Category: Politics

  • Reps threaten to arrest BOI MD over failure to appear before committee

    Reps threaten to arrest BOI MD over failure to appear before committee

    Abuja, Nigeria (Agency Report) — March 5, 2026 — An Ad hoc Committee of the House of Representatives has threatened to issue an arrest warrant on the Managing Director of Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr Olasupo Olusi, following his failure to appear before it to account for the performance of funds in the bank.

    The committee, which is investigating the operations, funding sources and performance of Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), at a public hearing on Wednesday in Abuja, threatened to invoke its constitutional powers to compel the managing director’s appearance.

    In his ruling, Chairman of the committee, Rep. Mark Obetta (LP-Enugu), said that the hearing was to scrutinise programmes, funding frameworks, intervention strategies and performance records of relevant agencies from 2018 till date.

    According to him, the exercise forms part of the broader oversight responsibility to assess how development finance interventions have been implemented and to determine their measurable impacts on key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

    He, however, frowned at the absence of the BOI Managing Director at the hearing, saying that disrespect for the parliament would not be tolerated.

    Obetta said that the bank not only failed to appear but also failed to submit the required documentation to the committee despite multiple communications and formal invitations.

    “It is the resolve of this committee to issue a firm directive compelling the bank to urgently submit the requested documents and appear at the next hearing.

    “Continued non-compliance could result in the issuance of a warrant of arrest to enforce attendance, in line with the constitutional oversight powers of the House of Representatives,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the institutions represented at the hearing included: National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Nigerian Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) and Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL).

    The lawmakers requested comprehensive details of loans and interventions extended to farmers affected by the ginger blight disease outbreak, which significantly disrupted ginger production in parts of the country.

    The panel also asked NCGC to provide a more detailed documentation outlining its statutory mandate, governance structure, operational model, funding sources and emerging programmes.

    Similarly, the lawmakers directed NIRSAL to make fresh and more detailed submissions covering its interventions within the period under review, including beneficiaries’ data, funding volumes and performance metrics. (NAN).

  • Reza Pahlavi Urges Iranians Abroad to Sustain Global Support Against Islamic Republic  

    Reza Pahlavi Urges Iranians Abroad to Sustain Global Support Against Islamic Republic  

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — Reza Pahlavi, the exiled Crown Prince of Iran, has called on Iranians in the diaspora to maintain the momentum of their global protests amid ongoing military action against the Islamic Republic regime.  

    In an online broadcast on Wednesday, Pahlavi — the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, and Empress Farah Diba — praised the “tireless efforts and passionate presence” of Iranians abroad, noting that their activism, particularly during Global Action Day, has helped shift international opinion and compelled decision-makers to support the Iranian people.  

    He urged Iranians overseas to intensify their efforts by:  

    • Engaging policymakers: Contact representatives and decision-makers in host countries to ensure continued support for the Iranian people until the regime’s collapse.  
    • Defending sovereignty: Emphasise Iran’s territorial integrity and insist on full commitment to the people’s will in shaping the nation’s future system.  
    • Protecting civilians: Demand utmost care to prevent harm to non-combatants.  
    • Amplifying voices: Communicate the clear demands of Iranians through media outlets and civil society organisations.  
    • Mobilising visibly: Participate in grand marches to demonstrate solidarity and articulate the aspirations of the Iranian people.  

    “Fateful moments lie ahead of us — moments that will shape Iran’s future for decades and centuries to come. Redouble your efforts,” Pahlavi declared, invoking the legendary figure of Arash the Archer as a symbol of sacrifice and resilience.  

    Political observers note that Pahlavi is increasingly seen as a potential transitional leader for Iran, as military pressure from Israel and the United States has weakened the Islamic Republic, with several high-ranking officials reportedly assassinated in recent operations.  

    Pahlavi has outlined a political roadmap centred on democracy, secular governance, and human rights, encapsulated in his slogan “Make Iran Great Again (MIGA).”

  • U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert Over Potential Protests in Abuja

    U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert Over Potential Protests in Abuja

    Abuja, Nigeria (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security alert warning of possible protests in Abuja linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

    In a statement released Wednesday, the mission cautioned U.S. citizens in the capital to remain at home, citing a heightened risk of demonstrations.

    “The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that there is a high potential for protests in Abuja today, March 4, 2026, due to the current conflict with Iran,” the statement said. “Previous protests by some groups have resulted in violent clashes with Nigerian security forces.”

    The advisory urged U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, monitor local media, remain alert in public spaces, and review personal security plans. It also recommended carrying identification, keeping phones charged, and varying travel routes to reduce predictability.

    Recent protests have already taken place in cities including Sokoto and Kaduna, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Demonstrators have called on the Nigerian government to respond, describing the incident as an injustice.

  • 2027: Hon. Alex Mascot Leaves APGA, Joins Labour Party, Praises Otti’s Abia Reforms

    2027: Hon. Alex Mascot Leaves APGA, Joins Labour Party, Praises Otti’s Abia Reforms

    ABA-NORTH, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — Honourable Alex Mascot, the lawmaker representing Aba North and Aba South Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has formally defected from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Labour Party.

    Mascot completed his registration at his local ward today, accompanied by supporters. Abia State Governor Alex Otti later received him at the Government House in Umuahia.

    Explaining his decision, Mascot said, “I have watched what Governor Otti is doing in Abia in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. It is magical. When you see a leader performing, you don’t fight him. You join him.”

    He added that pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) had been intense. Still, his priority remained serving the people of Aba: “The answer was clear—here in the Labour Party, under a governor who is actually working.”

    Mascot criticised stalled capital projects under his former party, noting: “When I asked why capital projects are at zero, I was asking for Aba—for our roads, our hospitals, our schools. Now I join a government that is actually building them.”

    With the 2027 general elections approaching, political realignments are becoming increasingly common. Earlier this week, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Analysts expect more shifts in party allegiance in the months ahead.

  • Middle East War: Trump Directs DFC to Provide Risk Insurance for Gulf Maritime Trade

    Middle East War: Trump Directs DFC to Provide Risk Insurance for Gulf Maritime Trade

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA), March 3, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has instructed the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to offer political risk insurance and financial guarantees to safeguard maritime trade, particularly energy shipments, transiting the Gulf region.

    The directive comes amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, now in its fourth day, involving U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran and retaliatory attacks across the Gulf. Iran has threatened to target cargo vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

    In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump announced:

    “Effective immediately, I have ordered the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide, at a very reasonable price, political risk insurance and guarantees for the financial security of all maritime trade, especially energy, travelling through the Gulf. This will be available to all shipping lines. If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. No matter what, the United States will ensure the free flow of energy to the world.”

    Global energy markets have reacted sharply to the escalating tensions. Analysts warn that disruptions to production facilities and refineries following Iranian strikes could drive volatility in international energy prices. However, Trump’s move is viewed by some experts as a stabilising measure that may help contain price fluctuations during the ongoing military campaign, which U.S. officials anticipate could last up to four weeks.

  • US Sanctions Rwandan Defence Force and Senior Officials

    US Sanctions Rwandan Defence Force and Senior Officials

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) and four senior military officers for providing direct operational support to the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The sanctions, announced on March 2, 2026, by the U.S. Department of State and signed by Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, accuse Rwanda of violating commitments under the Washington Accords, an agreement reached between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The statement noted that RDF-backed M23 forces recently captured the Congolese city of Uvira, in breach of the accord.

    The U.S. condemned M23 for committing grave human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, particularly women and children. It stressed that RDF support has enabled the rebels to seize sovereign Congolese territory and continue these atrocities. “The United States stands firm in its support for peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider region,” the statement read. “The Washington Accords mark a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region, setting a new course for peace, cooperation, and prosperity among neighbours. Today’s action demonstrates the U.S. resolve to uphold the Washington Accords. As President Trump has made clear, the United States is prepared to use all available tools to ensure the DRC and Rwanda deliver on the promises of this historic agreement.”

    Formed in 2012 by former members of the National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP), M23 rebels accuse the Congolese government of failing to honour a 2009 peace deal. Predominantly composed of Tutsi fighters, the group has long been suspected of receiving support from Rwanda, though Kigali denies this. Since its resurgence in 2021, M23 has captured significant territory in North Kivu, destabilising the region. While the rebels claim to be defending the rights of Congolese Tutsis and demanding political representation, critics argue their campaign is driven by territorial ambitions and political leverage, worsening humanitarian crises and regional tensions.

  • Tinubu Nominates Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance

    Tinubu Nominates Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Mr. Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance, replacing Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, who has been reassigned to the Ministry of Budget and National Planning as Minister of State. This marks her third portfolio in the current administration.

    The nomination was conveyed to the Senate in a letter from the President, according to a statement issued Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Oyedele, 50, is an economist, accountant, and public policy expert from Ikaram, Akoko, in Ondo State, southwestern Nigeria.

    Before his nomination, he served as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms. A former PwC executive, Oyedele holds academic credentials from Yaba College of Technology, Oxford Brookes University, the London School of Economics, Yale University, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, and Harvard Kennedy School. He is currently a professor at Babcock University and a visiting scholar at Lagos Business School.

  • U.S. Forces Destroy Iran’s Command Facilities, Air Defences, and Launch Sites

    U.S. Forces Destroy Iran’s Command Facilities, Air Defences, and Launch Sites

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced Tuesday that American forces, operating under Operation Epic Fury, have significantly degraded Iran’s military capabilities.

    In a statement, CENTCOM said: “U.S. forces have destroyed Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command-and-control facilities, Iranian air defence systems, missile and drone launch sites, and military airfields during sustained operations. We will continue to take decisive action against imminent threats posed by the Iranian regime.”

    The campaign, launched jointly by the United States and Israel on February 28, 2026, has included targeted strikes against senior Iranian officials, among them Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Employing a “Shock and Awe” strategy, the coalition has focused on precision bombing designed to cripple Iran’s military infrastructure while minimising civilian casualties.

    According to military analysts, the strikes have weakened Iran’s command networks and disrupted its coordination with proxy groups such as Hezbollah and the Popular Mobilisation Forces. The offensive has also destabilised Iran’s leadership, creating uncertainty and diminishing its regional influence.

    Despite these gains, Washington faces the daunting challenge of preventing a wider escalation across the Middle East. Experts warn that the conflict could have severe repercussions for regional stability and global security.

  • Dave Umahi Accuser Deletes Allegation Posts from Social Media

    Dave Umahi Accuser Deletes Allegation Posts from Social Media

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — Mrs. Tracynither Ohiri, who previously accused Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, of indebtedness and sexual harassment, has deleted the posts she made on social media platforms.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on March 2 by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Works. According to the statement, “Within the last 24 hours, Mrs. Ohiri has quietly removed all videos and posts she made against the Honourable Minister of Works from her social media accounts, including TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. A routine review of these platforms clearly shows that the same materials previously used to accuse, ridicule, and defame the Honourable Minister have now been deleted.”

    Nwaze noted that the sudden deletion followed public exposure of inconsistencies in her claims, including ambiguities in timelines and discrepancies in the amounts alleged. “Faced with contradictions in her own narratives, she appears to have chosen deletion over explanation. These actions raise serious questions about the intent behind the allegations she promoted for years,” the statement added.

    The minister’s office reiterated that all allegations remain unproven until substantiated, stressing that the burden of proof rests with the accuser. It emphasized that Senator Umahi remains focused on his mandate to deliver critical infrastructure under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Meanwhile, Newpost Africa reported that over the weekend, Senator Umahi received the Silverbird Extraordinary Personality of the Year Award at a ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

  • Nigeria Government, AFC seal $1.3bn Alumina Refinery investment pact

    Nigeria Government, AFC seal $1.3bn Alumina Refinery investment pact

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report), March 3, 2026 — The Federal Government and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) have signed an investment partnership to jointly fund three projects, including a 1.3 billion dollar Alumina Refinery.

    The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, described the agreement as a landmark deal to transform mining and boost its GDP contribution.

    A statement by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, said the pact was signed on Sunday in Abuja.

    Executive Secretary, Solid Minerals Development Fund, Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi, signed for the government, while Franklin Edochie, AFC Deputy Director and Head of Metals and Mining, signed for the corporation.

    Other projects include a comprehensive geoscience mapping exercise and the creation of an investment vehicle to advance the initiatives.

    The alumina refinery, valued at 1.3 billion dollars, will process one million tonnes of bauxite annually.

    “The facility is designed for about 20 years at 95 per cent utilisation, with total alumina output projected at 19 million tonnes,” Alake said.

    He said the project would be Nigeria’s largest private mining investment and a landmark foreign direct investment, contributing 1.2 billion dollars to GDP yearly.

    Alake added that it would generate over 25 billion dollars for the economy across its lifecycle and eight billion dollars in foreign exchange earnings.

    He commended AFC and SMDF for aligning with the ministry’s seven-point agenda through the partnership.

    Alake said reforms had secured the investment climate, modernised regulations and established a world-class mineral licensing regime attracting serious private capital. “I have granted all necessary approvals to fast-track the AFC–SMDF investments.

    “I have directed relevant agencies to ensure seamless processing and grant of all permits, titles and regulatory clearances for timely execution,” he said.

    Initial feasibility studies by AFC and SMDF confirmed the project’s commercial viability and competitiveness.

    The initiative supports the ministry’s goal of generating reliable mineral data, de-risking exploration and unlocking Nigeria’s mineral potential. 

    AFC and SMDF also agreed to establish a joint strategic investment vehicle to accelerate development of identified exploration assets nationwide.

    The vehicle will drive rapid exploration, development and production on selected leases following a successful exploration campaign.