Category: International

BREAKING: Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader despite Israeli warning

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — After days of speculation, Iran’s Assembly of Experts announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric and the second son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been formally selected as the country’s new Supreme Leader.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following remarks by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who warned that any successor to the late Ayatollah would be considered a target for elimination.

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has long been regarded as an influential figure within Iran’s political and religious establishment, despite never holding elected office. His appointment marks a historic moment, as Iran’s system traditionally discourages hereditary succession. However, his close ties to the Revolutionary Guards and clerical networks positioned him as a strong candidate.

Born in Mashhad in 1969, Mojtaba studied at the Qom Seminary and rose to prominence as a mid-ranking cleric. He briefly served in the Iran–Iraq War before gaining influence through his role in the Basij militia and his proximity to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Known for his behind-the-scenes influence, he was widely believed to have played a role in shaping Iran’s domestic politics during the 2009 Green Movement protests. His leadership is expected to consolidate power within the Khamenei family.

March 8, 2026
International Women’s Day: Actors Guild wants opportunities for women in Nollywood

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Abubakar Yakubu, National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria(AGN), has called for empowerment opportunities and initiatives that support women in the Nigerian film industry.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Yakubu made the call at an event organised by the guild to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) in Abuja.

The theme for this year’s IWD (March 8) is “Give To Gain”, focusing on investing in women through resources, education, and mentorship to create a stronger and more equitable society.

According to him, the AGN places priority on women as their contributions to the Nigerian motion picture industry have been profound and trailblazing.

He noted that women are naturally endowed with compassion, resilience, creativity, and rare ability to nurture dreams into reality.

The AGN helmsman therefore called for initiatives that support women in the industry to enable them strive and contribute more to the nation’s creative sector.

“Women remain pillars within our guild and ambassadors of excellence who continue to bring glory to our profession; their achievements remind us that when women are empowered, industries flourish and societies progress.

“However, as we celebrate, we must also remember our collective responsibility to support and uplift them, especially those among us who may be facing challenges.

“ I therefore humbly appeal to our distinguished guests, partners, and well-wishers to support the initiatives of the AGN aimed at empowering our indigent members and strengthening the welfare of our creative community.

“As we commemorate this important day, let us reaffirm our commitment to equality, dignity, and opportunity for women everywhere.

“Let us continue to create spaces where their voices are heard, their talents celebrated, and their dreams supported,” he said.

In her opening remarks,Oby Okafor, AGN National Women Leader, noted that women have always played key roles as Nollywood evolves into one of the largest film industries in the world.

According to her, empowering women in filmmaking is not only a matter of fairness; it is a strategic investment in the future of our industry and our nation.

“Women have played significant roles in shaping our industry. From acting, directing, producing, scriptwriting, costume design, makeup artistry, cinematography, and film editing, women have continued to demonstrate excellence and professionalism.

“Yet, despite these contributions, many talented women still face challenges in accessing opportunities, funding, training, and leadership positions within the industry.

“It is for this reason and in line with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” that I wish to highlight a vision that is very dear to my heart-Empowering Women in Filmmaking in Nigeria.

“This initiative is designed to create greater opportunities for women in Nollywood by providing structured support systems that will help them grow professionally and economically.

“Our goal is not only to celebrate women but to actively invest in their future within the creative industry,” she said.

Okafor called for a gender-inclusive development for the film industry through capacity building and professional training for women who desire to become filmmakers, producers, directors, and technical professionals within the industry.

She also identified mentorship and networking, access to funding , gender-inclusive leadership of industry associations and critical collaborations with both government and private organisations as needed impetus for women to strive in the sector.

Earlier in her remarks, Mrs Titi Abubakar , founder, Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF) and mother of the day, lauded Nollywood actors for using their craft to promote peace and prosperity.

Abubakar, who represented Dr Zainab Haruna, former first lady of Adamawa State, expressed WOTCLEF’s readiness to work with the guild in its fight against human trafficking, child labor, and rights abuses.

Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, filmmaker and former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, called on stakeholders, particularly in the private sector to invest in the creative sector in order to engage talented young Nigerians.

According to her, it is the government’s responsibility to provide an enabling environment and the right policies for creativity to strive, but individuals need to invest to create platforms and opportunities.

“We have the population and the talents, so individuals should show interest and invest in the sector so that our youths can be gainfully engaged,” she said.

The IWD celebration brought together actors , as well as filmmakers and other stakeholders in the creative sector.(NAN).

March 8, 2026
Hezbollah attack kills Israeli soldier in Southern Lebanon

MIDDLE EAST (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has announced the death of Staff Sergeant Mahar Khatar, an Israeli soldier, during fighting in southern Lebanon. Another soldier was also killed, though his name has not yet been released.

In a statement on Sunday, Katz expressed deep sorrow over the loss and praised Khatar, a member of Israel’s Druze community, for his service. He highlighted the community’s longstanding contributions to Israel’s security, noting:

Katz extended condolences to Khatar’s family and the Druze community, while commending Israeli forces “battling on all fronts.”

The announcement comes amid Israel’s ongoing military operations against Iran and Hezbollah. Fighting in Lebanon escalated after Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel, reportedly in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an Israeli airstrike on the first day of the conflict.

March 8, 2026
US Central Command issues safety warning to civilians in Iran

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a safety advisory urging civilians in Iran to remain indoors, citing concerns that the Iranian government is conducting military operations from heavily populated areas. According to CENTCOM, these operations include the launch of one-way attack drones and ballistic missiles.

In a statement released on March 8, CENTCOM described the Iranian strategy as “a dangerous decision that risks the lives of civilians,” noting that under international law, locations used for military purposes lose their protected status and may become legitimate military targets.

The statement alleged that Iranian forces are operating from crowded urban areas in cities such as Dezful, Esfahan, and Shiraz. CENTCOM warned that this tactic places civilians at risk, while also accusing Iranian forces of targeting civilian airports, hotels, and residential neighborhoods across the Middle East.

“Iran’s terrorist regime is blatantly disregarding civilian lives by attacking Gulf partners while compromising the safety of their own people,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM.

CENTCOM further reported that since February 28, Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of one-way attack drones. However, it claimed that launch rates have declined significantly due to U.S. and partner forces degrading Iran’s military capabilities.

The statement emphasized that the U.S. military takes “every feasible precaution to minimize harm to civilians” but cautioned that it cannot guarantee civilian safety near facilities being used by Iranian forces for military purposes.

March 8, 2026
BREAKING: Tinubu resolves OPL 245 dispute, ending Nigeria’s longest-running oil block battle

Abuja, Nigeria — March 8, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has brought closure to Nigeria’s longest-running and most controversial oil block ownership dispute, announcing a landmark settlement over Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245 with ENI and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAEL).

In a statement issued Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the resolution was described as a turning point that will reposition Nigeria’s economy and strengthen its fiscal capacity.

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, praised President Tinubu’s leadership, calling the agreement “a milestone in repositioning Nigeria’s economic landscape.”

“The agreement marks a turning point for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector after more than two decades of legal battles and international arbitration,” Fagbemi said. “The clear vision and deep commitment of President Tinubu provided the political will required to bring closure to this protracted dispute. The agreement demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.”

According to the Attorney-General, the settlement will culminate in a Consent Arbitral Award, resolving a complex international dispute and restoring Nigeria’s credibility as a responsible global business partner.

Fagbemi emphasized that the deal will pave the way for large-scale investments, stimulate job creation, and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a leading energy producer in Africa. He noted that projected revenues from OPL 245 can now be factored into Nigeria’s medium-term fiscal framework, supporting budget stability, long-term planning, and debt sustainability.

He further highlighted that resolving the matter through negotiation rather than prolonged arbitration underscores Nigeria’s commitment to alternative dispute resolution and enhances its standing in international commercial and arbitration circles.

“This settlement sends a clear signal to the global community that Nigeria is open for business and committed to fairness and respect for contractual obligations,” Fagbemi said, commending the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and international partners including ENI and Shell for their roles in achieving the resolution.

“With this agreement, Nigeria can now move forward with confidence, ensuring that the development of OPL 245 becomes a source of prosperity for the nation and future generations,” he added.

Background on OPL 245

OPL 245 is a deepwater oil block located offshore Nigeria, widely regarded as one of the country’s most valuable reserves. It was originally awarded in 1998 to Malabu Oil and Gas, a company linked to former Petroleum Minister Dan Etete.

Over the years, disputes over ownership, licensing rights, and allegations of bribery involving multinational oil companies ENI (Italy) and Shell (UK/Netherlands) led to decades of litigation in Nigeria and abroad. Former officials, including ex-Attorney General Mohammed Adoke, faced prosecution but maintained their actions were lawful. Adoke recently demanded an apology from the government, claiming he was persecuted despite efforts to resolve the matter.

The prolonged controversy stalled development of the block, preventing Nigeria from exploiting its estimated billions of barrels of crude oil.

March 8, 2026
International Women’s Day 2026: Governor Peter Mbah honours Enugu Women as “extraordinary”
Enugu, Nigeria — March 8, 2026 — Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has paid tribute to the women of Enugu on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026, describing them as “extraordinary” and central to the state’s progress.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Governor Mbah hailed women across the state as mothers, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, innovators, and leaders whose resilience and determination continue to drive development in southeastern Nigeria.

“On this International Women’s Day 2026, we celebrate the extraordinary women of Enugu State — mothers, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, innovators, and leaders whose resilience and determination continue to power our progress,” Mbah said.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” the governor emphasized the importance of investing in women by providing opportunities, support, and platforms that enable them to thrive. He noted that inclusive governance is central to sustainable development, stressing that meaningful progress is only possible when women are fully involved in shaping policies and decisions.

“That is why we have been deliberate about including women in governance and placing them in key leadership and decision-making positions where their competence and resilience help drive progress,” he added.

Governor Mbah reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women to lead, contribute, and succeed, stating that empowered women strengthen communities and the state as a whole.

The Enugu State Government has adopted a Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, anchored in the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, and aligned with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy. The initiative seeks to:
- Ensure women have equal access to resources, jobs, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Safeguard women and girls from violence, discrimination, and harmful practices.
- Increase women’s representation in political, economic, and social decision-making.
- Integrate gender equality into climate action and community development strategies.
Governor Mbah concluded by urging continued investment in women as a pathway to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
March 8, 2026
Israel’s Defense Minister vows to target any future Iranian Supreme Leader

Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 8, 2026— Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has declared that any individual appointed as the next Supreme Leader of Iran will be targeted for elimination by Israel. His remarks follow an Israeli strike on an oil refinery and storage facility in Iran, which left parts of the city engulfed in fumes.

In a post on his verified X account on March 4, Katz stated: “Every leader appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world, and to suppress the Iranian people—will be an unequivocal target for elimination. It does not matter what his name is or where he hides.”

Katz added that both he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for action under Operation Lion’s Roar. He emphasized that Israel, working alongside the United States, would continue to act “with full force” to weaken Iran’s regime and create conditions for its overthrow.

Israel has previously carried out targeted killings of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders shortly after their appointments, raising questions about how Tehran will respond to this latest warning. Iran has continued to launch missile and drone attacks against Israel and neighboring Gulf states in retaliation for ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes that have severely damaged key national infrastructure.

March 8, 2026
Obama Presidential Center to open June 19

Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — The Obama Presidential Center, located on Chicago’s South Side, will officially open to the public on June 19, 2026, former U.S. President Barack Obama announced on March 7.

Obama described the center as “a place for all of us to come together to bring change home,” underscoring its mission as a global hub for inspiration, empowerment, and civic engagement.

The 19-acre campus will feature a world-class museum, a public library, and open-air spaces designed for community gatherings. According to information published on obama.org, the center aims to serve both local residents and international visitors, offering opportunities to learn, connect, and participate in initiatives that drive social change.

In announcing the opening, Obama emphasized that the event will not follow a traditional ribbon-cutting format.

“The opening of the Obama Presidential Center will be a celebration of the power of ordinary people coming together to do extraordinary things. From our next-door neighbors to our community online, we invite everyone to join us in a week of moments designed to inspire action on campus and across the world,” he said.

The inauguration will include a series of activities highlighting the center’s mission to foster civic participation and community-driven solutions to global challenges.

March 8, 2026
Uzodimma celebrates Imo Women on International Women’s Day

Owerri, Nigeria (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has extended warm felicitations to women in the state and across the globe as the world marks International Women’s Day 2026.

In a statement, the governor hailed women for their resilience, leadership, and dedication in shaping a more inclusive and progressive society. He described Imo women as “drivers of the transformational progress of the state, whose contributions are yielding remarkable impact across our social, economic, and civic spaces.”

Part of the statement reads: “Across communities, women continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and dedication in shaping a more inclusive and progressive society. I join the world over in celebrating International Women’s Day 2026, extolling women and acknowledging their immense contribution to societal growth and nation-building.”

Uzodimma further emphasized the role of women in advancing development in Imo State: “In Imo State, our women have continued to drive this transformational progress, and their contributions are yielding remarkable impact across our social, economic, and civic spaces.”

He praised their enterprise, advocacy, and commitment to community development, noting: “Through their enterprise, advocacy, and commitment to community development, they remain indispensable partners in our collective advancement. To this end, I proudly celebrate them and encourage them to continue steadfastly on the path to #GiveToGain.”

As Imo women joined their counterparts worldwide to mark #IWD2026, the governor assured continued support for their cause: “As Imo women join their counterparts across the world to mark #IWD2026, we will continue to support their worthy cause in the best interest of our society and future generations.”

March 8, 2026
International Women’s Day: women hold just 64% of legal rights afforded to men worldwide — UN Women

POLITICS (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2026, UN Women has raised alarm over the persistent global gap in legal rights between men and women.

In a statement on Saturday, the agency revealed that women currently hold only 64% of the legal rights afforded to men worldwide. This means that, on average, women are entitled to just two-thirds of the protections and opportunities guaranteed to men under the law.

UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment, urged global leaders to confront structural barriers to justice, including discriminatory laws, weak legal protections, harmful practices, and entrenched social norms that undermine the rights of women and girls.

The agency further noted that conflict and instability exacerbate these inequalities, leaving women and girls more vulnerable to violence, exclusion, and discrimination. Reports of violations have emerged from Nigeria’s northeast, northwest, and north-central regions, where insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, alongside banditry, have displaced communities and subjected women to abuse. The ongoing war in Sudan was also highlighted as a flashpoint for widespread violations of women’s rights in Africa.

In Nigeria, UN Women continues to push for gender equality by addressing violence against women, promoting women’s political participation, and supporting economic empowerment initiatives. However, progress remains slow, with women holding only 3.9% of parliamentary seats. The agency has warned that democracy itself is at risk if women remain excluded from decision-making processes.

Nigeria also faces high rates of gender-based violence, with one in three women aged 15–49 experiencing physical or sexual abuse. Harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) persist, further eroding women’s rights.

Beyond advocacy, UN Women’s programs in Nigeria include initiatives on economic empowerment, health, and social issues, with a particular focus on combating HIV/AIDS and supporting women’s access to education and vocational training.

March 8, 2026