New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Pakistan PM Sharif hails strong ties with China at 75th Diplomatic Anniversary

    Pakistan PM Sharif hails strong ties with China at 75th Diplomatic Anniversary

    ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (NPA) — Shehbaz Sharif has praised the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and China during a ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries.

    Speaking on Thursday in Islamabad before Pakistani and Chinese officials as well as members of the diplomatic corps, Prime Minister Sharif described the relationship between the two nations as historic and enduring.

    According to him, Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to officially recognise China and among the earliest countries globally to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing.

    “Seventy-five years ago, our founding fathers laid down the foundation of our bilateral diplomatic relations, and it went to the credit of Pakistan that we were the first Muslim country to recognise China and one of the first few countries around the globe,” Sharif stated.

    The Pakistani leader said relations between the two countries have continued to grow stronger over the decades, noting that China has consistently stood by Pakistan during difficult periods.

    “Throughout these 75 years, Chinese leadership and the people of China stood with Pakistan like a solid rock,” he added.

    Sharif also recalled Pakistan’s role in strengthening ties with China during the 1960s, referencing the historic first flight that landed in Beijing decades ago as part of expanding engagement between both nations.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the One China policy, stressing that Islamabad would continue to support Beijing without hesitation.

    “To this day and forever, we will support the One China policy without fear or favour,” he said.

    Sharif further described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a major symbol of China’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic development.

    According to him, the project, established under the Belt and Road Initiative championed by Xi Jinping, has contributed significantly to infrastructure growth and economic progress across Pakistan.

    The anniversary event highlighted decades of diplomatic, economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries, widely regarded as close regional allies.

  • Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Keir Starmer has claimed that net migration into the United Kingdom has fallen by 82 per cent, saying his government is delivering on its promise to restore control of British borders and strengthen national security.

    In a statement he issued on Thursday, the British Prime Minister said his administration remains committed to overhauling the country’s immigration system and reducing dependence on foreign labour, which fuels mass immigration to the United Kingdom.

    “I know there’s more to do. We’re introducing a skills-based migration system that rewards contribution and ends our reliance on cheap overseas workers,” Starmer stated.

    The Prime Minister said the measures form part of broader efforts by his government to build what he described as a more secure and economically stable Britain.

    However, analysts and critics have continued to raise concerns over illegal migration into the country, alleging that approximately 70,000 illegal migrants have entered the UK through the English Channel since Starmer assumed office as Prime Minister.

    According to reports, the majority of the migrants reportedly applied for asylum upon arrival, fueling ongoing debate over border security and pressure on public services and the British economy.

    The issue of illegal migration remains one of the most contentious political challenges facing the UK government amid rising economic concerns and growing public scrutiny over immigration policies.

    In another development, Starmer announced that children across England will enjoy free bus travel throughout August as part of measures aimed at easing financial pressure on families.

    “We know that families are still feeling the cost-of-living pressure, so we’re delivering immediate support,” the Prime Minister said in a separate statement.

    According to him, the initiative is designed to help families cope with rising living expenses during the school holiday period while also reducing transportation costs for households.

    Starmer further disclosed that his administration is taking additional steps to reduce the cost of everyday food items and put more money back into the pockets of citizens.

    The announcement comes amid mounting economic pressures in the United Kingdom, including inflation concerns and the impact of ongoing instability linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

    Earlier, the British government unveiled plans to subsidise groceries for struggling families as part of wider measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the cost-of-living crisis across the country.

  • NDC announces updated membership cards, urges members to re-download

    NDC announces updated membership cards, urges members to re-download

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — One of Nigeria’s opposition parties, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has announced the release of updated membership cards for its registered members nationwide.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the party disclosed that it had completed major upgrades to its membership system as part of efforts to improve efficiency, harmonise member records and strengthen data protection.

    According to the party, the updates include a refreshed design for all membership cards, full harmonization of its databases and the standardization of membership codes for both online and offline registered members.

    The NDC stated that the changes were introduced following requests and feedback from members across the country.

    The party also announced the removal of Date of Birth and Address details from membership cards to enhance privacy and better protect members’ personal information.

    “All registered members are kindly requested to re-download their updated membership cards,” the statement said.

    The party urged members to obtain the new cards as soon as possible through its official membership portal.

    Members can download the updated cards through the party’s official platform, NDC Membership Portal.

  • Ebonyi Governor lifts suspension of Oriuzor-Ezza school headteacher amid public outcry

    Ebonyi Governor lifts suspension of Oriuzor-Ezza school headteacher amid public outcry

    ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has directed the immediate lifting of the suspension reportedly placed on Mr Iloke Hyacinth of CPS Obulechi Umoru Oriuzor in Ezza North Local Government Area following widespread discussions on social media platforms.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media. According to the statement, Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to the welfare of teachers, pupils and the continuous improvement of learning conditions across schools in the state.

    The government also stated that ongoing efforts are being made to strengthen educational infrastructure, particularly within the affected area.

    According to the statement, the state government is currently undertaking massive school building projects at Community Primary School Unwuigboke and Community Primary School Unwuezeali, both located in Oriuzor, as part of broader efforts to provide a more conducive learning environment for pupils.

    The government acknowledged that some communities across the state still face infrastructural challenges but assured residents that sustained efforts are ongoing to address the issues progressively.

    The statement further noted that while all developmental needs may not be met simultaneously, the administration remains focused on expanding access to quality education and improving public infrastructure across Ebonyi State.

    The government appreciated citizens and media organisations for their concern over developments in the education sector and reiterated its commitment to the well-being of residents and the delivery of quality education across the state.

    Recall that Community Primary Schools in Oriuzor, Ebonyi State, recently trended on social media after a viral video revealed the dire conditions under which pupils were learning. A video published by Ezza TV showed children studying in unfinished, poorly furnished classrooms with inadequate facilities. The footage highlighted crumbling walls, a lack of desks, and unsafe learning environments, drawing national attention to the neglect of the rural school.

    In response, the Ezza North Local Government Education Authority reportedly suspended the headteachers of the affected schools, alleging they had invited the content creator to film. The content creator denied the claim, insisting he documented the conditions independently after witnessing the plight of the children.

    The suspension letters circulated online, triggering public outrage. Many Nigerians criticised the government for punishing teachers instead of fixing the schools.

  • Jigawa partners StarAgri to support 20,000 rice farmers, Bauchi delegation studies MASAKI programme

    Jigawa partners StarAgri to support 20,000 rice farmers, Bauchi delegation studies MASAKI programme

    DUTSE, Nigeria — Umar Namadi has announced a major partnership between the Jigawa State Government and StarAgri West Africa Limited to support 20,000 rice farmers participating in dry season farming across the state.

    Governor Namadi said the agreement represents another important step by his administration to strengthen agriculture and reduce the burden facing farmers due to rising production costs.

    According to the governor, agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for thousands of families in Jigawa, but increasing costs of farm inputs, fuel and irrigation have continued to make farming difficult for ordinary farmers.

    He noted that many farmers are eager to return to their farms, but economic challenges have made the process increasingly difficult, adding that the situation informed the partnership with StarAgri West Africa Limited.

    Under the agreement, the Jigawa State Government will provide a 30 percent subsidy on agricultural inputs for participating farmers. The administration also approved the distribution of 6,000 solar-powered water pumps under a flexible repayment arrangement spread across two years.

    Governor Namadi said the intervention is expected to significantly improve dry season farming activities and boost food production in the state.

    The governor commended Sandy Eyal and the management of StarAgri West Africa Limited for partnering with the state and supporting local farmers.

    He also praised the Ministry of Agriculture, JASCO and members of the agricultural technical committee for their efforts in facilitating the agreement.

    “At the end of the day, what matters most is whether the ordinary farmer feels the impact. That is the standard we continue to hold ourselves to,” the governor stated.

    In another development, Governor Namadi received a delegation from Bauchi State led by the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Sani Muhammad Dambam, who visited Jigawa to understudy the state’s MASAKI nutrition programme and other community-based healthcare interventions.

    The governor said he was encouraged by the delegation’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery in Bauchi State, noting that the team had toured several programme sites and interacted directly with technical staff and frontline health workers.

    Governor Namadi stressed that the fight against malnutrition remains a major priority for his administration, noting that poor nutrition continues to affect children and vulnerable families across communities.

    He explained that the MASAKI programme, alongside initiatives such as the Tom Brown programme, was introduced to improve child nutrition while also empowering women economically.

    According to him, women participating in the Tom Brown initiative are trained, equipped and linked to primary healthcare centres, enabling them to earn sustainable incomes while supporting nutrition efforts at the grassroots.

    Governor Namadi appreciated the Bauchi State Government for considering Jigawa worthy of the study visit and commended health workers, technical teams and community volunteers for their continued dedication to improving healthcare delivery across communities.

  • SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) has commenced a pre‑election goodwill assessment mission in the Republic of Zambia, engaging stakeholders ahead of the country’s General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.

    The mission is led by Ambassador Joseph Nourrice, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Seychelles, and Dr Leonard Sesa, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Botswana. They are supported by officers from the SADC Secretariat.

    According to the Council, the team is holding consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, political parties, civil society, and individual experts on elections and democracy.

    The SEAC mission is being conducted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which require the Council to undertake pre‑election assessments in member states preparing for national polls. These missions are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to democratic standards across the region.

    The Council emphasised that the goodwill mission is not only about observing preparations but also about encouraging dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and democratic elections.

    By engaging Zambia’s political actors and institutions, SEAC aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and reaffirm SADC’s commitment to supporting member states in upholding democratic values.

  • Fubara withdraws from APC governorship primary, cites peace and unity in Rivers

    Fubara withdraws from APC governorship primary, cites peace and unity in Rivers

    PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria (NPA) — Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the decision was taken “out of conviction and sacrifice” for peace, stability and unity in Rivers State.

    In a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, the Rivers governor said he arrived at the decision after extensive consultations with family members, political associates and supporters.

    “After deep reflection and extensive consultations with my family, friends, and associates, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC governorship primaries,” Fubara stated.

    The governor stressed that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as an act of weakness, fear or surrender, insisting that the move was made in the broader interest of the state.

    “I do so not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he added.

    Fubara’s withdrawal comes days after signs emerged that his path to securing the APC ticket may face serious political obstacles following his appearance before the party’s screening committee, where observers claimed he received a cold reception from some party stakeholders.

    Political analysts believe the development is closely linked to the prolonged political crisis between Fubara and his former political ally and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

    The bitter power struggle between both camps plunged Rivers State into months of political instability, eventually resulting in the declaration of a state of emergency that effectively sidelined the governor from the affairs of government for more than six months.

    The crisis, however, began to ease following the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who brokered reconciliation talks between Fubara and Wike in a move aimed at restoring political stability in the oil-rich state.

    Despite stepping down from the race, Fubara pledged loyalty to the APC and promised to support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and the peace and stability of our state must always come first,” the governor said.

    His withdrawal is expected to significantly reshape the political landscape in Rivers State, where the contest for control of the APC structure and the governorship ticket has remained one of the most closely watched political battles ahead of the next general elections.

  • NDC releases June 2026 by‑election guidelines, outlines timetable and aspirant conditions

    NDC releases June 2026 by‑election guidelines, outlines timetable and aspirant conditions

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued official guidelines and a timetable for its June 2026 by‑elections, detailing activities, eligibility criteria, and general provisions for aspirants seeking to contest under the party’s banner.

    In a national circular dated May 20, 2026, the NDC listed six constituencies where the by‑elections will be conducted: Enugu North Senatorial District (Enugu State), Nasarawa North Senatorial District (Nasarawa State), Ondo South Senatorial District (Ondo State), Rivers South‑East Senatorial District (Rivers State), Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency (Kano State), and Zuru State Constituency (Kebbi State).

    The circular, signed by Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, National Chairman, and Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu Esq, National Secretary, stated that the timetable aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedule released on May 7, 2026, and complies with the Electoral Act 2022.

    According to the timetable, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 20 to May 23, followed by screening and interviews between May 21 and May 23. Aspirants are expected to submit completed forms by May 24, while appeals from screening and interviews will be heard the same day.

    The party emphasized that primaries for all positions — State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senatorial seats — will be conducted at the Local Government Headquarters of the respective constituencies. INEC officials will monitor the primaries, and results will be transmitted to the NDC National Secretariat immediately after the exercise.

    To qualify, aspirants must meet specific conditions, including being financially up‑to‑date members of the party, providing evidence of contribution to party growth, and demonstrating capacity to win elections. They must also have no criminal record or pending investigation, meet all constitutional requirements, and avoid arriving at screening venues with thugs or intimidating entourages, which will lead to immediate disqualification.

    The circular further outlines general provisions requiring all aspirants to attend screening with valid credentials and sign an undertaking to abide by the party’s code of conduct. The use of abusive language, physical force, or campaign of calumny during primaries is strictly prohibited.

    The NDC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and internal democracy, stating that any matter not covered by the guidelines will be determined by the National Executive Committee.

  • After NDC clearance, what lies ahead for Peter Obi’s presidential bid

    After NDC clearance, what lies ahead for Peter Obi’s presidential bid

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential aspirant under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday, May 19th, in Abuja, successfully underwent the party’s presidential screening exercise.

    The rigorous session, which lasted over two and a half hours, involved a detailed review of his academic qualifications, degree certificates, NYSC credentials, and age declarations.

    During the process, Obi also fielded questions on his vision for a new Nigeria and the leadership model he believes the country urgently requires. Following the screening, he was formally cleared and presented with the presidential nomination form he had earlier purchased.

    Commending the panel, Obi praised the screening committee led by former governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Sam Egwu, for its “thorough and professional approach.”

    He also lauded the NDC leadership for upholding democratic principles in the conduct of the exercise.

    Obi, who is campaigning under the slogan “A New Nigeria is Possible,” is positioning himself as a major contender in the 2027 presidential election. He recently defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing ideological differences.

    Party insiders suggest he is widely expected to name Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate ahead of the polls.

    The clearance marks a significant milestone in Obi’s bid to secure the NDC ticket, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested election season.

  • Keyamo congratulates Okowa, Dafinone, Onowapo over APC senatorial primary victories in Delta

    Keyamo congratulates Okowa, Dafinone, Onowapo over APC senatorial primary victories in Delta

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, has congratulated Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Ede Dafinone and Joel-Onowapo Thomas over their victories in the recently concluded All Progressives Congress senatorial primaries in Delta State.

    Okowa emerged the winner for the Delta North Senatorial District, Dafinone secured victory in Delta Central, while Joel-Onowapo Thomas won the Delta South contest.

    In a statement issued on the outcome of the primaries, Keyamo described their victories as “fully deserved,” while commending the conduct of the exercise across the state.

    According to the Minister, the primaries witnessed a large turnout of what he described as “organic voters and members” of the APC at ward levels in an exercise he said was largely free and fair.

    “As a foundation member and leader of the APC in Delta and one of the first senatorial aspirants of the party in the state in 2013, I can state unequivocally that this is the best primary organised by the party in the state since its inception,” he said.

    Keyamo called for reconciliation within the party, urging defeated aspirants and their supporters to work together ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    “Now is a time for healing and reconciliation. I urge all those who have lost gallantly to embrace the victors for the unity of the party and ultimately for the victory of all our candidates at the general elections next year,” he stated.

    He also advised the victorious candidates to be magnanimous in victory by accommodating their opponents and supporters within the party structure.

    “There is always strength in unity,” the Minister added.

    Keyamo further commended Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as inclusive leadership in the state, while expressing confidence in the governor’s political future ahead of 2027.

    The Minister also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promoting internal democracy within the APC and allowing what he described as a free and fair process nationwide.

    “Those who ignored local and grassroots leaders and neither lobbied nor consulted them, but sought to get tickets from Abuja to impose themselves on the people, have now been brought down from their high horses,” Keyamo said.

    However, the outcome of the Delta APC senatorial primaries has continued to generate controversy, with former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, also claiming victory in the Delta Central contest.

    Similarly, Ned Nwoko, who contested against Okowa in Delta North, rejected the outcome and declared himself the winner, urging his supporters to await the final decision of the party leadership in Abuja.

    Meanwhile, Dafinone, during an appearance on Arise TV Morning Show on Tuesday, insisted that he won the Delta Central primary by a wide margin.

    He also attributed Omo-Agege’s poor performance to what he described as the former deputy senate president’s political distancing from the ADC members in the senatorial district.