New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • AU Commission Chair meets UN envoy on Sudan crisis

    AU Commission Chair meets UN envoy on Sudan crisis

    ADDIS ABABA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, today received H.E. Pekka Haavisto Kansanedustaja, Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Sudan.

    Youssouf congratulated Mr Haavisto on his appointment and reaffirmed the AU’s readiness to work closely with the United Nations in advancing a coordinated response to the crisis. He emphasised the AU’s sustained engagement in Sudan, stressing that any political process must be Sudanese-owned and inclusive.

    Mr Haavisto commended the AU’s leadership in mediation efforts and pledged full cooperation. 

    Both leaders underscored the urgency of an immediate ceasefire as a pathway to a credible political process, and the importance of aligning all mediation initiatives under AU leadership.

    They called on all parties to de-escalate tensions and engage in constructive, inclusive dialogue to pave the way for a return to constitutional order. They also expressed hope that the forthcoming Berlin conference would deliver practical and tangible outcomes.

  • APC Chairman condemns Jos North attack, says Tinubu fighting lawlessness

    APC Chairman condemns Jos North attack, says Tinubu fighting lawlessness

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, has condemned in the strongest terms the tragic attack on residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area.

    In a statement issued on Monday, Yilwatda described the incident as a “barbaric act of violence” that claimed innocent lives and left families in grief. Reports confirmed that the attack prompted a 48-hour curfew in Jos North, with police verifying multiple deaths and injuries.

    “My heartfelt condolences go to the families who have lost loved ones in this painful incident,” the statement read. “No words can truly heal the grief and trauma caused by such a wicked act, but I pray that God grants the bereaved families strength and comfort.”

    Yilwatda expressed solidarity with the Angwan Rukuba community and all residents of Jos North, assuring them of his prayers and support. He emphasised that the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to tackling banditry, terrorism, and all forms of criminality nationwide.

    He noted that security agencies are being reinforced and every necessary step is being taken to restore peace, protect lives, and bring perpetrators to justice.

    The APC Chairman urged Nigerians to remain united, vigilant, and prayerful, while calling on God to comfort the people of Angwan Rukuba and restore lasting peace and harmony across the country.

  • Netanyahu restores Cardinal Pierbattista’s access to Holy Sepulchre in the face of Iranian missile threats

    Netanyahu restores Cardinal Pierbattista’s access to Holy Sepulchre in the face of Iranian missile threats

    MIDDLE EAST, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed authorities to grant Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, following concerns over Iranian missile attacks that had temporarily restricted entry.

    The Latin Patriarch was earlier prevented from holding mass at the revered Christian site, as security agencies sought to protect worshippers from ongoing threats. Netanyahu clarified on Sunday that Iran has repeatedly targeted holy sites of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles in recent days. In one incident, missile fragments landed just meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

    He explained that the temporary suspension of worship was intended to safeguard lives, with Israel asking members of all faiths to abstain from visiting holy sites in the Old City until the danger subsided. “Today, out of special concern for his safety, Cardinal Pizzaballa was asked to refrain from holding mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Even though I understand this concern, as soon as I learned about the incident with Cardinal Pizzaballa, I instructed the authorities to enable the Patriarch to hold services as he wishes,” Netanyahu stated.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of Jerusalem’s holy places while ensuring the safety of worshippers, stressing that measures taken were precautionary and temporary.

  • Tinubu donates entire salary from day one to support armed forces heroes

    Tinubu donates entire salary from day one to support armed forces heroes

    ABUJA, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that he will forgo all salaries earned since assuming office, directing the Accountant‑General of the Federation to establish a special account dedicated to members of the armed forces. The fund will provide direct support to those serving on the frontlines, soldiers wounded in action, and families of personnel who have paid the ultimate price in defence of Nigeria.

    The President announced this in the spirit of his 74th birthday celebrations, describing the gesture not as charity but as a solemn duty. According to his statement on Sunday, all salaries accrued since his inauguration will serve as seed funding for the account, complementing existing insurance and welfare schemes for military personnel. Tinubu emphasised that the initiative will specifically assist those who have lost limbs, as well as widows, widowers, and children of fallen heroes.

    Calling on state governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector, friends, and well‑wishers to contribute, Tinubu urged collective responsibility in honouring the sacrifices of Nigeria’s defenders. He stressed that details of the account will be made public soon, ensuring transparency and encouraging broad participation.

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Tinubu said: “We shall never forget those who stand in harm’s way for the peace of our nation, nor the sacrifices borne by their families.” He added that the initiative reflects his government’s resolve to strengthen morale within the armed forces and to demonstrate that their service is valued at the highest level.

  • Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru salutes Tinubu at 74, praises leadership and vision

    Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru salutes Tinubu at 74, praises leadership and vision

    ABUJA, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, Governor of Ebonyi State, southeastern Nigeria, has joined millions of Nigerians and well‑wishers worldwide in celebrating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 74th birthday. In a statement released on Sunday, Nwifuru said it was with humility and joy that he congratulated the President, describing the occasion as a milestone that reflects a life of remarkable service and dedication to Nigeria.

    The governor showered praises on Tinubu’s sterling leadership qualities, noting that his resilience, vision, and reform‑driven policies have been instrumental in driving progress across multiple sectors. “Mr President, your resilience, leadership acumen, policies, and programs have been instrumental in driving the nation’s progress across all sectors. As a state, we shall continue to acknowledge your love and the impact you have made, especially in the areas of infrastructure and economic development,” the statement read in part.

    Nwifuru emphasised that Tinubu’s leadership has inspired confidence not only in government institutions but also among ordinary Nigerians who continue to rally behind his Renewed Hope agenda. He highlighted the President’s ability to confront challenges head‑on, stressing that such courage has laid the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous nation.

    On behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi State, Nwifuru prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, strength, and good health for the President as he pilots the affairs of the country. He reaffirmed Ebonyi’s support for Tinubu’s administration, pledging that the state would remain a committed partner in the collective effort to build a resilient and united Nigeria.

  • China–South Africa forum sparks optimism as zero‑tariff policy boosts trade

    China–South Africa forum sparks optimism as zero‑tariff policy boosts trade

    ABUJA, 29 March 2026 (NPA) — A China–South Africa trade forum held in Cape Town on Friday has raised confidence in deeper bilateral cooperation following China’s zero‑tariff measures for 53 African countries.

    Jointly organised by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the forum drew over 350 political and business representatives, including 70 Chinese and 110 South African executives. Talks centred on agriculture, manufacturing, energy, mining, finance, automobiles, and logistics.

    South Africa’s Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams said the zero‑tariff policy would allow African products duty‑free access to China, attracting more investment. She noted that China has long been South Africa’s largest trading partner, while South Africa remains China’s top partner on the continent. “It’s a win‑win situation,” she said.

    Russel Brueton of Wesgro stressed that China will remain a key market for local exporters, adding that easier trade will drive inclusive growth and job creation. He welcomed the policy as a major opportunity for South African products to reach new buyers.

    Chinese companies also expressed optimism. Wang Jian of Aberdare Cable said zero‑tariff measures would cut costs and stabilise raw material supply. Shenzhen Skyworth’s Chairman Fan Ruiwu highlighted opportunities in photovoltaics, energy storage, and new energy vehicles, predicting stronger two‑way investment.

    Lu Ping of Hainan Free Trade Zone Dehang Group said the policy framework offers “early harvest” gains, linking South Africa’s speciality industries with China’s free trade port advantages. Cultural and tourism exchanges are also expected to benefit, with Beijing Green and Blue Culture Media’s Xiao Meng calling the move a platform for deeper cooperation.

  • Tinubu pens emotional letter on 74th birthday, says light at end the of tunnel

    Tinubu pens emotional letter on 74th birthday, says light at end the of tunnel

    ABUJA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, today, has penned a heartfelt letter to Nigerians as he marked his 74th birthday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and for the outpouring of love, prayers, and solidarity from citizens across the nation.

    The President extended special thanks to his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and those who took out newspaper space or paid for radio and television airtime to celebrate him. He noted that this year’s birthday would be observed in a low‑key manner, in recognition of the economic challenges facing the country amid ongoing reforms and global crises.

    Tinubu assured Nigerians that despite temporary pains, there is light at the end of the tunnel. He credited the progress achieved so far to the collective efforts of his Renewed Hope team and the wider government, stressing, “We achieved the gains together.”

    “As we march towards the third anniversary of our administration, it is my deepest conviction that we shall succeed in building a brighter future for our citizens and generations to come,” the President wrote. 

    He urged Nigerians to continue working together to build a stronger, prosperous, and resilient nation that will stand as the pride of Africa.

  • German embassy, NAWOJ push for women’s empowerment in journalism

    German embassy, NAWOJ push for women’s empowerment in journalism

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — The German Embassy in Nigeria and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) have joined forces to champion women’s empowerment in journalism, describing it as vital for building an inclusive and resilient democracy.

    Speaking at a one‑day capacity‑building workshop in Abuja, Mr Felix Haala, Head of Press and Political Counsellor at the German Embassy, said empowering women journalists strengthens democratic governance and social change. The workshop, themed “Empowering Women Journalists for Democratic Governance and Social Change,” was organised by NAWOJ’s FCT Chapter in partnership with the Embassy as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026.

    Haala commended Nigeria’s relatively free media environment, stressing that democracy cannot thrive without press freedom. He noted that amplifying women’s voices benefits society at large, while expressing concern over low female representation in parliament. “Empowering women journalists is not only a matter of equality and justice, but also essential for a strong, inclusive and resilient democracy,” he said.

    NAWOJ National President Hajia Aisha Ibrahim emphasised that empowering women journalists yields stronger democratic voices, improved accountability, and more inclusive communities. FCT Chairperson Mrs Bassey Ita‑Ikpang highlighted the training’s focus on investigative reporting, ethical journalism, gender‑sensitive storytelling, and leadership. NUJ FCT Chairman Ms Grace Ike, represented by Treasurer Sandra Chukwugekwu, described the workshop as timely, noting that women journalists play critical roles in shaping narratives and holding leaders accountable despite persistent challenges.

  • Peter Mbah hails Tinubu as visionary leader at 74

    Peter Mbah hails Tinubu as visionary leader at 74

    NIGERIA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 74th birthday, describing him as a remarkable statesman, patriot, and visionary leader.

    In a statement on Sunday, Mbah said that Tinubu’s life journey reflects an enduring dedication to Nigeria’s development and a bold commitment to reform, inclusivity, and national renewal. He praised Tinubu’s courage in adversity, noting his role in the pro-democracy struggle (a reference to the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, era) and his resilience in public office.

    “Today, we celebrate not just you, but what you have done for us — how you have deftly pulled our nation’s economy from the precipice,” the statement read. 

    Mbah commended Tinubu’s reforms as difficult but necessary steps toward building a more resilient and competitive economy, stressing that history often vindicates leaders who confront structural challenges.

    The governor of the southeastern Nigeria state added that Nigerians owe the President gratitude for the sacrifices he has made in steering the country through a critical phase. He prayed for Tinubu’s continued wisdom and strength, urging citizens to rally behind his vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation.

  • Rabiu Kwankwanso moves to ADC on Monday

    Rabiu Kwankwanso moves to ADC on Monday

    NIGERIA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — The Kwankwasiyya Movement has formally announced that its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will defect from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In a statement issued on Saturday by the movement’s spokesperson, Dr Habibu Mohammed, the group confirmed that Kwankwaso will complete his registration with ADC on Monday, 30 March 2026, at his residence in Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Kano State, Nigeria’s northwest.

    The statement explained that the decision is part of a wider opposition realignment ahead of the 2027 elections. Kwankwasiyya members across Nigeria have been directed to also join ADC, signalling a mass shift of grassroots supporters into the party. The move is expected to strengthen ADC’s position as a platform for opposition coordination.  

    Kwankwaso’s defection follows a high‑profile meeting with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in Abuja, which has fuelled speculation about a broader alliance among opposition leaders. Political observers see this as a strategic step to consolidate forces against the ruling APC, which has recently gained more state governors in preparation for the next electoral cycle.  

    The ADC leadership is expected to formally welcome Kwankwaso during the registration event in Kano. The Kwankwasiyya Movement described the development as a turning point, urging members to embrace the new direction. The statement concluded by stressing that the move represents a commitment to building a stronger opposition front capable of challenging for power in 2027. 

    Yesterday, Newpost Africa reported that Rabiu Kwankwaso met with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as part of the move to the ADC, which has now become clearer.