New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • BREAKING NEWS: Enugu State Sets ₦150m Mandatory Advertising Permit for 2026, 2027 Elections

    BREAKING NEWS: Enugu State Sets ₦150m Mandatory Advertising Permit for 2026, 2027 Elections

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): The Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (ENSSAA) has announced that political parties and candidates contesting the 2026 and 2027 elections must pay a mandatory advertising permit fee of ₦150 million.

    The policy, unveiled on Monday by ENSSAA General Manager Francis Aninwike, forms part of the agency’s Outdoor Promotion and Visual Campaign Guidelines for the 2026 and 2027 General Elections. He explained that the measure is designed to regulate campaign advertising across the state’s 17 local government areas, ensuring orderliness, environmental aesthetics, and compliance with statutory regulations.

    The permit covers campaign activities including rallies, banners, branded vehicles, T-shirts, caps, handbills, buntings, and street promotions. Aninwike warned that no party or candidate may deploy outdoor campaign materials without first obtaining the permit, stressing that violators risk removal of materials and possible legal sanctions.

    He further noted that only practitioners licensed by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) are authorized to erect and manage billboards or campaign structures in the state. “No individual, political party, or support group is permitted to erect billboards or advertisement structures without going through licensed ARCON practitioners as permitted by ENSSAA,” he said.

    Addressing concerns of selective enforcement, Aninwike insisted the guidelines would apply uniformly to all parties and candidates, including incumbents. He added that Governor Peter Mbah has consistently adhered to advertising regulations in his campaigns and official promotions. The ENSSAA chief concluded by wishing political parties success in their preparations and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to maintaining professionalism and order in outdoor advertising across Enugu State.

  • Zelenskyy: Ukraine and Belarus Should Join the European Union

    Zelenskyy: Ukraine and Belarus Should Join the European Union

    KYIV, UKRAINE (NPA): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that it would be in the best interest of both Ukraine and Belarus to become members of the European Union. Speaking in an interview with Belarusian independent outlet Dzerkalo, Zelenskyy acknowledged uncertainty over whether Belarusians support the idea, but argued that EU membership would benefit both countries economically, geopolitically, and in terms of independence.

    He urged Belarusians to look beyond years of anti-European propaganda, dismissing fears that EU integration would lead to higher prices, lower wages, or economic decline. Zelenskyy emphasized that the decision would ultimately rest with the Belarusian people, but stressed that peaceful relations, mutual respect for sovereignty, and an end to cross-border hostilities were essential. “The best thing that can be is peaceful relations, when we respect each other’s sovereignty and missiles do not fly from one country to another,” he said, adding that Belarus did not start the war against Ukraine.

    Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU carries significant consequences. For Kyiv, membership would open access to the single market, attract investment, and accelerate reforms in governance and rule of law. Politically, it would anchor Ukraine firmly within the Western bloc, reducing Russian influence. For the EU, enlargement eastward would expand its population and territory but also require major financial commitments for reconstruction and agricultural support. Security challenges, migration pressures, and budgetary strains would intensify, though Ukraine’s membership could strengthen the EU’s global standing if managed with unity and balance.

  • African Union Condemns Mass Killing of Civilians in Zamfara, Nigeria

    African Union Condemns Mass Killing of Civilians in Zamfara, Nigeria

    ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA (NPA): The African Union Commission has strongly condemned the killing of more than 50 civilians in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria, on 21 February 2026.

    In a statement issued on 22 February, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, denounced what he described as “heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks” and the “abduction of women and children.” He stressed that the AU “unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations, particularly women and children, as grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security, and stability.”

    The Chairperson expressed the Union’s solidarity with the Government and people of Nigeria, extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. He reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity and restore lasting peace.

    Calling for “the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children,” Youssouf urged strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, in line with the AU’s commitment to peace and stability across the continent.

    Reports indicate that the attack was carried out by armed groups on motorcycles, who overran villages and killed residents indiscriminately. Nigerian security forces have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and intensify operations against banditry and terrorism in Africa’s most populous country.

  • LASG Commends JOHESU for Suspending Strike, Appreciates Residents’ Patience

    LASG Commends JOHESU for Suspending Strike, Appreciates Residents’ Patience

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): The Lagos State Government has welcomed the decision of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) to suspend their recent strike, which had disrupted healthcare services across state-owned hospitals. Officials described the move as “a demonstration of goodwill and shared responsibility toward safeguarding public healthcare in Nigeria’s commercial capital.”

    The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, speaking after a meeting between government representatives and union executives, commended JOHESU for embracing dialogue and constructive engagement. He noted that both parties agreed to sustain discussions while the union convenes its congress to formally communicate resolutions and restore normalcy in public healthcare facilities.

    Ayantayo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing JOHESU’s demands for improved welfare benefits within established regulations and agreed timelines. He stressed that the administration remains dedicated to equitable treatment, better working conditions, and sustainable welfare programs for health sector employees.

    The Commissioner also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their roles in facilitating the resolution. He extended appreciation to residents for their patience, understanding, and cooperation during the strike, assuring the public of uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services going forward.

    JOHESU in Lagos had joined a nationwide strike earlier in 2026, which lasted about 84 days. The industrial action severely affected public hospitals, leading to disrupted services, increased workload on doctors, patient suffering and delays, heightened public health concerns, and economic strain as families turned to costly private healthcare while public hospitals lost revenue. The strike also strained trust between health workers and government authorities.

  • Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigerian media organisation Newpost Africa Media Publishing® (Newpost Africa) has announced its return following a successful restructuring process. The relaunch underscores the company’s renewed commitment to delivering journalism of the highest standards—anchored in integrity, balance, and diversity.

    Positioning itself as “Nigeria’s independent, world-class media organisation”, Newpost Africa emphasized its founding principles of strict editorial neutrality, an uncompromising stance against propaganda, and reporting that informs without bias or distortion. The organisation stressed that credible journalism is indispensable to democratic societies and informed citizenship.

    In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Newpost Africa encouraged stakeholders and readers to actively engage with its mission. “By sharing perspectives and experiences, you contribute to a platform that values truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility in shaping the public record,” the statement read.

    Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and supported by a global network of journalists and writers, Newpost Africa said it is well-positioned to deliver timely coverage of rapidly evolving stories with speed, clarity, and analytical depth—while maintaining accuracy and editorial discipline.

    Its editorial focus remains firmly on Nigeria and the African continent, ensuring accountability from policymakers, institutions, and power brokers. At the same time, the organisation pledged to continue reporting on international developments that shape Africa’s place in the global context.

    The relaunch, according to the statement, is not merely a return but a reaffirmation of purpose and a strategic commitment to excellence in journalism. “This relaunch is a reaffirmation of our mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism and to serve as a trusted voice in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” the organisation noted.

  • Section One of Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway Set for May Commissioning

    Section One of Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway Set for May Commissioning

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has announced that the first section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway will be commissioned in May 2026.

    Umahi made the disclosure on Saturday, February 21, 2026, during an inspection of the project, which is designed to connect Lagos in the southwest to the South-South and South-East regions.

    Engineering Challenges and Progress

    According to a statement by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Works (Media), Umahi highlighted the administration’s determination under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver transformative infrastructure despite difficult terrain and environmental challenges. He noted that deep soil conditions, with pits reaching over 20 metres, had tested engineering limits but were being successfully managed.

    The minister praised HITECH Construction Company for its resilience, explaining that unexpected soil discoveries were being addressed at the contractor’s cost without any upward review of the project sum. “No other contractor can bear this kind of risk. You have proven that you are not working for money, but for the success of the country,” Umahi said.

    Road Opening Timeline

    Umahi disclosed that the 3-kilometre stretch currently under inspection is nearing completion, with sub-filling expected to be concluded within days. Once opened, motorists will be able to drive seamlessly from Ahmadu Bello Way through Lekki, with access extending toward the Dangote Refinery axis as work progresses on Section Two.

    Nigeria Calabar Coastal Highway.
    Credit: Facebook / Francis Nwaze

    Security and Public Conduct

    The minister condemned acts of vandalism along the corridor, including the cutting of metal fences and dumping of refuse into manholes, warning that such behaviour endangers lives and infrastructure. He commended security agencies for their vigilance and assured that offenders would be prosecuted.

    Broader Reform Agenda

    Umahi linked the project’s success to the broader reform agenda of the Tinubu administration, stressing that it represents national development rather than the efforts of a single institution. He pointed to recent macroeconomic indicators—including naira stability, foreign reserves at $49 billion, and inflation reduced to about 15%—as evidence of progress.

    “These are not magical. They are evidence of the hand of God upon the president,” Umahi said, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms and infrastructure initiatives. He called for responsible public engagement, emphasizing that the project transcends personalities and institutions.

  • INEC Disassociates From Fraudulent Online Recruitment, Warns Citizens

    INEC Disassociates From Fraudulent Online Recruitment, Warns Citizens

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has distanced itself from an online recruitment scheme falsely attributed to the commission.

    A fake website, https://tinyurl.com/INEC-Ad-hoc-Staff-Recruitment, had circulated claims of an ongoing recruitment exercise. In a statement issued on Saturday, INEC clarified that the site is “fake, misleading, and not authorized by the Commission.”

    “The Commission did not approve or originate the link currently circulating as ‘INEC Ad-hoc Staff Recruitment 2026,’” the statement read. INEC urged citizens not to submit personal information through the fraudulent platform, stressing that all official recruitment announcements are made exclusively via its verified website and official communication channels.

    The commission advised the public to disregard the link and remain vigilant against online scams. For further enquiries, INEC provided official contact numbers: 09050858629, 09050858675, and 09050858649.

    Fraudulent recruitment schemes are common in Nigeria, fueled by high unemployment rates. Such scams often exploit the names of government institutions and established brands to deceive unsuspecting individuals into parting with money or exposing personal data.

  • ADC Condemns Wike’s Presence at FCT Polling Units, Raises Concerns Over Voter Disenfranchisement

    ADC Condemns Wike’s Presence at FCT Polling Units, Raises Concerns Over Voter Disenfranchisement

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticized the presence of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike at polling units during Saturday’s elections for chairmen of the six Area Councils, including the Abuja Municipal Area Council.

    In a statement issued by party spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described Wike’s movements under the guise of “monitoring” as interference in the electoral process. The party argued that Wike, who is not a registered voter in the FCT, has no constitutional role in the exercise. “His presence during active voting is not only vexatious and meddlesome, but also risks intimidating voters and officials,” the statement read.

    Earlier, in its situation report, the ADC alleged emerging irregularities in parts of the FCT, claiming several voters reported that their names were missing from the register at multiple polling units. In a video circulating online, affected citizens alleged that names of individuals who voted for the Labour Party in the last election had been removed from the system in about 12 polling units. “These voters insist they are duly registered and participated in the previous election, yet they are now unable to find their details on the register. This development, if verified, raises serious concerns about voter disenfranchisement and the integrity of the electoral process. We call on INEC to urgently investigate these complaints, clarify the situation, and ensure that no eligible voter is denied their constitutional right to vote. Democracy must be protected. Every valid vote must count,” the party stated.

    The ADC also expressed concern over reports of voter suppression and intimidation in parts of the FCT, alleging collaboration between APC agents and some security personnel.

    On the performance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the party pointed to disruptions on the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), which it said remained inaccessible even as results were being collated. “We find this a curious coincidence and call on INEC to urgently restore full IReV functionality, with a clear public explanation of the disruption,” Abdullahi added.

    The party urged its agents and supporters to remain calm but vigilant, and to document any irregularities observed during the process.

  • Peter Mbah Commends Peaceful APC Local Government Congresses in Nkanu East and West

    Peter Mbah Commends Peaceful APC Local Government Congresses in Nkanu East and West

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has expressed satisfaction with the smooth and peaceful conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government congresses in Nkanu East and Nkanu West.

    In a statement on Saturday, Mbah described the exercise as “democracy at its most peaceful and purposeful,” noting that the congresses were marked by unity rather than division. “Party faithful came together, spoke with one voice, and affirmed consensus—a reminder that true leadership begins with harmony and shared vision,” he said.

    The governor emphasized that what distinguished the congresses was not only the orderly process but also the spirit of collective responsibility. “When people put the common good above personal ambition, institutions grow stronger and governance becomes more meaningful,” he added.

    Mbah commended APC leaders and members across Enugu State for demonstrating maturity, discipline, and unity, stressing that such values form the foundation for delivering the dividends of democracy to citizens.

    The APC is currently conducting local government congresses nationwide as part of its internal party processes to elect officials at various levels. These congresses aim to strengthen party structures, deepen grassroots participation, and prepare for upcoming state congresses and the national convention.

  • FG Moves to Establish Armed Forces Medical College

    FG Moves to Establish Armed Forces Medical College

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): The Federal Government says it has advanced plans to establish the Armed Forces College of Medicine and Health Sciences (AFCOM&HS) to strengthen military healthcare services.

    This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Abuja by Folasade Boriowo, Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.

    Boriowo said the initiative would also address manpower shortages within the Armed Forces and expand Nigeria’s overall medical training capacity.

    She quoted the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, as disclosing this development at a high-level meeting with the Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, and other stakeholders.

    In attendance at the meeting were the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle.

    Alausa said the proposed college aligned with the Federal Government’s reform agenda, particularly efforts to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematica and Medical Sciences Education’.

    He said the college would provide a structured and sustainable pipeline of military-trained doctors, surgeons, trauma specialists, emergency response medics and allied health professionals.

    According to him, Nigeria faces a growing shortage of medical professionals amid a population of over 240 million people.

    He said the country had a deficit of about 340,000 doctors, stressing the need for scalable and innovative training models.

    Alausa said the ministry had doubled annual medical school admissions from about 5,000 to nearly 10,000.

    He added that projections were underway to increase the figure to about 19,000 annually in the coming years.

    The minister said the new college would form a critical component of the expansion strategy.

    He said in compliance with the Federal Government’s seven-year moratorium on new tertiary institutions, the Nigerian Defence Academy would establish the college within its existing framework.

    According to him, the institution will be located in Lagos State and linked to accredited federal and military hospitals for clinical trainings.

    Alausa said trainings would be anchored at designated military medical facilities, including the 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital and the 661 Nigerian Air Force Hospital in Lagos.

    He said medical cadets would undergo an eight-year programme comprising six years of academic training, one year of military training and one year of housemanship.

    The minister said the graduates would be equipped with medical expertise, discipline, leadership skills and operational readiness for military service.

    He added that a Technical Working Group had been constituted to ensure regulatory compliance and quality assurance.

    According to him, its members include representatives of the Ministries of Education and Defence, the Nigerian Defence Academy and relevant professional and regulatory bodies.

    He said the objective was to ensure that admissions commence by October or November 2026.

    Alausa expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support for human capital development and national security.

    He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with its defence and regulatory partners to deliver the initiative in compliance with the extant national standards and global best practices. (NAN).