New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • US loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan—Ilhan Omar

    US loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan—Ilhan Omar

    Washington, D.C. (NPA)– Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who has represented Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District since 2019, has accused the United States of deliberately targeting Muslim-majority countries during the holy month of Ramadan.

    In a post on X, Omar claimed that the U.S. attacked Iraq during Ramadan in 2003 and suggested that similar plans were being made against Iran. She wrote: “Iraq was attacked by the U.S. during Ramadan, and it is sickening to know that the U.S. is again going to attack Iran during Ramadan. The U.S. apparently loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan, and I am convinced it isn’t about violations of international law but about who they worship.”

    However, historical records show that her claim is inaccurate. The U.S.-led invasion of Iraq began on March 19, 2003, while Ramadan that year did not start until October 27 — more than seven months later.

    Omar’s remarks come against the backdrop of her long-running feud with former President Donald Trump. Their disputes have centered on immigration, race, religion, and foreign policy. Trump has repeatedly criticized Minnesota’s Somali community, accusing it of fraud and corruption, while Omar — herself a Somali-American — has strongly rejected those claims.

    The conflict has often played out in public settings. Trump has used slogans such as “Send them back,” which were widely condemned as racist, while Omar has accused U.S. military actions in Muslim-majority countries of being influenced by religious bias. Trump, in turn, has accused her of sympathizing with extremists, even linking her without evidence to ISIS in Somalia.

    Their confrontations have been especially visible during Trump’s State of the Union addresses.

  • UN Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over Executions in Iran

    UN Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over Executions in Iran

    GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (NPA): The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has urged Iran to halt the use of capital punishment, warning that many more individuals could face execution following recent unrest.

    Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council, Türk expressed deep concern after reports emerged that at least eight people — including two minors — have already received death sentences linked to the January protests. He noted that another 30 individuals may be at risk of similar rulings.

    One case involves a man convicted of “enmity against God” by a revolutionary court in Tehran. If upheld, this would mark the first death sentence directly tied to the mass demonstrations earlier this year.

    Rights organizations say thousands were killed during the crackdown, which has been described as the most severe domestic turmoil since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The unrest also drew international attention, with warnings from Washington about possible military consequences should executions proceed.

    Türk cautioned that escalating tensions could destabilize the wider region, stressing the need for restraint and dialogue. Meanwhile, talks in Geneva between U.S. and Iranian officials — mediated by Oman — made some progress on nuclear issues, though no breakthrough was reported that might ease fears of military confrontation.

  • Shettima Inaugurates Board of Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation

    Shettima Inaugurates Board of Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, on Thursday inaugurated the Board of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in Abuja, underscoring its importance to the country’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.

    Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima highlighted the administration’s vision for CREDICORP, noting that the institution was established to build a trusted credit infrastructure, provide catalytic capital to reduce borrowing costs, and help Nigerians overcome long-standing cultural resistance to credit.

    “The quality of life of Nigerians cannot improve without closing the gap between access to capital and human dignity,” Shettima said. He emphasized that ordinary citizens should not have to wait years to afford basic assets. “A civil servant who earns honestly does not have to chase sudden wealth just to buy a vehicle, or save for ten years to buy one. A young professional should not remain in darkness simply because solar power must be paid for all at once.”

    The newly inaugurated Board of CREDICORP is tasked with driving Nigeria’s consumer credit revolution. Its key functions include:

    • Policy Oversight: Guiding the corporation’s strategic direction.
    • Credit Infrastructure Development: Building systems that foster trust between lenders and borrowers.
    • Catalytic Capital Provision: Ensuring affordable financing options for working Nigerians.
    • Democratization of Credit Access: Expanding credit opportunities nationwide.
    • Cultural Shift Management: Promoting financial literacy and responsible borrowing.
    • Performance Monitoring: Tracking disbursement levels and impact on citizens.
    • Broader Economic Impact: Supporting financial inclusion and boosting consumer-driven growth.

    The inauguration marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to expand access to consumer credit, strengthen financial inclusion, and stimulate economic growth.

  • BREAKING NEWS: Adamawa Governor Fintiri Defects to APC

    BREAKING NEWS: Adamawa Governor Fintiri Defects to APC

    YOLA, NIGERIA (NPA) — After months of speculation, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Governor Fintiri made the announcement on Friday during a statewide broadcast, confirming that members of his cabinet and PDP officials in the state have also joined him in the move.

    With this development, 30 of Nigeria’s 36 state governors are now aligned with the APC, further consolidating the party’s dominance across the country. The wave of defections has included several high-profile figures:

    • Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano State) — defected from the NNPP to the APC in January 2026.
    • Governor Agbu Kefas (Taraba State) — joined the APC in December 2025.
    • Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State) — defected from the PDP on February 27, 2026.

    The six remaining states are governed by opposition parties:

    • PDP (3 states): Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara
    • Labour Party (1 state): Abia
    • APGA (1 state): Anambra
    • Accord Party (1 state): Osun

    Fintiri’s defection marks a significant political shift in Nigeria’s northeast and underscores the APC’s growing influence ahead of future national elections.

  • United States and Congo Announce $1.2 Billion Health Partnership

    United States and Congo Announce $1.2 Billion Health Partnership

    KINSHASA, CONGO (NPA) — The governments of the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo have signed a new $1.2 billion agreement aimed at strengthening health systems and tackling major diseases.

    Under the partnership, Washington will provide up to $900 million over the next five years to support programs addressing HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, and other infectious diseases. Congo has pledged to increase its domestic health spending by $300 million during the same period.

    The deal is part of a broader U.S. initiative to establish bilateral health agreements across Africa. According to the State Department, 19 such partnerships have been signed to date. Officials say the new framework is designed to promote self-sufficiency and streamline funding, replacing older arrangements previously managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development.

    The announcement comes amid wider debate over U.S. global health policy. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has raised concerns about provisions in some agreements that require countries to share sensitive pathogen data with Washington as a condition for funding. On Wednesday, negotiations with Zimbabwe collapsed after its government rejected such requirements.

    It remains unclear whether similar data-sharing clauses are included in the Congo agreement.

  • Zelenskyy Calls for Trilateral Meeting with U.S. and Russia in March to End War

    Zelenskyy Calls for Trilateral Meeting with U.S. and Russia in March to End War

    KYIV, Ukraine (NPA) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed readiness for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the United States and Russia aimed at ending the war.

    Zelenskyy made the remarks following a meeting with Jared Kushner and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ukrainian leader said preparations were underway for discussions at the highest level.

    “We need to finalize everything achieved so far to secure real security guarantees and prepare a meeting at the leaders’ level,” Zelenskyy said. “There is already greater readiness for the next trilateral format. We expect the format to take place in early March.”

    He added that such a meeting could address key issues directly, noting that leadership-level engagement is particularly important when dealing with Russia.

    “At the end of the day, leaders decide key issues, and when it comes to Russia — such a personalist regime — this is even more relevant than in other countries,” he said.

    Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude to the United States for its continued commitment to finding a path toward peace.

    Earlier, the Ukrainian president met with representatives of the international business community. Discussions focused on strengthening Ukraine’s energy resilience and preparations for the coming winter season.

    “On March 1, all our local authorities will present an energy development plan for next winter,” Zelenskyy said. “It is important to do as much as possible over the next six months before the start of the heating season. The role of the private sector is key, and we are counting on joint projects.”

    He said broader investment opportunities and private sector involvement in Ukraine’s reconstruction — including in the defense industry — were also discussed.

    “Even during the war, after such a winter, our country continues to live,” Zelenskyy said. “We are open to partnership, to joint projects, and to investments that will support our people and our security. Thank you to everyone who invests in Ukraine’s resilience.”

  • Tinubu Approves Immediate Reconstruction of Three Key Road Projects in Niger and Rivers States

    Tinubu Approves Immediate Reconstruction of Three Key Road Projects in Niger and Rivers States

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate commencement of reconstruction works on three federal roads in Niger State, located in Nigeria’s north-central region.

    The roads approved for reconstruction are the Mokwa–Bida Road (120 kilometres), the Mokwa–Makeri Road (63 kilometres), and the Bida–Labata Road (123.5 kilometres).

    According to a statement issued on February 26, 2026, by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media), the projects cover a total of 306.5 kilometers and will be reconstructed using reinforced concrete pavement to guarantee durability and long-term value.

    President Tinubu also gave approval for the extension of the Bodo–Bonny Road to connect with the East–West Road. The project will be executed as a dual carriageway, constructed with concrete pavement, and equipped with solar-powered street lighting. Delivery will be through a competitive bidding process.

    The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi expressed gratitude to the president, noting that the projects will “significantly enhance connectivity, trade, and development.”

    Umahi, widely regarded as one of the most dynamic members of the federal executive council, has injected fresh energy into the Tinubu-led administration by delivering on critical road infrastructure nationwide. He called on Nigerians to “acknowledge and appreciate” the president’s sustained commitment to infrastructure development across the six geopolitical zones, particularly in delivering quality roads and bridges.

  • BREAKING: INEC Revises 2027 Election Timetable; Presidential Poll Set for January 16

    BREAKING: INEC Revises 2027 Election Timetable; Presidential Poll Set for January 16

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a revised timetable for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

    In a statement issued Thursday night, the commission explained that the adjustment followed the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026, which introduced new statutory timelines for pre-election and electoral activities. INEC said the schedule was realigned to ensure full compliance with the updated legal framework.

    Under the new timetable:

    • Presidential and National Assembly elections will now take place on Saturday, January 16, 2027.
    • Governorship and State House of Assembly elections will follow on Saturday, February 6, 2027.

    Political parties are required to conduct their primaries — including the resolution of disputes — between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Campaigns for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for Governorship and State Assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026.

    INEC emphasized that all political parties must adhere strictly to the revised timetable and noted that campaigns must end 24 hours before election day.

  • Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    UYO, NIGERIA (NPA) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared Barrister Manfred Ekpe, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Akwa Ibom State, wanted on allegations of cyberstalking, threats to life, criminal defamation, intimidation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

    Ekpe, a constitutional lawyer and community rights activist, is widely known for his outspoken criticism of government policies, particularly on environmental and community issues. He has publicly challenged state officials over the legal status and management of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, accusing them of misrepresenting the law.

    The activist has also accused Governor Umo Eno of using state institutions to suppress dissent and intimidate critics, especially those active on social media.

    While police authorities maintain that Ekpe is wanted in connection with criminal allegations, the lawyer insists the charges are politically motivated, stemming from his criticism of the governor and his administration.

  • NSCDC Urges Federal Government to Boost Manpower for Effective Security Delivery

    NSCDC Urges Federal Government to Boost Manpower for Effective Security Delivery

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): As the global community marks World Civil Defence Day 2026, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called on the Federal Government to increase its manpower to enable the agency to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities more effectively and address the nation’s security challenges.

    The appeal was made during a lecture delivered by Professor Tyoor Fredrick Terhemba in Abuja, as part of activities commemorating the event. Speaking on the theme “Managing Environmental Risk for a Resilient Future: A Civil Defence Perspective,” Prof. Terhemba emphasized that human assets, utilities, and property remain the most critical national infrastructures, underscoring the need to strengthen the NSCDC’s workforce to meet international standards of policing.

    The NSCDC, a member of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), reiterated its vital role in disaster management, mitigating environmental hazards, and safeguarding critical national infrastructure.

    In a statement issued by ACC Afolabi Babawale, National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, the agency announced that activities marking World Civil Defence Day 2026 would conclude on Friday with a grand finale at the NSCDC National Headquarters Parade Ground in Abuja.

    Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi also urged the Corps to enhance its intelligence-gathering capacity, assuring that the NSCDC remains committed to discharging its core mandate in protecting lives and property.