NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

It’s another edition of NRTC WEEKLY Roundup —in this week’s edition, we are focusing on five trending stories across the country.

As usual, the stories will cut across the top five beats in our media organization, NRTC [your one-stop hub for rich and reliable content covering entertainment, sports, politics, metro, and leading stories].

As we all know, a day can’t pass without trending stories and we have tracked many of them for you this week. Why not scroll down and treat yourself?

^{Sport: EPL returns, leading stories; James and Alozie palaver, metro: Pastor Odunkoya death, entertainment: Davido and the bicycle-drive-a-thon, education: Jamb highest scorer pulled wonder in WAEC are the stories to discuss on this week NRTC WEEKLY.} 

Sport: Premier League’s thrilling return ignites fan excitement

The eagerly awaited return of the Premier League on a Saturday is a moment that football fans around the world have been counting down to with fervent excitement and anticipation. 

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that after weeks of offseason lull, the resumption of the league signifies the rekindling of rivalries, the reconnection with favorite teams, and the renewal of hopes for a season of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

As the sun rises on matchday Saturdays, the energy is infectious, fans adorn their team colors, prepare snacks, and settle in for hours of non-stop action. This weekend opening will set the tone for the entire season, building a foundation of memories that will be cherished for months to come, NRTC WEEKLY confirmed. 

The return of the 2023/2024 EPL on Saturday is more than just a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon that bridges gaps, creates conversations, and ignites a shared passion that unites people from all walks of life.

We (NRTC WEEKLY) gathered that for fans, Saturdays will take on a whole new meaning when the League is fully back in action. The prospect of waking up to a day filled with live matches, heart-pounding goals, and unexpected upsets will create an air of electric enthusiasm. 

The camaraderie among fans, both in stadiums and across social media platforms, amplifies the joy and shared passion that the sport ignites.

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that the anticipation leading up to the first whistle is going to be palpable as fans are going to discuss potential line-ups, predict outcomes, and engage in lively debates about players and tactics. 

Now, it is not just about the games themselves, but the return of the Premier League signifies the return of familiar faces to the screen – the coaches, the players, the commentators – each playing a pivotal role in the spectacle that unfolds. Iconic moments from past seasons are relieved, adding to the sense of nostalgia and excitement.

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

Whether it’s the roar of the crowd within the stadium or the virtual cheers of fans watching from afar, the Premier League’s return fully on Saturday brings people together in a celebration of the sport—some are eager to watch new signees across clubs; the ones to fuckedup.

NRTC WEEKLY confirmed that those who may not have an allegiance to any particular team will be drawn into the drama and suspense that each match brings.

‘The countdown to kickoff is over, and the stage is set for a season that promises to captivate, inspire, and unite football enthusiasts worldwide. The return of the Premier League today injects a much-needed dose of adrenaline, reminding fans of the beautiful unpredictability and unifying power of football.’

Education: Jamb’s highest scorer pulled wonder in WAEC 

Sixteen [16] years old Miss Umeh, Kamsiyochukwu Nkechinyere who emerged as the top scorer with an outstanding mark of 360, making her the highest achiever in the 2023 UTME has again set the virtual world ablaze.

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that with admiration and applause, netizens around the globe united to celebrate the astounding achievements of the highest scorer in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations, who also left an indelible mark in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) assessments.

Hailing from Nigeria, this exceptional student’s remarkable feat garnered widespread attention, with social media platforms buzzing with congratulatory messages and commendations. 

ALSO READ:NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

According to Netizens, her dual achievement recognized the dedication and diligence required to excel for students in their country despite the failed educational system. 

They said the accomplishment was a testament to the nation’s academic prowess and the potential that its youth embody. 

NRTC WEEKLY confirmed that her admirers hailed her dedication and exceptional time management skills, highlighting the rigorous study routine and sacrifices that inevitably led to such an extraordinary outcome.

‘Beyond national borders, this achievement served as a beacon of inspiration for students and educators worldwide. We should center the conversations around the education system, the role of teachers, and the importance of creating an environment that nurtures academic excellence—will this remarkable achievement shed light on areas that need improvement within Nigeria’s education sector?’

Leading stories: James stamping on Alozie, FIFA reactions 

Nigerians, especially Netizens have expressed disappointment about the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) disciplinary action against England forward Lauren James stamping on Nigeria defender Michelle Alozie during a Round-16 match of the Women’s World Cup on Monday.

NRTC WEEKLY learned that the virtual realm exploded with a mixture of outrage after FIFA announced two-match bans for the Chelsea women’s forward —leading to calls for justice. 

ALSO READ:NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

According to them, if Super Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun could miss three matches after collecting a red card against Canada in their opening march without any racist action, James should be banned from participating in the remaining matches at the ongoing competition in New Zealand and Australia. 

NRTC WEEKLY found out that the incident not only stirred emotions but also ignited discussions about fair play, sportsmanship, and the role of FIFA in ensuring player safety.

Social media platforms became a battleground of opinions, with fans, pundits, and observers expressing their dismay at the England player’s action. 

The integrity of sport was questioned and debated by Netizens following the punishment handed over to James. Some expressed concern about the potential impact of such behavior on young fans who look up to these athletes as role models.

With FIFA’s decision to ban the England star for two matches fueling the online discourse; some felt the punishment was appropriate, others believed it was too lenient, considering the gravity of the incident. 

They maintained a desire for stricter penalties to deter future instances of unsportsmanlike conduct on the field— which extended to the broader issue of player behavior and sportsmanship in high-stakes competitions. 

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

‘Sports organizations, players, coaches, and fans should collaborate—to cultivate an environment where incidents like these become increasingly rare.’

Entertainment: Davido and the bicycle-drive-a-thon

When Afrobeat superstar, David Adekele Davido unexpectedly engaged with a cyclist participating in a bicycle drive-a-thon and urged him to turn back for a meeting, the virtual world erupted with a blend of surprise, excitement, and curiosity. 

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that, although, this impromptu interaction showcased the power of social media to bridge the gap between celebrities and their fans, turning a simple encounter into a trending topic that garnered widespread attention.

A fan identified as Emmiwuks had on August 4th, 2023 announced his intention via Twitter to embark on a bicycle ride from Benue to Lagos just to see his music idol, Davido.

He promised to congratulate and present a special award and gift to the Unavailable crooner over his sweet masterpiece album Timeless.

But it came as a shock to Davido on the 8 days of the trip, telling the hard-die-fan  to turn around and say, “he’s not home.” 

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

NRTC WEEKLY learned that Netizens were quick to react to this unexpected twist, expressing a range of emotions, with some lauding Davido’s action. The incident also sparked discussions about the dynamics of celebrity-fan relationships in the digital age. 

In what seems to be a turnaround for the fan, Davido in another tweet, asked him to send account details and promised to meet up with him when he’s back in Nigeria. 

NRTC WEEKLY gathered fans and Netizens praised Davido for the action, having asked him to turn back initially— who are eagerly awaiting the outcome, proving that even the smallest interactions can captivate and engage an entire digital community.

Metro: Pastor Taiwo Odunkoya’s death

In the quiet Fountain of Life Church, brethren were left in shock and mourning when news spread about the sudden passing of Pastor Taiwo Odukoya.

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that Pastor Odunkoya—for years, had been a steadfast pillar of support, guiding his congregation through life’s challenges with his unwavering faith and compassion. His warm smile and comforting sermons had touched the hearts of many, offering solace to those in need. 

He died in the United States of America, USA, on Monday at the age of 67, with details of his death not disclosed, NRTC WEEKLY confirmed.

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

The Pastor’s death was announced via the Facebook page of the church, saying in total submission to the LORD, they thanked the Lord for the gift of a greater leader.

While tears are still flowing freely over the sad incident, politicians in the country and beyond have commiserate with the late Pastor’s family. 

Here, the cotton of this week’s episode of NRTC WEEKLY will drop. Join us for another edition next week as we take you around the trending stories in Nigeria.