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Category: Politics

  • BREAKING: UN Secretary‑General calls for an end to Iran conflict for energy security

    BREAKING: UN Secretary‑General calls for an end to Iran conflict for energy security

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres has called on the United States and Israel to end the war against Iran, while also urging Tehran to halt its attacks on neighbouring nations. He made the appeal on Thursday following his meeting with the European Council in Brussels.

    Guterres warned that the escalating conflict in the Middle East — particularly involving Iran, Israel, and the United States — poses grave risks to regional stability and global energy security, citing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz as a critical concern. He stressed the importance of multilateralism and closer cooperation between the European Union, the United Nations, and global partners.

    The Secretary‑General urged restraint and diplomacy, calling for collective action to prevent further escalation and to safeguard humanitarian principles. He condemned the attacks on energy infrastructure in West Asia, warning of severe global economic consequences, and appealed for dialogue to restore peace, stability, and the free flow of goods and energy. His remarks echoed widespread concerns about blockades and rising oil prices.

    Guterres further called for stronger international cooperation to defend multilateralism and prevent additional humanitarian crises, insisting that only through unity and diplomacy can the region move toward lasting peace and security.

  • Modi, King Abdullah II discuss West Asia crisis, attacks on energy infrastructure

    Modi, King Abdullah II discuss West Asia crisis, attacks on energy infrastructure

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday, held a phone conversation with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, during which he extended advance congratulations on the Blessed Eid al-Fitr.

    In the call, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern over developments in West Asia and reaffirmed the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace, security, and stability in the region. He condemned recent attacks targeting energy infrastructure, warning that such actions risk escalating an already destructive conflict.

    According to a statement released Thursday, Modi stressed that both India and Jordan support the free flow of goods and energy without obstacles, referencing the Iranian blockade and attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which have negatively impacted global oil prices. He insisted that both nations stand firmly in support of unhindered transit of goods and energy across international waters.

    The Prime Minister also thanked King Abdullah II for Jordan’s efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indian citizens stranded in the region. He noted that the ongoing war involving the United States, Israel, and the Islamic Republic of Iran shows no concrete sign of ending, despite repeated international calls for diplomacy and dialogue among the parties.

  • Peter Obi decries Nigeria’s ranking as one of the most terrorised nations

    Peter Obi decries Nigeria’s ranking as one of the most terrorised nations

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential aspirant, Mr Peter Obi, has condemned the latest Global Terrorism Index report, which ranked Nigeria among the most terrorised nations in the world and recorded the highest increase in deaths from terrorism.

    In a statement on Thursday, Obi described the ranking as a painful indictment of failed leadership, noting that while many countries are witnessing a decline in terrorism, Nigeria continues to move in the opposite direction. He blamed the worsening insecurity on misplaced priorities, weak governance, corruption, disregard for the rule of law, and persistent neglect of security, which he stressed is the government’s most fundamental duty.

    “From the insurgency of Boko Haram to the growing threat posed by the Islamic State West Africa Province, the crisis of kidnapping, and unchecked violence in our rural communities by heavily armed bandits, Nigerians are dying daily while those in power continue to feast,” the statement read.

    The presidential hopeful questioned the very purpose of government if it cannot protect lives, lamenting that Nigeria has normalised tragedy while other nations make progress. Campaigning under the mantra ‘A New Nigeria is POssible’, Obi insisted that a safe and secure Nigeria is the right of every citizen. He urged a shift from excuses to action, and from failure to measurable progress, declaring that the current situation does not represent what the Nigeria people deserve.

  • Oborevwori hosts Dr John Nwabueze, Nigeria’s first tax Ombudsman

    Oborevwori hosts Dr John Nwabueze, Nigeria’s first tax Ombudsman

    ASABA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — The Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday received Dr John Nwabueze, Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Tax Ombudsman, along with his team, at Government House, Asaba.

    Dr Nwabueze, Nigeria’s pioneer Tax Ombudsman and a native of Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, was appointed in November 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen fairness and accountability in the nation’s revenue system.

    Governor Oborevwori noted that the visit underscores a shared commitment to transparency and equity in tax administration. “As a government, we fully support the mission of the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to promote transparency and build public confidence in our tax system. I assured Dr Nwabueze and his team of our readiness to partner with his office to achieve a more equitable tax environment that benefits our citizens and the economy. I also commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing one of our own as the pioneer CEO of this important office,” he said.

    The Governor further commended President Tinubu for establishing the national tax regulation body and for appointing a citizen of Delta State as the country’s first Tax Ombudsman. He congratulated Dr Nwabueze on his appointment and welcomed the establishment of a zonal office of the Tax Ombudsman in Delta State, describing it as a significant step toward improving tax governance and ensuring fairness for the people.

  • UAE Defence Intercepts 22 projectiles as Iranian missiles and drones rain on Gulf

    UAE Defence Intercepts 22 projectiles as Iranian missiles and drones rain on Gulf

    MIDDLE EAST (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — The United Arab Emirates’ Defence Ministry announced today that its air defence systems successfully intercepted and destroyed seven ballistic missiles and 15 armed drones launched from Iran. 

    According to the ministry, the coordinated attack was detected early, and defence units acted swiftly to neutralise the incoming threats before they could reach populated areas or critical infrastructure. Officials described the operation as a demonstration of the UAE’s growing defence capability and readiness to respond to regional security challenges. 

    The ministry emphasised that the interceptions were carried out in close coordination with allied monitoring systems, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in countering evolving threats. While no casualties or damage were reported, authorities noted that the attempted strikes highlight ongoing tensions in the Gulf and the need for vigilance. 

    Earlier today, Qatar expelled Iranian diplomatic attaches following missile strikes on the Ras Laffan energy hub. The move came amid a wave of coordinated assaults across the Gulf, where Iranian projectiles and drones also targeted the UAE’s Habshan gas plants and Saudi Arabia’s refineries in Riyadh.

    Regional authorities confirmed that defence systems intercepted several of the incoming threats, but the attacks underscored escalating tensions and the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure in the Gulf. The incidents have prompted heightened security alerts and renewed calls for international cooperation to safeguard the region’s strategic assets.

  • Tinubu Urges UK to boost investment, security, and energy cooperation as King Charles III bids farewell

    Tinubu Urges UK to boost investment, security, and energy cooperation as King Charles III bids farewell

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — At Windsor Castle this morning, His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla bid farewell to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marking the conclusion of Tinubu’s landmark state visit to England.

    During the State Banquet held in his honour, King Charles described the friendship between England and Nigeria as a “partnership of equals” that has strengthened shared security, boosted prosperity, and inspired hope for the future. He emphasised the deep cultural and spiritual ties between both nations, praising the contributions of Nigerians in Britain and stressing the importance of moving forward together with respect, trust, and shared purpose.

    On his part, President Tinubu called for stronger economic cooperation, greater investment in Nigeria’s energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors, and deeper collaboration on security. He urged enhanced defence and intelligence partnerships to combat terrorism, stressed the need for balanced migration policies, and sought UK support in skills development and renewable energy projects to drive Nigeria’s transition to sustainable power.

    Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the UK–Nigeria Strategic Partnership framework, emphasising shared humanity, cultural ties, and the importance of unity. He positioned Nigeria as a key partner for the UK in Africa, underlining that stronger bilateral ties would contribute to regional stability and prosperity. He also urged Nigerians abroad to be ambassadors of peace and progress, reminding them that their conduct reflects the nation’s values on the global stage.

  • Governor Otu calls for unity and compassion as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr

    Governor Otu calls for unity and compassion as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr

    CALABAR, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful in the state, across Nigeria, and around the world on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr.

    The governor described the successful completion of Ramadan as a powerful testament to faith, discipline, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah, noting that Eid offers an opportunity to strengthen compassion, generosity, and selflessness.

    In a statement on Thursday, Otu emphasised that Eid is not just a celebration but a reminder of shared humanity, urging citizens to uphold love, kindness, tolerance, and unity — virtues he said are most needed in society today.

    “Let us use this moment to reach out to one another, support the less privileged, and continue to build bridges across religious and ethnic lines. Our diversity remains our strength, and together, we can build a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Cross River State,” the statement read.

    Governor Otu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of faith or background, thrives in an environment of justice, equity, and mutual respect. He further urged the faithful to celebrate with moderation, gratitude, and a renewed dedication to peace and service to humanity.

  • Ebonyi EXCO wields the big stick: Rogue contractors, greedy house agents, scrap vandals face crackdown

    Ebonyi EXCO wields the big stick: Rogue contractors, greedy house agents, scrap vandals face crackdown

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — The Ebonyi State Executive Council, in decisive sessions on March 4 and March 17, 2026, unleashed a wave of tough decisions to accelerate projects and clamp down on corruption, targeting education, agriculture, housing, rent regulation, and more.

    In a release by Barrister Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, the council, chaired by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, ordered the immediate termination of abandoned 2-kilometre rural road projects where contractors either fled after payment or delivered disgracefully poor work.

    The EXCO also approved the release of Ebonyi State’s 10% counterpart funding of N300 million for RAAMP 2026.

    To smash skyrocketing rent costs driven by fraudulent agents, the council proposed a groundbreaking bill regulating landlord-tenant agreements and criminalising agent fees above 2% of total rent.

    In a bid to stop scrap dealers from vandalising public infrastructure, EXCO proposed a bill to regulate the buying, selling, possession, transportation, and disposal of metal and electrical scraps across the state.

    Agriculture received a thunderous boost with N500 million approved for 250 Agricultural Power Tillers, set for distribution to farmers ahead of the 2026 farming season.

    The EXCO was firm on the implmentyation of education reforms with a directive that contractors paid for 22 model secondary schools, but failing to reach parapet level must be arrested until funds are recovered.

    The council cheered the success of its foreign scholarship programme of 204, of which 202 beneficiaries have completed their Master’s degrees and secured PhD admissions, most with distinctions. An additional 84 students recently departed, raising the total to 298, with 12 more set to leave between May and September 2026.

    On energy, EXCO welcomed a Build-Operate-Donate proposal from the Chinese Municipal Council and partners to establish Waste-to-Energy and Solar-to-Energy projects at the Industrial City in Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Local Governmenty Area.

    Health and infrastructure also gained momentum with N1.3 billion allocated for an ultra-modern clinic at Government House and remodeling of the Ebonyi Trade Centre.

    Finally, in culture and tourism, EXCO approved the rebuilding of the palace of Eze Dr. Akanu Ibiam, the first indigenous Governor of the Eastern Region, to honour his legacy and inspire future generations.

  • Ruto and Museveni to launch Naivasha–Malaba railway extension project

    Ruto and Museveni to launch Naivasha–Malaba railway extension project

    AFRICA (Chris Mahandara/Agency Report) — March 19, 2026 — President William Ruto and Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni will be in Kisumu on Saturday to preside over the groundbreaking of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Naivasha to Malaba.

    The ceremony, a major milestone in regional infrastructure, is expected to draw over 20,000 people, including residents, leaders, and stakeholders. It marks the next phase of Kenya’s railway expansion aimed at boosting trade and transport links across East Africa.

    Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir toured the Kibos SGR site on Monday to assess preparations. He assured that logistical, security, and organizational arrangements were firmly in place. “This is a big day we will celebrate with our President and President Museveni when they come to launch this very significant project,” he said.

    The proposed line will stretch about 369 kilometres, forming a critical segment of the regional corridor linking Mombasa to western Kenya and onward to neighbouring countries. Chirchir noted it will transform cargo and passenger movement by offering a more efficient alternative to road transport along the busy Northern Corridor.

    He emphasized that the project will enhance regional integration by connecting Kenya’s railway network with Uganda and the wider East African system. Once completed, it is expected to lower transport costs, improve efficiency, and spur economic growth in western Kenya by opening new opportunities for investment and commerce.

  • President Trump honours fallen service members at solemn dignified transfer ceremony

    President Trump honours fallen service members at solemn dignified transfer ceremony

    NORTH AMERICA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump, on Wednesday, attended the dignified transfer ceremony for six American heroes who lost their lives in a refuelling plane crash in the war against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The solemn event took place at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

    The six servicemen honoured were Major John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons.

    The dignified transfer ceremony paid tribute to their ultimate sacrifice and underscored the nation’s gratitude for their service. 

    The solemn military tradition in which the remains of U.S. service members killed in action are returned to American soil is conducted with full honours, symbolising respect and national appreciation. The ceremony typically takes place at Dover Air Force Base, where fallen troops are received by military personnel, family members, and sometimes national leaders before being prepared for burial.