West Africa

The Promise of Change: Peter Obi’s Vision for Nigeria’s Future As Nigeria gears up for the highly anticipated 2027 presidential election, former candidate Peter Obi has unveiled a bold proposition that challenges the status quo. In a recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Obi eloquently declared that he would commit to a single four-year term if elected. This declaration isn’t just campaign rhetoric; it represents a potential paradigm shift in the perception of political leadership in Nigeria and possibly the whole…

Desperation and Danger: The Humanitarian Crisis in North-Eastern Nigeria The sun casts a harsh glow over the sprawling displacement camps of Gwoza, a town nestled within the rugged terrain of north-eastern Nigeria. Here, life unfolds in the shadows of an ongoing humanitarian crisis that threatens not just the lives of individuals but the very fabric of the community itself. Aisha Abubakar, a resilient yet weary survivor, stands as a testament to the anguish felt by many. Having lost most of her family to the violent strife…

The Looming Threat of Cholera in West and Central Africa: A Call to Action As the rainy season descends upon West and Central Africa, a troubling shadow looms over the region. Recent estimates from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) indicate that over 80,000 children are at high risk of cholera, an alarming statistic that highlights the precarious balance between nature and human vulnerability. With heavy rains and resultant flooding sweeping through countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and…

In the heart of Adamawa State, tragedy has struck with the emergence of devastating flash floods that have claimed the lives of 23 individuals and rendered thousands homeless. In a desperate bid to provide refuge, a makeshift camp has been established at Aliyu Musdafa College in Yola, where essential supplies are being distributed. However, one can't help but wonder: how does a community regain its footing in the wake of such calamity? The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has underscored the vital role played by…

Maurice Kamto, a significant figure in Cameroon's opposition landscape and a staunch critic of President Paul Biya, has notably been omitted from the approved roster of candidates for the impending presidential election scheduled for October 12. Curiously, no explanation accompanied this decision, leaving many puzzled. Kamto intended to represent the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM). His political journey is marked by his previous candidacy for the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), where he…

In a grim reminder of the persistent violence afflicting Nigeria, recent reports indicate that at least 35 individuals have lost their lives at the hands of kidnappers, even after ransoms were paid for their release. This tragic incident unfolded in a village situated in the northern region of Zamfara state. Back in March 2025, the serenity of Banga village was shattered when armed assailants abducted at least 56 villagers, targeting the vulnerable and instilling fear in the community. The gunmen initially demanded a…

In a sporting spectacle that will be etched in memory, Nigeria's Super Falcons demonstrated an extraordinary comeback against Morocco in the final of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations. It was a gripping clash that unfolded in front of an electrified home crowd, all eager to witness the Atlas Lionesses claim their maiden continental title. However, destiny had a different script in mind. Morocco surged forward in the first half, with a confidence that must have sent ripples of hope throughout the stadium. Their early goal…

Experts are cautiously optimistic about a groundbreaking male contraceptive making waves in Africa. Traditionally, family planning has heavily leaned towards women, often sidelining men in crucial conversations about reproductive health. Enter Adam, a remarkable water-soluble hydrogel injection designed to provide reliable contraceptive protection for up to two years. The implications of this innovation are nothing short of transformative. Born out of the lab at Contraline, a biotechnology company in the United States,…

Recently, the visit of former South African President Jacob Zuma to Rabat ignited renewed debate over the fraught issue of Western Sahara. Zuma's endorsement of Morocco's claim to this territory as an autonomous region has certainly raised eyebrows and rekindled discussions about the complexities woven into the region’s history. This shift in Zuma’s perspective marks a significant departure from his earlier stance as president, when he fervently supported the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination. Peter Fabricius, a…

Benin has recently appointed acclaimed American filmmaker Spike Lee, alongside his wife, producer and author Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors dedicated to connecting with African-Americans in the United States. Their mission transcends mere symbolism; it aims to strengthen bonds between Benin and the diaspora, while fostering cultural tourism and supporting initiatives that guide individuals back to their ancestral roots. This important announcement took place during the couple's visit to Benin's vibrant capital, Cotonou,…