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OPINION | Arewa at a Crossroads: Time to Rewrite the Northern Nigerian Narrative

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Published: June 18, 2025 By Abdulmumin Abdulwakil Illorin, Kwara State --- Northern Nigerian politics has sadly become a nightmare — a far cry from the ideals of our founding fathers. What we witness today is a painful distortion: men in agbadas and babanrigas who parade as leaders, yet dance like puppets to the tunes of power brokers and financial interests. Where once we had visionaries, we now have opportunists. Where once we had protectors of Arewa’s pride, we now have merchants auctioning it off for selfish gain. Just recently , the drama involving Abdullahi Ganduje highlighted at Gombe involved is Zulum, and people mostly from Maiduguri once again how far we have strayed. A former governor, once entrusted with the governing of Kano’s people, now caught in a storm that further dents the dignity of Northern leadership. This is not just about one man — it’s a reflection of a rotting system that elevates the connected and buries the competent. But it wasn’t always like th...

Burkinabe Businessman in Nigeria Donates Agricultural Equipment and Cash to Support National Efforts

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Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso –  In a remarkable show of patriotism and solidarity, a Burkinabe businessman based in Abuja, Nigeria, Ibrahim Koanda, has made a significant donation to support agricultural development and assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Burkina Faso. On Friday, May 16, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad formally received the donation during a ceremony recognizing efforts to bolster national peace and resilience. Mr. Koanda's contribution includes a set of pump motors and various agricultural equipment valued at over 8 million CFA francs. In addition, he presented a cash donation of 500,000 CFA francs to the Patriotic Support Fund. The donation aims to support the presidential initiative in the agricultural sector and contribute to the empowerment of internally displaced communities affected by insecurity and conflict. Speaking at the event, Ibrahim Koanda emphasized that his gesture was in direct respons...

Controversy as President Delegates Unofficial Powers to Son Amid Vatican Visit

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Vatican City —  Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was seen attending the inauguration of the new Pope at the Vatican City accompanied by his son, Seyi, in a scene that has sparked fresh controversy back home over the growing influence of unelected family members within the presidency. Photographs from the prestigious ceremony show the President seated among world leaders, while his son was observed interacting with key dignitaries and accompanying his father in a capacity that has raised eyebrows across Nigeria’s political landscape. Critics argue that Seyi Tinubu, who holds no official position in government, appears to be wielding increasing influence over state affairs. His frequent presence at diplomatic events, high-level meetings, and official functions has drawn comparisons to political dynasties and accusations of nepotism. “This is not just about optics,” said Dr. Ifeoma Ogundipe, a political analyst. “We’re seeing a worrying trend where a private citizen — the ...

ONE YEAR WITHOUT MAMA: A TRIBUTE TO A MOTHER WITH A HEART OF GOLD

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“No affliction strikes except by permission of ALLAH. And whoever believes in ALLAH, He will guide his heart. And ALLAH is knowing of all things.” (Quran 64:11) It’s been a year—twelve months marked by the quiet ache of absence and memories that keep us company since we lost our beloved mother (fondly called ‘Mama’ by us and her grandchildren), Hajiya Sa’adatu Musa Kofa on the 17th of May 2024, corresponding to the 9th of Dhu’l-Qadah, 1445 AH.  Time has flown, yet the silence left in the wake of our mother’s passing has been deafening. Still, it remains painfully difficult to accept that my time with Mama (being her last child), has come to an end. Equally, Mama’s death has hit my beloved father, four older siblings, four grandchildren, her sisters, in-laws, relatives, domestic staff and acquaintances in unquantifiable proportion. Married to my father, Engr. Usman Shehu Liman for close to four decades, Mama was born into the family of Late Alh. Musa Kofa’s family, Gidan Garko, Kofa...

Hamas Offers to Release Israeli-American Soldier Amid Secret US Talks

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Gaza City –  The Palestinian group Hamas has announced its willingness to release an Israeli-American soldier held hostage, following undisclosed negotiations with the United States. In a statement released Sunday, Hamas declared it is "ready for immediate negotiations" aimed at reaching a comprehensive ceasefire agreement with Israel. The announcement marks a significant development as the conflict in Gaza continues to draw international concern. According to Israeli media reports, Israel was not informed in advance of the US-Hamas discussions regarding the soldier’s release, raising questions about coordination between allies amid ongoing tensions. Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, emphasized Washington’s desire to see all hostages returned safely. “We want to bring the hostages home, but Israel is not willing to end the war,” Witkoff said, calling on the Israeli government to seize what he described as a crucial “opportunity” to facilitate th...

President Trump Set to Announce Developments on Gaza Situation in 24 Hours

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May 7th, 2025 [Washington, D.C.]  — In a significant update on the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip, U.S. President Donald Trump announced today that an official statement regarding the situation is expected within the next 24 hours. This announcement comes amid rising tensions and humanitarian concerns in the region. During a press briefing, President Trump emphasized the urgency of addressing the escalating conflict in Gaza, which has drawn international scrutiny and heightened calls for intervention. “We are monitoring the situation very closely and are prepared to make an announcement that will hopefully bring clarity and assistance to those affected,” Trump stated. As the situation evolves, reports indicate that various stakeholders, including local leaders and international organizations, are advocating for immediate humanitarian aid and a ceasefire. The upcoming announcement is anticipated to address these critical needs and outline potential U.S. involvement in alleviating ...

Turkish Jets Reportedly Repel Israeli Incursion into Syrian Airspace

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May 4, 2025 Ankara, Turkey  In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Turkish fighter jets reportedly attempted to repel Israeli aircraft that had intruded into Syrian airspace earlier this week. According to sources familiar with the incident, Turkish forces employed electronic warning signals and jamming operations in response to the Israeli maneuvers, signaling a potentially new level of direct confrontation between Turkey and Israel. The reported aerial standoff comes amid a surge in Israeli military operations across Syria. In recent days, Israel has conducted a broad campaign of airstrikes targeting multiple locations, including areas near the presidential palace in Damascus. Israeli officials claim the operations are aimed at safeguarding the Druze minority, following armed clashes between Druze militias and newly deployed Syrian government forces. The incident underscores growing geopolitical friction in the region, with Ankara increasingly asserting its role in reg...