West Africa

In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has announced the dissolution of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). This sweeping change includes the removal of Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari and board chairperson Pius Akinyelure, signaling a significant shift in Nigeria's approach to its vital petroleum sector. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s actions affect all board members appointed alongside Akinyelure and Kyari back in November 2023. This board overhaul can be…

The 2025 Budget Landscape: Investing in Africa's Future Africa stands at a pivotal moment as the 2025 budget allocations present a blueprint for the continent's future. By earmarking substantial resources for infrastructure, social services, and economic transformation, African nations are forging a path toward sustainable development. But what do these numbers truly entail for the people they are meant to serve? Leading the Charge: South Africa In terms of sheer volume,…

Somalia at a Crossroads: Navigating Challenges and Unveiling Opportunities Imagine a nation greatly endowed with untapped oil reserves and fertile lands, bordered by the longest coastline in mainland Africa. A country with strategic positioning that could redefine its regional power dynamics—the foundation for a thriving economy and a beacon of stability. Yet, Somalia's reality starkly contrasts this potential, mired in conflict and uncertainty for nearly four decades. The journey towards peace and prosperity…

The Winds of Change in Southwest Somalia On a resilient path filled with myriad challenges, the journey towards peace takes another significant step. In a rather remarkable turn of events, four former Al-Shabaab fighters have chosen to surrender, seeking brighter prospects away from the relentless battles that have stained Somalia's soil for far too long. Often enveloped in uncertainty, their decision marks an important milestone amidst mounting military offensives and increased aerial bombardments targeting…

Building Bridges: A New Chapter in Somali-Djibouti Relations In a world that thrives on connection, the words spoken between nations carry a significance that transcends borders. The echoes of diplomacy are particularly resonant in the Horn of Africa, where unity and cooperation can lead to prosperous and stable futures. Against this backdrop, a recent developmental chord was struck during a conversation between two key figures in African diplomacy, marking the beginning of a promising era. On a recent…

Restructuring for a New Dawn at Nigeria's NNPC On an ordinary morning, beneath the picturesque skies that often grace Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu made an extraordinary decision, one that would ripple across the oil-rich nation: the dissolution of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Among those relieved of their duties were notable figures such as its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and Board Chairman, Pius Akinyelure. The sun had barely peeked over the horizon when presidential…

UN Aircraft's Emergency Landing at Aden Adde International Airport An unexpected scene unfolded at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport this past Tuesday afternoon when a United Nations-registered aircraft was compelled to make an emergency landing. The reason? A malfunction in its front landing gear, an issue that, while nerve-wracking, was adeptly managed by quick-acting aviation professionals on the ground and in the air. The aircraft in question, a DHC-8-402Q Dash 8 operated by…

The interconnected world of geopolitics sees alliances shift like desert sands under the Sahel sun. This week heralds a significant move as foreign ministers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are making their way to Moscow, a decision that resonates beyond its political intent. These nations, bound by the chains of recent history and military governance, have chosen a path divergent from their traditional ties, reaching out to Russia in what can only be described as a poignant pivot in international relations. Such a…

The office of former President George M. Weah has issued a pointed rebuttal to allegations regarding the non-return of a vehicle used during his presidency. This controversy has sparked discussions surrounding the procurement of a high-end, bulletproof vehicle for the current President, Joseph Boakai. The implications of such claims extend beyond mere accusations; they touch upon perceptions of leadership, responsibility, and the expectations of public service. Weah’s aides didn’t hold back in their criticism. They labeled…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was yet another test for the resilience of the Somali National Army (SNA), bolstered by local militia fighters, as they faced down a formidable assault by Al-Shabaab on a tense Monday morning. The battleground? The rugged terrains of Sabiib and Canole areas in the heart of Lower Shabelle. Government officials reported a decisive victory, with at least 30 militants neutralized in the confrontation. This account oozes strategic readiness and highlights a renewed effort to tighten security across the region.…