesses consider them essential. However, the article identifies a 'acceptance gap' between consumers who are ready to pay digitally and merchants unable to receive such payments due to high costs. Mastercard is addressing this issue through 'hardware-lite' solutions like QR-on-Card, which enable 1.8 million Nigerian SMEs and gig workers to accept payments without additional hardware. The piece also mentions challenges in cross-border transactions, citing the World Bank's data on high transaction costs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Nursing council urges quality service, inducts 92 ABUAD graduates
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria emphasized the importance of quality service, compassion, and commitment to patients' well-being during the induction ceremony of 92 nursing graduates from Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD). The council's Registrar, Ndagi Alhassan, encouraged new nurses to uphold ethical standards and deliver quality care. He praised ABUAD's founder, Aare Afe Babalola, for his contributions to education, noting the university's high rankings nationally and internationally. ABUAD's Vice Chancellor, Prof Smaranda Olarinde, highlighted the growing importance of nurses in addressing complex health challenges and emphasized the university's adoption of an artificial intelligence policy. Prof Beatrice Ohaeri, a medical surgical nursing expert, stressed the need for nurses to maintain empathy alongside technological advancements like AI.
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Northern elders hail Tinubu’s security gains, urge unity
The Northern Elders Progressive Movement (NEPM) has praised President Bola Tinubu's administration for making progress in reducing insecurity and promoting national development in Nigeria. In a statement, the group highlighted the federal government's efforts to combat banditry, especially in the North-West, through sustained military operations that have disrupted criminal networks and restored community confidence. The NEPM acknowledged specific military campaigns like Operation Fansan Yamma and commended the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, for his role in strengthening these operations. The group urged Nigerians to prioritize national unity over ethnic, religious, or political divisions and emphasized the importance of supporting security personnel and fostering patriotism for the country's stability and future.
Barcelona sound out Harry Kane as Lewandowski nears MLS move
Barcelona are exploring potential transfers for attacking players ahead of the upcoming transfer window. According to reports, the Spanish club has contacted Harry Kane's representatives to assess his availability, though Kane is not actively seeking a move from Bayern Munich. Barcelona is also considering alternatives such as Junior Kroupi, Julián Álvarez, and potentially Dusan Vlahovic, who may become available on a free transfer if Ferran Torres leaves. Meanwhile, former Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski is nearing a move to Major League Soccer, with reports indicating he is finalizing details to join Chicago Fire FC. Other European clubs, including Liverpool, are also monitoring potential signings.
Florence Ajimobi arrives Vienna, assumes duty as Nigeria’s ambassador to Austria
Florence Ajimobi, the wife of the late former Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, has arrived in Vienna to begin her duties as Nigeria’s ambassador to Austria and the International Organizations based there. She was welcomed at Vienna International Airport by the Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Nigerian embassy, along with officials and members of the Nigerian diaspora community in Austria. In a social media post, Ajimobi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and looked forward to enhancing bilateral ties between Nigeria and Austria. The appointment follows her nomination by President Bola Tinubu in November 2025, which was confirmed by the Senate. Ajimobi is among 32 ambassadors nominated for overseas postings, with her assignment finalized in March 2026.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Ex-Iran supreme leader’s body arrives Tehran’s religious complex for funeral
Switzerland returns famed Benin Bronzes to Nigeria
ASUU threatens indefinite strike over unpaid 2025 agreement at Plateau varsity
Obi to FG: Rebuild existing roads before new projects
‘For under your nose dem kill a whole brigadier general’: Falz tackles Tinubu in ‘Ole’
Trump defends Iran deal from critics he calls ‘fools’
‘Judicial rascality’ move to deregister ADC echoes June 12 annulment – Olajuyigbe
Senators unhappy with Akpabio’s leadership style; he sees me as devil — Oshiomhole
