China Rejects Allegations of Backing Illegal Mining and Terrorism in Nigeria

China Responds to US Lawmakers’ Allegations of Illegal Mining in Nigeria The Chinese government has vehemently rejected allegations made by five US lawmakers claiming that it sponsored illegal mining activities in Nigeria and provided financial support to militias for protection. The embassy in Nigeria characterized the accusations as baseless and unfounded. In a statement, the Chinese embassy expressed dissatisfaction with what it termed as false claims, underscoring that Chinese nationals are required to adhere to…

Court Rules Ex-Liberian Finance Minister Has No Immunity

Supreme Court Ruling Clears Path for Corruption Trial in Liberia The Supreme Court of Liberia has ruled that former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah and several other former officials are not shielded from prosecution by claims of national security. This landmark decision effectively removes a major legal obstacle that had temporarily stalled one of the country's most politically sensitive corruption trials. The case centers around the former officials' assertion that those serving on or alongside the National Security…

Ukraine Spots Nigerians Participating in Combat for Russia’s Frontlines

Nigerians Identified Among Russian Forces in Ukraine Conflict Ukrainian military intelligence has reported the identification of two Nigerian nationals who died while fighting for Russian forces in the ongoing conflict. According to a statement released by the Ukrainian military, the bodies were recovered in the Luhansk region of Eastern Ukraine, a critical frontline area. The Ukrainians assert that the men were allegedly recruited in mid-2025, indicating a troubling trend of foreign fighters being drawn into the…

U.S. Sends 200 Troops to Support Nigerian Military Training

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…

Nigeria Reclaims 100 Benin Bronzes Taken by Britain in 1897

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…

Nigeria’s Senate Revises Electoral Law – New Conditions Imposed

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 Detains 14 Suspects in Reported Child Exploitation Ring Tied to France

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 Pulls Back High Commissioner to Nigeria Over Fraud Allegations

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…

HRW Calls for Investigation into ‘Random’ Drone Attack in Niger

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…

Tinubu Set to Embark on Nigeria’s First State Visit to the UK in 37 Years

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…