New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Trump urges global action to secure the Strait of Hormuz, all eyes on China

    Trump urges global action to secure the Strait of Hormuz, all eyes on China

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 15, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has urged the international community to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, following Iran’s seizure of the vital energy transport corridor. The appeal comes in the wake of a U.S. military strike on Iran’s Khagar Island.

    In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump declared: “The United States of America has beaten and completely decimated Iran, both militarily, economically, and in every other way. But the countries of the world that receive oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help — A LOT!”

    Trump emphasised that the U.S. would coordinate with affected nations to restore safe passage for oil shipments, some of which have already been disrupted by Iranian drone attacks. “This should have always been a team effort, and now it will be,” he wrote. “It will bring the world together toward harmony, security, and everlasting peace.”

    The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy supplies, including shipments to China. Analysts note that Beijing’s response remains uncertain, given its longstanding ties with Tehran.

    Meanwhile, Iran has continued launching drones and missiles at Gulf states, accusing them of hosting U.S. bases involved in the recent strikes. On Sunday, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported intercepting several Iranian projectiles targeting its territory.

  • UAE air defences intercept another wave of Iranian missiles and drones

    UAE air defences intercept another wave of Iranian missiles and drones

    INTERNATIONAL — (NPA) March 15 — The United Arab Emirates authorities announced that its air defence system intercepted four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran on March 15, 2026.

    According to a statement from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the latest interception adds to a growing tally since the start of Iranian attacks. In total, UAE air defences have dealt with 298 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,606 drones.

    The ministry noted that the Iranian strikes have caused the deaths of six individuals of Emirati, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationalities, while 142 others sustained minor to moderate injuries. The injured include people of diverse backgrounds, among them Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepalese, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, and Swedish nationals.

    The UAE Ministry of Defence stressed that the country remains on high alert and fully prepared to counter any threats. It reaffirmed its commitment to firmly respond to actions aimed at destabilising the state’s security, while ensuring the preservation of sovereignty, stability, and the protection of national interests and capabilities.

  • Nwifuru hails maiden matriculation at Ebonyi State University of ICT

    Nwifuru hails maiden matriculation at Ebonyi State University of ICT

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 15 — The Ebonyi State University of ICT, Offerekpe, on Saturday, March 15, 2026, held its maiden matriculation ceremony. Conceived by the administration of Governor Ogbonna Nwifuru, the institution is designed to become a hub for technological excellence and innovation in the state.

    Governor Nwifuru, while congratulating the students, described the matriculation as a historic milestone in Ebonyi’s educational advancement and the beginning of a bold vision to build a citadel of learning dedicated to innovation, technology, and knowledge. He emphasised that the university will prepare young people to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and job creators rather than job seekers.

    According to a statement by Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media), the university is “dedicated to nurturing a generation of highly skilled ICT professionals, innovators, and solution-driven thinkers who will shape the future of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

    A total of 187 pioneering students were matriculated into the academic community, including 133 indigenes of Ebonyi State who are beneficiaries of government scholarships under the state’s human capital development initiative.

    The programmes offered at the new university include Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information and Communication Technology, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Civil Engineering, Software Engineering, Architecture, Building, Quantity Surveying, Information Technology, Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Mass Communication, Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, and Health Information Management.

    While construction continues at the permanent site in Offerekpe-Agbaja, students will receive lectures at the Vocational College buildings within the Ministry of Tertiary Education in Centenary City, Abakaliki.

    The governor has received widespread praise from indigenes of the state for establishing the institution, as the new university is expected to further lift Ebonyi from the ranks of the least educated states in Nigeria’s southeast region. Many residents see it as a bold step toward reshaping the state’s academic profile and creating new opportunities for its youth.

    Analysts, however, have urged the governor to ensure the school is fully equipped with modern learning tools and facilities, stressing the need for a clear departure from the shortcomings of many higher institutions across the country that are often criticized as “glorified secondary schools.” They argue that only by investing in cutting-edge infrastructure, digital resources, and quality faculty can the university truly fulfill its mission of becoming a hub for innovation and technological excellence.

  • Peter Obi mourns Super Eagles legend Henry Nwosu

    Peter Obi mourns Super Eagles legend Henry Nwosu

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 15 — Opposition leader Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigerian football icon Henry Nwosu, describing him as a patriot who lifted the nation’s spirit through sport.

    In a statement issued Saturday, Obi recalled watching Nwosu as a child and praised his brilliance on the pitch. He noted that at just 18 years old, Nwosu was a key member of the Green Eagles squad that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, a triumph that united Nigerians across divides and proved the power of sport to inspire hope and national pride.

    Obi, a former presidential candidate, said Nwosu devoted his talent and energy to the service of the nation, leaving behind memories that continue to shape Nigeria’s football history. He extended condolences to Nwosu’s family, friends, and the wider football community.

    “I pray that God grants his loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss and grants his soul eternal rest,” Obi said. “May his legacy continue to inspire young Nigerians to serve our nation with excellence and humility.”

  • South Africa deploys 2 200 soldiers to five provinces

    South Africa deploys 2 200 soldiers to five provinces

    PRETORIA-SA (Agency Report) March 15 — President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces of his decision to deploy 2 200 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    This is in line with section 201 (3) (a)(b)(c) and (d) of the Constitution.

    According to the Presidency, the deployment serves to prevent and combat crime, and support and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper which is targeting illegal mining and gangsterism. 

    “The deployed members of the SANDF will assist the South African Police Service to prevent and combat illegal mining and gangsterism in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West and Western Cape.

    “The deployment is for the period 01 March 2026 until 31 March 2027,” said the Presidency in a statement on Friday.

    Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, directs that, “Only the President, as head of the national executive, may authorise the employment of the defence force in co-operation with the police service”.

    The Presidency said expenditure for this employment is estimated at R823 153 960.

    During the State of the Nation Address 2026, President Ramaphosa announced the intention to deploy the South Africa National Defence to areas afflicted by illegal mining and gang violence. 

    President Ramaphosa has called on communities to welcome and work more closely with the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force to identify and alienate criminal elements and make neighbourhoods safer in the process. (SAnews.gov.za).

  • Tinubu condoles as Super Eagles icon Henry Nwosu dies at 62

    Tinubu condoles as Super Eagles icon Henry Nwosu dies at 62

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 15 — President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the family of legendary Super Eagles midfielder Henry Onyemanze Nwosu, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 62.

    In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Tinubu joined the Nigerian football community in mourning Nwosu, describing him as an exceptionally skilled player whose artistry on the pitch remains the stuff of legends.

    The president recalled Nwosu’s brilliance as a 17-year-old in the Green Eagles squad that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, his decade-long service to the national team, and his role in subsequent AFCON tournaments in 1982, 1984, and 1988. He also acknowledged Nwosu’s contributions to sports development in Nigeria.

    “The President states that Nigerians will always remember the late playmaker for the pride and joy he brought to the nation and for inspiring many compatriots to greater accomplishments,” the statement read.

    Tinubu prayed for the repose of Nwosu’s soul and comfort for his family.

  • US strikes Iran’s Kharg Island as Trump warns of total destruction of oil assets

    US strikes Iran’s Kharg Island as Trump warns of total destruction of oil assets

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — The United States Army Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed a large-scale precision strike on Iran’s oil-rich Kharg Island and the epicentre of its oil and industry.

    In a statement on Saturday, CENTCOM said the operation destroyed naval mine storage facilities, missile bunkers, and multiple military sites, successfully hitting more than 90 Iranian targets while deliberately preserving the island’s oil infrastructure.

    Following the attack, US President Donald Trump warned that any further Iranian attempt to block vessels in the Strait of Hormuz would trigger the destruction of Iran’s oil and gas assets on Kharg Island. The island, which handles about 90% of Iran’s crude exports, sits near the Strait of Hormuz — a strategic chokepoint through which 20% of global oil flows. Control or disruption of Kharg directly impacts global energy markets and regional security.

    A portion of the CENTCOM statement read: “Last night, U.S. forces executed a large-scale precision strike on Kharg Island, Iran. The strike destroyed naval mine storage facilities, missile storage bunkers, and multiple other military sites. U.S. forces successfully struck more than 90 Iranian military targets on Kharg Island, while preserving the oil infrastructure.”

    Iran has vowed to retaliate by targeting energy production facilities across the region if its oil and gas infrastructure comes under attack.

    The escalation between the United States, Israel, and Iran shows no sign of easing. The confrontation began two weeks ago, with Iran launching missile strikes on Gulf nations and energy infrastructure in a bid to drive up global energy costs as part of its war strategy.

    Meanwhile, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has expressed concern over the rising tensions, warning that any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz or Kharg Island could destabilise global oil supply and trigger sharp price increases. OPEC urged restraint from all parties, stressing the need to safeguard energy infrastructure critical to the stability of international markets.

  • Heroic Nigerian Army storms kidnappers’ den in Benue, rescues five and seizes weapons

    Heroic Nigerian Army storms kidnappers’ den in Benue, rescues five and seizes weapons

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke of the Nigerian Army freed five kidnapped victims in Katsina-Ala, Benue State, and recovered pistols and ammunition in separate raids described as offensive actions to restore peace in the Joint Operations Area.

    According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, the rescued individuals are Babaji Muhammad, 40, abducted along Chede Takun Road and held for ten days; Sunday Yamusa, 45, detained for six weeks; Annumba Obunde, 40, and Babangida Ibbi, 41, both abducted along Tor Donga Road; and Doofan Ahula, 54, held for one month and two days after being taken along Chede Takun Road.

    The statement added that on March 13, troops acting on intelligence about bandits at Mtam Village, Utange Council Ward, Katsina-Ala LGA, conducted a rapid response operation. The criminals fled before arrival, but troops recovered items including camouflage, desert boots, a smoke grenade, 107 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition, three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, seven rounds of 9mm ammunition, a Dane gun, six pistols, magazines, motorcycles, and charms.

    Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops’ professionalism and urged them to sustain momentum against criminal elements. He also thanked the public for credible intelligence and encouraged continued reporting of suspicious activities to support peace efforts in the region.

  • Sanwo-Olu flags off return of monthly sanitation exercise in Q2 2026

    Sanwo-Olu flags off return of monthly sanitation exercise in Q2 2026

    LAGOS, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday joined officials of the Ministry of Environment at the Mushin–Agege Motor Road axis to flag off the return of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise.

    The governor announced that the exercise will officially resume on Saturday, April 25, 2026, and will thereafter be held on the last Saturday of every month between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. “This morning, I was at Mushin–Agege Motor Road with the Lagos State Ministry of Environment to flag off the return of our monthly environmental sanitation exercise,” Sanwo-Olu said. “I’m glad to share that the exercise will resume on Saturday, 25 April 2026, and will now hold on the last Saturday of every month from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.”

    He encouraged Lagosians to take the two hours seriously by cleaning their surroundings, clearing drains, and disposing of waste properly. “The Lagos we all want will not appear overnight. It will come from the small actions we take together, street by street, from LGA to LGA,” he added.

    The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to a cleaner, healthier Lagos, stressing that the measures will be enforced to improve the environment for all residents.

    The decision follows growing calls from residents for the reintroduction of the monthly sanitation exercise amid worsening waste management challenges. Critics on social media have repeatedly urged the government to act, citing deteriorating cleanliness across the city.

    Lagos continues to grapple with domestic waste littering major roads and streets, worsened by unregulated disposal practices and illegal dump sites. Authorities say the renewed sanitation exercise is part of broader efforts to restore discipline in waste management and safeguard public health.

  • Umo Eno inspects Agric Equipment Leasing Company, expresses satisfaction with progress

    Umo Eno inspects Agric Equipment Leasing Company, expresses satisfaction with progress

    UYO, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has inspected ongoing work at the state’s Agric Equipment Leasing Company, designed to provide tractors and modern farming equipment to farmers at subsidised rates. The initiative aims to boost productivity and support large-scale agriculture across the state.

    Located at Ekpri Nsukara in Uyo, the facility is a flagship project of the government to promote mechanised farming. In a statement issued March 12, the governor confirmed that the centre will soon be commissioned to deliver essential tools needed to enhance food production.

    “With over 25 tractors already in place, our goal is to make farming more efficient, increase food production, and improve the earnings of our farmers,” he said. He further noted that as the rainy season approaches, the state is set to commence its tree-crop revolution programme, with palm seedlings ready for distribution to farmers.

    Governor Eno reaffirmed that agriculture remains a critical pillar of his ARISE Agenda, stressing that investments in mechanisation and crop diversification are central to achieving food security and empowering rural communities.