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Category: Lifestyle

  • Netanyahu restores Cardinal Pierbattista’s access to Holy Sepulchre in the face of Iranian missile threats

    Netanyahu restores Cardinal Pierbattista’s access to Holy Sepulchre in the face of Iranian missile threats

    MIDDLE EAST, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed authorities to grant Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, following concerns over Iranian missile attacks that had temporarily restricted entry.

    The Latin Patriarch was earlier prevented from holding mass at the revered Christian site, as security agencies sought to protect worshippers from ongoing threats. Netanyahu clarified on Sunday that Iran has repeatedly targeted holy sites of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles in recent days. In one incident, missile fragments landed just meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

    He explained that the temporary suspension of worship was intended to safeguard lives, with Israel asking members of all faiths to abstain from visiting holy sites in the Old City until the danger subsided. “Today, out of special concern for his safety, Cardinal Pizzaballa was asked to refrain from holding mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Even though I understand this concern, as soon as I learned about the incident with Cardinal Pizzaballa, I instructed the authorities to enable the Patriarch to hold services as he wishes,” Netanyahu stated.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of Jerusalem’s holy places while ensuring the safety of worshippers, stressing that measures taken were precautionary and temporary.

  • Israel halts worship at Jerusalem holy sites amid Iranian missile threats

    Israel halts worship at Jerusalem holy sites amid Iranian missile threats

    MIDDLE EAST, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office has issued a temporary directive asking worshippers of all faiths to refrain from visiting holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City, citing urgent security concerns.

    According to a statement on Sunday, Iran has repeatedly targeted sacred sites of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism with ballistic missiles in recent days. In one incident, missile fragments landed just meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, underscoring the severity of the threat.

    Authorities stressed that the suspension of worship is purely precautionary. On Sunday morning, Jerusalem police prevented Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from holding mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, explaining that the decision was made out of concern for his safety and that of his entourage.

    The government acknowledged the sensitivity of the directive, particularly during the holy week leading up to Easter for Christians worldwide. Security agencies are now working on a plan to enable church leaders and worshippers to safely access the holy sites in the coming days, balancing religious obligations with public safety.

    Officials reiterated that the measure is temporary and aimed at protecting lives, while assuring that Israel remains committed to safeguarding the sanctity of Jerusalem’s holy places for all faiths.

  • Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru salutes Tinubu at 74, praises leadership and vision

    Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru salutes Tinubu at 74, praises leadership and vision

    ABUJA, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, Governor of Ebonyi State, southeastern Nigeria, has joined millions of Nigerians and well‑wishers worldwide in celebrating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 74th birthday. In a statement released on Sunday, Nwifuru said it was with humility and joy that he congratulated the President, describing the occasion as a milestone that reflects a life of remarkable service and dedication to Nigeria.

    The governor showered praises on Tinubu’s sterling leadership qualities, noting that his resilience, vision, and reform‑driven policies have been instrumental in driving progress across multiple sectors. “Mr President, your resilience, leadership acumen, policies, and programs have been instrumental in driving the nation’s progress across all sectors. As a state, we shall continue to acknowledge your love and the impact you have made, especially in the areas of infrastructure and economic development,” the statement read in part.

    Nwifuru emphasised that Tinubu’s leadership has inspired confidence not only in government institutions but also among ordinary Nigerians who continue to rally behind his Renewed Hope agenda. He highlighted the President’s ability to confront challenges head‑on, stressing that such courage has laid the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous nation.

    On behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi State, Nwifuru prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, strength, and good health for the President as he pilots the affairs of the country. He reaffirmed Ebonyi’s support for Tinubu’s administration, pledging that the state would remain a committed partner in the collective effort to build a resilient and united Nigeria.

  • Tinubu pens emotional letter on 74th birthday, says light at end the of tunnel

    Tinubu pens emotional letter on 74th birthday, says light at end the of tunnel

    ABUJA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, today, has penned a heartfelt letter to Nigerians as he marked his 74th birthday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and for the outpouring of love, prayers, and solidarity from citizens across the nation.

    The President extended special thanks to his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and those who took out newspaper space or paid for radio and television airtime to celebrate him. He noted that this year’s birthday would be observed in a low‑key manner, in recognition of the economic challenges facing the country amid ongoing reforms and global crises.

    Tinubu assured Nigerians that despite temporary pains, there is light at the end of the tunnel. He credited the progress achieved so far to the collective efforts of his Renewed Hope team and the wider government, stressing, “We achieved the gains together.”

    “As we march towards the third anniversary of our administration, it is my deepest conviction that we shall succeed in building a brighter future for our citizens and generations to come,” the President wrote. 

    He urged Nigerians to continue working together to build a stronger, prosperous, and resilient nation that will stand as the pride of Africa.

  • Adeleke presents staff of office to Akire of Ikireland, calls for support beyond 2026

    Adeleke presents staff of office to Akire of Ikireland, calls for support beyond 2026

    OSHOGBO, NIGERIA (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has formally presented the staff of office to the Akire of Ikireland, His Royal Majesty Oba Olayiwola Tajudeen Akinola, Akintula I, in line with the 2025 Appeal Court judgement that resolved the protracted chieftaincy dispute. The ceremony, held in Ikire, was hailed as a milestone for peace and continuity, confirming the rightful ruling house and ending years of contention over the stool.

    In his remarks, Adeleke emphasised that the installation was conducted strictly in accordance with due process and the rule of law. He urged the new monarch to serve as a father to all, fostering unity, peace, and development. Declaring himself an adopted son of Ikire, the Governor reiterated his commitment to the town’s progress and called on residents to support his administration beyond 2026.

    Analysts note that transformative achievements, particularly in healthcare, have defined Adeleke’s first term. His government has upgraded more than 200 primary healthcare centres with modern facilities and renewable energy, while the Imole Surgical and Medical Outreach has provided free surgeries and treatments to over 18,000 residents for conditions ranging from cataracts and hernia to hypertension and diabetes. This sweeping healthcare revolution has been described as one of the most impactful in Osun’s history, directly improving lives and earning Adeleke widespread acclaim.

    Beyond healthcare, his administration has also constructed 20 kilometres of new roads, implemented rural electrification projects, disbursed N518 million to 40 communities for local development, and provided borehole water across all 333 wards of the state. These initiatives reflect a people-centred governance style that has delivered tangible improvements in everyday life, strengthening Adeleke’s case as he seeks a second term in office.

  • Vatican Synod report sparks debate over polygamous marriage among Africans

    Vatican Synod report sparks debate over polygamous marriage among Africans

    LIFESTYLE (NPA) — March 24, 2026 — The Catholic Church’s General Secretariat of the Synod has released the Final Reports of Study Group No. 2, including “To Hear the Cry of the Poor and the Earth” and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) Commission’s reflection on “The Pastoral Challenge of Polygamy.”

    The first report emphasises concrete proposals such as establishing an Ecclesial Observatory on Disability, designed by a subgroup largely composed of persons with disabilities. This model aims to amplify the voices of marginalised groups at local and regional levels. On the theological front, the report calls for a theology rooted in listening to the poor and the earth as authentic sources of wisdom. It urges theologians from vulnerable communities to contribute to magisterial documents and highlights the importance of training programs for clergy and laity that integrate direct encounters with marginalised communities. The vision is of a synodal Church that transforms each member into a missionary presence alongside the most vulnerable.

    The SECAM Commission’s report on polygamy responds to the 2023 Synod of Bishops’ request for theological and pastoral discernment. A team of 12 experts from across Africa, representing theology, canon law, anthropology, and pastoral care, prepared the document. After consultations with the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and discussions at the SECAM Plenary Assembly in Kigali in 2025, the final text was refined and published.

    The report situates polygamy within Africa’s cultural and religious context, recognising the sacred value of family and the desire for numerous offspring. While acknowledging its historical presence, the Church reiterates that Christian marriage is monogamous by theological nature. SECAM excludes recognition of polygamy, recommending that catechumens in polygamous unions embrace monogamy before baptism. This approach, the report stresses, is not exclusionary but rooted in patient accompaniment inspired by Christ’s mercy.

    The dignity of women is central, with Mary presented as a model of evangelisation. The conclusion calls for a “pastoral care of proximity,” welcoming those on spiritual and social peripheries while affirming marriage as a divine gift for sanctification and salvation.

  • Tinubu vows to tackle insecurity, urges governors’ support after UK visit

    Tinubu vows to tackle insecurity, urges governors’ support after UK visit

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 22, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed not to let insecurity overshadow his administration’s efforts to support the vulnerable. He pledged on Sunday in Lagos while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 APC governors and Borno’s Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, who paid him Sallah homage after his state visit to England.

    According to a Statehouse release by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said he had advanced discussions on modern security interventions with French President Emmanuel Macron.

    Tinubu thanked the governors: “Your presence here today shows sincerity, commitment, and value for friendship. The next phase of our struggle is insecurity. I am making all efforts to ensure we share the joy of victory over tyranny. Insecurity is an enemy of development and prosperity.” He added that talks in the UK focused on equipment and support, and that France and other nations were collaborating with Nigeria.

    The President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, returned Friday from a three-day visit to the UK, where they were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and met Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

    “We should care more for the vulnerable. The Middle East crisis will spike inflation and affect purchasing power. Labour unions will ask for more support due to its impact,” Tinubu noted. He urged governors to remain steadfast in implementing policies that directly improve citizens’ lives and to cushion inflationary effects on energy and transport.

    Tinubu also commended Vice President Shettima for his condolence visit to Borno, assuring stronger protection through new technology.

    In his remarks, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, thanked Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda and congratulated him on the UK visit, the first in 37 years. He said: “Together, we must end insecurity. Discussions on state police are ongoing, and the NGF will take proposals to the National Assembly.”

    Governors present included Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Alex Otti (Abia), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Dikko Umaru Radda (Katsina), Ahmed Usman Ododo (Kogi), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), and Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo).

  • Shettima, APC governors pay Sallah homage to Tinubu, laud gains of England visit

    Shettima, APC governors pay Sallah homage to Tinubu, laud gains of England visit

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 22, 2026 — Hope Uzodimma, the governor of Nigeria’s southeastern state of Imo, on Sunday, joined Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, in leading his colleagues from the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) on a Sallah homage to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Lagos residence.

    According to a statement by the governor, now in his second term in office and a prominent leader of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), on March 22, the visit provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate Eid in a spirit of unity, reflection, and renewed commitment to national progress.

    He noted that the APC governors shared constructive thoughts with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on key national issues and commended him on his recent State Visit to England, which strengthened strategic alignment between both nations for greater mutual benefit. The governor emphasised that the visit not only deepened bilateral ties but also opened fresh avenues for collaboration in trade, education, and security cooperation, underscoring Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.

    Beyond diplomatic goodwill, the England visit yielded tangible gains, including renewed commitments for increased foreign direct investment, expanded scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students, and enhanced cooperation in technology transfer. These outcomes, according to Uzodimma, are expected to accelerate Nigeria’s drive toward industrialisation, improve human capital development, and bolster national security frameworks.

    “I am optimistic that our dear Imo State stands well-positioned to harness the opportunities emerging from these engagements for sustainable growth, investment, and improved outcomes for our people,” Uzodimma stated.

  • Governor Radda Hosts 17 ambassadors, envoys at Katsina Sallah celebrations

    Governor Radda Hosts 17 ambassadors, envoys at Katsina Sallah celebrations

    KATSINA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 22, 2026 — Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, on March 21 hosted seventeen ambassadors and diplomatic envoys during the Sallah celebrations in Katsina. The governor described culture as a powerful bridge for peace, unity, and sustainable development, fostering mutual understanding, strengthening social cohesion, and serving as a foundation for inclusive growth and global collaboration.

    In a statement on Sunday, Radda noted that Katsina holds a prominent place in the history of Northern Nigeria as a renowned centre of learning, commerce, and Islamic scholarship, with enduring legacies reflected in landmarks such as the Gobarau Minaret and the traditions of the Katsina and Daura Emirates.

    “I was honored to receive a distinguished delegation of Ambassadors and diplomatic envoys, led by the Ambassador of Belgium to Nigeria, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, who joined us to witness the 2026 Sallah Durbar Festivals,” Radda said.

    The delegation included envoys from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Turkey, China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Their participation in Hawan Sallah, Hawan Sarki (Hawan Bariki), and Hawan Magajiya reflected growing global recognition of Katsina’s cultural heritage.

    Beyond culture, the governor showcased strides in security, agriculture, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and water supply—pillars of his administration’s development agenda. He reaffirmed Katsina’s commitment to confronting insecurity through strategic operations and community-based initiatives aimed at lasting peace.

    “We do not claim perfection, nor do we ignore the challenges that remain,” Radda said, acknowledging communities still yearning for peace, families seeking relief, and young people in search of opportunity. “True leadership is not measured by how far we have come, but by our commitment to the journey ahead.”

    On behalf of the people of Katsina, the governor expressed appreciation to the visiting envoys and the international community, adding: “Katsina remains open to the world—for partnership, for business, for cultural exchange, and for shared prosperity.”

  • President Tinubu celebrates Tony Elumelu, Africa’s Business Icon on birthday

    President Tinubu celebrates Tony Elumelu, Africa’s Business Icon on birthday

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 22, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Mr Tony Onyemaechi Elumelu, renowned economist, banker, and philanthropist, on his birthday. In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu described Elumelu as an African business icon and a leading advocate of Nigerian and African enterprise.

    Elumelu, chairman of Heirs Holdings, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Transcorp, has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most influential business leaders. He is also the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which has become a continental force for entrepreneurship and youth empowerment. Tinubu commended his resilience, excellence, and unwavering belief in Africapitalism—a philosophy that emphasises private sector-led development to transform Africa.

    The President particularly lauded the Foundation’s entrepreneurship programme, which has trained 2.5 million young Africans across 54 countries and empowered over 24,000 entrepreneurs with non-refundable seed capital of $5,000 each. This initiative, Tinubu noted, reflects Elumelu’s deep commitment to investing in Africa’s future by equipping young people with the tools to innovate, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth.

    “As Elumelu celebrates this special occasion, the President joins his family and friends to wish him good health, strength, and continued success in his pursuits,” the statement concluded.