New Post Africa

Category: International

Nigeria strengthens security ties with U.S. through NSA’s high-level visit

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended last week’s visit by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to Washington, D.C., where he held strategic meetings with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State and Acting National Security Adviser Marco Rubio, and other senior officials of the United States government.

The engagement, according to the minister, builds on the foundation laid in 2025, when Nigeria and the United States established the Nigeria–U.S. Joint Working Group (JWG) to deepen collaboration in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.

In a statement issued yesterday, Idris noted: “Last week, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who heads the Nigerian side of the JWG, paid a three-day working visit to the United States, meeting with Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other senior officials of the U.S. government.”

The Minister emphasized that the Nigerian government fully recognizes the importance of international cooperation and engagement in securing the nation. He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to explore all avenues to work closely with global partners to bolster Nigeria’s security architecture.

The Nigeria–U.S. Joint Working Group has already developed a roadmap that both countries are committed to implementing. Ribadu’s visit was aimed at strengthening this partnership, which spans intelligence sharing, defence cooperation, capacity building, border security, and other critical areas, while advancing the roadmap’s implementation.

Idris concluded by reaffirming the government’s central objective: “The goal remains the total security and protection of Nigerian lives, property, and territory.”

This latest engagement underscores Nigeria’s resolve to confront evolving threats with the support of international allies, while positioning the country as a proactive player in global security cooperation.

May 11, 2026
Zelenskyy, UAE President discuss security cooperation amid Iranian drone threats

KYIV, Ukraine (NPA) — Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held a telephone conversation with the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on regional security and ongoing cooperation between both countries.

According to the Ukrainian president, discussions centred on renewed drone attacks launched by Iran against Gulf countries, including the UAE and Kuwait.

Zelenskyy condemned the attacks and stressed the importance of continued security collaboration between Ukraine and the UAE to protect lives and infrastructure in the Gulf region.

“Against this backdrop, it is critical that our teams continue to work closely together in the area of security. I was glad to hear that Ukrainian expertise is truly helping build reliable protection for lives. We discussed continuing this work,” Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine and the UAE had earlier signed a defence cooperation agreement at the onset of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, aimed at strengthening the UAE’s air defence capabilities against Iranian-made drones.

The Ukrainian president also thanked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his role in facilitating the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war from Russian captivity as part of recent prisoner exchange arrangements.

“We count on this work to continue,” Zelenskyy said.

The leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and other strategic areas.

“I am grateful to the UAE that our agreements are being implemented on the basis of reciprocity and that Ukraine is also receiving the support it needs, including in the energy sector. We also discussed other potential projects in various areas. Thank you!” he added.

May 11, 2026
Nigeria, Jordan sign defence cooperation, intelligence sharing agreement

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigeria and Jordan have signed a defence cooperation and intelligence-sharing agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral security collaboration.

The development was disclosed by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, following meetings in Amman with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces, Yousef A. Alhnaity.

According to Matawalle, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

“On behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on Defence Cooperation and Intelligence Sharing,” the minister said in a statement issued on Monday.

He noted that the agreement is intended to deepen cooperation between the two countries in addressing evolving security threats confronting Nigeria.

According to the minister, the challenges facing the country have become increasingly complex, asymmetric and cross-border in nature.

Matawalle said the agreement aligns with the security strategy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which he described as a “bottoms-up approach” toward achieving peace, security and stability across the country.

The latest agreement comes as Nigeria intensifies defence and security cooperation with several countries amid ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations, particularly in the northern region.

Nigeria has continued to battle insurgency, banditry and kidnapping activities that have affected communities and major highways in different parts of the country.

Security analysts have repeatedly called for stronger international cooperation, intelligence sharing and improved military coordination to address the persistent attacks and growing insecurity.

The Nigerian government has expressed optimism that expanded defence partnerships with foreign allies will strengthen ongoing operations and improve national security outcomes.

May 11, 2026
BREAKING: Trump rejects Iran’s response to diplomatic efforts, calls proposal ‘totally unacceptable’

WASHINGTON, United States (NPA) — President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s latest response to ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at ending tensions between Washington and Tehran, describing the position as “totally unacceptable.”

In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the response submitted by Iranian representatives.

“I have just read the response from Iran’s so-called ‘Representatives.’ I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” he wrote.

The U.S. president’s remarks came shortly after another statement in which he accused Iran of deceiving the United States and the international community for nearly five decades through what he described as delay tactics designed to advance its military ambitions.

Trump also criticised former President Barack Obama over his administration’s policy toward Iran, alleging that Obama favoured Tehran while sidelining key American allies, including Israel.

“He was not only good to them, he was great, actually going to their side, jettisoning Israel and all other allies, and giving Iran a major and very powerful new lease on life,” Trump said.

The president referenced the Obama-era nuclear agreement with Iran and the release of funds to Tehran, alleging that hundreds of billions of dollars, including $1.7 billion in cash, were handed over to the Iranian government.

He also described Obama as a weak leader and accused Iran of exploiting successive American administrations for decades.

“For 47 years the Iranians have been tapping us along, keeping us waiting, killing our people with roadside bombs, destroying protests, and recently wiping out 42,000 innocent, unarmed protestors,” he said.

Trump maintained that Iran would no longer take advantage of the United States under his leadership.

The latest comments come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over regional security, military activities and ongoing nuclear negotiations.

May 10, 2026
Trump accuses Iran of decades of deception, blasts Obama, Biden over Tehran policy

WASHINGTON, United States (NPA) — President Donald Trump has accused Iran of deceiving the United States and the international community for nearly five decades through what he described as delay tactics aimed at advancing its military interests.

Trump, in a blistering post on his Truth Social handles, also criticised former President Barack Obama over his administration’s policy toward Iran, alleging that Obama favoured Tehran while sidelining key U.S. allies, including Israel.

“He was not only good to them, he was great, actually going to their side, jettisoning Israel and all other allies, and giving Iran a major and very powerful new lease on life,” Trump said.

The U.S. president referenced the Obama administration’s nuclear deal with Iran and the release of funds to Tehran, claiming that hundreds of billions of dollars and $1.7 billion in cash were handed over to the Iranian government.

According to Trump, the funds were transported to Tehran in cash deliveries.

“It was so much money that when it arrived, the Iranian thugs had no idea what to do with it,” he alleged.

Trump further claimed that banks in Washington D.C., Virginia and Maryland were emptied to facilitate the cash transfer, although he did not provide evidence to support the allegation.

He also described Obama as a weak leader, “a sucker,” and a “disaster”, and accused Iran of exploiting successive American administrations for decades.

“For 47 years the Iranians have been tapping us along, keeping us waiting, killing our people with roadside bombs, destroying protests, and recently wiping out 42,000 innocent, unarmed protestors,” he said.

Trump, however, argued that Iran would no longer take advantage of the United States under his leadership.

The comments come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over regional security, military activities and nuclear negotiations.

May 10, 2026
11 killed, 12 injured as COCIN leader raises alarm over fresh Plateau attack

JOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), has called on security agencies to urgently intervene in the Sabon Layi community in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State following a deadly attack allegedly carried out by armed assailants.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Dachomo appealed to law enforcement authorities to respond swiftly to the situation in the troubled community.

“Pray for Sabon Layi, Barkin Ladi. All law enforcement agencies should take note and intervene urgently, please,” he said.

The cleric, who has consistently spoken on attacks affecting Christian communities in northern Nigeria, alleged that the assault occurred on May 7, 2026. According to him, initial reports indicating that 10 persons were injured did not reflect the full scale of the incident. “Our findings from the ground today confirm that 12 persons were critically injured while 11 innocent souls were killed,” he stated.

Dachomo said one of the victims was a four-year-old child, lamenting what he described as the growing loss of humanity and compassion amid recurring violence in affected communities.

“Eleven human beings. Eleven destinies. Eleven families thrown into darkness,” he said.

The cleric, who accompanied his statement with graphic images allegedly showing victims of the attack, further accused some sections of the media of downplaying the scale of the violence (denying what he said is a genocide against the people) despite repeated killings in parts of Plateau State. “How many more bodies must be buried before the truth is acknowledged? How many mothers must cry themselves to sleep? How many children must die in silence?” he queried.

Citing several biblical passages, Dachomo urged the international community and relevant authorities not to ignore the plight of victims and displaced families. He said many of the injured victims were struggling to access adequate medical care, while affected families faced difficulties covering treatment and burial expenses.

The cleric also called for justice, protection for vulnerable communities and stronger humanitarian support for survivors of attacks across the region. “The world may choose silence, but Heaven sees every tear. God is watching. And one day, every hidden evil shall be brought into the light,” the statement added.

Authorities in Plateau State had yet to issue an official response on the latest casualty figures at the time of filing this report.

Earlier, Newpost Africa reported the killing of an entire Christian family in Plateau State. The victims — Rev. Ayuba Choji, his wife, and two children, Precious and Ishaya — were allegedly killed by radical Islamists on April 27, 2026, and laid to rest three days later in Kwi, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. Their only surviving son managed to escape through a window during the attack.

May 10, 2026
UN Deputy SG Amina J. Mohammed mourns passing of former Botswana President Festus Mogae

NEW YORK, U.S. (NPA) — Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, who passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026.

“I am saddened by the passing of former President of Botswana, Dr. Festus Mogae,” she said.

In a statement issued on Friday, Mohammed described the late former president as a visionary leader who played a key role in shaping Botswana’s record of stability and progress. She also noted his courage and compassion in addressing the AIDS crisis, which remained a defining part of his public service legacy.

She further praised Mogae’s strong belief in Africa’s economic transformation, saying it inspired action across the continent.

“My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and the people of Botswana,” her statement concluded.

Here’s a sharper, newsroom‑ready edit of your draft in the style you’ve been using:

Festus Mogae, Botswana’s third president, died at 86 in Gaborone. His passing was announced by President Duma Boko, who declared three days of national mourning with flags flown at half‑mast. Mogae, who led Botswana from 1998 to 2008, earned widespread respect for his economic stewardship during the country’s diamond‑driven growth and for spearheading one of Africa’s most ambitious HIV/AIDS treatment programs, which dramatically reduced infection and mortality rates.

Beyond his presidency, Mogae remained a prominent voice in peace mediation and public health advocacy. In 2008, he was awarded the prestigious Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, honoring his democratic governance and peaceful transfer of power. His death marks the loss of a leader celebrated across Africa and internationally for his unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, and solidarity in confronting public health challenges.

May 9, 2026
WHO DG allays fears of Tenerife people over hantavirus outbreak as cruise ship docks in Canary Island

TENERIFE, Spain (NPA) — The Director‑General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has addressed the people of Tenerife following the deaths of three passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship from the Andes strain of hantavirus. In a statement titled “To the people of Tenerife,” Tedros reassured residents that the public health risk remains low and urged calm.

Tedros acknowledged lingering anxieties from the COVID‑19 pandemic, but emphasized: “This is not another COVID‑19. The current public health risk from hantavirus remains low.” He confirmed that no passengers on board are currently symptomatic, and WHO experts, alongside Spanish authorities, have prepared a detailed plan for safe disembarkation.

Passengers will be transferred through a sealed corridor at the industrial port of Granadilla, away from residential areas, before being repatriated directly to their countries of origin. Tedros praised Spain’s decision to host the ship as “an act of solidarity and moral duty,” noting that Tenerife was chosen under international health regulations for its medical capacity and infrastructure.

Nearly 150 people from 23 countries have been at sea for weeks, some grieving, all anxious to return home. Tedros announced he will personally travel to Tenerife to oversee the operation and pay tribute to the island’s response, describing it as one of “dignity, solidarity, and compassion.”

WHO continues to monitor the situation closely, with Tedros in direct communication with the ship’s captain, Jan Dobrogowski, and WHO expert Dr. Freddy Banza‑Mutoka on board. So far, the risk to the population of the Canary Islands and globally remains low.

Tedros concluded: “Viruses do not understand politics or respect borders. The best immunity we have is solidarity. Tenerife is demonstrating that solidarity today.”

May 9, 2026
Matawalle highlights strategic partnerships at SAHA Expo 2026, says Nigeria committed to strategic defence diplomacy

ISTANBUL, Türkiye — Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has described the SAHA Expo 2026 as one of the leading global platforms for the defence, aerospace and industrial sectors.

The exhibition is being held at the Istanbul Expo Center from May 5 to May 9, 2026.

Matawalle said Nigeria was honoured to engage with global industry leaders, defence stakeholders and international partners participating in the event.

Highlighting the significance of the exhibition to Nigeria’s efforts at tackling insecurity, the minister disclosed that he held strategic discussions during the Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions with Secretary of Defence Industries of Türkiye, Haluk Görgün.

According to him, the discussions focused on bilateral cooperation in defence and security, capacity-building initiatives, technology transfer and strategic collaborations aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of both Nigeria and Türkiye.

“In view of the evolving security landscape across the African continent, our discussions further underscored the critical importance of multidimensional partnerships in promoting regional stability, strengthening collective resilience, and advancing a shared vision for global security,” Matawalle said.

As part of activities at the exhibition, the minister also visited several exhibition stands, including that of Nigeria’s indigenous defence company, DICON-D7G, alongside MKE and other leading defence manufacturers showcasing advanced military technologies and innovations.

Matawalle reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strategic defence diplomacy, indigenous capacity development and international collaboration in addressing contemporary security challenges.

“Nigeria remains resolute in its pursuit of strategic defence diplomacy, indigenous capacity development, and international cooperation in addressing contemporary security challenges,” the minister stated.

May 9, 2026
Trump secures three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations

WASHINGTON, D.C. — United States President Donald Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as part of efforts to ease tensions in the ongoing war between both countries.

The ceasefire, scheduled to hold from May 9 to May 11, 2026, is expected to coincide with Victory Day commemorations in Russia.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said the temporary truce would create an enabling environment for the celebrations in both countries, noting that Ukraine also played a major role during World War II.

“This ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prison swap of 1,000 prisoners from each country,” Trump stated.

According to the U.S. president, the request for the brief pause in hostilities was made directly by him, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had both agreed to the arrangement.

“Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard-fought war,” he added.

Trump further disclosed that negotiations aimed at permanently ending the conflict — which he described as the biggest war since World War II — were ongoing and making steady progress.

The development comes amid intensified cross-border attacks by both sides in recent days. Ukraine has significantly expanded its capacity to strike targets deep inside Russia.

On Thursday, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck a facility belonging to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) in Chechnya. The FSB, known in Russian as Federalnaya Sluzhba Bezopasnosti, is Russia’s principal domestic security and intelligence agency.

Ukraine also reportedly carried out a drone strike on an aviation control centre facility, forcing the temporary closure of 13 airports across Russia and disrupting thousands of flights.

In recent months, Kyiv has also intensified long-range strikes targeting Russian oil and gas infrastructure, describing the operations as part of efforts to enforce sanctions against Russia’s energy exports.

Russia, on its part, has continued heavy drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian targets, in what observers describe as an escalating cycle of retaliatory strikes by both sides.

The ceasefire agreement is expected to reduce tensions temporarily and may help prevent disruptions to events scheduled to take place in Moscow during the Victory Day celebrations.

May 9, 2026