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  • Middle East War: Israel Accuses South Africa of Backing Iran

    Middle East War: Israel Accuses South Africa of Backing Iran

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — The Israeli Foreign Ministry has sharply criticised the South African government for allegedly backing Iran, following Pretoria’s co-chairing of the Hague Group’s March 4, 2026, meeting in The Hague. The gathering, attended by representatives from 40 states, focused on enforcing international law in Palestine.

    Israel condemned the landmark diplomatic event — the largest Hague Group meeting since its founding in January 2025 — accusing South Africa of aligning with Iran in its confrontation against Israel and the United States.

    In a statement issued on March 4, the Foreign Ministry declared: “South Africa, a close ally of the murderous regime in Tehran, which slaughtered thousands of its own citizens, has just organised another distorted anti-Israel meeting of the Hague Group. These two corrupt regimes, united by their hatred of Israel, recently held a joint naval exercise.”

    The statement further mocked the forum’s credibility, adding: “We can expect the outcome of the Hague meeting to be as successful as Iran’s navy, which is probably why Bolivia and Honduras had the sense to leave this forum.”

    The meeting’s agenda centred on strengthening coordinated state action to enforce international law in Palestine, discussing measures targeting Israeli settlements and arms transfers, promoting accountability mechanisms through international institutions, and highlighting South Africa’s role as a leading voice in global justice and solidarity with Palestine.

  • US Sanctions Rwandan Defence Force and Senior Officials

    US Sanctions Rwandan Defence Force and Senior Officials

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) and four senior military officers for providing direct operational support to the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The sanctions, announced on March 2, 2026, by the U.S. Department of State and signed by Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, accuse Rwanda of violating commitments under the Washington Accords, an agreement reached between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The statement noted that RDF-backed M23 forces recently captured the Congolese city of Uvira, in breach of the accord.

    The U.S. condemned M23 for committing grave human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, particularly women and children. It stressed that RDF support has enabled the rebels to seize sovereign Congolese territory and continue these atrocities. “The United States stands firm in its support for peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider region,” the statement read. “The Washington Accords mark a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region, setting a new course for peace, cooperation, and prosperity among neighbours. Today’s action demonstrates the U.S. resolve to uphold the Washington Accords. As President Trump has made clear, the United States is prepared to use all available tools to ensure the DRC and Rwanda deliver on the promises of this historic agreement.”

    Formed in 2012 by former members of the National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP), M23 rebels accuse the Congolese government of failing to honour a 2009 peace deal. Predominantly composed of Tutsi fighters, the group has long been suspected of receiving support from Rwanda, though Kigali denies this. Since its resurgence in 2021, M23 has captured significant territory in North Kivu, destabilising the region. While the rebels claim to be defending the rights of Congolese Tutsis and demanding political representation, critics argue their campaign is driven by territorial ambitions and political leverage, worsening humanitarian crises and regional tensions.

  • Dangote Industries warns against impersonators and fraudulent social media accounts

    Dangote Industries warns against impersonators and fraudulent social media accounts

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — Dangote Industries Limited has issued a public warning over the growing number of impersonation and fraudulent activities carried out by individuals falsely claiming to represent the company, its leadership, and members of the Dangote family.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, the company said impostors have been using the names of its executives and family members to defraud unsuspecting individuals through fake investment offers, business proposals, charity solicitations, employment promises, and other deceptive schemes.

    The company emphasized that neither Dangote Industries Limited, its Group President Aliko Dangote, nor any executive or family member—including Fatima Aliko Dangote, Mariya Aliko Dangote, and Halima Aliko Dangote—solicit funds, investments, contracts, or personal information via WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform. It further clarified that neither Aliko Dangote nor the company maintains accounts on Facebook or TikTok.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, under no circumstances do the company’s executives initiate direct contact with private individuals through social media channels for financial transactions, business opportunities, or personal requests,” the statement read.

    Dangote Industries urged the public to disregard unsolicited messages, calls, or social media accounts claiming affiliation with the company or its executives. It stressed that all official communications are disseminated exclusively through verified corporate channels and recognized media outlets.

    The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting brand integrity and public safety, noting that it is working closely with security and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those behind these fraudulent activities. Members of the public who receive suspicious communications are encouraged to report such incidents to the appropriate authorities immediately.

  • Umahi Receives Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award

    Umahi Receives Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi will be honoured with the Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award today. The ceremony, scheduled to be held at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, will attract dignitaries from both the private and public sectors.

    A statement issued by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media), noted that the minister is set to receive the award later in the day.

    Nwaze said: “We are getting set to receive the Extraordinary Personality of the Year award conferred on the Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, by the Silverbird Group, scheduled for today, March 1, 2026, at Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos.”

    He further urged the public to celebrate with the minister on this achievement, calling on critics to also acknowledge his positive strides. “If you can share the negativity, be kind enough to share one of the reasons for the envy,” Nwaze remarked.

    Recall that Umahi, ranked among the top two ministers in the Tinubu administration, previously served as Governor of Ebonyi State. His tenure was widely recognised for transforming the agrarian southeastern state into a modern hub, particularly through world-class road infrastructure and other developmental projects.

    For many analysts, the Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award comes as no surprise, given his track record of impactful leadership and innovation.

    The Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award was instituted over 20 years ago to celebrate excellence by recognizing individuals whose leadership, innovation, and service have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development. Over time, it has evolved into a prestigious national event that brings together leaders from politics, business, and civil society to honor outstanding achievements. Winners are often selected through a blend of editorial nominations by the Silverbird Group and nationwide public voting, making the recognition both merit-based and people-driven. Beyond personal success, the award highlights the broader societal impact of recipients’ work, whether in governance, infrastructure, humanitarian service, or innovation.

  • US loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan—Ilhan Omar

    US loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan—Ilhan Omar

    Washington, D.C. (NPA)– Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who has represented Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District since 2019, has accused the United States of deliberately targeting Muslim-majority countries during the holy month of Ramadan.

    In a post on X, Omar claimed that the U.S. attacked Iraq during Ramadan in 2003 and suggested that similar plans were being made against Iran. She wrote: “Iraq was attacked by the U.S. during Ramadan, and it is sickening to know that the U.S. is again going to attack Iran during Ramadan. The U.S. apparently loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan, and I am convinced it isn’t about violations of international law but about who they worship.”

    However, historical records show that her claim is inaccurate. The U.S.-led invasion of Iraq began on March 19, 2003, while Ramadan that year did not start until October 27 — more than seven months later.

    Omar’s remarks come against the backdrop of her long-running feud with former President Donald Trump. Their disputes have centered on immigration, race, religion, and foreign policy. Trump has repeatedly criticized Minnesota’s Somali community, accusing it of fraud and corruption, while Omar — herself a Somali-American — has strongly rejected those claims.

    The conflict has often played out in public settings. Trump has used slogans such as “Send them back,” which were widely condemned as racist, while Omar has accused U.S. military actions in Muslim-majority countries of being influenced by religious bias. Trump, in turn, has accused her of sympathizing with extremists, even linking her without evidence to ISIS in Somalia.

    Their confrontations have been especially visible during Trump’s State of the Union addresses.

  • Tiger Base Owerri Accused of Killings, Torture of Detainees — Amnesty International

    Tiger Base Owerri Accused of Killings, Torture of Detainees — Amnesty International

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Amnesty International Nigeria has released a new report alleging serious human rights violations by the police unit known as Tiger Base in Owerri, Imo State, southeast Nigeria. The report, launched on 25 February 2026 at the Carlton Swiss Grand Hotel in Enugu, accuses the unit of unlawful killings, torture, and extortion.

    According to Amnesty International, its investigation found that Tiger Base — originally established to combat kidnapping and armed robbery — has instead been involved in “unlawfully killing suspects, torturing and ill-treating detainees to coerce confessions to fabricated crimes, and arresting individuals for the sole purpose of extorting bribes.”

    The organization further stated that detainees “are kept in filthy, windowless cells and subjected to regular beatings. Many are held for weeks or months without charge. Others have been shot or forcibly disappeared.”

    The launch event was attended by civil society groups, activists, survivors, lawyers, and students. Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to “promptly establish an independent, impartial, and effective investigation into the atrocities committed by Tiger Base officers in Owerri.”

    In recent weeks, civil society organizations, lawyers, activists, and families of alleged victims have intensified advocacy efforts, demanding accountability for those who died or went missing in Tiger Base custody.

    The Imo State Police Command, however, rejected the allegations, insisting that Tiger Base is not a “slaughterhouse” or torture centre, but a legitimate anti-kidnapping unit contributing to public safety.

    Despite this official position, mounting allegations of torture, unlawful detention, extrajudicial killings, and extortion have fuelled fresh calls for investigations, reforms, and even the possible closure of the unit.

  • Shettima Inaugurates Board of Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation

    Shettima Inaugurates Board of Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, on Thursday inaugurated the Board of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in Abuja, underscoring its importance to the country’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.

    Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima highlighted the administration’s vision for CREDICORP, noting that the institution was established to build a trusted credit infrastructure, provide catalytic capital to reduce borrowing costs, and help Nigerians overcome long-standing cultural resistance to credit.

    “The quality of life of Nigerians cannot improve without closing the gap between access to capital and human dignity,” Shettima said. He emphasized that ordinary citizens should not have to wait years to afford basic assets. “A civil servant who earns honestly does not have to chase sudden wealth just to buy a vehicle, or save for ten years to buy one. A young professional should not remain in darkness simply because solar power must be paid for all at once.”

    The newly inaugurated Board of CREDICORP is tasked with driving Nigeria’s consumer credit revolution. Its key functions include:

    • Policy Oversight: Guiding the corporation’s strategic direction.
    • Credit Infrastructure Development: Building systems that foster trust between lenders and borrowers.
    • Catalytic Capital Provision: Ensuring affordable financing options for working Nigerians.
    • Democratization of Credit Access: Expanding credit opportunities nationwide.
    • Cultural Shift Management: Promoting financial literacy and responsible borrowing.
    • Performance Monitoring: Tracking disbursement levels and impact on citizens.
    • Broader Economic Impact: Supporting financial inclusion and boosting consumer-driven growth.

    The inauguration marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to expand access to consumer credit, strengthen financial inclusion, and stimulate economic growth.

  • United States and Congo Announce $1.2 Billion Health Partnership

    United States and Congo Announce $1.2 Billion Health Partnership

    KINSHASA, CONGO (NPA) — The governments of the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo have signed a new $1.2 billion agreement aimed at strengthening health systems and tackling major diseases.

    Under the partnership, Washington will provide up to $900 million over the next five years to support programs addressing HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, and other infectious diseases. Congo has pledged to increase its domestic health spending by $300 million during the same period.

    The deal is part of a broader U.S. initiative to establish bilateral health agreements across Africa. According to the State Department, 19 such partnerships have been signed to date. Officials say the new framework is designed to promote self-sufficiency and streamline funding, replacing older arrangements previously managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development.

    The announcement comes amid wider debate over U.S. global health policy. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has raised concerns about provisions in some agreements that require countries to share sensitive pathogen data with Washington as a condition for funding. On Wednesday, negotiations with Zimbabwe collapsed after its government rejected such requirements.

    It remains unclear whether similar data-sharing clauses are included in the Congo agreement.

  • BREAKING: INEC Revises 2027 Election Timetable; Presidential Poll Set for January 16

    BREAKING: INEC Revises 2027 Election Timetable; Presidential Poll Set for January 16

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a revised timetable for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

    In a statement issued Thursday night, the commission explained that the adjustment followed the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026, which introduced new statutory timelines for pre-election and electoral activities. INEC said the schedule was realigned to ensure full compliance with the updated legal framework.

    Under the new timetable:

    • Presidential and National Assembly elections will now take place on Saturday, January 16, 2027.
    • Governorship and State House of Assembly elections will follow on Saturday, February 6, 2027.

    Political parties are required to conduct their primaries — including the resolution of disputes — between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Campaigns for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for Governorship and State Assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026.

    INEC emphasized that all political parties must adhere strictly to the revised timetable and noted that campaigns must end 24 hours before election day.

  • US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    FLORIDA, U.S. (NPA) — The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), a U.S.-based non-profit military organization composed of men and women of Igbo heritage who have served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, has urged Washington to establish a sovereign safe zone for Judeo-Christians and to support the restructuring of Nigeria.

    In a letter dated February 25, 2026, and signed by AVID President Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, the group argued that such a measure would enable persecuted Christians to live and worship freely, shielded from extremist violence. “This initiative aligns with America’s commitment to self-determination, religious liberty, and protecting vulnerable populations, representing a significant step toward addressing the ongoing genocide,” the letter stated.

    The appeal was addressed to Representative Riley McGowan Moore, a member of a U.S. congressional committee tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate violence against Christians in Nigeria. AVID expressed gratitude for the committee’s findings, particularly its conclusion that “Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian.”

    The group highlighted documentation of mass killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of churches and schools, stressing the urgency of decisive international action. It welcomed the committee’s recommendation for the repeal of Sharia codes and criminal anti-blasphemy laws in Nigeria, describing them as essential steps toward safeguarding religious freedom and human rights.

    Read the group’s letter below: