New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Veterinary Clinic to Katsina Government

    Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Veterinary Clinic to Katsina Government

    KATSINA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): Mercy Corps, a Non – Governmental Organisation, on Wednesday, handed over a newly constructed Veterinary Clinic and a rehabilitated structure in Danmusa Local Government Area (LGA), to the Katsina State Government.

    The project, which included a 20,000-litre capacity upgraded solar-powered borehole, was executed under the European Union-funded Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience (CPCRR) project.

    The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD).

    Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Livestock and Animal Husbandry in Kastina State, Prof Ahmed Bakori, commended Mercy Corps and its partners on such commitment to support  peace and development in the state.

    While praising the state government for restoring peace and stability, the said project would improve livestock services and the welfare of farmers who depend on animal health services for  livelihood.

    Bakori buttressed that improved security in the state had enabled development partners to implement meaningful interventions in communities affected earlier.

    He said, “Recently, Gov. Dikko Radda was in South Africa to explore strategies for boosting livestock production and strengthening the livestock value chain in line with the government’s economic development agenda.”

    In his remarks, Mercy Corps Senior Programme Manager, Mr Philip Ikita, expressed satisfaction with the timely and successful implementation of the project in Danmusa.

    He stated that although Mercy Corps began its operations in the state in 2023, security challenges had initially prevented the organisation from accessing some areas, including Danmusa.

    Ikita said that the project would improve access to essential services, strengthen livelihoods, and contribute to sustaining peace in the community.

    “The project involves the upgrade of a veterinary clinic from a two-room structure into a fully functional six-office facility, embarked on to strengthen livestock healthcare services in the area.

    “The programme builds on the success of the Conflict Mitigation and Community Reconciliation (CMCR) project and seeks to promote long-term peace and stability in Northwest Nigeria.

    “It works across 48 communities in Zamfara and Katsina States, addressing the root causes of conflict, enhancing community resilience, and strengthening socio-economic recovery,” he said.

    Also, the District Head of Danmusa, Ahmadu Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Mercy Corps and its partners for the intervention, describing the projects as timely and beneficial.

    Earlier, the Chairman of Danmusa LGA, Ibrahim Na-Mama, represented by his Deputy, Musa Muhammad, expressed appreciation for the projects, assuring that the council would support efforts to safeguard them. (NAN).

  • Master AI, Embrace Cybersecurity, Build Solutions: Governor Mbah Urges Enugu Youths

    Master AI, Embrace Cybersecurity, Build Solutions: Governor Mbah Urges Enugu Youths

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has called on the youths of the state to embrace technology and innovation as critical drivers of development. He made the remarks in his opening address at the second edition of the Enugu Tech Festival.

    Governor Mbah emphasized that “technology and innovation are not accessories to development; they are the operating system of modern progress. Across the world, ideas, code, and creativity are redefining economies. Here in Enugu, we have made a deliberate decision — we will not be spectators in this revolution. We will be producers.”

    Highlighting his administration’s policy focus on advancing school infrastructure and redefining learning, he outlined initiatives designed to build a new ecosystem where innovation can thrive. These include:

    •             Smart Green Schools equipped with robotics, artificial intelligence, and applied engineering.

    •             Digital governance platforms to improve transparency and efficiency.

    •             GIS-driven land administration to restore credibility in the real estate sector.

    •             Expanded digital infrastructure to power a knowledge-based economy.

    The governor urged young people in Enugu and beyond to seize the opportunities available: “Master artificial intelligence. Learn cybersecurity. Build solutions. The tools are here. The environment is here. The opportunity is here.”

    Reflecting on the state’s history, he noted: “A century ago, Enugu was known for what it extracted. This generation will be known for what it designs.”

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that under the administration’s “Tomorrow is Here” mantra, Enugu inaugurated the Haier Factory — a $20 million Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) project by China’s Haier Global Business Group in partnership with the state government. The facility, located in Enugu city, positions the state as a hub for the production of smartphones, tablets, computers, smart boards, Android televisions, education and health technologies, as well as renewable energy solutions for electricity, agriculture, and transportation.

  • Tinubu Urges Acting IGP Disu to Restore Public Confidence in Police

    Tinubu Urges Acting IGP Disu to Restore Public Confidence in Police

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday decorated the newly appointed Acting Inspector General of Police (AIG), Tunji Disu, following the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun.

    During the ceremony, the President charged Disu to “restore peace and strengthen security nationwide,” emphasizing the need to rebuild public trust in the police.

    Expressing confidence in the appointee, Tinubu urged Disu to lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at all levels, and prioritize the safety of lives and property. “It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” Tinubu added.

    In a statement issued by the State House Press Office and signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Tinubu described the appointment as coming at a critical moment. He tasked Disu with rebuilding public confidence in the police’s capacity to collaborate effectively with other security agencies and to advance the security pillars of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” the President said.

    The Nigeria Police Council is expected to meet next week to ratify the appointment, after which Senate confirmation will follow.

  • Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Three Nigerian youths have alleged that officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) arrested, detained, and extorted money from them on 22 February 2026, while they were travelling from Kano to Sokoto to visit the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

    According to a report and video obtained by Sahara Reporters, the youths claimed they were stopped at a checkpoint at the entrance of Zamfara State, detained for seven hours, and later abandoned after being forced to pay money.

    One of the victims, identified as Cruise Naija, recounted:

    “On our way to visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto, we were arrested and detained for seven hours, extorted, and left stranded in Zamfara State by Nigeria Immigration.”

    He alleged that the officers accused them of attempting to travel illegally to Libya, despite their explanation that they were heading to Sokoto. Their bags and phones were searched, and photographs showing him with activist Omoyele Sowore and other Nigerian activists were reportedly used to brand him an “activist.”

    The youths further claimed they were denied access to make phone calls and warned about the dangers of the area. They said they were taken into a room where other detainees were being held and told to pay ₦200,000, plus ₦30,000 for transportation to Sokoto.

    After allegedly paying ₦30,000 through a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator, they were placed on a truck. However, the driver later claimed he had only received ₦3,000, leaving them stranded without funds. They said they had to call friends and relatives to send money before continuing their journey.

    The Nigeria Immigration Service has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.

  • Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and the international community following an attack by suspected political hoodlums in Benin City, Edo State, on February 24, 2026.

    In a statement issued on February 25, Obi paid tribute to former Edo State governors Chief John Oyegun and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, describing them as leaders who “served Nigeria honourably in various capacities.” He noted that their support reinforced his faith in shared humanity and the collective hope for a better Nigeria.

    Reflecting on the incident, Obi recalled his own experience with political violence during his tenure as governor of Anambra State. He said such challenges had strengthened his resolve to pursue leadership positions, emphasizing that governance must restore order, security, and public trust.

    Calling on citizens not to be intimidated, Obi stated: “The growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people. This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.”

    Obi reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. With political alliances forming ahead of the polls—where incumbent President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to seek a second term—the dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape remain uncertain as the election season approaches.

  • BREAKING: El-Rufai’s Arraignment Stalled, Adjourned to April 23

    BREAKING: El-Rufai’s Arraignment Stalled, Adjourned to April 23

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — Confusion over the custody and prosecution of former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and ex-Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, continued on Wednesday as his scheduled arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja was stalled.

    El-Rufai was absent in court, prompting his defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, to request an adjournment. Presiding Judge Justice Joyce Abdumalik granted the request, noting that the defendant’s absence rendered his bail application premature.

    The case has now been adjourned to April 23, 2026. El-Rufai is facing a three-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS). The allegations include:

    • Cybercrimes — unlawful interception of communications.
    • Violation of the Nigerian Communications Act (2003).
    • Interception of the phone conversation of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, which the DSS claims El-Rufai admitted to during a televised interview.

    The charges were brought under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and the Communications Act.

  • Police Launch Investigation into Attacks on ADC Leaders and Former Governor’s Residence

    Police Launch Investigation into Attacks on ADC Leaders and Former Governor’s Residence

    EDO STATE, NIGERIA (NPA): The Edo State Police Command has confirmed a series of violent incidents in Benin City on Tuesday, targeting leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the residence of former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie Oyegun. The attacks occurred shortly after Labour Party candidate in the recent Edo gubernatorial election, Olumide Akpata, defected to the ADC.

    In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem said hoodlums infiltrated a political gathering at the ADC State Secretariat on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, causing panic and a stampede. “At about 14:55 hours, during political activities at the ADC Secretariat, some hoodlums allegedly infiltrated the gathering and caused commotion, which led to a stampede at the end of the occasion, shortly after the programme was officially concluded and most dignitaries had departed,” the statement read.

    The police reported that the attackers overturned furniture, vandalised plastic chairs and canopies arranged outside the venue, and chased party members away. Patrol teams responded swiftly, but the hoodlums fled upon sighting the operatives. No fatalities were recorded, though one woman sustained minor injuries during the stampede. She was treated at a nearby chemist and later discharged. Security has since been reinforced around the secretariat.

    In a related development, the command confirmed gunshots were reported at the residence of Chief Oyegun, who also serves as ADC State Chairman. Police operatives arriving at the scene observed extensive damage, including shattered windscreens and body parts of vehicles parked outside the property. Spent bullet casings were recovered from the premises. No casualties were reported.

    Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has ordered a full-scale investigation into both incidents. “The Command is committed to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting those responsible for these attacks,” the statement concluded.

  • Uzodimma Applauds Quality of Reconstruction on Orlu–Mgbe–Akokwa–Uga Federal Road

    Uzodimma Applauds Quality of Reconstruction on Orlu–Mgbe–Akokwa–Uga Federal Road

    IMO STATE, NIGERIA (NPA): Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has commended the extensive construction and reconstruction works currently underway on the Orlu–Mgbe–Akokwa–Uga Road. Although classified as a federal road, the project is being undertaken by the Uzodimma-led administration.

    For years, the corridor was cut off from much of Imo State due to severe ecological challenges that disrupted livelihoods, restricted movement, and slowed economic growth in the region.

    In a statement on Tuesday, Uzodimma explained that the 22-kilometre highway connects Orlu to Akokwa, linking several communities and extending toward the Anambra State border, thereby reinforcing regional trade and mobility. He emphasized the durability of the asphalt, the reinforced bridge pillars, and the deliberate effort to address the Umuchima erosion site as evidence of the administration’s commitment to long-term solutions.

    “The goal of my administration is not merely to reconstruct a road but to build resilient infrastructure that secures mobility, strengthens commerce, and guarantees long-term economic stability,” Uzodimma said, describing this as the “language” of his government.

    Uzodimma first became governor on January 15, 2020, after the Supreme Court declared him winner of the 2019 governorship election, replacing Emeka Ihedioha. He was re-elected on November 11, 2023, and his victory was upheld by the Supreme Court on August 23, 2024.

  • Israel Condemns Jordanian Parliament for Erasing Mentions of Israel from Records

    Israel Condemns Jordanian Parliament for Erasing Mentions of Israel from Records

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA): The Israeli government has strongly condemned the decision by the Jordanian parliament on February 23, 2026, to erase all mentions of Israel from its parliamentary records. Lawmakers voted unanimously to remove references to “Israel” from the minutes of a debate that followed remarks by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee regarding proposed Israeli reforms in the West Bank—comments Jordanian MPs denounced as a breach of international law.

    In a statement issued Tuesday, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it “categorically condemns the decision taken yesterday by the Jordanian parliament to erase all mentions of Israel from its parliamentary records.” The ministry warned that the move “runs counter to the spirit of the peace treaty which has been maintained for over thirty years. It must be denounced by all who strive to build a region of tolerance and understanding.”

    Jordanian lawmakers defended the decision as a symbolic gesture of resistance, aimed at rejecting Israeli sovereignty claims in the occupied West Bank and Jordan Valley and expressing solidarity with Palestinian rights. While the measure does not alter official treaties or agreements between Jordan and Israel, it reinforces parliament’s opposition to Israeli policies and is expected to heighten diplomatic tensions between the neighbours despite their 1994 peace treaty.

    The controversy follows remarks made earlier in February 2026 by Ambassador Huckabee, who claimed that Israel has a right to much of the Middle East. His comments—widely condemned by Arab and Muslim nations as extremist rhetoric—contradicted decades of U.S. policy by asserting that Area C of the occupied West Bank “is Israel.” The statements have fuelled regional criticism of U.S. policy and intensified political actions such as Jordan’s parliamentary move.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu Accepts Egbetokun’s Resignation, Appoints AIG Disu as Inspector-General of Police

    JUST IN: Tinubu Accepts Egbetokun’s Resignation, Appoints AIG Disu as Inspector-General of Police

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday accepted the resignation of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, citing pressing family considerations. The President commended Egbetokun for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s internal security architecture during his tenure.

    According to a statement issued on February 24, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Egbetokun—appointed in June 2023—was originally scheduled to serve until June 2027 under the amended Police Act.

    Following his resignation, the Presidency announced the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police with immediate effect. The statement emphasized that the decision was taken “in view of the current security challenges confronting the nation” and in line with extant laws.

    President Tinubu expressed confidence in Disu’s “experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity,” noting that his appointment would provide “steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.”

    In compliance with the Police Act 2020, the President will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council to formally consider Disu’s appointment as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

    The statement reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.