New Post Africa

Category: North America

  • Zelenskyy Calls for Trilateral Meeting with U.S. and Russia in March to End War

    Zelenskyy Calls for Trilateral Meeting with U.S. and Russia in March to End War

    KYIV, Ukraine (NPA) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed readiness for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the United States and Russia aimed at ending the war.

    Zelenskyy made the remarks following a meeting with Jared Kushner and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ukrainian leader said preparations were underway for discussions at the highest level.

    “We need to finalize everything achieved so far to secure real security guarantees and prepare a meeting at the leaders’ level,” Zelenskyy said. “There is already greater readiness for the next trilateral format. We expect the format to take place in early March.”

    He added that such a meeting could address key issues directly, noting that leadership-level engagement is particularly important when dealing with Russia.

    “At the end of the day, leaders decide key issues, and when it comes to Russia — such a personalist regime — this is even more relevant than in other countries,” he said.

    Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude to the United States for its continued commitment to finding a path toward peace.

    Earlier, the Ukrainian president met with representatives of the international business community. Discussions focused on strengthening Ukraine’s energy resilience and preparations for the coming winter season.

    “On March 1, all our local authorities will present an energy development plan for next winter,” Zelenskyy said. “It is important to do as much as possible over the next six months before the start of the heating season. The role of the private sector is key, and we are counting on joint projects.”

    He said broader investment opportunities and private sector involvement in Ukraine’s reconstruction — including in the defense industry — were also discussed.

    “Even during the war, after such a winter, our country continues to live,” Zelenskyy said. “We are open to partnership, to joint projects, and to investments that will support our people and our security. Thank you to everyone who invests in Ukraine’s resilience.”

  • US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    FLORIDA, U.S. (NPA) — The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), a U.S.-based non-profit military organization composed of men and women of Igbo heritage who have served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, has urged Washington to establish a sovereign safe zone for Judeo-Christians and to support the restructuring of Nigeria.

    In a letter dated February 25, 2026, and signed by AVID President Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, the group argued that such a measure would enable persecuted Christians to live and worship freely, shielded from extremist violence. “This initiative aligns with America’s commitment to self-determination, religious liberty, and protecting vulnerable populations, representing a significant step toward addressing the ongoing genocide,” the letter stated.

    The appeal was addressed to Representative Riley McGowan Moore, a member of a U.S. congressional committee tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate violence against Christians in Nigeria. AVID expressed gratitude for the committee’s findings, particularly its conclusion that “Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian.”

    The group highlighted documentation of mass killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of churches and schools, stressing the urgency of decisive international action. It welcomed the committee’s recommendation for the repeal of Sharia codes and criminal anti-blasphemy laws in Nigeria, describing them as essential steps toward safeguarding religious freedom and human rights.

    Read the group’s letter below:

  • Ex-NNPC General Manager Sentenced in U.S. Over $2.1 Million Bribery Scheme

    Ex-NNPC General Manager Sentenced in U.S. Over $2.1 Million Bribery Scheme

    LOS ANGELES, U.S. (NPA): A U.S. District Court has sentenced Paulinus Iheanacho Okoronkwo, a 58-year-old Nigerian-American and former General Manager of the Upstream Division of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), to 87 months in prison for accepting $2.1 million in bribes from Addax Petroleum, a Switzerland-based subsidiary of Sinopec, China’s state-owned oil and gas conglomerate.

    According to a court statement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, on Monday, 23 February 2026, obtained by Newpost Africa, Okoronkwo was convicted of corruption, money laundering, and tax fraud. He was also ordered to pay $923,824 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and to forfeit $1,039,997, representing the net proceeds from the sale of a home purchased with illicit funds.

    Court documents revealed that in 2015, Okoronkwo facilitated Addax Petroleum’s oil drilling rights in Nigeria in exchange for bribes. He concealed the payments by channeling them through his law firm’s trust account (IOLTA), falsely declaring them as legal fees. He also misled auditors, dismissed executives who questioned the transactions, and used the funds for personal expenses, including the purchase of a car and a home.

    In November 2017, Okoronkwo used part of the illicit proceeds to make down payments on a house in Valencia, California. His misconduct came under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and IRS Criminal Investigation, with support from the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

    In January 2026, the State Bar of California suspended Okoronkwo’s law license, following the corruption probe that ultimately led to his prosecution and conviction.

  • US Congressional Committee Calls for Disarmament of Fulani Militias to Address Religious Violence in Nigeria, Other Measures

    US Congressional Committee Calls for Disarmament of Fulani Militias to Address Religious Violence in Nigeria, Other Measures

    WASHINGTON, U.S. (NPA): A United States congressional committee tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate allegations of widespread violence against Christians in Nigeria has submitted its recommendations to the White House.

    In a report released Monday by Congressman Riley Moore, the committee endorsed the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing what it described as systematic attacks on Christian communities.

    The committee, which included Chairman Tom Cole and members of the House Appropriations Committee, stated: “Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian. Christians face ongoing violent attacks from well-armed Fulani militias and terrorist groups, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, the destruction of churches and schools, and widespread kidnappings. Blasphemy laws in northern states are used to silence dissent, target minorities, and justify convictions without due process.”

    Key Recommendations

    The report outlined several measures aimed at curbing violence and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the United States and Nigeria:

    • Bilateral Agreement: Establish a binding accord to protect vulnerable Christian communities, counter jihadist activity, expand economic cooperation, and address regional influence from China and Russia.
    • Humanitarian Assistance: Co-fund donor-supported aid programs, including faith-based initiatives, prioritizing internally displaced persons (IDPs) and underserved communities.
    • Security in the Middle Belt: Deploy capable security forces to prevent attacks and kidnappings, ensure rapid response, and hold negligent officials accountable.
    • Land and Resettlement: Expel armed groups from confiscated farmland, enable displaced communities to return, and rebuild infrastructure to reduce reliance on aid and boost agricultural productivity.
    • Disarmament of Militias: Implement measures to reduce and eliminate violence by armed Fulani militias, including disarmament programs to curb illicit weapons while safeguarding legitimate self-defense for farmers.
    • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Expand joint operations to combat foreign terrorist organizations, including the provision of defense equipment and intelligence-sharing.
    • Economic Safeguards: Address destabilizing practices such as illegal mining operations allegedly linked to foreign actors funding militias.
    • Visa Restrictions & Legal Reform: Maintain visa bans on perpetrators of religious violence, repeal blasphemy laws, and review sharia-based criminal codes in northern Nigeria.
    • Trade Measures: Consider restrictions on cattle exports to regional markets as leverage to compel disarmament of armed herdsmen.
  • Armed Intruder Shot Dead at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Estate: Motive Still Unclear

    Armed Intruder Shot Dead at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Estate: Motive Still Unclear

    Palm Beach, Florida (NPA) – U.S. authorities are continuing to investigate the motive of an armed man who was fatally shot after breaching security at President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida.

    The suspect, armed with a shotgun and carrying a fuel container, attempted to enter the property through the north gate at approximately 1:30 a.m. He was confronted by Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputy. The incident ended when the man crossed into a restricted zone and was shot.

    As of the time of filing this report, investigators have not established a definitive motive. Authorities are examining whether the breach was politically motivated, driven by personal grievances, or linked to mental instability. So far, only the circumstances of the intrusion and the weapons carried have been confirmed.

    The breach raises questions given Mar-a-Lago’s extensive security measures. The estate is protected by a layered system overseen by the U.S. Secret Service, including robotic patrol units equipped with cameras and sensors, multiple gated entry points monitored by armed agents and local law enforcement, high-definition surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and strict access controls with background checks for visitors and staff. A 24/7 rapid response protocol is also in place.

    Investigators now face the challenge of piecing together what the suspect intended before entering the restricted zone and being neutralized.

  • Trump Threatens Higher Tariffs After Supreme Court Ruling

    Trump Threatens Higher Tariffs After Supreme Court Ruling

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that countries seeking to exploit the recent Supreme Court ruling against his tariff program could face even higher duties. His comments follow the Court’s February 20, 2026 decision, which struck down his sweeping tariff regime in a 6–3 ruling, declaring that existing law did not authorize the president to impose tariffs of unlimited scope, duration, or amount.

    In posts on his Truth Social account, Trump said: “Any country that wants to play games with the ridiculous Supreme Court decision, especially those that have ripped off the U.S.A. for years, will be met with a much higher tariff, and worse, than that which they just recently agreed to. Buyer beware!” He added that he does not need congressional approval for tariffs, insisting authority had already been granted “in many forms, a long time ago.”

    The Supreme Court’s ruling dealt a major blow to Trump’s economic agenda, which relied heavily on tariffs to reshape trade relations and protect U.S. industries. The decision is expected to have significant implications for businesses and consumers. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented, arguing in favor of broader presidential authority. The outcome underscores limits on executive power in trade policy and represents a rare judicial rebuke of Trump’s approach.

  • U.S. Citizens in Mexico Receive Security Alert Amid Ongoing Operations

    U.S. Citizens in Mexico Receive Security Alert Amid Ongoing Operations

    MEXICO CITY (NPA): The United States Mission in Mexico issued a security alert on February 22, 2026, advising U.S. citizens to shelter in place due to ongoing security operations, road blockages, and related criminal activity. The mission stated: “U.S. citizens in the affected locations should shelter in place until further notice.”

    The alert directed all U.S. government staff at Consulate General Tijuana, as well as personnel in Guerrero, Michoacán, and Quintana Roo, to remain sheltered. Staff at Consulate General Monterrey were instructed to stay within the Monterrey metropolitan area. While airports remain open, roadblocks have disrupted airline operations, leading to cancellations of domestic and international flights in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Taxi and rideshare services in Puerto Vallarta have been suspended, and several businesses have temporarily closed.

    The mission urged U.S. nationals in Mexico to minimize movement, remain in residences or hotels, avoid areas of law enforcement activity, stay vigilant, monitor local media, and call 911 in case of emergencies.

    The alert follows the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a military operation in Jalisco state. His death has triggered violent reprisals, including vehicle burnings, highway blockages, and unrest in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Authorities warn that further escalations are likely as Mexico confronts the power vacuum left by one of its most notorious cartel leaders.

  • 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.

  • Leave Iran Immediately, Polish PM Donald Tusk Warns Citizens

    Leave Iran Immediately, Polish PM Donald Tusk Warns Citizens

    WARSAW, POLAND (NPA): Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has urged Polish nationals residing in Iran to leave the country without delay, citing escalating tensions in the Middle East.

    In a statement on Thursday, Tusk cautioned that evacuation could soon become impossible. “Leave immediately. It is possible that in a few hours there will be no option to evacuate from the country,” he said.

    The Prime Minister also advised against travelling to Iran under any circumstances, stressing that the situation could deteriorate rapidly. His warning comes amid heightened military activity in the region, with the United States deploying significant assets near Iran, fuelling fears of a confrontation.

    Iran, for its part, has vowed to retaliate against any U.S. attack and recently conducted military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.

    The developments have placed the Middle East at the centre of international attention, as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran remain stalled.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported READ HERE the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States met on Tuesday in Switzerland, with the Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi saying the two sides had exchanged views and made progress.

  • Putin Meets Cuban Foreign Minister in Moscow, Says US Restrictions Unacceptable

    Putin Meets Cuban Foreign Minister in Moscow, Says US Restrictions Unacceptable

    Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Wednesday in the Kremlin, where he said that new restrictions imposed on the communist-run island were “unacceptable”, Russian state news agencies reported.

    A senior Russian diplomat said last week that Moscow would provide aid to Havana, including material assistance, to help navigate a U.S. attempt to starve the island of oil.

    “Now is a special period, new sanctions. You know how we feel about this,” Putin told Rodriguez, according to the TASS news agency. “We do not accept anything like this.”

    The Kremlin chief said relations between Russia and Cuba were developing “on a positive track”, TASS reported.

    Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told his Cuban counterpart in a separate meeting on Wednesday that Moscow was urging the U.S. not to impose a full naval blockade on the island and was advocating negotiations instead.

    Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesman, was quoted as saying by TASS on Wednesday that Moscow did not discuss the Cuba issue with Washington. Russia, Ukraine and the U.S. concluded trilateral peace talks in Geneva earlier on Wednesday.