Nigeria

As the sun rose over the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna, a group of determined soldiers stood ready for a new chapter in their careers. They had undergone rigorous training at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), preparing not just for the duties ahead but for the tremendous responsibility of peacekeeping in The Gambia. During a pre-deployment ceremony, Major General Uwem Bassey, the Nigerian Army Chief of Operations, took a moment to instill confidence in the…

In a significant stride toward reconciliation and cultural restitution, the Netherlands has returned 119 ancient sculptures that were taken from the former Kingdom of Benin in southern Nigeria over a century ago. These remarkable artifacts, widely referred to as the Benin Bronzes, were the spoils of conflict during a turbulent chapter in history; they were seized in 1897 when British forces invaded and subsequently exiled the kingdom's ruler. This return marks not just a physical relocation of art but a profound…

The High Court in London has delivered a significant ruling, establishing that Shell plc and its former Nigerian subsidiary must be held accountable for long-standing oil pollution in the Niger Delta. This decision signals not only a potential shift in legal precedents but also raises critical questions about corporate responsibility in environmental matters. In this instance, the Bille and Ogale communities in Rivers State have brought forth serious allegations. They assert that the infrastructure owned by Shell has led to…

In a world where energy security is more crucial than ever, Pakistan is embarking on a strategic shift aimed at solidifying its bilateral relations with Russia while tapping into the resource-rich energy landscape of Africa. This renewed focus comes against the backdrop of Moscow’s expanding ambitions on the continent, where accessibility to natural reserves continues to attract international interest. One has to wonder: what triggers these partnerships, and how might they alter the geopolitical landscape?…

Leadership Transition: President Bio Takes the Helm at ECOWAS The recent transition in leadership at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has brought significant implications for the region. President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has officially replaced Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose two-term presidency has been marked by notable challenges and efforts to maintain democratic governance amidst regional turbulence. This transition was confirmed during the ECOWAS Heads of State and…

Ecuador has recently made a significant shift in its immigration policies, announcing the cancellation of visa-free transit privileges for citizens from 45 nations. This change notably affects 34 countries in Africa, marking a pivotal moment in the region's relationship with Ecuador and its transit systems. Under the new directive, travelers hailing from these African countries will now be required to obtain a Transit Visa (Visa de Transeúnte) if they wish to transit through Ecuadorian airports, a process that includes…

The United Kingdom has renewed its commitment to the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)—an initiative that aims to strengthen trade relationships with developing nations. This program, introduced in 2023, opens doors for Nigeria and 36 other African countries, allowing them to export over three thousand products with either no duties or significantly reduced tariffs. "Nigeria plays a pivotal role in the UK's aspirations for global trade," remarked British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery. He…

Increased Casualties Reported in Nigeria After Devastating Attack The grim aftermath of a brutal attack in north-central Nigeria has become even more catastrophic, with survivors reporting on Monday that the death toll has reached a staggering 150 individuals. Amongst the charred remains and shattered remnants of their homes, villagers continued an agonizing search for their loved ones, many of whom remain missing. Initially, authorities reported 100 fatalities in this tragic incident. The attack unfolded in…

Julius Malema, a figure whose turbulent career often stirs both passion and controversy, has once again been denied entry to the United Kingdom. This is the second instance in just two months that the outspoken leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has faced such a setback. The UK Home Office has cited multiple reasons for this decision. Most notably, they highlighted his vocal support for Hamas, incendiary remarks directed at the white population of South Africa, and ultimately described his potential presence in…

Recently, a troubling video from Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State ignited a wave of indignation across social media platforms. The footage depicted women students subjected to unwarranted physical contact from female staff members tasked with checking for bras prior to an examination. This incident raises several uncomfortable yet crucial questions about conduct, authority, and the rights of students in educational settings. The university, thus far, has opted to remain silent, not providing any immediate…