₦airaland Forum

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on ​Thursday that he has given an instruction for ‌Israel to begin peace talks with Lebanon that would also include the disarming of Hezbollah.

"In light of Lebanon's repeated requests to ​open direct negotiations with Israel, I instructed ​the cabinet yesterday to start direct negotiations with ⁠Lebanon as soon as possible," Netanyahu said in a ​statement.

"The negotiations will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing ​peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon."

There was no immediate response from the Lebanese government to Netanyahu's remarks.

An hour before Netanyahu’s statement, ​Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said that “the only solution to ​the situation in Lebanon is to achieve a ceasefire between Israel ‌and ⁠Lebanon, followed by direct negotiations between them.”

He said he was working on a diplomatic track on this matter that was starting to be seen “positively” by international actors.

Israel ​launched a ​renewed offensive against ⁠Hezbollah after the Iran-backed militia began firing at Israel on March 2. Israeli ​strikes have killed around 1,700 people and ​uprooted more ⁠than a million people, according to Lebanese authorities.

At least 400 Hezbollah fighters have been killed, according to sources ⁠familiar ​with the group, which has fired ​hundreds of rockets and drones at Israel.

United States Vice President JD Vance has departed for Pakistan to engage in talks on ending the US-Israeli war with Iran, saying he expects “positive” results.

Vance spoke briefly to reporters on Friday as he boarded a plane bound for Islamabad, where talks with Iran were set to be held the following day.

“We’re looking forward to the negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive. We’ll, of course, see,” he said.

Vance added that President Donald Trump had given him “pretty clear guidelines” for the meeting.

“If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we are certainly willing to extend an open hand, that’s one thing,” he said.

“If they’re going to try to play us, they’re going to find that the negotiating team is not that receptive.”

Some observers have seen the last-minute move to have Vance lead the US delegation as a sign of Iran’s wariness with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Witkoff and Kushner, who will still attend Saturday’s talks, had twice led indirect negotiations about Iran’s nuclear programme.

Those talks were ongoing when Israel initiated a 12-day war on Iran in June 2025, which ended with the US striking three of Iran’s key nuclear sites, and when the US and Israel launched the latest war on February 28.

While deeply loyal to Trump, Vance is also viewed as less hawkish than many of the president’s other top officials.

“It’s interesting that JD Vance has been singled out to head this delegation. He hasn’t played much of a role to date,” Al Jazeera correspondent Mike Hanna reported from Washington, DC.

“One of the reasons, possibly, is because the Iranians had expressed their preference for dealing with Vance, rather than the other envoys who they have been dealing with.”

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to lead the Iranian delegation, although it is not clear if any representative from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would attend.

The format of negotiations, and whether the US and Iranian officials would speak face to face or through intermediaries, was not revealed as of Friday.

ExxonMobil has briefed the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on ambitious multi-billion dollar deepwater projects, spotlighting the $7-8 billion Owowo development and a potential $15-16 billion investment in the adjacent Bosi oil and gas field.

The oil major shared these plans during a visit to NUPRC headquarters in Abuja, marking 20 years of its Erha deepwater project.

ExxonMobil’s senior vice president for Deepwater, Hunter Farris, highlighted the company’s renewed commitment to Nigeria, citing an improved investment climate.

Farris detailed progress on Owowo, which holds about a billion barrels of developed resources.

“We’re progressing this $7-8bn project, looking into a Final Investment Decision (FID) as early as next year,” he said.

On Bosi, located next to Erha, he noted its potential to attract $15-16 billion in fresh capital through a new FPSO and pipelines if developed.
ExxonMobil plans to drill several wells at the Usan project as well.

Farris emphasised ExxonMobil’s seriousness about Nigeria’s deepwater rejuvenation, crediting regulatory improvements for easing business operations.

“We’re getting back in business,” he stated.

Specifically, he noted that the Production Sharing Contract on Erha had been extended to 2042 and the company was doing a lot of life extension works to get the Erha FPSO back to maximum performance.

Besides Erha, he said ExxonMobil was gearing up for potential new investments on Usan which entails “drilling a handful of wells” as well as the Owowo deepwater project.

On the Owowo project, he said, “There is about a billion barrels of developed resource, of between $7 billion and $8 billion dollar project, that we are progressing, looking into an FID as early as next year.”

Farris also spoke about the Bosi oil and gas field adjacent Erha which he said had the potential of attracting fresh capital of between $15 billion and $16 billion if the company was to develop a new FPSO and new pipelines.

The ExxonMobil executive said these proposed investments in Nigeria was evidence that the company is “getting back in business and we’re serious about what we’re doing”.

He noted that the company was keying into the golden age of deepwater or the or the rejuvenation of deepwater in Nigeria.

Farris also commended Nigeria’s improved regulatory environment which he said had tremendously improved the ease of doing business.

Responding, the chief executive, NUPRC, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, expressed excitement over the company’s fresh commitment to Nigeria.

“To hear that FIDs are likely next year is very exciting and rest assured we are willing to support you,” Eyesan stated.

She said the Commission will continue to encourage and safeguard petroleum investments especially those that are in the interest of the Nigerian people.

The Bayelsa State Government has declared Friday a work-free day and ordered the closure of markets ahead of the visit of President Bola Tinubu to the state.

The state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, disclosed this on Thursday in Yenagoa, the state capital.

She said, “As we all know that the the state is ready and we are ready as a people to receive the father of the nation, our father and leader in the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who will be in the state on a one-day visit to inaugurate four legacy projects.

“In view of this, the state government has declared tomorrow, Friday, April 10, 2026, a work-free day to enable workers and other residents of the State to participate in the programmes lined up for the one-day official visit to Bayelsa State.”

According to her, Tinubu is expected to inaugurate key projects during the visit, including a state-owned gas turbine at Opolo-Elebele, a 60-kilometre dual carriageway from Onopa to the LNG axis, and a 630-metre bridge linking Angiama to Oporoma in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

Koku-Obiyai urged residents, including traders, to comply with the directive and turn out to welcome the President.

The government said the measures were part of efforts to ensure a smooth and successful visit.

President Bola Tinubu has approved a targeted fiscal incentive package to unlock the long-awaited Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Bonga Southwest Aparo (BSWA) deepwater project in the country.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Andy Odeh.

“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has approved a targeted fiscal incentive designed to unlock the long-awaited Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Bonga Southwest Aparo (BSWA) deepwater project, marking a milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing drive to attract strategic investments and accelerate sustainable economic growth,” the statement said.

According to the statement, the move marks a significant step in Nigeria’s drive to attract strategic investments and accelerate economic growth.


BACKGROUND

The approval comes about two months after top executives of Shell Plc paid a courtesy visit to President Tinubu in Abuja. It’s also coming amid a significant surge in oil prices, driven by the ongoing war that has disrupted global oil supply.

During the January visit, Shell signalled a renewed and expanded investment push in Nigeria, citing improved political stability, policy consistency, and leadership as factors boosting its confidence in the country’s energy sector.

At the time, Shell’s Chief Executive Officer, Wael Sawan, disclosed the company’s investment plans during a meeting with the president in Abuja.

Mr Sawan told the president, “We are very keen to invest in Nigeria, but I would say this has not always been the case”.

He explained that Mr Tinubu’s leadership and vision have created an investment climate over the last few years that has prompted them to invest, especially when compared with other investment destinations around the world.

According to the Shell official, stability has become a premium factor for long-term energy investments, noting that the company typically plans projects spanning 20 to 40 years.

The executive said Nigeria now ranks among the countries attracting more capital than most peers, largely due to recent reforms and governance improvements.

Following the presentation, President Tinubu approved the gazetting of targeted, investment-linked incentives to support Shell’s proposed Bonga Southwest deep-offshore oil project and other similar offshore developments in the country.

The Bonga field is Nigeria’s first deepwater oil project, having achieved first oil in 2005. It has the capacity to produce up to 225,000 b/d of crude and 150 MMcf/d of natural gas and is located in 1,000 meters of water, approximately 120 km south of the Niger Delta coast.

NEGOTIATIONS

NNPC said the presidential approval followed months of intensive technical and commercial negotiations involving the national oil company as concessionaire, the National Revenue Service (NRS), the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, and the Shell CEO, Mr Sawan.

“It represents the culmination of the President’s directive, issued during a courtesy visit by Shell CEO, Mr Wael Sawan, to fast-track the enablers required to move this strategic national asset to FID,” the statement said.

The company added that the approval signals renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s policy direction and the government’s resolve to convert reform momentum into concrete investment outcomes.

In his reaction to the approval, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Bashir Ojulari, described the development as a testament to the president’s leadership and the company’s ability to structure complex, bankable transactions that deliver value to the country.

Mr Ojulari noted that the Bonga Southwest project had remained stalled for nearly two decades.

“Today, under President Tinubu’s reform-driven leadership and through NNPC’s sustained advocacy, we have broken that logjam,” he said.

“This is what partnership, persistence, and policy clarity can achieve.”

He added that the milestone affirms NNPC’s commitment to unlocking Nigeria’s energy potential through partnerships, innovation and disciplined execution.

FIRST DEEPWATER FID IN YEARS

The Bonga Southwest project will be the first Final Investment Decision on a Nigerian deepwater Production Sharing Contract asset since 2008, potentially restoring the country’s status as a major destination for deepwater oil investments.

The fiscal package approved by the president includes an enhanced Production Tax Credit and the resolution of the 2021 dispute settlement agreement, aimed at creating a competitive framework that balances national value with investor returns.

NNPC said it worked closely with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) and other partners to design fiscal solutions that address structural constraints while protecting Nigeria’s long-term interests.

The approval followed a detailed evaluation by the National Revenue Service and the submission of recommendations to the presidency, the statement noted.

ECONOMIC IMPACT AND CONCERNS

The Bonga Southwest Aparo project, operated by Shell in partnership with other international oil companies, is expected to create more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Upon completion, it is projected to produce about 150,000 barrels of crude oil per day and 140 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.

With presidential approval secured, NNPC Ltd and its partners are expected to move toward the Final Investment Decision, triggering a multi-billion-dollar capital investment that is expected to reshape Nigeria’s deepwater oil production landscape.

Recently, Nigeria has embarked on a deliberate effort to revamp its energy sector by leveraging its vast resources to achieve energy security, economic growth, and sustainable development amid persistent challenges such as regulatory coordination, corruption, and financing gaps.

At least six state chapters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have suspended their congresses and other programmes following the derecognition of the party’s factional leaderships by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Since the opposition coalition assumed leadership of the ADC in July 2025, the party has been grappling with internal disputes, with three factions, including Nafiu Bala’s and the David Mark-led group laying claim to leadership of the platform.

The crisis culminated in protracted litigation, which prompted INEC to derecognise the Bala and Mark’s faction on April 1, citing the March 12 judgment of the court of appeal.

The commission said it would not attend meetings, congresses, or conventions of the groups pending the determination of a case before the federal high court.

Prior to INEC’s decision, the party had said its polling unit and ward congresses will hold on April 7, while LGA congresses were slated for April 9.

It added that state congresses will take place on April 11, while a convention, where national officers are expected to be unveiled, will hold on April 14.

SERIES OF SUSPENSIONS

Five state chapters of the party have so far suspended their congresses and all party activities, citing the need to comply with INEC directives, with a court order halting the process in Katsina state.

On Monday, Anambra ADC announced an immediate suspension of all planned congresses over the lingering internal crisis.

In a statement issued in Awka by Patrick Obianyo, chairman; and Lawrence Okeke, secretary; the Anambra ADC emphasised the need for due process and respect for judicial authority, urging members to remain calm.

The Sokoto state chapter of the party also suspended its state-wide congresses on Wednesday in compliance with INEC directives and court orders.

In a statement issued by Yusuf Alkali, its secretary; Sokoto ADC said it has informed INEC and the police, which acknowledged their compliance, adding that only coalition-related activities would continue.

Also on Wednesday, the Bayelsa ADC suspended all ward, local government, and state congresses indefinitely, aligning with INEC’s directive to maintain status quo.

Johnny Derek, the state chairman of the party, in a statement, said no congresses would proceed until further notice to ensure compliance with the electoral body’s mandate.

On Thursday, Ondo ADC also suspended all scheduled ward, local government, and state congresses in adherence to INEC directive.

Wole Ademoyegun, the chairman, relayed that any deviation from the commission’s guidance would violate electoral laws and confirmed the suspension will remain until further clarity.

The Niger ADC also made a similar move on Thursday, suspending congresses in all 25 local government areas, citing adherence to the rule of law, constitutional due process, and judicial authority.

In a statement, Musa Hassan, the state chairman, warned INEC not to recognise any congress held by unauthorised committees, reiterating the party’s commitment to legal and electoral compliance.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, a high court in Katsina ordered the suspension of all ADC activities pending a substantive suit fixed for April 15, 2026.

The court restrained certain officials from parading themselves as party stakeholders or conducting congresses, and barred the national leadership and INEC from recognising any events organised by the defendants.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised the #OccupyINEC protest led by opposition figures, questioning the basis of the demonstration following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) derecognition of a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Reacting to the protest, Keyamo dismissed claims that Nigeria’s democracy was under threat, arguing that the controversy surrounding the ADC leadership dispute does not warrant such nationwide agitation.

“So, the survival of our democracy is now anchored on the recognition of one faction of one of the 21 registered political parties we have in this country?” he said.


He further downplayed the political strength of the faction involved, noting that “the same faction, even when recognised, could not win a single Council seat in the just-concluded FCT election."

The minister also accused the protesters of attempting to pressure institutions to act outside established legal processes.

“Democracy now means their own logic in the media space MUST be accepted and our judiciary processes ignored?” he asked.

“These fellows think they can blackmail everyone to do their bidding AT ALL COST. Unfortunately for them, Nigerians are not so gullible,” Keyamo added.


The protest, which took place at INEC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, was led by prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi.

The group demanded the resignation of INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, following the commission’s decision to derecognise the faction led by former Senate President David Mark.

A large crowd of protesters gathered at the commission’s headquarters despite steady rainfall, calling for electoral accountability ahead of the 2027 general elections.


The demonstration began earlier in the day at Mark’s residence, where a service was held to mark his 78th birthday, before participants marched in a coordinated procession to INEC’s office.

Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has sentenced a major food supplier to the Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State, Hamatu Modu to 40 years imprisonment for his involvement in terrorism activities.

Modu, who confessed in the open court to supplying food items and information to terrorists, was put on trial by the federal government through the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

He was slammed with 4- count charges and instantly pleaded guilty to them.

The Director of the Public Prosecution of the Federation, DPPF, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, led the prosecution.

In his judgment, Justice Nyako sentenced him to 10 years on each of the count but due to the plea of the defense counsel, the judge ordered that the 40 years imprisonment should run concurrently, giving the convict opportunity to spend only 10 years.

In another development, Isah Ali, another food supplier also in Borno, was jailed 10 years by Justice Nyako.

His jail term will, however, start three years ago when he was arrested and clamped into detention.

The convict confessed to committing the offence as charged.

Justice Nyako ordered that the convicts be made to undergo rehabilitation and radicalization at the end of their service of the jail terms.

The Federal Ministry of Interior was ordered to determine where the two men will serve their jail terms.

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday began the mass trial of suspected terrorists charged with terrorism offences.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the trial, which usually takes place at Kainji in Niger, was moved to the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja since the court is currently on Easter vacation.

The vacation, which commences on Tuesday, April 7, will end on April 13, and regular court sittings will resume on Tuesday, April 14, across all divisions of the court.

Another 20 suspected terrorists facing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday

NAN reports that the 13 courts at the Abuja FHC are currently busy with terrorist cases.

Some of the trial judges are Justice Binta Nyako, Justice Emeka Nwite, Justice Musa Liman, Akpan Ekerete, among others.

While Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, led the team of the Federal Government’s lawyers before Justice Nyako, Aliyu Abubakar, the Director General, Legal Aid Council, led the team of lawyers for the 20 suspected terrorists before Nyako.

Some of the suspected terrorists in Nyako’s cause list include Hamat Modu, Isah Ali, Awal Bello, Shehu Bukar, Alhaji Kulle, Mohammed Abacha Hassan, Aminami Mallum, Tasiu Yakubu, Abdullahi Ali, among others.

NAN reports that there was a heavy security beef-up in and around the Abuja Federal High Court as all roads leading to the court were blocked by armed security personnel while a police helicopter hovered around the Central Business District. (NAN).

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has commended operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) for the arrest of high-profile kidnappers and gunrunners in the state.

Speaking at the Enugu DSS Command headquarters, Mbah extolled the secret service for their professionalism, discipline, and role in ensuring a peaceful Easter celebration, while urging them to maintain this momentum, which he described as the core duty of government.

The governor expressed particular delight over the arrest of a high-profile gang leader, who has been responsible for a series of attacks on security operatives and kidnappings for ransom in Enugu and its environs.

“The good people of Enugu State are grateful for the peaceful atmosphere, especially around the Easter period, brought about through the efforts of the Service and other Security Agencies in the state,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the criminals will finally end up behind bars with their network already disrupted.

“It is your duty to sustain the tempo of security service delivery, as this remains the primary essence of Government and can never be taken for granted,” he added.

While expressing hope that the State would be rid of criminals with the sustained efforts of security agencies, the Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to making Enugu the safest hub for tourism, business, and living.

He noted that Enugu residents will finally be relieved of his reign of terror in the state and the South-East region.

Mbah further expressed dismay at how able-bodied individuals could abandon human decency for heinous crimes, stressing that the full weight of the law awaits the criminals.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has commenced steps to expand the national grid with the reconstruction and upgrade of the 138-kilometre Alaoji–Onitsha 330kV transmission line, as part of efforts to improve electricity supply across the South-East.

The project, being implemented in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), involves the acquisition and clearing of the Right of Way (RoW) under a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), the company said in a statement issued on Monday.

TCN explained that the project would upgrade the existing single-circuit line to a 330kV double-circuit quad-conductor transmission line, which is expected to significantly boost the grid’s capacity and efficiency.

The Assistant General Manager, Health, Safety and Environment at the AfDB Project Implementation Unit, Aromeh Adole, said the upgrade would dramatically increase electricity transmission in the region.

“The existing line is a single circuit, while the new line will deliver four times that capacity, fundamentally transforming bulk power delivery in the South East,” Adole said.

The company disclosed that compensation payments were made to Project Affected Persons (PAPs) between March 31 and April 2, 2026, covering communities along the transmission corridor in Abia and Imo states.

The affected areas include eight Local Government Areas within the transmission line corridor.

Adole said beneficiaries have been given 90 days to vacate the Right of Way following the payment of compensation.

Speaking on the project, the Acting Project Manager for the Nigeria Transmission Expansion Project (NTEP-1) under the TCN-AfDB Project Implementation Unit, Engr. Edeh Obiora Alexander, said the Federal Government provided counterpart funding to ensure fair and prompt compensation for affected persons.

He also commended the Managing Director of TCN, Engr. Sule Abdulaziz, for what he described as strong leadership that enabled the project to take off.

Alexander further praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the timely release of funds for the project.

He added that the transmission upgrade is expected to be completed within 18 months.

Thirty-one civilians held hostage following a Sunday morning church attack in north-west Nigeria have been rescued, the army has said.

Five others were killed as gunmen targeted Easter celebrations at a church in Ariko, Kaduna state, according to a statement from the security forces. A local church official had earlier put the number of dead at seven.

The army said soldiers engaged the attackers in a "fierce firefight", forcing them to flee and leave the hostages and the bodies of the dead victims behind.

Attacks and kidnappings for ransom are common occurrences in northern Nigeria, as the country grapples with security threats from jihadist groups and armed gangs, locally known as bandits.

Although the army said it responded swiftly to Sunday's attack, local media report that residents said the gunmen operated for a long time without facing resistance.

As a result of the firefight, officials said the "fleeing terrorists" had "significant casualties, as evidenced by blood trails along their escape routes".

Troops had also been deployed to hunt the insurgents and reinforce security.
The army has urged residents to share information that can support operations against groups fuelling insecurity across the country.

It added that sustained pressure from the troops forced the attackers to abandon their captives while retreating.

“The pressure mounted by the advancing troops forced the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.”

The statement, however, regretted that despite the successful rescue operation, five people were killed in the attack.

“Regrettably, the remains of five victims already killed by the terrorists were also recovered at the scene

In a separate incident, Nigeria's military killed 65 bandits following an offensive in Zamfara state, the AFP news agency reported on Sunday, days after a large group of bandits abducted residents from villages ‌in the state.

Police had on Saturday confirmed that there had been a mass abduction in villages in the state earlier in the week and a manhunt had been launched.

Late last year, the administration of US President Donald Trump raised concerns about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria - and urged the government to do more to improve security and strengthen protection for Christian communities.

Meanwhile, the Taraba State Police Command has arrested some suspects in connection with the killing of three policemen and the Vigilante leader of Tor Damisa in the Donga Local Government Area of the state.

The arrest of the suspects, who include Suleman Abdullahi, 30, and Idris Kauri, 33, is said to be from Akente village in the same Donga LGA, followed by a series of engagements with relevant stakeholders and intelligence gathering.

Briefing journalists after parading the suspects at the state Police Command, the state Commissioner of Police, Morkwap S. Dongshal, who took over the Command shortly after the unfortunate incident, disclosed that the three service rifles of the slain policemen were also recovered.

The CP further revealed that the Command is on the trail of other suspects who are currently at large, vowing to ensure that they are apprehended wherever they are hiding across Nigeria.

The leadership challenges faced by African Democratic Congress (ADC) appear not to be abating, as a document from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed fundamental flaws in the composition of the current leadership led by former Senate President David Mark.

Fresh details have emerged showing that the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), headed by former Senate President David Mark, may have violated provisions of the Electoral Act.

The document, a memo dated August 6, 2025, was in respect of a communication between ADC and INEC on the meetings that produced the caretaker committee of the party.

It contained a submitted list of the caretaker committee, National Working Committee (NWC), and zonal officers of ADC as ratified at the ADC meeting of July 2025, as well as the minutes of the party’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of July 29, 2025.

According to the memo signed by Deputy Director, Election Party Monitoring Committee (EPMC), Joan Arabs, ADC did not give the required 21 days’ notice to the commission in respect of the meeting that produced the caretaker committee nor provide any records of the meeting.

Arabs, in the memo to the chairman of EPMC, pointed out that failure to serve such notice violated Section 82(5) of the Electoral Act, and as such rendered it invalid.

The memo read, “The provision of section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2025 is clear on which of the activities of political parties requires the mandatory 21 days’ notice.

“The section is reproduced herein:

‘Every registered political party shall give the Commission at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress, conference or meeting convened for the purpose of ‘merger and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates for any elective offices specified under this Act’.

“The emphasis here is placed on what the gathering, by whatever name it is called, seeks to achieve. Section 82(5) made it clear that failure to give the notice stipulated in 82(1) renders the activity invalid.

“The ADC gave the Commission the Notice of the NEC meeting held on July 29, 2025 that ratified the resolutions of the National Working Committee (NWC) but neglected to give notice of the meeting where those resolutions were made.

“The party did not state the effective date the appointed caretaker takes effect from the communications of the party. It is not within the powers of the commission to impose upon any political party when and how to activate the implementation of its decisions and resolutions.”

Besides, the deputy director informed the chairman that ADC had not forwarded the specimen signatures of the caretaker chairman and secretary.

Accordingly, Arabs recommended, “That the commission await the submission of the names and specimen signatures of the supposed new leadership of the African Democratic Congress and the proposed effective take off date.”

By the memo, ADC had in the letters dated July 29, 2025 forwarded the said documents relying on the provisions of Articles 19(12)(vii) and 19(14)(N,O,P&S) of the party’s 2022 constitution.

The 2022 amended constitution, in Article 19{12){vii), empowers the caretaker committee to exercise all the powers and perform all the functions of NEC, pending the next meeting of NEC for ratification.

Other provisions of the articles allowed the caretaker committee to exercise powers and functions as may be vested in it by the National Convention, pending the next national convention; ratify all the decisions and resolutions of the National Working Committee; and ratify the dissolution of any state executive and constitution of Interim or careteker committee as the NWC might recommend.

The deputy director observed that ADC had in the said letters stated that it was officially submitting the names of the caretaker National Working Committee and zonal executives that were ratified by its NEC.

Arabs stated, “This goes to show that the appointment of the caretaker committee was not the product of the NEC or decision taken at the NEC meeting but outside which the NEC has the power to ratify.

“Paragraph 8 of the minutes of the NEC meeting at folio 83 states that, ‘the report of the NEC Mandated NWC was read, and the NEC ratified the resolutions adopted at the NWC meeting held on July 2, 2025, which included the decision to constitute a caretaker Committee to manage the party’s affairs considering the coalition process and internal restructuring’

“It is worth noting that for any action or activity to be ratified, it would have taken place prior to the date of the ratification. There is no record of the appointment of the caretaker committee of the African Democratic Party with the commission that requires ratification has claimed by the executives of the party.”

The party, again, at paragraph 12 of the minutes of the NEC meeting stated that following the ratification of the NWC resolutions, NEC approved the appointment of the caretaker committee to steer the party for a period not exceeding 12 months and listed the composition to include Senator David Mark as Caretaker National chairman, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as Caretaker National Secretary, and Bolaji Abdullahi as Caretaker National Publicity Secretary.

“Article 19(12) of the ADC Constitution provides for the powers of the National Working Committee to include performing all the functions of the National Executive Committee pending the next meeting of the National Executive Committee for ratification,” Arabs added.

After the U.S.-Israeli campaign struck Iranian universities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps called American schools in the Middle East “legitimate targets.”

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Sunday that U.S. universities are “legitimate targets” after alleged U.S.-led attacks on Tehran University of Science and Technology and Isfahan University of Technology.

“The reckless rulers of the White House should know that from now on, all universities of the occupying regime and American universities in the West Asia region are legitimate targets for us until two universities are struck in retaliation for the Iranian universities that have been destroyed,” the IRGC said.

“All staff, professors, and students of American universities in the region, as well as residents in their surroundings, are advised to stay at least one kilometer away from these universities to ensure their safety.”

•Education City in Qatar hosts campuses for six U.S. universities, including Carnegie Mellon, Georgetown, Northwestern, Texas A&M, Virginia Commonwealth and Weill Cornell Medicine.

•New York University and Rochester Institute of Technology both have campuses in the United Arab Emirates.

•Several other national universities in the region have ties with American partners.

The IRGC said the U.S. must officially condemn the bombing of Iranian universities by 12:00 pm Iran Standard Time Monday March 30 if it wants “its universities in the region to be spared.”

The group warned that further attacks on Iranian universities and research centers would prompt more threats of retaliatory strikes on U.S. institutions in the Middle East.

On Sunday at 10:25 a.m., Georgetown University Qatar posted a message on its website saying remote work and online instruction would continue until further notice.

Fadlo R. Khuri, the president of the American University of Beirut, which is chartered in New York and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, said on Sunday that all operations would be fully remote “out of an abundance of caution” on Monday and Tuesday.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Thursday announced significant progress towards the refloating of a national shipping carrier, signalling a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Oyetola made the disclosure during the ministry’s three-in-one stakeholders’ engagement and performance retreat in Lagos, where he outlined ongoing efforts to boost indigenous shipping capacity.

This is even as he clarified that the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme is a nationwide initiative, dismissing concerns that the focus is restricted to Lagos.

Oyetola, while speaking at the event, said: “I am pleased to inform you that we have made significant progress towards the refloating of a national shipping carrier.”

The minister revealed that the government has secured the interest of leading international partners, including AD Ports Group and DP World, to collaborate on the initiative.

“We have secured the interest of reputable international partners who are collaborating with us to bring this vision to fruition,” he added.

According to Oyetola, the new national carrier will play a critical role in reducing dependence on foreign shipping lines, retaining maritime value within the Nigerian economy, and creating employment opportunities.

He linked the initiative to other strategic interventions, including the imminent disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, which is aimed at empowering indigenous shipowners.

“By empowering local operators, we are strengthening national capacity and positioning Nigeria for greater participation in global shipping,” he said.

Speaking further, he said: “Let me address a concern that has been raised in some quarters — that our focus is limited to Lagos ports. This is not the case.”

He disclosed that procurement processes are already underway for the modernisation of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, alongside the approved upgrades for Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.

“We are committed to a balanced and inclusive development of port infrastructure across the country,” Oyetola emphasised.

The minister explained that the modernisation effort goes beyond infrastructure, describing it as “a transformative intervention” by the administration of President Bola Tinubu that will enhance port efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time, and improve cargo handling capacity.

He further revealed that approvals have been granted for the development of new deep seaports in Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Ondo States.

“These projects will expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, decongest existing ports, open up new economic corridors, and position our country as a leading maritime gateway in Africa,” he said.

Oyetola noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate trade, reduce the cost of doing business, and attract investment across multiple sectors.

He however issued a firm warning to heads of agencies under his ministry, insisting on strict accountability and the delivery of tangible results.

“Let me emphasise that all departments and agencies under the ministry must remain firmly focused on delivering tangible results,” he said.

He underscored the need for data-driven decision-making, robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and alignment with the ministry’s strategic objectives.

“At the institutional level, we must remain disciplined and accountable. Every department and agency must deliver measurable outcomes,” he added.

He further explained that the retreat was designed to foster alignment between policy formulation, implementation and stakeholder expectations.

“The integration of this engagement enables us to listen, reflect and recalibrate,” he said.

The high point of the event was the signing of performance bonds between the minister and heads of agencies under the ministry.

The agencies include the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Maritime Academy of Nigeria, and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria.

Others are the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research, Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, New Bussa and Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, Baga.

More than 1,800 civilians have been killed in Burkina Faso since Ibrahim Traoré seized power three years ago in acts amounting to "war crimes and crimes against humanity", a new report says.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) says about 1,837 civilians, including dozens of children, were killed in 57 incidents between January 2023 and August 2025.

It attributes most of the killings - 1,255 - to the military and allied militias, with the rest blamed on Islamist militants.

HRW finds President Traoré and six senior military commanders "may be liable as a matter of command responsibility for grave abuses and should be investigated". It also says five jihadist leaders may be culpable.

The BBC has asked the Burkinabé authorities to comment on the report. They have dismissed previous accusations that their forces have killed civilians.

One of the reasons the military gave for seizing power was to tackle the jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda who have been waging an insurgency in Burkina Faso and neighbouring countries for over a decade and control huge parts of the country.

The report is based on analysis of open-source information, including photos, videos and satellite imagery, and interviews with witnesses and survivors.

"All sides are responsible for the war crimes of willful killing, attacks on civilians and civilian objects, pillage and looting, and forced displacement," the report says.

It accuses the junta of committing "horrific abuses" and failing to hold perpetrators to account while blocking reporting to hide the suffering of civilians caught in the violence.

"The scale of atrocities taking place in Burkina Faso is mind-boggling, as is the lack of global attention to this crisis," says Philippe Bolopion, HRW's executive director.

The report cites one of the deadliest incidents in December 2023 in which it says the military and allied militias killed more than 400 civilians in the northern town of Djibo.

A 35-year-old woman told the rights group that her two daughters died on the spot and bullets injured her and her nine-month-old son.

"Make sure no-one is breathing before heading out," she recounted a militia member as saying.

Survivors described the killings as brutal and said they continue to suffer deep psychological trauma.

"Many survivors described the killings as 'butchery' and said they were left with deep psychological wounds," the report notes.

The militias allied with the military are the so-called Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP) - civilians recruited by the junta to support the army's fight against jihadist groups.

The junta has been accused of forcing critics to join the group to punish them.

"Traoré has previously defended conscription, saying that "individual freedoms [are] not superior to national freedom" and that "a nation is not built on indiscipline and disorder".

Since the military government seized power, authorities have been accused of carrying out brutal campaigns increasingly targeting civilians in response to attacks by al-Qaeda affiliate JNIM, the biggest jihadist group in the country.

Civilians described to HRW a feeling of being "caught between a rock and a hard place", threatened with death by JNIM while also being targeted by government forces.

The rights group says JNIM has used widespread threats and violence to dominate and punish communities and has targeted civilians refusing to submit to its authority, whom it accuses of supporting the government.

In August 2024, JNIM attackers "shot dead at least 133 people and injured more than 200 in fewer than two hours", it says.

HRW is now urging the International Criminal Court to open a preliminary investigation into the alleged crimes committed by all the parties since September 2022.

It has also called on Burkina Faso's partners and donors to impose sanctions and to refrain from cooperating with the country's army.

Traoré seized power in September 2022 after overthrowing Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who had taken over only nine months earlier.

Despite his authoritarian reputation, 38-year-old Traoré has gained a huge following across the continent for his pan-Africanist vision and criticism of Western influence.

Burkina Faso, like its neighbours Mali and Niger which are also under military rule, has moved away from working with Western countries, especially France, in its fight against the Islamist groups. All three have instead turned towards Russia for military assistance, however the violence has continued unabated.

The President of the Court of Appeal, Monica Dongban-Mensem, has urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria to work towards upgrading the National Judicial Institute (NJI) to a Judicial University.

Mrs Dongban-Mensem made the call on Thursday at the farewell lunch for the presiding Justice of Abuja Division of the court, Hamma Barka.

This initiative, she said, aims to leverage retired jurists to groom the future judicial workforce and reduce the high cost of external training.

Justice Barka will be retiring on 17 April after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years.

The Appeal Court president expressed delight in the remarkable legacy of the retiring Justice.

“He will undoubtedly be greatly missed by his brother Justices, the Bar, and the entire judicial community.

“As His Lordship transitions into the next phase of life, we wish him continued fulfilment, good health and success in all his future endeavours,” she said.

“Thank you, my Lord, for your invaluable service and contributions to the Judiciary and our dear nation,” she said.

The Appeal Court president noted that a total of 21 panels were constituted for the Special Sitting.

These, she added, comprised 63 Justices drawn from various Divisions of the Court, including herself.

“A total of 330 appeals, covering civil, criminal and commercial matters, were listed and heard before these panels.

“The panels sat throughout the duration of the exercise in scheduled sessions.

“While some panels sat within the Court of Appeal Headquarters and Abuja Division, others sat at designated courtrooms graciously made available within the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.

She appreciated partners and stakeholders whose collaboration and support contributed immensely to the successful organisation of the special sitting.

Some colleagues of the retiring justice, in their remarks, thanked him for his fatherly way he associated with them.

Justice Hamma Barka, in his speech, thanked the court for the opportunity given to him to serve. He further thanked his colleagues for the very good working relationship he had with them.

President Bola Tinubu has approved two additional communication satellites, NIGCOMSAT 2A and 2B, for Nigeria’s space programme, the Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, announced on Monday.

She disclosed this during her welcoming address at the opening of the 2026 Nigerian Satellite Week in Abuja, themed “Harnessing Space Technology for an Extraordinary Nigeria.”

“This approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s recognition of space as a driver of national development and sovereignty,” Mrs Egerton-Idehen said.

Reflecting on the agency’s journey, Mrs Egerton-Idehen said NIGCOMSAT has grown from a single-satellite operator into a multi-service provider offering broadband, broadcasting, and connectivity services across Nigeria and parts of Africa.

“Twenty years ago, Nigeria declared its readiness to participate and shape one of the most consequential industries of this century. That declaration was not abstract; it was a commitment to build capacity, institutions, and credibility in the global space economy,” she said.

[b]The MD also spoke about NIGCOMSAT’s strengthened global and regional presence, adding that the agency recently secured a Low Earth Orbit connectivity partnership with Eutelsat and initiated cooperation with the Kenya Space Agency.

It now holds the Vice Chairmanship of the Global Satellite Operators Association, giving Nigeria influence in international satellite policy and spectrum governance.

Mrs Egerton-Idehen highlighted initiatives aimed at nurturing the next generation of space-focused companies.

She said the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme, launched this year, will become a permanent feature to support startups working in satellite applications and digital connectivity.

Complementing the accelerator programme is Project 774, designed to extend satellite-enabled connectivity to all local government areas across Nigeria, supporting healthcare, education, and economic activity in underserved communities.

“Today, the work of building Nigeria’s space future is being done here, by the institutions, innovators, investors, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered in this room,” Mrs Egerton-Idehen noted.

Kennedy Osemwegie, representing the Chief of Army Staff, said satellites now support intelligence gathering, surveillance, communications, and disaster response.

He added that collaboration between the military, government agencies, and private sector actors has enhanced Nigeria’s capacity for satellite-enabled operations, which are critical for addressing terrorism, insurgency, and cross-border crimes.

On his part, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Aminu Maida, emphasised the role of satellites in expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Satellite technology, he said, is central to improving connectivity, service quality, and access across sectors, including education, healthcare, and emergency response.

He stressed the need for collaboration between the government, the private sector, and innovators to develop practical solutions that strengthen Nigeria’s space and digital ecosystem.

Speaking on the first day’s theme, “The Space Race: The Convergence of Technology, Government, and Opportunities,” the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding satellite infrastructure and praised President Tinubu’s approval of the new satellites.

“When a community gains the opportunity to connect, it transforms how businesses operate and how people live. Satellite technology allows us to extend connectivity to places where other infrastructure cannot reach. It also provides resilience, innovation, and strengthens our digital economy,” the minister said.

He added that fostering innovation through research, partnerships, and startup engagement is essential to developing solutions for agriculture, education, commerce, and security.

Mr Tijjani emphasised that Nigeria’s space leadership carries a continental responsibility.

“Nigeria’s leadership in satellite technology is not just for Nigeria. It is for Africa. We must build talent that understands both the technology and its applications. We must create room for businesses to grow in this space. And we must collaborate more across the continent,” he added.

The event brought together policymakers, government agencies, technology innovators, investors, academics, and other experts, providing a platform for dialogue, partnerships, and practical solutions to advance Nigeria’s space and digital economy.

Effective from May 1, 2026, there will be zero tariff on all Nigerian goods exports to China, according to the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai.

He broke the news in Abuja during the “Project Inception Workshop on Small Hydropower Centre in Nigeria for Sustainable Energy Access and Capacity Building in Rural Electrification.”
The ambassador recalled that the China and Nigeria signed the framework agreement on economic partnership for shared development.

The workshop was organized by the UNIDO.

His words: “Landmark projects under the banners of China investment, China construction, and China assistance, such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone, the Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the Zunguru Hydropower Station, the Federal Medical Center Abuja, so on and so forth, have provided strong support for Nigeria’s economic development and public welfare.

“Notably, on March 26th, China and Nigeria signed the framework agreement on economic partnership for shared development. So we are now working together to ensure the zero-tariff policy takes effect on May 1st.

“That means starting from May 1st of this year, all Nigeria products, 100%, will enjoy zero tariff that will be exported to China.”

He was confident that the agreement will provide a long-term stable and predictable institutional safeguard for the China- Nigeria cooperation, taking the pragmatic partnership to new heights.

China, he said, has always been a practitioner of true multi-lateralism and maintains a close partnership with UNIDO.

Dunhai recalled that over the past 55 years, Chuna economic and trade ties have deepened significantly, noting Nigeria is now one of China’s most vital economic partners in Africa.

He added that in 2025, Nigeria -China bilateral trade volume surpassed US$28 billion, nearly 10 times the level in 2005.

According to him, as the largest contributor to UNIDO’s budget, China firmly supports the organization in leveraging its multilateral platform to continuously pull high-quality resources, helping developing nations enhance their industrialization and modernization.

He said as 2026 marks the beginning of China’s 15th five-year plan, “we invite the world to share in our new development opportunities. At this new historical starting point, the embassy stands ready to work with the Nigerian government and UNIDO.”

Dunhai said China and its partnership will accelerate the implementation of the Six Points proposal for China-Africa to jointly advance modernization and attain partnership actions announced by President Xi Jinping.

On the Small Hydropower Centre, he said “We will build the small hydropower center of excellence in Nigeria to the highest standards, setting a benchmark for similar projects across Africa to better the lives of African people.”

The Federal Government has confirmed that several countries, including the United Kingdom, France and the United States, have granted ‘agrément’ to Nigeria’s ambassadorial nominees, signalling progress in efforts to fill long-vacant diplomatic positions.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, noting that Nigeria has so far secured approvals from ten countries.

Agrément is the formal consent given by a host country to accept a diplomat nominated by another nation, a prerequisite before an ambassador can formally assume duty.

According to the ministry, the countries that have granted approval include the United Kingdom, France, the United States, Ireland, Qatar, the Republic of Benin, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Senegal and Sierra Leone.

“Responses from other countries are still being awaited,” the statement added.

Ebienfa further explained that the process of securing agrément from host nations remains ongoing, adding that the date for the induction ceremony of the envoys would be announced once finalised and approved by the Presidency.

“The date for the induction ceremony will be announced in due course once it is finalised and confirmed by the Presidency,” he said.

The development follows a prolonged period during which Nigeria operated without substantive ambassadors in several foreign missions under President Bola Tinubu.

Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has delayed fresh ambassadorial appointments, leaving key diplomatic posts vacant and relying largely on chargés d’affaires to manage missions.

The absence of ambassadors had drawn criticism from stakeholders, who warned that it could weaken Nigeria’s diplomatic influence and bilateral engagements, particularly in strategic countries.

In a move to address the gap, the Presidency forwarded a list of 65 ambassadorial nominees to the National Assembly in late 2025.

Although the nominees were screened in December, their deployment remains subject to receiving agrément from host countries.

The spokesperson to Kano State governor, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, has criticised the resignation of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), describing it as a major political lesson.

Kwankwaso, the NNPP’s national leader and 2023 presidential candidate, announced his resignation on Sunday and is expected to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday.

Reacting in a post on his Facebook page, Dawakin-Tofa dismissed earlier claims that those who left the NNPP had betrayed the party, maintaining that their exit did not amount to abandoning the Kwankwasiyya movement or its ideology.

“Since I started politics, I have not seen a lesson greater than this,” he said. “People say we have betrayed simply because we left the NNPP. At the time, we did not say we were leaving the Kwankwasiyya movement, nor did we abandon our ideology, nor did we stop wearing the red cap.”

The governor’s aide, however, said Kwankwaso’s latest move had changed the narrative.

“It has now become necessary for us to pray for our leader, because today he has betrayed himself, as he too has left the NNPP,” he added.

“Now, everything has evened out—everyone has ‘betrayed’ Me Boniface in one way or another.”

He ended his remarks on a lighter note, calling for forgiveness among all parties.

“May God forgive us all, and may He forgive him too, lol.

Kwankwaso’s defection marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya movement, particularly in Kano State where the movement commands a strong following.