New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Lagos unveils strategic plan to boost education standards

    Lagos unveils strategic plan to boost education standards

    LAGOS, Nigeria, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — The Lagos State Government has launched a new Strategic Plan for the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), aimed at transforming school regulation and improving learning outcomes across the state.

    At the unveiling ceremony at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Tolani Alli‑Balogun, described the plan as a forward‑looking policy aligned with the administration’s THEMES Agenda. He expressed confidence that the initiative would drive reforms in school supervision, teacher capacity development, and overall education standards.

    Key features include automation of private school registration, designed to reduce physical visits, minimise human interference, and streamline regulatory processes. Alli‑Balogun said the reforms would ensure Lagos education remains “secure, credible, and globally competitive.”

    Permanent Secretary, Mrs Abisola Dokunmu‑Adegbite, emphasised that the plan would standardise learning outcomes, strengthen accountability frameworks, and promote continuous quality improvement. She noted that the initiative reflects a deliberate effort to reposition the education sector through structured planning and data‑driven decision‑making.

    OEQA Director‑General, Dr Sulaimon Olagoke Ogunmuyiwa, called for staff buy‑in to ensure successful implementation. He explained that the plan is anchored on the SCRIPT framework — Staff Capacity, Collaboration, Revenue, Improved Governance, Professionalism, and Technology — serving as a roadmap for efficiency and sustainable growth. Training programmes and automation processes have already commenced to strengthen monitoring and audit systems in schools.

    Former Acting Directors‑General, Mrs Hameedat Sanni and Mr Remi Abdul, hailed the plan as a bold step toward repositioning Lagos education, urging staff to embrace the reforms. Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mrs Mojisola Bamgbose, described the launch as a defining moment, stressing that its success depends on effective implementation and measurable outcomes.

    Lagos has been unarguably the leader in digitalising teaching and learning in public schools in Nigeria, and with this latest initiative, the state is once more extending the bar of quality learning nationwide.

    The unveiling forms part of the achievements of Dr Ogunmuyiwa’s first 100 days in office, during which he introduced key reforms to enhance OEQA’s efficiency and service delivery.

  • Iran threatens to boycott Islamabad peace talks over Israeli strikes in Lebanon

    Iran threatens to boycott Islamabad peace talks over Israeli strikes in Lebanon

    MIDDLE EAST, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — Iran has warned that its delegation will not participate in peace talks scheduled for Islamabad if Israel continues its military strikes on Lebanon. The warning follows Israel’s most intense bombardment of Lebanon since the start of the war with the Iranian‑backed Hezbollah movement.

    In a statement, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the attacks, calling them “a blatant violation of the initial ceasefire agreement and a dangerous indication of deception and lack of commitment to potential accords.” He added: “Continuing these attacks will render negotiations meaningless; our hands will remain on the trigger, and Iran will never abandon its Lebanese brothers and sisters.”

    Pezeshkian reiterated the accusation across multiple platforms, including his official X account, stressing that Israel’s renewed incursion into Lebanon undermines any prospects for peace. He argued that repeated aggression by what he termed “the Zionist entity” signals deceit and non‑compliance, leaving Iran with no choice but to stand firmly by its Lebanese allies.

    The Iranian president’s remarks underscore growing tensions in the region, as Israel intensifies its operations against Hezbollah strongholds. 

    Tehran’s threat to boycott the Islamabad talks raises fresh doubts about the viability of negotiations aimed at ending the over one-month conflict.

  • From Legon to the moon: President Mahama celebrates Christina Koch’s historic Artemis II Mission

    From Legon to the moon: President Mahama celebrates Christina Koch’s historic Artemis II Mission

    ACCRA, Ghana, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has hailed Christina Koch, the only woman on the historic Artemis II mission to the Moon, who once studied as an exchange student at the University of Ghana during the 1999/2000 academic year.

    In a statement titled “From the Lecture Halls of Legon to the Moon: Celebrating Christina Koch”, President Mahama joined the University of Ghana and the nation in celebrating NASA astronaut Christina Koch’s groundbreaking role in the mission.

    Mahama recalled Koch’s time at Legon as more than a brief visit, noting that she immersed herself in Ghanaian culture and heritage. By studying subjects such as the History of Ghana, the History of Africa, Rural Sociology, Music, and even Twi for Beginners, she built what he described as “a foundation of global citizenship right here in Accra.”

    He praised her symbolic gesture of hoisting the Ghanaian flag in outer space, calling it “a deeply touching moment for every Ghanaian” and a reminder that “no matter how far one travels, even into the vastness of space, the friendships made and the lessons learned stay with you.”

    “Christina’s journey from the classrooms of the University of Ghana to the frontiers of space exploration serves as a powerful inspiration to every young Ghanaian,” Mahama said. “It reminds us that our educational institutions continue to produce and shape global leaders who break barriers and reach for the stars.”

    The President wished the entire Artemis II crew godspeed on their return journey to Earth, expressing hope that their success would inspire generations across Ghana, Africa, and the world to believe that “there is no height that is insurmountable.”

    “Ghana is proud of you!” he concluded.

  • Bwala criticises ADC Leaders as Obi, Atiku Join Abuja protest against INEC deregistration

    Bwala criticises ADC Leaders as Obi, Atiku Join Abuja protest against INEC deregistration

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Policy Communication, has criticised leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following their protest in Abuja, accusing them of being unprepared for elections and driven by personal ambition.

    In a post on X, reposted by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu, Bwala alleged that the ADC was attempting to “import foreign interference” into Nigeria’s elections by claiming the country was sliding into a one-party state. He described the party’s leadership as an “association of party-grabbing elements.”

    The protest, held at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was organised to demand reversal of INEC’s decision to deregister the ADC, citing ongoing court proceedings.

    Peter Obi, a presidential aspirant and ADC leader, joined the demonstration and declared: “We will not remain silent, we will not be intimidated, and we will not surrender the future of this nation. The will of the people must prevail—stronger, louder, and impossible to suppress.”

    Other prominent figures at the protest included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; former Senate President David Mark; former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola; and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, among others.

    In his statement titled “Standing Up for Democracy”, Obi described the protest as both a defence of democratic values and a reflection of Nigeria’s political decline.

  • Sanwo-Olu reiterates commitment to legacy projects as Tinubu commissions new developments in Lagos

    Sanwo-Olu reiterates commitment to legacy projects as Tinubu commissions new developments in Lagos

    LAGOS, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his administration’s focus on making every day count. “Out of the 2,922 days Lagosians entrusted to us, we have spent more than 2,500 working to leave Lagos better than we met it. Along the way, we have been guided by the example of a leader who once governed this state and laid the foundation we continue to build on today,” he said.

    According to a statement today, three projects that will make a real difference in the lives of Lagosians were commissioned by President Bola Tinubu, represented by Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio.

    Sanwo-Olu, hailed for landmark initiatives such as the Lagos Blue Rail Line and the modernisation of public primary and secondary schools, noted that the Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge marks a major step forward for mobility in the city. “For years, this corridor has been one of the busiest and most difficult parts of our transport network. This new connection will ease congestion, shorten travel time, and make daily life less stressful for thousands of people,” he explained.

    The Lagos Geographic Information Service Building moves the state further away from outdated, paper-based systems, introducing greater transparency and efficiency in land administration.

    The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administrative Complex consolidates key government services in one location, improving coordination, speeding up service delivery, and creating a better working environment for public servants.

    “These projects reflect how we approach governance. We focus on real problems and deliver practical solutions. What matters most is results that people can see and feel,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the projects, from engineers and contractors to public servants who remained committed from start to finish.

    “There is still more to do, and we are not slowing down. In the time we have left, we will keep building and keep working to improve the quality of life for every Lagosian. I am proud of what we have achieved so far, and grateful for the support of Mr President, whose leadership and reforms continue to make a real difference, not only in Lagos, but across Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

  • Netanyahu vows Israel will achieve objectives despite US-Iran ceasefire

    Netanyahu vows Israel will achieve objectives despite US-Iran ceasefire

    JERUSALEM, Israel, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Israel will achieve its objectives in the war against the Islamic Republic of Iran. His comments come in the wake of the two-week ceasefire agreement brokered between the United States and Iran.

    In an earlier broadcast, Netanyahu emphasised that Israel still has objectives to complete and will achieve them either through agreement or by resuming hostilities. His remarks reflect uncertainty over Israel’s position on the US-Iran ceasefire and its ongoing battle against Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy in Lebanon.

    The Prime Minister, while thanking Israelis for their support and cooperation during the war, declared that Iran is weaker than ever, while Israel is stronger than ever. He praised the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) for their fighting spirit and resilience.

    Netanyahu also paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives, urging citizens to embrace bereaved families and praying for the speedy recovery of the wounded.

    “The State of Israel has achieved tremendous victories, victories that until recently seemed utterly imaginary,” he said. “We still have objectives to complete – and we will achieve them either by agreement or by resuming the fighting.”

  • ‘Standing Up for Democracy’ Protest: Atiku accuses INEC of partisanship, labels Tinubu-led APC tyrannical

    ‘Standing Up for Democracy’ Protest: Atiku accuses INEC of partisanship, labels Tinubu-led APC tyrannical

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — Former Vice President and presidential aspirant Atiku Abubakar has accused Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), of partisanship following its decision to deregister the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Atiku, who joined other prominent ADC leaders in a protest in Abuja today, alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) influenced INEC’s action, describing it as partisan and aimed at undermining the opposition ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, Atiku warned that any attempt to weaken democracy would be resisted: “INEC and the APC must understand that any effort to undermine democracy in this country will not succeed. It will be resisted and challenged to the best of our abilities. I also hope that the international community is paying attention to the threat to Nigeria, its democracy, and the opposition. Nigeria shall be reclaimed. Nigeria shall be rebuilt. Nigeria shall arise and shine through our collective and united efforts.”

    Other notable figures at the protest included Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State; Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State; David Mark, former Senate President and ADC National Chairman before INEC’s derecognition; Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State and ADC National Secretary before INEC’s decision; and Aminu Tambuwal, former Governor of Sokoto State, among others.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that Peter Obi, another ADC stalwart, described the protest as not only a defence of democracy but also a reflection on how far the nation has fallen. He urged Nigerians to resist attempts to suffocate democratic freedoms by those who once claimed to have defended them but now seek to silence opposition.

  • ‘Standing Up for Democracy’ Protest: Obi insists people’s will must prevail

    ‘Standing Up for Democracy’ Protest: Obi insists people’s will must prevail

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — Peter Obi, a presidential aspirant and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has cautioned that history will not be kind to those who traded the struggle for democracy for the comfort of power.

    Speaking after joining ADC leaders in a protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters, Obi declared: “We will not remain silent, we will not be intimidated, and we will not surrender the future of this nation. The will of the people must prevail—stronger, louder, and impossible to suppress.”

    The demonstration was organised to demand that INEC reverse its decision to deregister the ADC, citing ongoing court proceedings.

    Other prominent figures at the protest included Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria; Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State; Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State; David Mark, former Senate President and ADC National Chairman before INEC’s derecognition; Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State and ADC National Secretary before INEC’s decision; and Aminu Tambuwal, former Governor of Sokoto State, among others.

    In his statement titled “Standing Up for Democracy”, Obi described the protest as not only a defence of democracy but also a reflection on how far the nation has fallen. He urged Nigerians to resist attempts to suffocate democratic freedoms by those who once claimed to have sacrificed for them but now seek to undermine opposition.

  • Edo Governor Okpebholo condoles Deputy over mother’s passing at 95

    Edo Governor Okpebholo condoles Deputy over mother’s passing at 95

    BENIN CITY, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended his condolences to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, following the death of his mother, Mrs Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa, who passed away on 8 April 2026 at the age of 95.

    In a statement, Governor Okpebholo described the loss of a mother as deeply painful, regardless of age, noting that it leaves a void that cannot be filled. He said he shares in the grief of his Deputy and stands with him during this difficult time.

    The Governor praised the late Mrs Idahosa for living a remarkable life defined by love, sacrifice, strength, and devotion to her family. He added that her legacy would endure through the values she instilled and the lives she touched.

    Governor Okpebholo prayed that Almighty God would grant the Deputy Governor, his family, and all who mourn her the strength and courage to bear the loss, while also praying for the peaceful repose of her soul.

    “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Edo State, I want my Deputy and his family to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.

  • Obi questions credibility of ₦3.3 trillion power debt payment

    Obi questions credibility of ₦3.3 trillion power debt payment

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 7 April 2026 (NPA) — A senior figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a presidential aspirant, Mr Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government’s latest approval of ₦3.3 trillion to settle accumulated power sector debts.

    In a statement today, titled “Let us reflect, sincerely and without sentiment”, Obi noted that this is not the first such announcement. He recalled that on 17 May 2024, ₦3.3 trillion was approved for the same purpose, followed by another ₦4 trillion bond on 25 July 2024. Several other approvals have been made in between, all ostensibly aimed at addressing the same liabilities.

    “This raises a fundamental question: were the previous approvals mere announcements without execution?” Obi asked.

    During the 2023 campaign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pledged that if he failed to deliver stable electricity, Nigerians should not re-elect him. Yet, power supply has deteriorated further, with reports even suggesting that the Presidential Villa may be disconnected from the national grid.

    Obi argued that repeated approvals appear more like policy pronouncements than genuine progress. He stressed that the debts were largely accumulated under successive APC administrations between 2015 and 2025, raising serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and financial management.

    He pointed out that government institutions, including the Presidential Villa, owe a significant portion of these debts. “Year after year, budgets were made and funds appropriated. Why then were these obligations not settled when due? And from what source will this new payment be made? Are we resorting once more to borrowing to service inefficiencies?”

    Key questions, Obi said, remain unanswered:

    • How did the debt accrue?
    • What is the actual total debt in the power sector?
    • Which components are due to operators’ inefficiency and should be borne by them?
    • Why have previous approvals not translated into tangible improvements?
    • Who are the real beneficiaries of these repeated payments?

    Obi concluded: “Nigeria must move beyond recycled announcements and confront the power sector crisis with sincerity, transparency, and decisive reforms. Until we do so, we will remain trapped in a cycle of debt and darkness. But with discipline, accountability, and the right leadership, a new Nigeria is still possible.”