New Post Africa

Category: Lifestyle

  • Umahi urges unity and peace as Nigerians celebrate Eid al-Fitr

    Umahi urges unity and peace as Nigerians celebrate Eid al-Fitr

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 20, 2026 — Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslim faithful across the nation on the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, celebrating the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

    In his statement, Umahi prayed for Almighty Allah to accept the prayers and acts of charity of the faithful, blessing Nigeria with peace, prosperity, and good health.

    He emphasised that Eid is a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, discipline, compassion, and obedience to Allah’s will, urging Nigerians to apply the lessons of Ramadan by living in peace, upholding justice, and showing kindness—especially to the less privileged.

    “As we celebrate, I urge all Nigerians to continue to embrace unity, tolerance, and mutual respect, which remain essential to our collective progress as a nation. Let us also use this period to pray for the peace, stability, and sustained development of our dear country,” Umahi declared.

    The Minister further reiterated his commitment, alongside the Federal Ministry of Works, to deliver critical infrastructure across Nigeria’s geopolitical regions, strengthening economic growth and improving the quality of life for all citizens.

  • Nigeria declares Thursday and Friday public holidays for Eid al-Fitr

    Nigeria declares Thursday and Friday public holidays for Eid al-Fitr

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 18, 2026 — The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark Eid al-Fitr, the climax of the holy month of Ramadan.

    The announcement was contained in a statement from the Ministry of Interior, signed by Dr Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary. Quoting the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the government extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.

    The statement urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which were emphasised during the holy month. It further called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for continued peace, unity, and prosperity across the nation.

    The Minister encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly, extend acts of kindness to the less privileged, and uphold values that strengthen national unity. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.

  • Pope Leo XIV moves into Apostolic Palace apartment from Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio

    Pope Leo XIV moves into Apostolic Palace apartment from Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio

    VATICAN CITY — (NPA) March 15 — The Holy See Press Office has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV has taken possession of the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace, moving in with close collaborators on Saturday afternoon.

    Matteo Bruni, Director of the Press Office, said the pontiff had previously resided at the Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio since the start of his pontificate, where he had lived while serving as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. The newly renovated apartment, located in the Third Loggia of the Apostolic Palace, includes a private study overlooking St. Peter’s Square, a library, and a small chapel.

    According to the Vatican, Pope Leo removed the seals on the apartment in May 2025, which had been placed following the death of Pope Francis, who chose to reside at Casa Santa Marta. The residence has historic significance, with Saint Pius X (1903–1914) being the first pontiff to occupy the rooms in the Third Loggia.

  • Destiny Etiko celebrates women on International Women’s Day

    Destiny Etiko celebrates women on International Women’s Day

    ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Nollywood star Destiny Etiko has joined the global community in marking International Women’s Day 2026, themed “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”

    Etiko, popularly known as the “Drama Doll,” shared a message on her verified Facebook page on March 8, praising women worldwide for their resilience and strength. She described them as “incredible, hardworking, amazing, powerful, determined, strong, brave, resilient, and independent,” noting their ability to persevere despite challenges.

    Her statement read in part: “Today I celebrate, appreciate and applaud all the incredible, hardworking, amazing, powerful, determined, strong, brave, resilient and independent women in the world who have been through a lot yet didn’t give up or allow themselves to be negatively affected by what the world has thrown at them.”

    Etiko’s tribute aligns with the focus of this year’s International Women’s Day, which highlights entrenched inequalities in law, society, and institutions. According to UN Women, women globally still enjoy only 64% of the legal rights men hold, across areas such as work, property, safety, family, and retirement. The theme calls for urgent reforms to close these gaps and ensure equal rights.

    In her message, Etiko described women as “a source of inspiration, wonderful, and a pillar of encouragement to many who make the world a better place.” She encouraged women not to lose hope, adding: “Please don’t ever give up. The world is your oyster.”

    Etiko, acclaimed for her roles in films such as Idemili (2014), Virgin Goddess (2016), and The Widows (2018), is widely recognized for her versatility and emotional depth, which have cemented her status as one of Nollywood’s leading actresses.

  • DCG Dera Nnadi retires: Nigeria Customs celebrates career of excellence

    DCG Dera Nnadi retires: Nigeria Customs celebrates career of excellence

    BUSINESS (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has honored the retirement of Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Dera Nnadi (Rtd), marking the conclusion of a distinguished career dedicated to national service and institutional growth.

    The farewell ceremony, held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together senior officers, family members, and well-wishers to celebrate his impactful contributions. The event was especially symbolic as it coincided with DCG Nnadi’s 60th birthday, making the occasion both a retirement tribute and a milestone celebration.

    Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi led the tributes, describing Nnadi as “an exemplary officer whose professionalism, discipline, and commitment to duty significantly strengthened the values and operational effectiveness of the NCS.”

    According to Adeniyi, the ceremony was not only a celebration of a successful career but also an acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by officers who dedicate their lives to safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and border security. He emphasized that Nnadi’s career embodied the Service’s core ideals of leadership, revenue generation, and trade facilitation.

    “Today is a moment of celebration and reflection. It is also an opportunity for us to thank Almighty God for the grace that has sustained our colleague throughout his years of service,” the CGC said.

    Adeniyi also highlighted his personal bond with the retiree, noting that their relationship extended beyond official duties to family ties. He expressed confidence that Nnadi would continue to contribute meaningfully to national development through academic and professional engagements.

    Members of the Service’s management team praised Nnadi’s integrity, leadership, and mentorship, with officers describing him as a dependable leader who guided younger personnel and strengthened institutional capacity.

    In his response, DCG Dera Nnadi (Rtd) expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General, management team, and officers of the Service for their support throughout his career. He described his years in the NCS as “a fulfilling journey of growth, learning, and service to the nation.”

  • 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.

  • NAFDAC Issues Public Alert on Aptamil Infant Milk Over Contamination Risk

    NAFDAC Issues Public Alert on Aptamil Infant Milk Over Contamination Risk

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned consumers about potential health risks associated with certain batches of Aptamil, Cow & Gate First Infant Milk, and Follow-on Milk Formula produced by Danone Nutricia. The agency cited possible contamination with cereulide toxin, a heat-stable peptide produced by Bacillus cereus that can cause severe food poisoning.

    In a Public Alert (No. 08/2026) issued on February 25, NAFDAC confirmed that Danone Nutricia has recalled several batches of the affected products manufactured in Ireland and Hungary, which were distributed across the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

    The agency stressed that the recall does not affect Aptamil Infant Formula manufactured specifically for Nigeria, which complies with Codex standards and remains safe for consumption.

    NAFDAC clarified that not all Danone Nutricia products registered in Nigeria are impacted, but urged consumers to verify product details below and registration numbers to avoid purchasing unapproved, harmful items.

    The regulator added that Danone Nutricia had proactively blocked the affected consignments at its Nigerian warehouses as a precautionary measure. However, it remains unclear whether any of the recalled products have already reached retail outlets in the country.

    Cereulide toxin, linked to emetic food poisoning, is resistant to heat and cooking processes. Outbreaks are often associated with improperly stored starchy foods, but contamination in infant formula raises heightened public health concerns.

  • Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigerian media organisation Newpost Africa Media Publishing® (Newpost Africa) has announced its return following a successful restructuring process. The relaunch underscores the company’s renewed commitment to delivering journalism of the highest standards—anchored in integrity, balance, and diversity.

    Positioning itself as “Nigeria’s independent, world-class media organisation”, Newpost Africa emphasized its founding principles of strict editorial neutrality, an uncompromising stance against propaganda, and reporting that informs without bias or distortion. The organisation stressed that credible journalism is indispensable to democratic societies and informed citizenship.

    In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Newpost Africa encouraged stakeholders and readers to actively engage with its mission. “By sharing perspectives and experiences, you contribute to a platform that values truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility in shaping the public record,” the statement read.

    Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and supported by a global network of journalists and writers, Newpost Africa said it is well-positioned to deliver timely coverage of rapidly evolving stories with speed, clarity, and analytical depth—while maintaining accuracy and editorial discipline.

    Its editorial focus remains firmly on Nigeria and the African continent, ensuring accountability from policymakers, institutions, and power brokers. At the same time, the organisation pledged to continue reporting on international developments that shape Africa’s place in the global context.

    The relaunch, according to the statement, is not merely a return but a reaffirmation of purpose and a strategic commitment to excellence in journalism. “This relaunch is a reaffirmation of our mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism and to serve as a trusted voice in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” the organisation noted.

  • Nigerian Police Confirm Arrest of TikToker Mirabel Over Alleged False Rape Alarm

    Nigerian Police Confirm Arrest of TikToker Mirabel Over Alleged False Rape Alarm

    OGUN STATE, NIGERIA (NPA) — The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Nigerian TikToker Mirabel, known online as @mirab351, for allegedly raising a false alarm of rape and assault.

    On February 15, Mirabel went viral across social media after claiming she had been molested and raped by a man she met online at her residence. Days later, however, she retracted the allegation in a video, admitting that no such attack had occurred and asking for forgiveness.

    Her reversal sparked outrage among social media users, many of whom demanded her arrest and prosecution, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent in an era where clout-chasing has become common on platforms like TikTok. Others questioned whether her denial was part of a broader attempt to shield the alleged attacker from accountability.

    Speaking to SaharaReporters on Friday, Ogun State Police Command spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that Mirabel is in custody. “She is with us now and investigation is ongoing,” he said.

    According to Babaseyi, “The facts will tell at the conclusion of our investigation if she will be charged to court. If it is otherwise, the law goes against giving false information, and that can make anyone who gives false information culpable.”

    False rape claims have increasingly surfaced on TikTok and other social media platforms. Analysts note that clout-chasing and attention-seeking are among the primary drivers, as sensational content often attracts followers and visibility. In Mirabel’s case, observers accused her of seeking attention after inconsistencies in her initial video were noticed.

    Experts also point to psychological and emotional factors, including instability and a need for validation, as contributing to such harmful false claims. Police reports in Mirabel’s case highlighted concerns about her mental state.

    The speed and anonymity of social media make it easier to spread unverified claims without immediate consequences. Such false allegations erode public trust, making it harder for genuine survivors to be believed, while also damaging the reputations of accused individuals who face stigma even when proven innocent.

  • Justin Welby, Head of UK’s Anglican Church Resigns Over Abuse Scandals

    Justin Welby, Head of UK’s Anglican Church Resigns Over Abuse Scandals

    Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, resigned as the head of the Church of England on Tuesday. The development followed months of protests from the church faithful and the Christian communities over his failure to justly investigate abuse that took place at the church’s summer camps decades ago. The church leader had been under fire for not stopping or holding accountable serial abusers in the Church who found sanctuary in it during the same period.

    Welby in his resignation letter and notification of his intent to King Charles III, accepted responsibility for the scandal that rocked the church between 2013 and 2024 and the urgent need to create “a safer church”.

    He also acknowledged the ineffectiveness of his introduced measures to stamp out the malaise in the church for nearly 12 years. A situation he said was shameful.

    In a show of empathy to victims of the abuse, he noted: “In the meantime, I will follow through on my commitment to meet victims. I will delegate all my other current responsibilities for safeguarding until the necessary risk assessment process is complete.”

    He further noted that his stepping aside “is in the best interests of the Church of England.”