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 Foreign Affairs › Re: “They’re Silent, Imagine I Did Any Of This” – Obama Chides Trump by femisplash(op): 8:33pm On Apr 06, 2025*. Modified: 3:37am On Apr 07, 2025 |
First of, Obama is black, he wouldn't have dared coming close to a thought of it. Meanwhile, Obama was addressing the fact that Trump is replacing the fundamental parts of US democracy with anti-democratic mannerism. Like a lady who overlooked an abusive man who physically assaulted her in a relationship, so did Americans to Trump who incited a large number of his followers to invade the Capitol Hill and pissed on sacred democratic institution.
When thousands of Americans streamed onto the major cities protesting against Trump's policies, clutching flags and placards, Trump was at his Florida resort playing golf - any mind reader would insinuate him giving a middle finger to the protesters, 12hours after, he hasn't responded to the protest.
Putting it in a proper perspective, Trump's decision to impose tariffs is driven by the hell of amount of money the US is going to generate, it's mouth-watering. However, he's not thinking about what the US will lose. By thorough consideration, the losses will easily erode any drop of gains.
I am therefore sticking out my neck and predicting Trump is going to fold and eventually going to reverse himself. My prediction is hinged on two facts - Firstly, Trump was declared bankrupt a record of four times - such an individual has no infinitesimal idea about driving a robustly challenging economy of a big country like the US. Secondly, By antecedents, during his first time, his tariffs war with China achieved no substantial results, matter of fact, it affected his second term reelection as a section of very essential productive sector were mostly affected by China's retaliatory measures. If Trump couldn't succeed against China, how will he succeed against an influential coalition of European giants. France/ Europe are going to unveil the first part of its reciprocity this week.
Within Trump's circle, Trump and Elon Musk are beginning to drift apart in policy opinions with Musk disagreeing with Trump's tariffs plan.
Lots of events are going to unfold in the coming weeks, will be interesting to watch how Trump swims through the tide. |
| Foreign Affairs › “They’re Silent, Imagine I Did Any Of This” – Obama Chides Trump by femisplash(op): 8:32pm On Apr 06, 2025 |
Former President Barack Obama has faulted some recent actions of President Donald Trump, accusing the United States government of muzzling the media and targeting political opponents and their associates.
In a conversation with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper, Obama stated that it’s up to all Americans “to fix this,” identifying the ordinary citizens as the most important people in democracy.
Obama condemned the White House’s decision to revoke The Associated Press’s access to key West Wing spaces over the news agency’s refusal to use the “Gulf of America” term after Trump renamed the Gulf of Mexico.
The two-term leader also criticized the Republican administration’s new tariffs, and the suspension or reduction of federal funding for universities that fail to comply with policies.
The Department of Education, this week, ordered education chiefs in school districts and states to certify that they are not using diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, regarded as a violation of the anti-discrimination law.
Obama said he was “deeply concerned with a federal government that threatens universities if they don’t give up students who are exercising their right to free speech.”
Expressing disappointment at the attitude of certain “parties,” Obama said despite all that is going on, entities that ought to challenge Trump are quiet but would have spoken out if he or another predecessor was in office.
“I don’t think what we just witnessed in terms of economic policy and tariffs is going to be good for America, but that’s a specific policy,” the ex-president posited.
“I am more troubled by the idea that a White House can say to law firms, ‘If you represent parties that we don’t like, we’re going to pull all our business or bar you from representing people effectively'”, he said.
Obama described the behavior as “contrary to the basic compact we have as Americans,” adding “Imagine if I had done any of this. I just want to be clear about this.”
“Imagine if I had pulled Fox News’ credentials from the White House press corps. You’re laughing, but this is what’s happening,” he told the audience.
“Imagine if I had said to law firms that were representing parties that were upset with policies my administration had initiated, that you will not be allowed into government buildings,” he added.
Obama further imagined the reaction if his administration punished people “economically for dissenting from the Affordable Care Act,” or “ferret out students who protest against my policies.”
“It’s unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me, or a whole bunch of my predecessors,” said the Nobel Peace Prize winner.
On gun-related violence, Obama condemned the routine shootings and killings across the country, emphasizing that firearm possession should be for hunting, sport, personal and family protection.
“I don’t understand what we’re doing in allowing semiautomatic weapons in people’s hands. But I could not persuade enough of the country and certainly enough of Congress to prioritize that,” he recalled.
On life outside the White House, the former president said he’s working on the Obama Foundation which trains the next generation of leaders in the U.S. and around the world, and also finishing his presidential memoirs. https://dailypost.ng/2025/04/05/theyre-silent-imagine-i-did-any-of-this-obama-chides-trump/
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| Politics › Re: CBN Reports $23Bn Net Foreign Exchange Reserves, Strongest In Over Three Years by femisplash(op): 8:12am On Apr 02, 2025*. Modified: 5:43pm On Apr 02, 2025 |
According to the CBN, the $23.11 billion figure represents a significant recovery from: $3.99 billion at year-end 2023, $8.19 billion in 2022, and $14.59 billion in 2021. From the above, remember, if you might, that there was a contention between the CBN and JP Morgan. While Emefiele reported a net reserves of $38.8billion as at 2023 before leaving office, JP Morgan ( Nigeria's foreign banker) refuted his claim with a hard fact which put our reserves at $3.7billion. A staggering differential from what was initially painted to the public. This is a NET figure not GROSS figure. Please, refer to the below link: JP Morgan estimates Nigeria’s net external reserve to be around $3.7 billionhttps://nairametrics.com/2023/08/21/jp-morgan-estimates-nigerias-net-external-reserve-to-be-around-3-7-billion/The Net reserves figure of $3.7billion was arrived at after deductions of forward contracts, currency swap and securities lending. While we struggled with little to nothing, Emefiele padded the stats ( reserves), giving a false impression we had just about a healthy reserves with the aim of persuading both creditors and investors alike. And indeed, it did. Shortly after the reports by Emefiele, the market reacted positively, creditors were giving us more loans, we got more to pay for subsidy, infrastructure, railways, recurrent expenditure, and all. However, the moment JP Morgan gave a counter-fact to the true financial status of our foreign reserves, everything went downhill, investors pulled out their funds, the market was deflated, foreign banks / lenders refused to give our importers letters of credits, the naira fell all the way to around 907 to a dollar, before Emefiele was eventually fired. And consequently, the naira being floated. Remember in all of these, while we tried wriggling through, the cude oil which is our major source of foreign exchange had been sold in advance for loans. So, while we produced about 1.1/1.2 mpb , a greater percentage had been used to offset loans in advance. We literally used everything we had to borrow, while we had nothing as a buffer. The country was on a verge of total collapse. Let me give a practical illustration for easy understanding of the country's situation at the time; like you have N500 in your account, then you go borrow cash of N2500 from Mr X which adds up your balance to N3000 and then go to Mr Y to borrow another cash of N2000, adding up your cash balance to N5000. Just so to give a false impression that you're worth N5,000 meanwhile, you true worth is N500 ONLY!. With N500, no creditor will ever give you loan because it's a red flag. So you had to pad up your worth to N5000 to convince your creditors that you were credit worthy. And that was how we were living and running the economy 10-11years ago, untill President Tinubu pressed the reset button. Hard and tough the decisions might be, it helped reposition the economy from the verge of a total collapse. Which is evident in our net reserves gaining a significant leap from $3.7billion to $23.8 in less than two years. This is as a result of unrelenting efforts of a bunch of good policies and systematic implementation thereof. Until we look beyond food inflation which is self-inflicted ( bandits attacks on farmers) which might have eroded our true sense of appreciating the Government that has done a yoeman's job of saving a banged-up economy from a total collapse. |
| Politics › CBN Reports $23Bn Net Foreign Exchange Reserves, Strongest In Over Three Years by femisplash(op): 8:11am On Apr 02, 2025 |
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reported a Net Foreign Exchange Reserve (NFER) of $23.11 billion as of the end of 2024, marking the highest level in over three years.
In a statement released in Abuja, the apex bank described the increase as a reflection of improved external liquidity, reduced short-term obligations, and renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.
The NFER, which accounts for near-term liabilities such as FX swaps and forward contracts, is considered a more accurate measure of Nigeria’s available foreign exchange buffers.
According to the CBN, the $23.11 billion figure represents a significant recovery from: $3.99 billion at year-end 2023, $8.19 billion in 2022, and $14.59 billion in 2021.
Additionally, gross external reserves rose to $40.19 billion, compared to $33.22 billion at the close of 2023.
The CBN attributed the improvement to deliberate policy actions, including: Reducing short-term foreign exchange liabilities (notably FX swaps and forward contracts), Rebuilding confidence in the FX market through transparency and reforms, Increasing reserve buffers to strengthen Nigeria’s economic position, Boosting FX inflows from non-oil sources.
CBN Governor: “This Progress Is No Accident”
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso emphasized that the improved reserves position resulted from deliberate policy choices aimed at long-term stability.
“This improvement in our net reserves is not accidental; it is the outcome of deliberate policy choices aimed at rebuilding confidence, reducing vulnerabilities, and laying the foundation for long-term stability,” he stated.
“We remain focused on sustaining this progress through transparency, discipline, and market-driven reforms.”
The CBN projects further reserve growth in 2025, with expectations of: Improved oil production levels, Stronger non-oil FX earnings and More diversified external inflows.
The CBN hinted that reserves would continue to strengthen in 2025.
While the first quarter figures reflected some seasonal and transitional adjustments, including significant interest payments on foreign-denominated debt, underlying fundamentals remain intact, and reserves are expected to continue improving over the second quarter of this year.
Going forward, the CBN said it anticipates a steady uptick in reserves, underpinned by improved oil production levels, and a more supporting export growth environment expected to boost non-oil FX earnings and diversify external inflows.
“The CBN remains committed to prudent reserve management, transparent reporting and macroeconomic policies that support a stable exchange rate, attract investment and build long-term resilience,” it stated. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/cbn-reports-23bn-net-foreign-exchange-reserves-strongest-in-over-three-years/
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| Foreign Affairs › Re: Several Dozen Soldiers Killed In Latest Attack In Burkina Faso by femisplash(op): 8:32pm On Mar 31, 2025 |
Burkina Faso, Mali Niger have to reevaluate their missteps and reorganize their approach. There have not been any appreciable improvement since taking over power. |
| Foreign Affairs › Several Dozen Soldiers Killed In Latest Attack In Burkina Faso by femisplash(op): 8:32pm On Mar 31, 2025 |
An attack in eastern Burkina Faso has left several dozen soldiers and civilian auxiliaries dead, according to local and security sources on Sunday. The attack targeted an army detachment in Tapoa province on Friday and has left many others wounded. The region has been plagued by violence since 2015, with groups linked to the IS and Al-Qaeda responsible for much of the turmoil.
A security source stated that the army unit, stationed in the main city of Diapaga, was ambushed in a violent attack. Several regular soldiers and civilian volunteers were among the victims, with around 30 wounded security personnel evacuated to a hospital in Fada N’Gourma for treatment.
While the detachment was under attack, terrorists also targeted Diapaga, setting fire to shops and homes. Gunfire was heard around the town on the day following the assault.
The Burkinabe government has yet to release a statement on the attack. The eastern region has experienced similar violence in recent weeks, with two separate attacks earlier this month killing at least a dozen security forces and civilians.
In response to the ongoing violence, the government established a new rapid intervention battalion (BIR) in Diapaga earlier this year, which is supported by civilian volunteers, known as the VDP. However, the fight against insurgencies has drawn criticism from human rights organisations due to reported abuses by both the army and the VDP. The violence has displaced over two million people and caused more than 26,000 deaths since 2015. https://newscentral.africa/several-dozen-soldiers-killed-in-latest-attack-in-burkina-faso/
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| Politics › Re: 13 Major Ongoing Road Projects Under The Tinubu Administration by femisplash(op): 7:43pm On Mar 31, 2025*. Modified: 8:54pm On Mar 31, 2025 |
For the records, these are the major roads famously regarded as the Legacy Projects, among the 468 road projects across the country earmarked for construction, repairs and maintenance. Most impressively among the fun facts is the longest stretch of road projects ever by any Administration. These roads is approximately, over 2900 km stretch cumulatively, a bit less than 3,000km. These Projects cut across all the geopolitical regions as much as it would expand social economic growth of Nigerians with a corresponding growth in GDP.
By the time David Umahi's term is complete, I don't think there will be a debate or controversy in the Senate as to whether he deserves to be immortalized or not. The result speaks for itself. |
| Politics › 13 Major Ongoing Road Projects Under The Tinubu Administration by femisplash(op): 7:42pm On Mar 31, 2025 |
President Bola Tinubu’s administration, since assuming office in 2023, has focused on completing and expanding key road infrastructure across Nigeria.
While some of these projects began under previous administrations, the government has adjusted contracts, revised funding allocations, and set new timelines to accelerate their delivery.
Others have been newly awarded to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and support regional development.
This article highlights 13 major road projects currently being executed under the Tinubu administration. While these are not the only ongoing projects, they represent significant infrastructure developments aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s transportation network.
The report outlines their scope, funding status, contractors, and projected completion timelines.
Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway
The 164-kilometer Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway connects Abuja, Niger, Kaduna, and Kano states. Awarded to Julius Berger in 2017, the project stalled and remained incomplete until 2023.
In January 2024, Minister of Works David Umahi announced renewed efforts under President Bola Tinubu with a N20 billion monthly funding commitment. By March 2025, N17 billion had been released, with an additional N33 billion allocated.
The Federal Executive Council revised the project’s cost to N740.79 billion in September 2024 and approved N507 billion for the second section in March 2025. The road is now set for completion in 2026, easing transportation and boosting regional connectivity.
9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi Road
The dualization of the 9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi Road is a strategic project aimed at reducing travel time and improving connectivity between Enugu, Makurdi, Abuja, and northern Nigeria. In January 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu authorized the release of funds for critical road projects nationwide, including this vital route.
The upgraded road will also provide an alternative cross-country link through Makurdi-Akwanga-Abuja, offering commuters greater convenience and a smoother travel experience. Once completed, the project is expected to boost regional trade, enhance logistics, and improve transportation efficiency across the country.
Sokoto-Badagry Highway
The 1,068-kilometer Sokoto-Badagry Highway will link Nigeria’s northern and southern regions, spanning Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos. The six-lane highway will include a rail line in its median to enhance trade and connectivity.
In April 2024, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the commencement of the highway’s design. Construction of Section I, Phase 1A, began in October 2024, with Hitech Construction (Nig.) Ltd handling the 120-kilometer segment flagged off in Ilelah, Sokoto State, using concrete paving for durability.
The 258-kilometer Kebbi section, valued at N428.3 billion, is under active construction, with parts set for commissioning by May 29, 2025.
Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road
The Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road project, initially awarded in 2012, has seen renewed momentum following the termination and re-awarding of the contract in 2024 by the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
Now undergoing dualization with concrete technology, the Federal Executive Council approved N305 billion for the project’s completion in February 2025.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway (Phase 1)
The first phase of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway spans 47.7 kilometers within Lagos State, starting from Ahmadu Bello Way. Construction began in March 2024 and is expected to be completed by May 29, 2025.
Awarded to Hitech Construction Company Ltd. under an EPC+F model, the project shifts most financial and construction risks to the contractor, with the Federal Government providing counterpart funding.
The road will be tolled for 5 to 10 years to recover costs.
The full 700-kilometer highway, designed to integrate rail transport and boost coastal trade, will connect nine states with multiple spurs to key cities and trade routes, including the Ogoja-axis of the Trans-Sahara corridor. For Phase 1, the Federal Government has confirmed that rail construction along Section I will commence in 2025, though the exact month remains undisclosed.
Enugu-Onitsha Expressway
The 107 km dual-carriage Enugu-Onitsha Expressway is being reconstructed under MTN’s Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment (Tax Credit) Scheme. Initially delayed due to cost variations, the project is now progressing, with construction 50-70% complete as of March 25, 2025.
The Federal Ministry of Works has set a May 10, 2026, deadline for completion. The project is expected to enhance connectivity and boost economic activities in the Southeast region. The Minister of Works has emphasized that MTN will be held accountable for any structural failures, ensuring RCC Company Nig. Ltd. adheres strictly to contract terms, with no cost variations allowed unless contractually justified.
Benin–Asaba Superhighway
The 125km Benin–Asaba Superhighway was officially flagged off by the Federal Government in March 2025. The project, fully financed by Africa Plus Partners under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, is designed as a dual-carriageway with solar-powered lighting to enhance safety and efficiency.
The road project aims to boost economic growth and improve connectivity between Edo and Delta states. The 30-month project timeline is expected to deliver a modern superhighway that eases travel and trade between Benin City and Asaba.
Oyo-Ogbomoso Road
The Oyo-Ogbomoso Road is a vital infrastructure project in Oyo State, long delayed despite its importance for regional connectivity.
In February 2025, the Federal Government terminated the contract with Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) due to slow progress. Minister of Works David Umahi revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved a new contract for its completion, awarding it to Mssrs JRB Construction Co. Ltd. at N147.89 billion.
The dualization project is expected to enhance transportation and boost economic activity in the region.
Bode Saadu – Kaima – Kosubosu Road
The 130km Bode Saadu – Kaima – Kosubosu Road in Kwara State is being constructed under the Federal Government’s Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme (RITC) and is fully financed by the BUA Group. The project, which intercepts the Jebba-Ilorin Road, previously had no existing road—only pathways.
According to BUA Group’s March 2024 update, the construction involves extensive groundwork, including sections requiring up to 8 meters of filling. The road features a 20cm subbase, a 15cm stone base, and reinforced iron bars with laterite filling. Designed to last over 40 years, the project aims to enhance connectivity and facilitate cross-border trade.
Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway
The Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway connects Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Imo, and Rivers, strengthening regional trade and mobility.
The 56.10-kilometre Umuahia-Aba section (Section II) is undergoing rehabilitation and reconstruction, with the Federal Government setting a June 2025 completion deadline. Minister of Works David Umahi has instructed Arab Contractors (Nig.) Ltd. to complete earthworks by April 2025, with only two kilometres of earthwork and four kilometres of asphalt work remaining.
Umahi revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made adequate budgetary provisions in the 2024 and 2025 budgets to ensure the project’s timely completion.
Second Niger Bridge Access Road
In March 2025, the Federal Government began construction of a 17.55-kilometre access road to the Second Niger Bridge in Asaba, as part of Phase 2A.
While the bridge itself was largely completed under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the final phase—linking it to key transport corridors—has been prioritized under President Bola Tinubu.
The project aims to enhance connectivity between the South-South and South-East, improve trade and transportation efficiency, and ensure the bridge fully eases traffic congestion while supporting regional economic growth.
Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway project is divided into two phases to enhance connectivity and road infrastructure.
Phase 1 includes Section 1 (43 km), built by Julius Berger, and Section 2, handled by RCC, which faced structural failures on the Ibadan-bound lane. According to Works Minister David Umahi, 8.5 km remains unfinished, with completion set for April 2025 and commissioning in May.
Phase 2 covers flyover head completions at RCCG, Wawa, Ogun Bridge, and Arepo Bridge, plus a 12-km dual carriageway at Sagamu-Iperu using rigid pavement. A 48-km stretch to Ore is also planned, with the contract expected by March 2025.
The Federal Government plans to introduce tolling after Phase 1 to fund maintenance.
The 34-kilometer Bodo-Bonny Road project, awarded in 2014 for N120 billion, is a joint initiative between the Federal Government and Nigeria LNG Limited. Constructed by Julius Berger, the project includes 13 bridges and aims to connect Bonny Island to mainland Rivers State.
However, cost escalations and funding challenges delayed progress. In 2021, the project cost was revised to N199.9 billion, leading to stalled construction. Under President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a further cost adjustment to N280 billion in September 2024, along with a 12-month extension. The project is now scheduled for completion by September 2025. https://nairametrics.com/2025/03/31/see-the-13-major-ongoing-road-projects-under-the-tinubu-administration/
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| Politics › Re: How Nigeria Rescued Infants Trapped In Gaza - Minister by femisplash(op): 7:38pm On Mar 22, 2025*. Modified: 8:25pm On Mar 22, 2025 |
Nigeria will be remembered in the World's history as the most gracious of human kindness, when you help rescue the most vulnerable kids under the worst of living conditions, it's like breathing a life into a dust, giving them a new promise of life. Nigeria has always been voting at the UN for peace in Gaza as well as withdrawal of Russian's troops in Ukraine. We do not only vote but also demonstrates the vote in the most practicable manner. We might not have brought the kids on our soil but the financial commitments we offer will prove much as effective.
Donald Trump came with that kind of an aura but he's fast losing it because he's being too impulsive. The honeymoon is over, now reality stares at him. He's being more of a talker than a doer. Deadlines have failed over and over again, ceasefire deals are being extended days into weeks and weeks into months. The regional tensions in the middle east are being escalated, Russia-Ukraine peace deal while so close yet so far. There seems to be no end in sight while Trump keeps grandstanding. |
| Politics › How Nigeria Rescued Infants Trapped In Gaza - Minister by femisplash(op): 7:38pm On Mar 22, 2025 |
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, revealed on Thursday that Nigeria significantly contributed to a diplomatic effort to evacuate infants and babies from Gaza to hospitals located in Jordan, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
During the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series held in Abuja, Tuggar explained that the intervention was initiated following a request from the Red Cross, which sought Nigeria’s support in relocating the children, many of whom were in critical condition.
He further emphasised that Nigeria made a calculated decision to act, taking into account the delicate medical conditions of the children and the challenges associated with long-distance transportation.
“The Red Cross reached out to us, asking if Nigeria would be willing to take in some of the infants from Gaza because they were looking for countries that had expressed concern over the dire humanitarian situation.
“Our response was that we cannot take the risk of flying such fragile infants, some born with heart conditions, all the way from the Middle East to Nigeria. If something happens, people will question why we took such a risk when we have our own healthcare challenges here,” he stated.
He said the Nigerian government leveraged diplomatic channels to negotiate with the governments of Jordan, the UAE, and Egypt, urging them to take in the children.
“We used our good offices and diplomatic connections to reach out to the Foreign Ministers of these countries and impress upon them the need to accept and provide medical care for the infants. And alhamdulillah, it succeeded,” Tuggar added. https://dailytrust.com/how-nigeria-rescued-infants-trapped-in-gaza-minister/
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| Foreign Affairs › Re: Supreme Court Rules Trump Administration Must Unfreeze Foreign Aid Payments by femisplash(op): 8:48pm On Mar 09, 2025*. Modified: 9:10pm On Mar 09, 2025 |
It's looking like only the Supreme Court of the United States are capable of pulling Trump's ears and knocking him back on the line. Pretty sure he would have sanctioned the Judges and placed them on a ban as he did the ICC's if he had the dictatorial powers in the US.
The World's playing the soft power is not going to turn a stone anytime soon. It beats me seeing the vociferous Republican leaders who were once vocal in their support for Ukraine against Putin, suddenly having a cold feet in the face of Trump's bullying. |
| Foreign Affairs › Supreme Court Rules Trump Administration Must Unfreeze Foreign Aid Payments by femisplash(op): 8:48pm On Mar 09, 2025 |
A sharply divided Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that the Trump administration must comply with a district court order and pay out nearly $2 billion in foreign assistance funds to nonprofit aid groups for work already completed on the government's behalf.
The court ruled 5-4 with Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett siding with the liberal justices.
The court did not elaborate on the decision but said the district court judge should "clarify what obligations the Government must fulfill to ensure compliance with the temporary restraining order, with due regard for the feasibility of any compliance timelines."
A lower court judge is currently weighing whether or not to impose a longer-term preliminary injunction against the foreign aid freeze.
Justice Samuel Alito said in his dissent that he was "stunned" by the majority's decision.
"Does a single district-court judge who likely lacks jurisdiction have the unchecked power to compel the Government of the United States to pay out (and probably lose forever) $2 billion taxpayer dollars? The answer to that question should be an emphatic "No," but a majority of this Court apparently thinks otherwise," he wrote.
The Trump administration did not immediately comment on the ruling.
The court's majority did not specify a deadline by which the administration needed to comply.
The administration initially tried to freeze the payments via an executive order before U.S. District Court Judge Amir Ali ordered the payments to resume in a temporary restraining order issued three weeks ago.
Last week, Ali, a Biden appointee, ruled the administration violated the terms of a temporary restraining order and ordered the Trump administration to dole out delayed payments by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 26.
Lawyers with the Department of Justice acknowledged that the Trump administration ignored the temporary restraining order, which prohibited them from freezing foreign aid funds since the order was issued.
Instead, they argued that they should not be required to pay back the money because of "sovereign immunity."
During an extended exchange with Ali, a DOJ lawyer struggled to answer basic questions about the Trump administration's compliance with the temporary restraining order.
Chief Justice Roberts ordered a stay before the deadline as the court heard the case.
Foreign aid groups have been teetering on bankruptcy following Trump's decision to end aid and have been searching for answers.
During a Feb. 13 meeting with representatives from those organizations, Pete Marocco, the Trump administration official tasked with the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) defended what he called a "total zero-based review," and arguing that some areas of foreign aid required "radical change,"
"As far as payment, one of the reasons that there have been problems with some of the payments is because, despite the president's executive order, despite the secretary's guidance, we still had nefarious actors in the agencies that were trying to push out hundreds of illegal payments,"
Marocco said. "And so we were able to seize control of that, stop them, take control of some of those people, and make sure that that money was not getting out the door."
Marocco suggested that payments for organizations with existing contracts would resume the following week, but they remained frozen. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/supreme-court-orders-trump-administration-unfreeze-foreign-assistance/story?id=119473127
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| Politics › Re: Port Of Dubai Operator Seeks Approval To Build Industrial Park At Nigerian Ports by femisplash(op): 7:22pm On Mar 04, 2025*. Modified: 7:39pm On Mar 31, 2025 |
Culled from its website; the company operates in 48 countries and manages over 90 terminals globally, with an established presence in most African nations. DP World handles 70 million
containers that are brought in by around 70,000 vessels annually. This equates to roughly 10% of global container traffic accounted for by their 82 marine and inland terminals present in over 40 countries.
This is no less a big grab for Nigeria, the type of relatively more robust foreign direct investments from the oil rich continent of the Middle East.
Think of the magnificence of industrial parks around our ports, your imagination is as splendid as mine. I can't wait a second longer.
One of such a big grab is Saudi Arabia's Halal Product Development Company whereby Nigeria will be tapping into a $7.7trillion halal market. Excitingly, this company is investing in multiple sectors in Nigeria, ranging from food, pharmaceutical (extremely important at this critical point), finance, livestock, etc. A good example is the Islamic banking that has so far been of tremendous amount of relief to the country.
If you throw the big boys from the middle east into the mix of an ambitious planning and set goals of the federal government, it is a recipe for achieving a $1trillion economy quicker than you might imagine. |
| Politics › Port Of Dubai Operator Seeks Approval To Build Industrial Park At Nigerian Ports by femisplash(op): 7:21pm On Mar 04, 2025*. Modified: 8:28pm On Mar 04, 2025 |
Dubai-based DP World, operator of the Port of Dubai, has proposed establishing an industrial park at Nigerian ports to enhance export processing.
The proposal was announced during a delegation meeting in Abuja, where Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola expressed robust government support for initiatives that modernize port infrastructure and attract strategic foreign investment, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.
Oyetola emphasized Nigeria’s extensive coastline and abundant available land, positioning the country as an ideal setting for an industrial park that would complement existing port operations.
In his remarks, the minister explained that the proposed industrial park would serve as a dedicated logistics hub, streamlining cargo handling and expediting export processes.
“Over the weekend, when I received a delegation from the DP World, I affirmed that the government is open to investments in the sector and assured that the ministry will provide the needed impetus to interested parties for such ventures.
“I welcome the proposal by the Port of Dubai to establish an industrial park to complement the ports and provide a logistics base for processing for exports.
“We have an extensive coastline and abundance of lands suitable for the development of industrial parks,” Oyetola said.
The minister urged the Dubai delegation to submit a formal proposal to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for review. https://nairametrics.com/2025/03/03/port-of-dubai-operator-seeks-approval-to-build-industrial-park-at-nigerian-ports/?amp=1
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| Politics › Re: CBN’s Reforms Are Attracting More Foreign Investors– Global, Nigerian Analysts by femisplash: 7:00pm On Feb 28, 2025 |
No truer words.. |
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| Foreign Affairs › Re: US Rejects UN Resolution Condemning Russia’s War: How Your Country Voted by femisplash(op): 8:29pm On Feb 26, 2025*. Modified: 7:02am On Feb 27, 2025 |
Putin's invasion in Ukraine required the 193 member body to reafirm Kyiv's territorial integrity and called for Russia to withdraw its forces in tune with the UN's charter. The resolution was passed but had less support, many members abstained to avoid a tricky tension created by Trump.
Washington's diplomats had urged other countries to vote against the measures, and instead support US potential resolution. However, US took a neutral stance on the war. It would have seemed unthinkable seeing US and Russia on the same side of a coin given past antecedents.
While many countries abstained, Nigeria took a stand and voted in favour of Russia's forces moving their ass out of Ukraine 's territory. It however, affirms the strength and will power of Nigeria being a power house, never cowering, never intimidated.
I recalled a former foreign minister advising Tinubu to not get into any friction with Trump. Damn the consequences!, Nigeria is the giant of Africa. And behind the wheel is a man who does not grovel at the feet of no one.
Following the suspension of USAID, the President immediately ordered the release of $1billion for the continuity of medical programs and an additional $3.2million to procure HIV treatment packs. That was a big punch right back at Trump's face. Additionally, he instructed the ministers of foreign affairs to make sure Nigeria deportees were respectfully brought back, with directives that they must be flown down to Lagos specifically. The US Ambassador got the memo and did exactly that.
Mr President never go sulking to Trump as did the Presidents of Brazil, Mexico and Colombia when their citizens were deported in handcuffs.
The world is witnessing two raving megalomaniacs rolling over each other in a couple's bed while Gaza and Ukraine are being forced to remove the beddings and do the laundry.
We will see if Europe and BRICS could see through their skulls when these two blocs meet to make their decisions. |
| Foreign Affairs › US Rejects UN Resolution Condemning Russia’s War: How Your Country Voted by femisplash(op): 8:28pm On Feb 26, 2025 |
The United States on Monday broke away from its European allies by declining to hold Russia accountable for its invasion of Ukraine during votes on three United Nations resolutions aimed at ending the three-year conflict.
In the UN General Assembly (UNGA), the resolution called for “advancing a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine”; it also called for de-escalation, the early cessation of hostilities and the peaceful resolution of the war.
Separately, the UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution, titled The Path to Peace, which calls for an immediate end to the conflict and advocates for lasting peace. This resolution did not level any accusations against Russia and posed the conflict in neutral terms as a war between Moscow and Kyiv.
Finally, the US abstained from voting on its own competing resolution at the UNGA after several amendments were made to strengthen the language condemning Russia.
Below is a breakdown of how each country voted on the first of the three resolutions — the UNGA resolution that did pass, calling for the cessation of hostilities in New York City on Monday:
For (93):
A: Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria
B: Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria
C: Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Comoros, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic
D: Denmark, Djibouti
E: Egypt, Estonia
F: Fiji, Finland, France
G: Gambia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana
I: Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Ivory Coast
J: Jamaica, Japan, Jordan
L: Latvia, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg
M: Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Myanmar
N: Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway
P: Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal
R: Romania
S: Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland
T: Thailand, East Timor, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkiye
U: Ukraine, United Kingdom, Uruguay
V: Vanuatu
Against (18)
B: Belarus, Burkina Faso, Burundi
C: Central Africa Republic
E: Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea
H: Haiti, Hungary
I: Israel
M: Mali, Marshall Islands
N: Nicaragua, Niger, North Korea
P: Palau
R: Russia
S: Sudan
U: United States
Abstention (65):
A: Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Armenia
B: Bahrain, Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei
C: Chad, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba
D: Dominican Republic
E: El Salvador, Ethiopia
G: Gabon, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea
H: Honduras
I: India, Iran, Iraq
K: Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan
L: Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Libya
M: Malawi, Mauritania, Micronesia, Mongolia, Mozambique
N: Namibia, North Macedonia
O: Oman
P: Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay
Q: Qatar
R: Rwanda
S: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Syria
T: Tajikistan, Togo, Tuvalu, Tanzania
U: Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan
V: Vietnam
Y: Yemen
Z: Zambia, Zimbabwe https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2025/2/25/us-rejects-un-resolution-condemning-russias-war-how-your-country-voted
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| Politics › Re: NAF Chief, Abubakar Becomes African Air Forces Chairman by femisplash: 5:36pm On Feb 25, 2025 |
This was the forum James Hecker, Commander of US Airforce, Europe and Africa, reiterated the readiness of US Airforce to carry out airstrikes against terrorists targets across Africa.
Solidifying Nigeria's airpower capability on the continent. Hopefully, it strengthens the resolve in the fight against terrorism. |
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| Politics › Re: We‘ll Target Boko Haram, Other Terrorists Across Africa — U.S Air Force by femisplash(op): 8:49pm On Feb 21, 2025*. Modified: 9:12pm On Feb 21, 2025 |
My heart pleaded for this, my wish came too early. The world knows when it comes to terrorism and who sponsors it, there is a house of worms in Washington that cannot be trusted. However, I feel like a personality like Trump might just have proven that he has a strong aversion for terrorism by antecedents.
I could say it a million times over, Trump is one of the most villain and vilest creatures that have walked the surface of the earth but at this crucial point, we just might need him to visit his villainy on the terrorists wherever holes they are hiding.
I cherish the day those missiles will rain on the ones here at our backyards and forests. It would be as awesome as the garden of Eden. It's time to dream. |
| Politics › We‘ll Target Boko Haram, Other Terrorists Across Africa — U.S Air Force by femisplash(op): 8:49pm On Feb 21, 2025 |
Gen. James Hecker, Commander of the U.S. Air Forces, Europe and Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), says the U.S. Air Force will carry out airstrikes against terrorist targets across Africa.
Hecker stated this at a digital news conference while attending the 2025 African Air Chiefs’ Symposium (AACS), on Wednesday in Lusaka, Zambia.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the digital conference was organised to enable Gen. Hecker to discuss U.S. commitments to military partnerships with African nations and AACS operations.
Hecker said terrorist groups like ISIS were high-value targets that threatened African nations and the U.S., and would be targeted by the U.S, as it did against ISIS in Somalia recently.
“They are significant high-value targets that threaten African nations and threaten the United States.
“So we will continue to go after terrorist organisations that threaten our African partners as well as the United States,” he said.
Hecker said that the U.S. was willing to collaborate with African air forces, not only by way of security support, but also through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
On Boko Haram insurgency, and how the U.S. Air Force can help the Nigerian military achieve air superiority over the terrorists, he said the U.S. had already been supporting Nigeria.
“Well, I think as you know, the U.S. Government has provided training and equipment to Nigeria for quite a while, so hopefully that will help them out.
“But what we’re looking at in this conference is not that. We’re not talking about air superiority or conflict.
“We’re talking about how we can help each other – African nations can help one another – and that’s what the goal of this conference is,” Hecker said.
Also speaking, Zambia’s Air Force Commander, Lt.-Gen. Oscar Nyoni, gave an insight into the symposium and how AACS member states would respond to humanitarian needs, if a disaster struck.
According to him, with AACS, humanitarian/disaster needs like foodstuff, logistics, supplies and aerial vehicles will be easily provided by member states contributing whatever they are able to contribute.
“Remember, we are an air force – we are air forces that have come together, and with our friends from the U.S. and all the other member-states.
“It becomes easier for logistics to come on board and makes it easy for the one who is in trouble to be assisted. The more the numbers, the better for us,” Nyoni said https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/well-target-boko-haram-other-terrorists-across-africa-u-s-air-force/
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| Politics › Re: CDS was denied Canadian visa because he underrated me, jokes DSS DG by femisplash(op): 6:59pm On Feb 20, 2025 |
Nerila:
That means he is claiming to be Nigerian problem He was being smart, he did what he had to do. |
| Politics › Re: CDS was denied Canadian visa because he underrated me, jokes DSS DG by femisplash(op): 6:48pm On Feb 20, 2025 |
I feel like the DSS Boss is cracking but facting. He must have pulled off the payback. These undercovers are pretty slick at what they do. While the rumors flying over the media could not put the pieces of the puzzle together but I think this explains it better. |
