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US Troops to Train Nigerian Military Amid Islamist Threats The United States is set to deploy approximately 200 troops to Nigeria as part of a strategic initiative to bolster the Nigerian military's efforts in combating the growing menace of Islamist militants. This move marks the first confirmed US ground presence in Nigeria since the controversial Christmas Day airstrikes ordered by former President Donald Trump. Training Deployment Details The troops are expected to arrive within weeks and will focus on providing…

Cambridge University to Return Benin Bronzes to Nigeria In a significant step towards restorative justice, Cambridge University plans to return approximately 100 Benin bronzes to Nigeria, following a formal request from Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in 2022. This action is part of a growing movement in the UK and Europe aimed at addressing the historical injustices related to colonial artifacts. The Benin bronzes, a collection of intricately designed metal plaques and sculptures, were…

The Electoral Act: Embracing Electronic Transmission of Results The recently amended Electoral Act marks a significant shift in the electoral process, embracing modern technology by allowing for the electronic transmission of results. This change promises to enhance transparency and efficiency in the voting process, ensuring that results are reported more swiftly and accurately. However, the new provision is not without its caveats. What the Amendment Means The incorporation of electronic result transmission is designed…

Senegal Dismantles Paedophile Network Linking France In a significant crackdown on organized crime, Senegalese authorities have arrested 14 individuals in connection with a criminal network operating between Senegal and France. This group, composed primarily of Senegalese nationals, is accused of engaging in serious offences involving the exploitation of minors. According to police reports, the alleged crimes committed by this network include "organised paedophilia, pimping, rape of minors under 15, sodomy, and…

Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria Recalled Amid Electoral Malpractice Allegations In a decisive move, President John Mahama has directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to recall Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria. This action comes in response to serious allegations accusing Ahmed of electoral malpractice during recent National Democratic Congress (NDC) party primaries in Ghana. Reports have surfaced outlining claims of voter inducement and vote buying associated with Ahmed's candidacy in…

Human Rights Watch Urges Investigation into Deadly Drone Attack in Niger Human Rights Watch (HRW) is pressing Nigerien authorities to undertake an independent investigation into a drone strike conducted by the army in January, which the organization claims resulted in the deaths of approximately 17 civilians, including four children. In a recent statement, HRW emphasized that, while the attack may have also claimed the lives of several militants, it breaches international law. The incident occurred on January 6, when…

King Charles III Invites Nigerian President to Historic State Visit In a significant diplomatic gesture, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have invited Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for a state visit, marking the first of its kind by a Nigerian leader to the United Kingdom in 37 years. The last state visit from Nigeria occurred in 1989, when then-President Gen Ibrahim Babangida met with Queen Elizabeth II. Unlike routine official trips, state visits follow a formal royal protocol and are designed to enhance diplomatic…

The recent release of worshippers abducted in Kurmin Wali Village, located in the Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, marks a significant development more than two weeks after gunmen disrupted services on January 18. The incident, which initially faced denial from law enforcement, has now escalated into a stark reminder of the persistent violence affecting communities in northern Nigeria. Reports indicate that 177 individuals were taken by the armed assailants during the attack. However, some victims managed to…

Court Rules: British Government Must Compensate Families of Iva Valley Mine Massacre Victims In a landmark ruling, Justice Anthony Onovo of the Enugu High Court has ordered the British government to pay U.S.$27 million in compensation to each of the families affected by the 1949 Iva Valley Mine massacre. This tragedy saw colonial forces open fire on protesting coal miners, killing 21 and injuring 51 amidst demands for better working conditions and fair wages. The civil lawsuit, spearheaded by activist Greg Onoh, sought…

U.S. Diplomat Visits Mali to Revitalize Bilateral Ties Amid Regional Security Concerns The newly appointed head of the U.S. State Department's Bureau of African Affairs, Nick Checker, has embarked on a pivotal visit to Mali aimed at revitalizing bilateral cooperation between the United States and the West African nation. This visit is underscored by a commitment to establish "new foundations, mutual respect, and the absence of any form of interference," signaling a shift in diplomatic priorities. Accompanying Checker's…