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Category: Africa

  • Nigeria congratulates Ghana on 69th independence, reaffirms commitment to peace, prosperity, and African unity

    Nigeria congratulates Ghana on 69th independence, reaffirms commitment to peace, prosperity, and African unity

    Abuja, Nigeria (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — Nigeria has congratulated the Republic of Ghana on the occasion of its 69th Independence Anniversary, describing the milestone as a defining moment in Africa’s liberation movement and a testament to Ghana’s enduring contributions to democracy and regional stability.

    In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, extended warm congratulations to Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    “This historic milestone commemorates Ghana’s independence on the 6th of March in 1957, when it became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to achieve freedom from colonial rule,” the statement read. “Ghana’s independence represented a defining moment in Africa’s liberation movement, inspiring generations of African nations, including Nigeria, to pursue sovereignty, dignity, and self-determination.”

    Nigeria underscored the unique and deeply rooted relationship between the two countries, founded on “common historical experiences, cultural affinity, and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and African unity.” Both nations, the statement noted, “have remained pillars of stability and democratic progress in West Africa and have consistently worked together in advancing the goals of regional cooperation within ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations.”

    Highlighting decades of collaboration, the ministry pointed to strong diplomatic ties characterized by “frequent high-level engagements, strategic dialogue, and cooperation in areas including trade and investment, education, energy, defence cooperation, migration management, and cultural exchange.” The free movement of people between both countries has further strengthened “people-to-people diplomacy and fostered vibrant economic and cultural connections that reflect the spirit of African brotherhood.”

    As Ghana celebrates its independence under the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” Nigeria commended the resilience and creativity of the Ghanaian people in advancing national development and strengthening democratic institutions. It also recognised Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the ongoing Heritage Month celebrations, which showcase “the country’s vibrant traditions, creative industries, and cultural identity.”

    Reaffirming its commitment to deepening bilateral relations, Nigeria pledged to expand economic cooperation, enhance diplomatic consultation, and strengthen cultural and educational exchanges. “Nigeria remains confident that the longstanding partnership between Abuja and Accra will continue to grow, contributing to regional prosperity, economic integration, and the shared vision of a peaceful and united Africa,” the statement concluded.

  • Botswana court hears landmark same-sex marriage case by LGBTQ+ rights groups

    Botswana court hears landmark same-sex marriage case by LGBTQ+ rights groups

    Gaborone, Botswana (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — The High Court in Gaborone, Botswana, has begun hearing a landmark case challenging the legality of same-sex marriage under the country’s Marriage Act. The petition was filed by Bonolo Selelo and Tsholofelo Kumile, a same-sex couple seeking legal recognition of their union.

    The case, which could redefine Botswana’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights, comes amid growing calls from advocacy groups for broader recognition of same-sex unions following the 2019 decriminalisation of homosexuality. On Thursday, the court heard arguments questioning whether the Marriage Act’s definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman violates constitutional protections of equality and dignity.

    The petitioners, supported by the Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana (LEGABIBO), argue that excluding same-sex couples from marriage is discriminatory and inconsistent with constitutional values. They contend that the 2019 ruling decriminalising same-sex relations laid the foundation for marriage equality.

    Government lawyers, however, maintain that the Marriage Act reflects Botswana’s cultural and social norms, insisting that any change should come through legislative reform rather than judicial intervention. The case has drawn significant public attention, with human rights organisations emphasising that recognition of same-sex marriage would strengthen Botswana’s reputation as a progressive democracy in Africa. 

    A ruling in favour of the petitioners could set a precedent for marriage equality in the region, while a rejection may reinforce existing legal barriers but intensify advocacy efforts both domestically and internationally.

  • WTO and EIB forge partnership to boost sustainable trade and investment

    WTO and EIB forge partnership to boost sustainable trade and investment

    Luxembourg — March 4, 2026 (NPA) — The World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat and the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen sustainable trade and investment worldwide, with a particular focus on developing countries.

    The agreement, signed by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and EIB Group President Nadia Calviño during the EIB Group Forum in Luxembourg, establishes the EIB-WTO Trade and Investment Facilitation Initiative. This initiative will support regulatory reforms, investment planning, and project preparation aimed at unlocking new opportunities for developing economies.

    The partnership builds on the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement, endorsed by 128 WTO members, which sets the first global framework to ease foreign direct investment flows. Under the MoU, the WTO and EIB will collaborate to assess countries’ needs, design reform strategies, and mobilise funding — including blended finance and private capital — to support investment projects.

    In its pilot phase, the initiative will target selected African countries, focusing on critical sectors such as green and digital transitions, health, education, sustainable growth, and job creation.

    “This partnership aligns policy reform efforts with catalytic financing, and thus promises to unlock private investment in strategic sectors, beginning with a pilot group of African countries,” said WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

    EIB Group President Nadia Calviño emphasised Europe’s commitment to fair global trade, noting that the agreement “will help partner countries attract more and better-quality investment, while supporting reform and creating new trading opportunities for EU businesses.”

    Beyond financing, the WTO and EIB will also collaborate on research and analysis of global trade and investment trends to guide policy decisions.

  • Boko Haram Attacks Military Base in Borno, Killing Soldiers and Civilians

    Boko Haram Attacks Military Base in Borno, Killing Soldiers and Civilians

    Maiduguri, Nigeria (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — Suspected Boko Haram fighters launched a deadly assault on a Nigerian Army base in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State in the early hours of Wednesday. The attack left several soldiers and civilians dead, with many others abducted.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the insurgents, armed with motorcycles and gun trucks, operated for hours. 

    ASP Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, confirmed the incident, noting that while the military repelled the attackers, casualties remain unconfirmed. “An unknown number of civilians were killed, and some survivors were abducted toward the Mandara Mountains,” Daso said.

    Local sources indicated that at least nine soldiers were killed, while residents fled to Pulka town for safety. Witnesses added that women were among those abducted during the raid.

    Boko Haram, notorious for bombings, kidnappings, and massacres—including the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction—continues to destabilise Nigeria’s northeast despite sustained military offensives.

  • 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.