West Africa

Tragedy Strikes in Nigeria: Death Toll Surges in Village Attacks In a brutal assault that has sent shockwaves across Nigeria, armed attackers raided the villages of Nuku and Woro in Kwara State, resulting in a staggering loss of life. Initial reports estimated at least 35 fatalities; however, human rights organizations later revised this figure to over 170, revealing the grim reality of the violence. Witnesses recounted horrifying scenes, with victims reportedly shot at close range or burned in the flames of their own…

U.S. Deploys Troops to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Efforts The U.S. Command Africa (AFRICOM) commander, General Dagvin Anderson, has announced the deployment of a small team of U.S. soldiers to Nigeria. This move comes as part of a mutual agreement between the U.S. and Nigeria aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism efforts in the region. This development signifies the first official acknowledgment of U.S. troops on the ground in Nigeria since U.S. airstrikes last December. The decision follows President Donald Trump's…

The government of Ghana has taken a significant step in redefining the identity of one of its most notable transport hubs. The Transport Minister is set to submit a bill to Parliament proposing the renaming of Kotoka International Airport, a key gateway in West Africa, to Accra International Airport. This initiative has stirred public interest and debate, especially considering the historical significance attached to the current name. According to a pro-government Member of Parliament (MP), the proposed change aims to…

WHO Launches $1 Billion Global Appeal for Health Care Access in Humanitarian Crises The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched its 2026 global appeal, aiming to ensure that millions of people affected by humanitarian crises and conflicts can access essential health care. The appeal seeks nearly **US$1 billion** to address the health needs in 36 emergencies worldwide, including **14 Grade 3 emergencies** that represent the highest level of organizational response. These emergencies encompass both sudden-onset and…

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi Reported Dead Amid Conflicting Accounts Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the 53-year-old son of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has reportedly been shot dead at his home in Zintan. Khaled al-Zaidi, his lawyer, stated that a four-man commando unit carried out the assassination, although the identities of those behind the attack remain unclear. Meanwhile, a conflicting account from Saif's sister suggests he met his end near the Algerian border. Once considered the most prominent and feared figure in Libya…

Lagos State Government Plans $10 Million Investment to Regenerate Makoko Amid Protests The Lagos State Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest approximately $10 million in revitalizing Makoko, a densely populated waterfront community facing significant challenges. This announcement comes as residents and civil society groups express their outrage over recent demolitions, which have displaced families and ignited calls for accountability from both law enforcement and government officials. In this multifaceted…

Ghana Pauses Citizenship Applications to Enhance Accessibility for Diaspora Ghana has announced a temporary pause on citizenship applications for members of the African diaspora, aiming to simplify and make the process more user-friendly for applicants. Since 2016, individuals able to demonstrate African ancestry, particularly descendants of those impacted by the transatlantic slave trade, have been eligible to apply for Ghanaian nationality. This initiative has seen over 1,000 individuals, including notable figures like…

High Court Adjourns Prosecution of Ex-Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta The High Court in Ghana has formally adjourned the prosecution of former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta and nine co-accused individuals. The decision was made to facilitate the "service of summons" on several fugitives residing in the United States, highlighting the complexities of international legal proceedings. During a session held recently, the court announced that the next hearing is scheduled for February 26, 2026. The delay arises from…

South African singer Tyla has won her second Grammy, taking the Best African Music Performance award for "Push-to-Start," a track from her debut album, the Recording Academy announced Monday. The victory makes Tyla the first artist to win the category twice after her 2024 win for the global hit "Water." The award caps a rapid rise for the Johannesburg-born performer, whose blend of pop, R&B and South African township sounds has found a wide international audience. The Recording Academy recognized "Push-to-Start" amid a…

Return of Worshippers After Abduction in Kajuru In a significant development, 80 worshippers who escaped abduction during the attack on Kurmin Wali in the Kajuru Local Government Area have returned home after spending approximately two weeks hiding in neighboring villages. Village Head Ishaku Dan'azumi provided an update on the situation, revealing that while initial reports indicated 177 individuals were abducted, further investigations clarified that 80 had successfully fled to safety. Unfortunately, 86 worshippers…