New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • UN Chief appoints envoy to lead Middle East peace efforts, says war out of control

    UN Chief appoints envoy to lead Middle East peace efforts, says war out of control

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the escalating Gulf war is “out of control”, urging all sides to step back and allow diplomacy to prevail, as he announced the appointment of a senior envoy to spearhead peace efforts.

    Speaking outside the UN Security Council in New York, Mr Guterres said the conflict had spiralled far beyond expectations. “The world is staring down the barrel of a wider war, a rising tide of human suffering, and a deeper global economic shock,” he declared.

    He confirmed the appointment of veteran diplomat Jean Arnault as his Personal Envoy to lead UN efforts, focusing on mediation and assessing the conflict’s far-reaching impacts, particularly on energy markets reliant on the Strait of Hormuz.

    Mr Guterres urged the United States and Israel to end the war and called on Iran to halt attacks on neighbours. He stressed that freedom of navigation through the Strait must be respected, warning that disruption is choking vital supplies of oil, gas, and fertiliser.

    Highlighting the humanitarian toll, he said civilians across the region were “enduring serious harm and living under profound insecurity”. He called on Hezbollah to stop attacks on Israel and on Israel to cease strikes hitting civilians the hardest.

    The Secretary-General also cautioned against global fallout, noting markets are “in turmoil” and humanitarian operations are constrained. He warned that fertiliser shortages threaten food security and soaring energy prices risk fuelling inflation and poverty worldwide.

    Despite mounting tensions, Mr Guterres insisted there remains a path forward: “Diplomacy must prevail. War is not the answer… Full respect of international law is the way out.”

  • Kwara State launches $250,000 community revolving fund for small businesses

    Kwara State launches $250,000 community revolving fund for small businesses

    NIGERIA (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — The Kwara State Government, in Nigeria’s North Central region, has empowered clusters of small businesses across local communities with a total of $250,000 (₦350 million) in interest-free loans under its new Community Revolving Fund (CRF).

    Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, in a statement on 25 March, described the initiative as one of the many fruits of the state’s partnership with the World Bank through the Kwara Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (Kwara ACReSAL) project. He explained that the World Bank-supported scheme is designed to provide women, youth, farmers, and cooperatives with access to resources that will enable them to create wealth, generate employment, and uplift households.

    The government emphasised that the CRF is a practical step towards reducing poverty, a central focus of the present administration. Beneficiaries were drawn from community interest groups, each receiving $25,000 to strengthen their enterprises.

    Governor Abdulrazaq expressed gratitude to the World Bank and the ACReSAL project team, congratulating the pioneer beneficiaries. He urged them to use the funds judiciously and ensure prompt repayment so that other groups can also benefit. “This initiative is about shared prosperity,” he said, stressing that repayment will guarantee continuity and wider impact across Kwara communities.

  • Atiku meets Kwankwaso: What we know — and what remains unclear

    Atiku meets Kwankwaso: What we know — and what remains unclear

    POLITICS (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, now a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), met today with Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

    In a statement released on Saturday, Atiku confirmed that he and Kwankwaso held a robust discussion on the state of the nation. 

    What we know is that the two heavyweight opposition leaders focused on strategy ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections. Their talks reportedly touched on possible alliances, party positioning, and how best to counter the ruling party’s dominance, particularly as more state governors continue to defect to the APC. They also explored joint platforms and ways to consolidate their political bases to strengthen opposition momentum.

    What remains unclear is whether the meeting delved into sensitive issues such as who should emerge as the ADC’s presidential flagbearer, who might be considered for the vice-presidential slot, and whether power should remain in the South or return to the North in 2027. These questions loom large, especially given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reputation as a shrewd political strategist who never stops spreading his political tentacles, tripling alliances. While the ruling party’s grip will be tested in the next election, the opposition has vowed to mount a formidable challenge and emerge victorious.

  • Adeleke presents staff of office to Akire of Ikireland, calls for support beyond 2026

    Adeleke presents staff of office to Akire of Ikireland, calls for support beyond 2026

    OSHOGBO, NIGERIA (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has formally presented the staff of office to the Akire of Ikireland, His Royal Majesty Oba Olayiwola Tajudeen Akinola, Akintula I, in line with the 2025 Appeal Court judgement that resolved the protracted chieftaincy dispute. The ceremony, held in Ikire, was hailed as a milestone for peace and continuity, confirming the rightful ruling house and ending years of contention over the stool.

    In his remarks, Adeleke emphasised that the installation was conducted strictly in accordance with due process and the rule of law. He urged the new monarch to serve as a father to all, fostering unity, peace, and development. Declaring himself an adopted son of Ikire, the Governor reiterated his commitment to the town’s progress and called on residents to support his administration beyond 2026.

    Analysts note that transformative achievements, particularly in healthcare, have defined Adeleke’s first term. His government has upgraded more than 200 primary healthcare centres with modern facilities and renewable energy, while the Imole Surgical and Medical Outreach has provided free surgeries and treatments to over 18,000 residents for conditions ranging from cataracts and hernia to hypertension and diabetes. This sweeping healthcare revolution has been described as one of the most impactful in Osun’s history, directly improving lives and earning Adeleke widespread acclaim.

    Beyond healthcare, his administration has also constructed 20 kilometres of new roads, implemented rural electrification projects, disbursed N518 million to 40 communities for local development, and provided borehole water across all 333 wards of the state. These initiatives reflect a people-centred governance style that has delivered tangible improvements in everyday life, strengthening Adeleke’s case as he seeks a second term in office.

  • Ghana and Zimbabwe hold inaugural PJCC session in Accra

    Ghana and Zimbabwe hold inaugural PJCC session in Accra

    AFRICA (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Ghana and Zimbabwe have launched the inaugural session of the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC), marking a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. The meeting took place in Accra on Friday, 27 March 2026.

    Delivering her remarks, Ambassador Khadija Iddrisu, Chief Director of Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the longstanding historical, political, and cultural ties between the two countries. She noted that Ghana and Zimbabwe share a common heritage rooted in the struggle for independence and Pan-African solidarity. According to her, the PJCC provides a timely platform to transform historical goodwill into tangible, results-oriented partnerships.

    Ambassador Iddrisu further revealed that both countries have identified priority areas for cooperation, including trade and investment, agriculture, energy, mining, education, health, tourism, and governance. She emphasised the need to consolidate these into high-impact programmes that would drive economic growth, industrial development, and job creation.

    On his part, Ambassador Albert Ranganai Chimbindi, Permanent Secretary of Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, expressed appreciation for Ghana’s warm hospitality and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. He stressed that the success of the PJCC should be measured not by the number of agreements signed but by the tangible impact on the lives of citizens in both countries.

    Both sides reiterated the importance of translating political will into actionable programmes, with a strong focus on implementation, monitoring, and evaluation to guide future cooperation.

  • Mbah applauds APC’s new NWC, poised for 2027 victory

    Mbah applauds APC’s new NWC, poised for 2027 victory

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Governor of Enugu State in south-eastern Nigeria, has described the newly elected members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as “round pegs in round holes.”

    In a statement issued on Saturday, Mbah said their emergence reflects the deep confidence placed in their ability to provide purposeful leadership, strengthen party structures, and guide the APC towards even greater achievements, including a resounding victory in the 2027 general elections.

    The newly elected NWC comprises Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as National Chairman, Ali Bukar Dalori as Deputy National Chairman (North), Dr Benjamin Obi Nwoye as Deputy National Chairman (South), Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru as National Secretary, AbdulKarim Abubakar Kana as Deputy National Secretary, Murtala Aliyu Kankia as National Legal Adviser, Uguru Mathew Ofoke as National Treasurer, Bashir Gumel as National Financial Secretary, Osita Izunaso as National Organising Secretary, Felix Morka as National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Masari as National Welfare Secretary, Dr Betta Edu as National Women Leader, Dayo Israel as National Youth Leader, and Tolu Bankole as National Disability Leader. Collectively, they will steer the party’s affairs for the next four years.

    Mbah also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising his sterling leadership qualities, inclusive governance philosophy, and unmatched political experience. He noted that these attributes were evident in the peace, orderliness, and sense of brotherhood that characterised the convention — a demonstration of what disciplined leadership can achieve.

    “With the conduct of this rancour-free convention, our party has once again set a benchmark for democratic practice in Nigeria. Democracy is about the people, and once again, we have demonstrated that truth,” the statement concluded.

  • APC re-elects Yilwatda as National Chairman

    APC re-elects Yilwatda as National Chairman

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — 28 March 2026 — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has re-elected Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as its National Chairman.

    At its 8th National Convention held in Abuja on Friday, the party also returned all members of its National Working Committee (NWC) through consensus and an affirmative voice vote.

    According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the newly elected NWC members were immediately sworn in and will oversee the party’s affairs for the next four years.

    Key members include Deputy National Chairman (North) Ali Dalori, Deputy National Chairman (South) Emma Eneukwu, National Secretary Surajudeen Basiru, National Financial Secretary Alhaji Bashir Gumel, and National Legal Adviser Murtala Kankia, among others.

    In his acceptance speech, Yilwatda pledged that the NWC would work to strengthen the APC and rebuild Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

    “Our mission is clear: together, we will build a Pan-African and Pan-Nigerian party that is stronger, transparent, inclusive, disciplined, and united. We will deepen internal democracy, strengthen our structures, expand our reach, and empower our youth because they are not just the future, but an important part of today,” he said.

    Yilwatda commended President Tinubu for his support and leadership, noting that the APC’s future is tied to Nigeria’s progress under the administration’s renewed hope agenda. He highlighted ongoing economic reforms, infrastructure investments, social protection programs, and digital innovation as signs of positive change.

    “I accept this responsibility with a full understanding of the expectations of our people and the urgency of this moment. Leadership is not a crown but a burden of trust, and we will carry it with dedication,” he added.

    Yilwatda assured party members of an open-door administration and expressed confidence that the APC would emerge victorious in the 2027 general election.

    (NAN)

  • INEC extends deadline for submission of party membership registers

    INEC extends deadline for submission of party membership registers

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — 28 March 2026 — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers ahead of the 2027 general election.

    The announcement was made in Abuja on Friday by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna.

    Haruna explained that the original deadline of April 21 has now been shifted to May 10, but not later than 21 days before each party’s primary election. He noted that the adjustment followed a meeting between INEC and political parties held on Tuesday, where concerns were raised about the timeline under the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 polls.

    According to Haruna, the commission agreed to align the submission period with Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which prescribes a 21-day window before primaries. He added that the new dates were determined in consultation with the political parties themselves.

    “Political parties are accordingly informed that they are free to fix the dates of their primaries within the approved period from April 23 to May 30. It is imperative that parties adhere to this timeline to ensure a smooth electoral process.

    “The register of party members must be submitted to INEC not later than 21 days before the holding of their respective primaries. This means that the final deadline for submission has been extended to May 10, from the earlier date of April 21,” Haruna stated.

    (NAN)

  • Former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai loses mother

    Former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai loses mother

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — Hajiya Umma, mother of former Kaduna State Governor and ex-Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, passed away on Friday.

    Family sources confirmed that the matriarch died from age-related complications after a period of declining health. The El-Rufai family formally announced her death later the same day.

    According to those close to the family, Hajiya Umma had been battling health challenges, which worsened in recent times. Some associates claim her condition deteriorated further after learning of her son’s detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

    Opposition leaders have branded El-Rufai’s arrest and incarceration as politically motivated, describing it as a clash of ideologies between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the All Democratic Congress (ADC), of which El-Rufai is a prominent member.

  • ECOWAS appoints Akufo-Addo to lead election observation mission in Benin

    ECOWAS appoints Akufo-Addo to lead election observation mission in Benin

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo as Head of its Election Observation Mission (EOM) to the forthcoming presidential election in the Republic of Benin, scheduled for 12 April 2026.

    The appointment was conveyed by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray. It reflects the Community’s enduring commitment to democracy, good governance and regional stability.

    According to a statement from ECOWAS on Friday, the mission will be deployed from 7 to 15 April 2026, in line with the ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance (2001). This protocol provides the legal and normative framework for election observation across the region.

    Through this deployment, ECOWAS reaffirms its confidence in Benin’s democratic process and calls on all stakeholders to uphold peace, tolerance and the rule of law.

    The choice of former President Akufo-Addo underscores the Community’s reliance on experienced and respected leaders to guide Member States in conducting peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

    All eyes are now firmly on the Republic of Benin, following the failed coup attempt of 7 December 2025, when rogue elements of the armed forces sought to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s government in Cotonou. The attempt was swiftly repelled by loyalist forces, aided by ECOWAS standby troops, and calm was restored within days.

    The forthcoming presidential election is therefore viewed as a crucial test of resilience for Benin’s democratic institutions. It carries significant weight not only for the country’s stability but also for the wider West African region, where the outcome will be closely watched as a measure of democratic strength in the face of recent upheaval.