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Category: Politics

  • Trump Warns Iran Against Retaliation After Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei

    Trump Warns Iran Against Retaliation After Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran following its vow to launch unprecedented strikes in response to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

    Khamenei, who led Iran since 1989, was killed on the first day of coordinated U.S. and Israeli military operations in the Persian Gulf, according to Trump’s announcement on February 29, 2026. He was 86 years old.

    In a post on Truth Social dated March 1, Trump wrote:

    “Iran just stated that they are going to hit very hard today, harder than they have ever hit before. THEY BETTER NOT DO THAT, HOWEVER, BECAUSE IF THEY DO, WE WILL HIT THEM WITH A FORCE THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE!”

    Trump described Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history” while confirming his death.

    Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have declared a 40-day mourning period and announced a seven-day national holiday in honor of the late leader.

    The situation remains tense, with fears of escalation across the region. Updates will follow as developments unfold.

  • Nigeria Building Roads Designed to Last 100 Years, Umahi Praises Tinubu’s Southeast Infrastructure

    Nigeria Building Roads Designed to Last 100 Years, Umahi Praises Tinubu’s Southeast Infrastructure

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has announced that the roads currently being constructed under the administration of President Bola Tinubu are designed to last for up to 100 years. Umahi made this statement on February 28, 2060, during an inspection of the ongoing 107-kilometre Onitsha–Awka–Enugu Expressway.

    Speaking at the project site, Umahi explained:
    “The design of the project involves a first binder, a second binder, and a wearing course. If you do the primer, everything is 94,000 per square meter. We are constructing concrete roads that will last the next 100 years. If concrete can last 100 years, why should I use asphalt?”

    The project, being executed under the Federal Government’s tax-credit scheme in partnership with MTN Nigeria, was initially awarded for ₦202 billion. Umahi emphasised that the shift from asphalt to concrete in road construction is a deliberate policy aimed at durability and long-term economic growth.

    He expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of work being carried out by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), describing the expressway as President Tinubu’s “legacy project” in the Southeast.  “The quality of what the President is doing will remain a legacy. I urge the people of the Southeast to support the President’s Renewed Hope agenda. Past governments neglected this road, but President Tinubu has shown the audacity to correct this abnormal situation,” Umahi said.

    According to the minister, RCC has already completed 20 kilometres of concrete pavement, with 13 kilometres remaining. The full 107-kilometre project includes reinforced concrete pavement, solar-powered streetlights, CCTV surveillance, speed monitoring systems, and security patrol vans.  “Nobody guarantees asphalt to last more than 15 years in this country, but with concrete roads under President Tinubu, we guarantee durability for up to 100 years,” he added.

    Umahi further highlighted other ongoing concrete road projects across the country, including the East–West Road, Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, Trans-Saharan route, and Sokoto–Badagry corridor. He directed that the RCC/MTN Cash Credit Project be executed with inner and outer shoulders, reinforced laterals, and raised to the existing asphalt level.

    While acknowledging that the project may miss its April completion deadline, Umahi stressed the importance of protecting the road from rainfall before final delivery. He urged residents of the Southeast to appreciate the administration’s efforts:  “Before now, this road was terrible, and people complained on social media. Now that it is being fixed, I encourage you to thank the President and be grateful to God. If you appreciate what has been done, more will follow. The Southeast is on the rise.”

  • Nigeria Issues Advisory to Citizens in Iran and Gulf States  

    Nigeria Issues Advisory to Citizens in Iran and Gulf States  

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) – The Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has issued a security advisory to Nigerian citizens residing in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries following a reported preemptive strike in Iran by the United States and Israel.  

    In a statement released on Saturday, 28 February 2026, under reference No. MFA/PR/2026/21 and signed by Ministry Spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Federal Government emphasised that it is closely monitoring the volatile situation in the Middle East. The statement noted that military actions by Israel and the United States against Iranian targets, as well as retaliatory strikes by Iran on Gulf states, have heightened regional tensions.  

    Key Advisory Points for Citizens  

    The Ministry urged Nigerian citizens in Iran and Gulf countries—including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia—to take the following precautions:  

    • Maintain Vigilance: Remain alert and avoid areas near military, government, or strategic installations.  
    • Restrict Movement:  Limit non-essential travel and avoid large gatherings or public demonstrations.  
    • Follow Local Directives: Comply strictly with instructions issued by local authorities and cooperate with law enforcement.  
    • Stay Informed:  Rely on credible international and local news outlets for updates, and avoid misinformation.  
    • Contact Nigerian Embassies: Establish communication with Nigerian diplomatic missions in affected countries for consular assistance.  

    The Ministry assured that it will continue to assess developments and provide updates as necessary. It reaffirmed that the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remain a top priority of the Federal Government.  

    Nigeria called on all parties involved in the conflict to de-escalate tensions and return to negotiations in the interest of global peace and coexistence. 

  • Uzodimma Hosts Progressive Speakers’ Forum, Reaffirms Commitment to APC Unity

    Uzodimma Hosts Progressive Speakers’ Forum, Reaffirms Commitment to APC Unity

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State on Thursday hosted members of the Progressive Speakers’ Forum during a courtesy visit in Abuja. The meeting was part of ongoing efforts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to strengthen internal mechanisms ahead of its National Convention.

    In a statement, Governor Uzodimma said the engagement “provided a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives on our shared objectives and reaffirm our collective commitment to unity, discipline, and strategic coordination during this important period of preparation.”

    He described the discussions as “engaging and forward-looking,” highlighting the experience and dedication within the Forum. The governor encouraged members to remain steadfast in their legislative responsibilities, with a sustained focus on good governance and service delivery.

    The visit followed Uzodimma’s earlier announcement of successful ward and local government congresses in Imo State and other APC states. He emphasized that the gains from those exercises would be consolidated through the forthcoming state, zonal, and national congresses of the APC, particularly in light of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s revised timetable for the 2027 elections.

  • Peter Mbah Celebrates 15-Year-Old Guinness World Record Holder

    Peter Mbah Celebrates 15-Year-Old Guinness World Record Holder

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State has commended 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, an indigene of the state, for his remarkable achievements as an artist and Guinness World Record holder.

    Kanyeyachukwu, who leads the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation, met with the governor on February 26 at the Government House in Enugu. Governor Mbah praised the teenager for creating the world’s largest art canvas, describing it as “a masterpiece designed to inspire hope and deepen awareness about autism.”

    The governor also lauded Kanyeyachukwu’s ambition to break another record through a symbolic bicycle journey from Enugu to Lagos to mark World Autism Day, aimed at amplifying advocacy for inclusion.

    Speaking on the young artist’s determination, Governor Mbah said, “His story of courage reminds us that limitations exist only where imagination ends. Here in Enugu, we remain committed to building a society where every child—regardless of ability—can dream, create, and thrive.”

  • CSO Declares 2026 FCT Elections Credible

    CSO Declares 2026 FCT Elections Credible

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): The Young People’s Initiative for Credible Leadership (YPICL) has described the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) elections as credible.

    The Executive Director, Mr Abdulwahab Ekekhide, said on Friday that the elections reflected the true will of the people.

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Ekekhide commended all stakeholders and emphasised that the Area Council elections served as a litmus test for the 2027 general elections, asserting optimism that voters chose leaders they trusted.

    He emphasised that Nigeria’s democracy was still evolving, and it was the duty of all stakeholders, especially young leaders, to protect and strengthen the democratic process.

    “From our observation with other civil society partners and independent monitors, the elections were peaceful, free, fair, transparent, and credible, with the people’s will prevailing,” he said.

    Ekekhide lauded the re-election of Mr Christopher Maikalangu as Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), attributing his victory to strong grassroots connection and people-oriented leadership.

    He said that Maikalangu’s deep connection to the grassroots had previously earned him victory in 2022 when he defeated the ruling party, and that it continued to endear him to voters across the council.

    However, Ekekhide decried low voter turnout in the AMAC elections, blaming it on opposition leaders who often raised alarms over alleged malpractices, discouraging citizens from participating.

    He urged opposition parties to trust the electoral process and used their influence to encourage, rather than dissuade, voter participation, while tasking INEC to create more awareness ahead of future elections.

  • Nwifuru Urges Federal Government to Establish Additional Medical Facility in Ebonyi State

    Nwifuru Urges Federal Government to Establish Additional Medical Facility in Ebonyi State

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA (NPA): Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has called on the Federal Government to establish an additional federal medical centre in the state.

    Speaking on February 26, 2026, at the new Government House in Abakaliki during a working visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom S. (mni), and her team, Nwifuru emphasized that the existing Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki is overstretched, as it serves not only Ebonyi but the wider South East region. He stressed the need for another facility to meet the growing healthcare demands of the population.

    According to a statement from the governor, the visit also featured the flag-off of cancer screening for 1,000 participants under the National Cancer Society’s South East Zonal Programme, as well as the foundation-laying ceremony for a new Oncology Centre. Nwifuru described these initiatives as “critical steps in strengthening access to specialized healthcare services for our people.”

    He further urged the Federal Government to consider upgrades and expansion of the Alex Ekwueme Teaching Hospital to enhance its capacity and efficiency.

    Governor Nwifuru’s administration is guided by the Ebonyi State People’s Charter of Needs, a governance framework that prioritizes citizen input over political patronage. The Charter focuses on social welfare and poverty reduction, infrastructure development, education and healthcare improvements, and transparency in justice sector reforms. Framed as a “Divine Mandate Consolidation and Continuity” strategy, it seeks to build on past governance while setting new standards for inclusive development, positioning Ebonyi State as a model for participatory governance in Nigeria.

  • Troops overrun ESN/IPOB hideout in Anambra Mother Valley

    Troops overrun ESN/IPOB hideout in Anambra Mother Valley

    ANAMBRA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): Joint troops under Operation UDO KA have overrun the suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN)/IPOB supreme headquarters in Mother Valley in Nkwere area of Anambra, following a coordinated ground assault.

    A credible Army Headquarters source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the final assault commenced at about 7 a.m. on Feb. 26, involving personnel of the military, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    He said the troops advanced on foot for about three hours through difficult and restricted terrain to gain entry into the valley.

    He added that the joint force met heavy resistance from ESN/IPOB elements who employed locally-made Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and intense gunfire.

    He explained that “the troops, however, displayed resilience and professionalism, overwhelmed the fighters and broke through their defensive positions.

    “The force successfully dominated the valley, neutralising one suspected IPOB member, while several others were believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds.

    “Items recovered during the operation included two pump-action guns, one locally-fabricated firearm, one tear gas gun and seven gas cylinders.

    “Others were one electric kettle, one Biafran flag, one United States flag and one Israeli flag.”

    The source revealed that troops also destroyed life-support structures at the camp, including solar panels and a Mikano generator.

    He added that an ambush team also apprehended two suspected IPOB members during the operation.

    “One suspect was apprehended while allegedly attempting to plant an IED, while the other was arrested for allegedly spying on troop movement into the valley.

    “Both suspects are currently in the custody of the 34 Military Intelligence and are undergoing profiling and further investigation.

    “Troops also recovered one Kia saloon car and one black Toyota Sequoia SUV from a parking area within another sector of the valley.

    “Efforts were ongoing to move the vehicles to the Forward Operating Base in Orsu,” he added.

  • Presidency Cautions Opposition Against Disinformation on Electoral Act

    Presidency Cautions Opposition Against Disinformation on Electoral Act

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): The Presidency on Thursday cautioned opposition parties against what it described as disinformation on the amended Electoral Act 2026 and the APC-led Federal Government.

    Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement titled ” Opposition parties should stop constant lamentation and unwarranted outrage against the Electoral Act and the APC government”.

    Onanuga stated that some opposition figures, including members of the ADC and NNPP, made allegations against President Bola Tinubu and the APC-led Federal Government.

    He described the claims as misleading and aimed at discrediting the National Assembly and the administration.

    According to him, the amended law provides for real-time transmission of results, with Form EC8A serving as a backup in the event of network failure.

    “The 2026 Electoral Act does not prohibit real-time transmission. It simply stipulates that if transmission fails, the result recorded on Form EC8A shall be deemed valid,” he said.

    He added that the IReV portal was not a collation centre but a platform for uploading results for public viewing.

    The presidency also defended the inclusion of direct primaries and consensus options for selecting party candidates.

    He said the removal of delegate-based primaries would strengthen internal democracy and return ownership of parties to members.

    “The opposition’s claim that the National Assembly ignored Nigerians’ wishes is false,” he said.

    According to him, the National Assembly engaged stakeholders and experts over two years before passing the amendment.

    He dismissed allegations that the administration was pursuing a one-party state.

    “Nigeria remains a vibrant multi-party democracy with more than a dozen registered parties,” Onanuga said.

    He urged the opposition parties to desist from what he termed constant lamentation and unwarranted outrage over the new law. The presidential aide stressed that the amended Act strengthens the electoral framework and closes loopholes in the repealed legislation.

  • UPDATED: Israel and U.S. Launch Strikes on Iran, Trump Confirms

    UPDATED: Israel and U.S. Launch Strikes on Iran, Trump Confirms

    JERUSALEM (NPA) — The Israeli military announced Saturday that it has carried out pre-emptive strikes against Iran, an operation confirmed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The move marks a significant escalation in regional tensions.

    The strikes follow weeks of diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran aimed at resolving disputes over Iran’s nuclear enrichment program and its development of ballistic missiles. Negotiations sought to limit Iran’s nuclear activities and curb missile capabilities but ended without agreement.

    According to the West Asia News Agency (WANA), loud explosions were reported in Tehran, with smoke rising over central districts. Early reports suggested the blasts may have been caused by missile strikes, with impacts noted near University Street and the Jomhouri district.

    Several media outlets also reported that Israel’s Defense Minister announced the operation, describing it as a preemptive measure to eliminate threats against the country.

    Analysts warn that retaliatory missile and drone attacks against Israel could follow. There are also expectations that Iran may respond by targeting Israeli territory and U.S. military bases in the region.

    Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has declared a nationwide state of emergency, urging citizens to follow Home Front Command instructions and remain in protected areas.

    As of now, Iranian officials have not issued any public statements regarding the incident.

    Further updates are expected as the situation develops.