The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, expressed regret over the army air strike that resulted in civilian casualties in Tudun Biri, Kaduna, on December 3. He assured the public that anyone found culpable in the incident would face punishment. Amidst criticism surrounding the air strike, during which approximately 85 civilians lost their lives and many others were hospitalized, President Bola Tinubu had pledged an independent investigation, vowing to take appropriate action against those responsible. General Musa addressed the incident during an interaction with the media, stating, “The incident in Kaduna is highly regrettable, it should not have been.…
Author: Editor Francis
Senate President Godswill Akpabio shed light on the circumstances surrounding the aftermath of his birthday colloquium on Thursday, addressing concerns about his well-being after reports surfaced that he had slumped during the event. The second leg of Akpabio’s 61st birthday anniversary featured a colloquium in Abuja, attended by President Bola Tinubu, occurring five days after the first celebration at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the capital of Akwa-Ibom State. Following the Abuja event, reports circulated that Akpabio had experienced a health incident, allegedly slumping while seated at the hotel where the colloquium took place. In a statement to…
Four healthcare workers have been sentenced to jail after being caught on camera physically and emotionally abusing an elderly patient, as reported by The BBC on Thursday. Ame Tunkara and Morountaro Adefila faced charges of ill-treatment and wilful neglect, resulting in their sentencing to four months in prison on December 8. Additionally, Danny Ohen and Bridget Aideyan were found guilty of the same offences and received sentences of six months and four months, respectively, on November 14. The appalling incident came to light when the workers were captured on camera mistreating an 89-year-old woman suffering from vascular dementia and unable…
The text of the final resolution that emerged from climate talks at COP28 in Dubai this week was a boon for oil and gas players and a reality check for campaigners who want an immediate end to fossil fuel investments. Given all countries attending the event needed to agree on the resolution’s wording, there was never going to be a situation where developing nations — those heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues, in the throes of tapping new discoveries or just starting to explore — would agree to a formal phasing out of fossil fuels. It was also a…
In a recent United Nations Security Council Briefing, Mark Simonoff, the Legal Adviser from New York, commended the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals for its relentless pursuit of justice in addressing atrocities committed in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia. President Gatti Santana and Prosecutor Brammertz provided a comprehensive briefing on the Mechanism’s ongoing efforts. Simonoff expressed gratitude to President Gatti Santana for her leadership, acknowledging the Mechanism’s significant role in delivering justice for some of the most severe crimes of the past century. He also conveyed condolences to Uganda on the passing of Judge Elizabeth Ibanda-Nahamya and welcomed the…
In response to the escalating violence perpetrated by terrorist groups in Burkina Faso, the United States has issued a press statement condemning the disturbing trend and expressing deep concern for the well-being of civilians, military personnel, and police in the region. Matthew Miller, the Department Spokesperson, highlighted the toll that violent extremism has taken on the people of Burkina Faso, extending condolences to the victims, their families, and affected communities. The United States reiterated its commitment to standing as a steadfast ally in the fight against terrorism. While acknowledging the challenging security situation in the Sahel region, the United States…
In a bid to enhance security measures during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade, has pledged to implement a robust security plan to protect residents and their properties. The announcement was made during Fayoade’s interaction with journalists after assuming the role of Commissioner of Police in the Lagos Command. Fayoade emphasized the continuation and intensification of the clampdown on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, in prohibited areas. He credited this initiative with contributing to a reduction in crime and road accidents in the state. Taking over…
In a recent press briefing, U.S. Ambassador Van Schaack addressed the alarming humanitarian crisis in Sudan, shedding light on the urgent need for international attention and intervention. The conflict, pitting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has resulted in a staggering toll of over 10,000 lives lost and 6.8 million people displaced since April. Ambassador Van Schaack underscored the severity of the situation, drawing attention to pervasive human rights abuses such as systemic sexual violence targeting women and girls, ethnic violence in Darfur, and the mass displacement of millions. The gravity of these offenses prompted…
In a recent interview on Channels TV, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, vehemently denied the World Bank’s assertion that the Nigerian government is still paying subsidies on petrol. Contrary to the bank’s suggestion, Idris insisted that the era of petrol subsidies is “gone for good.” President Bola Tinubu, according to the minister, made it clear from his first day in office that his administration would not sustain the payment of subsidies on petrol. Idris emphasized that the removal of subsidies has resulted in increased revenue flowing into the federation account. The World Bank, in its Nigeria…
In a decisive clash for International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 Women’s World Cup Global Qualification, Uganda showcased an impressive bowling display, thwarting Nigeria’s aspirations with a resounding six-wicket victory. Nigeria, having triumphed over Rwanda earlier, found their hopes dashed as Uganda’s bowlers restricted them to a mere 63/9 in 20 overs. Opting to bat after winning the toss, Nigeria’s top-order struggled, succumbing to the host’s relentless bowlers. Captain Blessing Etim stood as the lone performer with 24 runs off 42 balls. Uganda, asserting their dominance with a 66/4 score and 24 balls to spare, underlined their superiority, maintaining a…
The Leaders Summit in December 2022, President Biden’s administration has demonstrated substantial progress in delivering on its ambitious commitments. Celebrating the one-year anniversary of the summit, the White House affirms its unwavering dedication to Africa, showcasing significant achievements across various fronts. High-Level Engagements: Throughout 2023, the United States has elevated diplomatic exchanges with Africa, with 17 Cabinet and government leaders visiting 26 countries. Notably, Vice President Harris announced over $8 billion in climate, food security, women’s empowerment, and digital inclusion investments during her visits to Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia. Trade and Investment: The U.S. has facilitated 547 new deals totaling…
Today marks the one-year anniversary of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, and in a major development, Prosper Africa, an initiative by the U.S. Government, has released a Deal Book showcasing the success of the past year. The report reveals a staggering accomplishment: the closure of 547 new deals amounting to an estimated $14.2 billion in two-way trade and investment between the United States and African nations. This marks a notable 67 percent increase in both the number and value of closed deals compared to 2022. The Deal Book provides a comprehensive overview of partnerships and agreements between U.S. and African entities,…