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MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a confidential letter uncovered recently, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made an audacious offer to the then U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposal, which is nothing short of groundbreaking, seeks to grant exclusive operational control to the U.S. over crucial military airbases and key ports in Somalia. But is it a move towards strengthening bilateral ties, or does it open Pandora's box of internal strife? This letter, penned on March 16, 2025, outlines an invitation for the U.S.…

Nigeria is embarking on an unprecedented journey in its quest to attract foreign investment while boosting local manufacturing. The renowned automaker, AvtoVAZ, is propelling plans to set up an assembly plant in the nation. Curious about this bold move? Let’s delve into the details. According to Techcabal, AvtoVAZ, commonly associated with its Lada range of accessible passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles, is charting a path into Nigeria. This venture aligns…

Embracing Growth: FCMB's New Chapter in Ogbomoso It was a moment of anticipation and hope on the sunny morning of the inauguration of First City Monument Bank’s (FCMB) latest branch in Ogbomoso. The presence of FCMB, a beacon of financial innovation, promises to shape new economic narratives and invigorate local businesses. The air was filled with excitement as Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the revered Soun of Ogbomoso, ceremonially opened the doors to this new opportunity. "First City Monument…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. Garowe (AX) – In an inspiring wave of resilience and strategic collaboration, the Northeastern State regional administration has taken decisive action by providing direct support to local militia forces known as the Ma'awisley. These local factions have rallied with remarkable courage to protect their recently liberated lands from the grasp of ISIS militants entrenched in the Al-Miskaat Mountains. The potency of this grassroots movement lies in the shared history…

Mogadishu (AX) — The hustle and bustle of Mogadishu's vibrant markets, where traders earn their living amid the daily chaos, can mask an insidious undercurrent. Al-Shabaab, notorious for their devastating attacks, draws substantial financial support from unsuspecting Somali entrepreneurs. Banadir Regional Police Commander Moalim Mahdi recently unveiled this chilling reality at a national prosecutors' conference. Mahdi unraveled the intricate nexus of power and fear that enables these militants to execute operations that…

The relentless pillage of yellowfin tuna in Somali waters is a troubling saga, unravelling as a grim tale affecting local livelihoods and looming ominously over global food security. The ripples of this exploitation stretch far and wide, touching ecosystems and economies in profoundly unsettling ways. But, how did this come to pass? One can't help but wonder about the brazen illegal activities by Chinese vessels, which have become a stark symbol of unchecked ambition and disregard for maritime laws. These vessels prowl…

Al-Shabaab Abducts Five Kenyan Chiefs in Mandera County Nairobi, Kenya — Imagine clocking in for a day’s work, only to vanish without a trace. This unsettling fate befell five National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) from Mandera County, allegedly whisked away by Al-Shabaab militants. Why now? The abductions come with a disquieting timing—just before President William Ruto's anticipated visit to the region. Julius Njeru, the Mandera South Sub…

Nairobi (AX) – In the heart of Mandera County, a shadowy cloud of fear descended as alleged Al-Shabaab insurgents spirited away five local chiefs on Monday. Their journey toward Elwak was abruptly interrupted, sparking concern throughout the region. North Eastern Regional Commissioner, John Otieno, relayed the troubling news, painting a stark picture of areas like Bamba Owla and Ires Suki, known for their vulnerability to militant operations. One might wonder, what drives these menacing forces to such acts of aggression? The…

Below is a reimagined version of your article: --- In a world turbulent and often unforgiving, the hopeful journey of refugees towards Minnesota now teeters on a precipice of uncertainty. Initially, it seemed around 6,500 refugees would find solace here within the coming fiscal period. Yet, recent executive orders from President Donald Trump have cast a long shadow, shrouding the futures of many in doubt. With a swift hand, President Trump signed orders, each stroke of the pen effectively slamming the brakes on welcomed…

Beledweyne (AX) — Standing at the confluence of strategic river routes, the heart of Jicibow has emerged from its recent turmoil as Somali National Army (SNA) forces, accompanied by intrepid local allies, plant their sovereign flag over the town. After a prolonged and grueling conflict that shook the Hiiraan region's very foundation, the tenacious forces prevailed against the unyielding insurgency of Al-Shabaab on Thursday. Why Jicibow? Why now? To the unconcerned eye, Jicibow is but a speck on the…