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Category: Politics

  • Tinubu swears in Taiwo Oyedele as Finance Minister, showers him with praise

    Tinubu swears in Taiwo Oyedele as Finance Minister, showers him with praise

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 16, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance, following his confirmation by the Senate last week.

    Tinubu praised Oyedele, who previously chaired the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, describing his appointment as a vote of confidence. In a statement by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Oyedele’s expertise in tax policy, which helped shape reforms aimed at simplifying Nigeria’s tax system, expanding revenue, and fostering a business-friendly environment.

    Tinubu said: “We are very proud of your knowledge, your simplicity, ambition, and excellence. I congratulate your wife for standing up to our challenge of time management and long hours of absence. This is additional responsibility, and I hope you will encourage and support him. Thank you for accepting to serve your country, especially for reforming the entire tax policy of this country that was obsolete and fundamentally against every progressive thinking. You are a very dedicated and highly determined individual. It didn’t take much for me to decide where you fit and where you need to be to further help with the economy. It is a very challenging job because we look at the fiscal policy and responsibility that come with it at the time that economic stability is being experienced, but without exponential growth. It’s always very difficult, but you are fit to be there.”

    Oyedele brings a strong academic and professional background to the role. An alumnus of the London School of Economics, Yale University, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, and Harvard Kennedy School, he spent 22 years at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC). He is also a professor at Babcock University and a visiting scholar at Lagos Business School.

  • Zelenskyy congratulates Portugal’s António José Seguro on election victory, counts on additional contributions

    Zelenskyy congratulates Portugal’s António José Seguro on election victory, counts on additional contributions

    LAGOS, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 16, 2026 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has congratulated Portuguese leader António José Seguro on his victory in the 2026 presidential election, held in two rounds: the first on January 18 and the decisive second round on February 8, where Seguro of the Socialist Party won with nearly 67% of the vote.

    In a statement on Monday, Zelenskyy said: “I personally congratulated President of Portugal António José Seguro on his election victory and wished him success.” He noted that Portugal has been a strong supporter of Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, and welcomed assurances that defence, financial, humanitarian, and political assistance will continue under Seguro’s leadership.

    Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude for Portugal’s participation in the PURL initiative (a defense cooperation mechanism through which Portugal contributes funds to help Ukraine purchase U.S.-made weapons. Portugal pledged €50 million to the program in late 2025, making it a key part of its military support for Ukraine) and said Ukraine counts on additional contributions. 

    He added: “We discussed the possibility of joint arms manufacturing, the participation of Portuguese businesses in the recovery of Ukraine, and our path toward EU membership. Thank you for the clear position on our European future!”

  • Amnesty International slams Nigeria government over “horrific” Benue massacre

    Amnesty International slams Nigeria government over “horrific” Benue massacre

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 16, 2026 — Amnesty International Nigeria has urged the Nigerian government to investigate what it described as a horrific attack in which at least 15 villagers were killed on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Ojantele Community of Apa Local Government Area, Benue State.

    In a statement issued on March 15, Amnesty alleged that those killed were farmers picking fallen cashew nuts. It added that many people remain missing, and two women were abducted during the incident. The attack came just ten days after gunmen killed 13 people in Tyungu Jam and Mbaav communities in Kwande LGA.

    The human rights body criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s repeated claims of directing security agencies to end the killings, noting that the death toll continues to rise. Amnesty said villagers told its investigators that the government has left them “at the mercy of their attackers.”

    The statement reads: “The Nigerian authorities must investigate the horrific attack in which at least 15 villagers were killed on Friday when gunmen invaded Ojantele community of Apa LGA Benue state on Friday. Those killed were farmers picking fallen cashew nuts. Since after the attack many people are missing and two women were abducted. This is coming 10 days after gunmen killed 13 people in Tyungu Jam and Mbaav communities in Yaav and Mbadura council wards of Kwande LGA. The President Bola Tinubu claims he has repeatedly tasked security agencies to end the killings, but the mounting death toll clearly shows nothing has changed. Most villagers told Amnesty International that the government left them at the mercy of their attackers. The government has an obligation to protect its population. The rising death toll in the north of Nigeria shows just how badly the authorities are failing in this responsibility.”

    Benue State has remained the epicentre of killings by suspected terrorist herdsmen. The unchecked bloodshed prompted Agatu youths to protest on March 15, blocking the Oweto–Otukpo highway to demand government action.

    This followed renewed violence in Kwande and Ushongo constituencies, where lawmakers raised alarms over escalating attacks. Together, these incidents underscore the scale of insecurity in Benue, with communities repeatedly targeted and residents demanding urgent intervention.

  • Nigerian Army invites media to verify IED recoveries amid IPOB manipulation claims

    Nigerian Army invites media to verify IED recoveries amid IPOB manipulation claims

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 15, 2026 — The Nigerian Army, Operation Udo Ka, and 82 Division have invited media organisations and civil society groups to a verification tour of Orsu-Eketutu Mother Valley, Orsu–Ihiteukwa in Imo State, following viral claims on social media that images of recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) released on March 12 were fake and manipulated.

    In a statement on Sunday, signed by Lt. Col. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, the Army clarified that the devices were recovered during ongoing Operation Eastern Sanity in Imo and Anambra states. It explained that geo-location data on the images was deliberately blurred for operational security, not deception, countering allegations spread by IPOB sympathisers online.

    Recall that the army in an earlier report said troops have dismantled several IPOB and Eastern Security Network (ESN) camps and IED factories in the Mother Valley area in Anambra State, Nigeria’s southeast.

    The Army accused IPOB of spreading misinformation and manipulating image metadata to suggest the photos were taken in Lagos and Oyo states, while also exploiting ethnic identity to discredit operations. These tactics, the Army said, reflect attempts to sow division and undermine peace in the South-East.

    According to the military statement, to counter these claims and build public trust, the Army has invited media and civil society representatives to verify recoveries and inspect operational areas without compromising security. It reiterated its apolitical, professional, and multi-ethnic character, stressing that personnel serve across Nigeria regardless of origin. The Army urged Nigerians to rely on official sources, exercise restraint on social media, and prioritise unity over divisive narratives.

    PHOTO: The images allegedly questioned by IPOB. Credit: Nigerian Army via X.
  • Fubara inspects Abua-Agba-Ndele Bridge, highlights Rivers State’s 2026 infrastructure drive

    Fubara inspects Abua-Agba-Ndele Bridge, highlights Rivers State’s 2026 infrastructure drive

    PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 15, 2026 — Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Saturday inspected the newly completed Abua-Agba-Ndele bridge, a project executed by the state government.

    The governor expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work delivered by Setraco Nigeria Limited, the contractor. Fubara noted that once the 14-kilometre road section linking Ndele-Omofor and Agba-Ndele is completed by the end of May, the entire project will be inaugurated. He emphasised that the development will ease movement for residents in the area, boost business opportunities, and bring governance closer to the people.

    The Rivers State Government’s infrastructure policy in 2026 is centred on completing ongoing projects and expanding capital investments in roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and energy-related infrastructure. The ₦1.8 trillion budget approved for the year reflects a strong emphasis on economic growth through large-scale infrastructure expansion.

  • Trump urges global action to secure the Strait of Hormuz, all eyes on China

    Trump urges global action to secure the Strait of Hormuz, all eyes on China

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 15, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has urged the international community to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, following Iran’s seizure of the vital energy transport corridor. The appeal comes in the wake of a U.S. military strike on Iran’s Khagar Island.

    In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump declared: “The United States of America has beaten and completely decimated Iran, both militarily, economically, and in every other way. But the countries of the world that receive oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help — A LOT!”

    Trump emphasised that the U.S. would coordinate with affected nations to restore safe passage for oil shipments, some of which have already been disrupted by Iranian drone attacks. “This should have always been a team effort, and now it will be,” he wrote. “It will bring the world together toward harmony, security, and everlasting peace.”

    The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy supplies, including shipments to China. Analysts note that Beijing’s response remains uncertain, given its longstanding ties with Tehran.

    Meanwhile, Iran has continued launching drones and missiles at Gulf states, accusing them of hosting U.S. bases involved in the recent strikes. On Sunday, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported intercepting several Iranian projectiles targeting its territory.

  • UAE air defences intercept another wave of Iranian missiles and drones

    UAE air defences intercept another wave of Iranian missiles and drones

    INTERNATIONAL — (NPA) March 15 — The United Arab Emirates authorities announced that its air defence system intercepted four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran on March 15, 2026.

    According to a statement from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the latest interception adds to a growing tally since the start of Iranian attacks. In total, UAE air defences have dealt with 298 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,606 drones.

    The ministry noted that the Iranian strikes have caused the deaths of six individuals of Emirati, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationalities, while 142 others sustained minor to moderate injuries. The injured include people of diverse backgrounds, among them Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepalese, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, and Swedish nationals.

    The UAE Ministry of Defence stressed that the country remains on high alert and fully prepared to counter any threats. It reaffirmed its commitment to firmly respond to actions aimed at destabilising the state’s security, while ensuring the preservation of sovereignty, stability, and the protection of national interests and capabilities.

  • Nwifuru hails maiden matriculation at Ebonyi State University of ICT

    Nwifuru hails maiden matriculation at Ebonyi State University of ICT

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 15 — The Ebonyi State University of ICT, Offerekpe, on Saturday, March 15, 2026, held its maiden matriculation ceremony. Conceived by the administration of Governor Ogbonna Nwifuru, the institution is designed to become a hub for technological excellence and innovation in the state.

    Governor Nwifuru, while congratulating the students, described the matriculation as a historic milestone in Ebonyi’s educational advancement and the beginning of a bold vision to build a citadel of learning dedicated to innovation, technology, and knowledge. He emphasised that the university will prepare young people to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and job creators rather than job seekers.

    According to a statement by Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media), the university is “dedicated to nurturing a generation of highly skilled ICT professionals, innovators, and solution-driven thinkers who will shape the future of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

    A total of 187 pioneering students were matriculated into the academic community, including 133 indigenes of Ebonyi State who are beneficiaries of government scholarships under the state’s human capital development initiative.

    The programmes offered at the new university include Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information and Communication Technology, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Civil Engineering, Software Engineering, Architecture, Building, Quantity Surveying, Information Technology, Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Mass Communication, Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, and Health Information Management.

    While construction continues at the permanent site in Offerekpe-Agbaja, students will receive lectures at the Vocational College buildings within the Ministry of Tertiary Education in Centenary City, Abakaliki.

    The governor has received widespread praise from indigenes of the state for establishing the institution, as the new university is expected to further lift Ebonyi from the ranks of the least educated states in Nigeria’s southeast region. Many residents see it as a bold step toward reshaping the state’s academic profile and creating new opportunities for its youth.

    Analysts, however, have urged the governor to ensure the school is fully equipped with modern learning tools and facilities, stressing the need for a clear departure from the shortcomings of many higher institutions across the country that are often criticized as “glorified secondary schools.” They argue that only by investing in cutting-edge infrastructure, digital resources, and quality faculty can the university truly fulfill its mission of becoming a hub for innovation and technological excellence.

  • Peter Obi mourns Super Eagles legend Henry Nwosu

    Peter Obi mourns Super Eagles legend Henry Nwosu

    ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 15 — Opposition leader Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigerian football icon Henry Nwosu, describing him as a patriot who lifted the nation’s spirit through sport.

    In a statement issued Saturday, Obi recalled watching Nwosu as a child and praised his brilliance on the pitch. He noted that at just 18 years old, Nwosu was a key member of the Green Eagles squad that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, a triumph that united Nigerians across divides and proved the power of sport to inspire hope and national pride.

    Obi, a former presidential candidate, said Nwosu devoted his talent and energy to the service of the nation, leaving behind memories that continue to shape Nigeria’s football history. He extended condolences to Nwosu’s family, friends, and the wider football community.

    “I pray that God grants his loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss and grants his soul eternal rest,” Obi said. “May his legacy continue to inspire young Nigerians to serve our nation with excellence and humility.”

  • South Africa deploys 2 200 soldiers to five provinces

    South Africa deploys 2 200 soldiers to five provinces

    PRETORIA-SA (Agency Report) March 15 — President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces of his decision to deploy 2 200 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    This is in line with section 201 (3) (a)(b)(c) and (d) of the Constitution.

    According to the Presidency, the deployment serves to prevent and combat crime, and support and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper which is targeting illegal mining and gangsterism. 

    “The deployed members of the SANDF will assist the South African Police Service to prevent and combat illegal mining and gangsterism in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West and Western Cape.

    “The deployment is for the period 01 March 2026 until 31 March 2027,” said the Presidency in a statement on Friday.

    Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, directs that, “Only the President, as head of the national executive, may authorise the employment of the defence force in co-operation with the police service”.

    The Presidency said expenditure for this employment is estimated at R823 153 960.

    During the State of the Nation Address 2026, President Ramaphosa announced the intention to deploy the South Africa National Defence to areas afflicted by illegal mining and gang violence. 

    President Ramaphosa has called on communities to welcome and work more closely with the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force to identify and alienate criminal elements and make neighbourhoods safer in the process. (SAnews.gov.za).