PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 More than 100,000 children have been displaced by the latest escalation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, UNICEF said on Sunday, warning the numbers are expected to rise as violence spreads. Since Dec. 1, intense fighting has uprooted more than 500,000 people, with children accounting for over 100,000 of those displaced in South Kivu alone, the UN agency said in a statement released Sunday. It said since Dec. 2, hundreds have been killed in the fighting, and children have been among the victims, with four students killed, six injured, and at least seven schools attacked or damaged. The rapid escalation has forced hundreds of thousands of children and families to flee within Congo and into neighboring Burundi and Rwanda, it added. Many people fleeing the violence have crossed into Burundi, with over 50,000 new arrivals reported between Dec. 6 and 11, nearly half of them children, UNICEF said, adding that the numbers are expected to rise as more displaced are identified. “Chi...

 Two individuals lost their lives while attempting to change a flat tire on I-55 in South St. Louis. According to reports, this tragic incident occurred shortly before midnight on Friday, December 12th.  The chain of events that led to these two deaths began when Lejla Hadzi pulled over on the entrance ramp to I-55 from 4500 Broadway due to a flat tire. Lejla called Demarion Hendricks to assist her in changing the tire. As Demarion was working on changing the tire, Lejla stood outside of the disabled Kia watching while her friend worked.  At approximately 11:45 p.m., a Dodge Ram that was traveling northbound on Broadway attempted to use the entrance ramp to get onto I-55. The Driver of the Dodge Ram unfortunately struck Lejla and Demarion as he was changing her tire. The Dodge Ram eventually came to a stop after striking a nearby guardrail. Lejla was pronounced deceased on scene. Demarion was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was ultimately pronounced deceased. The dri...

 Nigerian Governors by Political Party (as of December 14, 2025) All Progressives Congress (APC) - 27 Governors 1. Akwa Ibom: Umo Eno   2. Bayelsa: Douye Diri   3. Benue: Hyacinth Alia   4. Borno: Babagana Umara Zulum   5. Cross River: Bassey Otu   6. Delta: Sheriff Oborevwori   7. Ebonyi: Francis Nwifuru   8. Edo: Monday Okpebholo   9. Ekiti: Biodun Oyebanji   10. Enugu: Peter Mbah   11. Gombe: Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya   12. Imo: Hope Uzodimma   13. Jigawa: Umar Namadi   14. Kaduna: Uba Sani   15. Katsina: Dikko Umar Radda   16. Kebbi: Nasir Idris   17. Kogi: Usman Ododo   18. Kwara: Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq   19. Lagos: Babajide Sanwo-Olu   20. Nasarawa: Abdullahi Sule   21. Niger: Mohammed Umar Bago   22. Ogun: Dapo Abiodun   23. Ondo: Lucky Aiyedatiwa   24....

 Insecurity: Gov. Yusuf Establishes Task Force to  Secure Motor Parks, Ancilliary Spaces in Kano The Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the immediate establishment of a Special Task Force to decisively tackle security threats at motor parks and other strategic public spaces across the state. This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Sunday.  The decision underscores the governor’s firm resolve to prevent criminal infiltration and safeguard Kano State, particularly at key entry and exit points within the metropolitan area. Motor parks have been identified as high-risk locations due to increased human movement and recent security developments, including the arrest of suspected miscreants at Kofar Ruwa Motor Park. The task force will conduct intensive surveillance, intelligence gathering, and coordinated security operations at motor parks and other vulnerable locations. Its operations will a...

 Suspect in Failed Cash-in-Transit Heist Laid to Rest  One of the three suspects involved in a failed cash-in-transit (CIT) heist attempt in Kempton Park was buried on Saturday, 13 December 2025. The suspects are alleged to be three men from Khakhala village outside Giyani.  The incident reportedly occurred last week in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. Information indicates that the trio was using an Uber vehicle when they targeted the cash-in-transit vehicle.  Security guards responded, leading to an exchange during the confrontation. One suspect was fatally wounded at the scene. A second suspect was critically injured and rushed to hospital for medical treatment. The third suspect fled the scene, allegedly using the Uber vehicle as a getaway car.  The whereabouts of the third suspect remain unknown, and investigations are ongoing.

 Bangladesh says peacekeepers killed, injured in Sudan UN base attack At least six Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed and eight injured in an attack on a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan, the Bangladesh Army said, Reuters reported. "The situation in the area is still unstable and clashes with terrorists are ongoing," it said in a statement, adding that the authorities were doing their best to provide medical treatment and rescue operations for those injured. Bangladesh is one of the largest contributors to U.N. peacekeeping missions and its troops have long been deployed in Abyei, a volatile region disputed between Sudan and South Sudan. "A drone attack was carried out by separatist armed groups on the Kadugali Logistics Base under the UN peacekeeping mission in Abyei, Sudan yesterday (Saturday) from approximately 3:40 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. local time," Bangladesh's Inter-Service Public Relations said in a statement on Sunday.

 ‎The Igbos Have Survived And Prospered Only By The Grace Of God And Our Doggedness- Chief Chekwas Okorie ‎ ‎According to a story that was published by Vanguard,  Chekwas Okorie, the Convener of Igbo Agenda Dialogue (IAD), emphasised the capacity of the Igbo people to persevere and be resolute in the face of persistent difficulties in Nigeria. ‎ ‎The Igbo people have been able to survive, develop, and prosper because to the particular grace of God, as well as their doggedness, resilience, and never-say-die spirit, according to Okorie, who issued a statement on behalf of the group. ‎ ‎In his explanation, Okorie stated that millions of Igbo people were forced to flee Nigeria due to the challenging circumstances they were facing. ‎ ‎He pointed out that the widespread migration of Igbo people has resulted in the formation of robust Igbo communities all over the world. ‎ ‎In recent years, the diaspora has emerged as a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, as well as a sourc...

 Christmas loading....come to the East. Nothing mega- Chief Osita Chidoka  Former Minister of Aviation and Ex-FRSC Boss,  Chief Osita has called for all Igbos in Nigeria and diaspora to return to the East for this christmas celebration, assuring them of adequate security in the East and no cause for panic. Chief Osita Chidoka made this call on his official Facebook account, He also revealed some of the things he has put in place to make this Christmas period enjoyable and memorable for him and everyone that cares to join him in his hometown Obosi. According to him; "It will rock....you can stop by in Obosi and say hello. I have ordered palmwine from Sir Clem Nwogbo's farm in Awka, dry fish from Oguta, Okro from Anam, Garri from Umunede, okazi leaves from Akwa Ibom and Ugu from Akamposi Obosi's farm, palm oil from Ohafia. All fresh and organic. Bia...bia Izu kanma na nneji."

 Fire guts popular Aforigwe market in Dunukofia, Anambra State. shops, wares destroyed Tragedy Struck In the early hours of Sunday as the Mgbuke village Umunnachi section of the age long popular Aforigwe Market, Umudioka community, Dunukofia Local Government area, Anambra state, was gutted by fire. The early morning inferno was said to have destroyed scores of shops and wares estimated at millions of naira in the market that is located along the Old Onitsha-Awka road. According to an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity, the cause of the inferno was still sketchy but may not be unconnected to power surge, saying that the EEDC officials stormed the scene immediately and disconnected the cables to avoid electrocution. Among the shops affected include provisions, Bread depots, electrical appliances, among others that lost wares estimated into millions of naira. When Daily Champion correspondent visited the scene, the victims were seen crying and wailing that their wealth which took decade...

Anambra Stakeholders On Food, Water Brainstorm On Hygienic Ways Of Processing, Distribution, Consumption. Stakeholders drawn from various regulatory bodies in Anambra State have held a one-day engagement programme to brainstorm on healthy practices in the production, distribution and consumption of food and water in the state. The event was organized by the State Ministry of Health through its Department of Anti-Piracy, Food and Water Safety and Hygiene (WASH). Declaring the event open at the conference hall of the ministry, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, noted that real action needs to be taken to prevent people in the state from consuming harmful substances in the guise of food. She explained that various diseases and ailments affecting the present generation are largely due to inadequate checks and balances, and even when such measures are in place, people often cut corners during the processes. According to Dr. Uchebo, the meeting was convened to brainstorm on ways t...

Governor Nwifuru approves N150,000 Christmas bonus for Ebonyi workers Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has announced a N150,000 Christmas bonus to every civil servant in the state. The governor explained that the gesture aligned with his administration’s commitment to improve the welfare of civil servants despite dwindling revenue accruing to the state in the past one year  The governor spoke on Sunday during a church service at the Government House Chapel, Abakaliki. On the forthcoming local government election in the state, the Governor made it clear that he has not anointed any candidate, promising a level play ground for all the aspirants. “As far as I am concerned, the will of the people must prevail, the people must choose their representatives without interference from any quarter.” The Governor renewed his directive to political appointees wishing to contest the local Government election to resign in line with the electoral guidelines.  

  GOVERNOR KEFAS AGBU RECEIVES APC MEMBERSHIP CARD IN WUKARI 14th December Governor Kefas Agbu has formally received his All Progressives Congress (APC) membership card, marking a notable moment in his political journey. The card was presented by Hon. Umaru Tanko, Chairman of the APC Hospital Ward in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. The governor expressed appreciation for the warm reception and support shown by party executives and members across Taraba State, describing the welcome as encouraging and heartfelt. 

Jury orders Johnson & Johnson to pay $40 million to two cancer patients over talcum powder use  A Los Angeles jury on Friday awarded $40 million to two women who said their ovarian cancer was caused by long-term use of talcum powder products made by Johnson & Johnson. The company said it plans to appeal both the liability finding and the compensatory damages. The verdict is the latest in a years-long wave of litigation alleging that talc used in Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower body powder was linked to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. Johnson & Johnson stopped selling talc-based powders worldwide in 2023. In the case decided Friday, the jury awarded $18 million to Monica Kent and $22 million to Deborah Schultz and her husband. Their attorney said the women had used the products for decades, trusting the brand for nearly 50 years, and argued that their loyalty was not returned. Johnson & Johnson disputes the claims, pointing to what it says is extensive sc...

 Gunmen kill 11 at Jewish gathering on Sydney’s Bondi Beach   Two gunmen opened fire on Sunday during a Jewish holiday event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing at least 11 people and injuring 29 others, including two police officers. Authorities described the attack as a terrorist act. Police shot one suspect dead, while the other was taken into custody in critical condition. The attack occurred during the Chanukah by the Sea celebration, marking the start of Hanukkah. Hundreds were gathered at the event when the gunmen struck. Among the dead was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, who had served the local Jewish community for over 18 years. Dramatic footage showed a bystander tackling and disarming one of the attackers before police arrived. Authorities are still investigating the scene and examining suspicious items, including an improvised explosive device found in a suspect’s car. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as shots rang out. Many people ra...

 Zelenskyy abandons NATO membership goal ahead of peace talks Ukraine has stepped back from its long-standing goal of joining NATO, opting instead for legally binding security guarantees from Western allies as part of a compromise aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced ahead of diplomatic talks in Berlin. The shift marks a significant change in Kyiv’s strategy, as NATO membership has been a constitutional priority for Ukraine and a central element of its defense against Russian aggression. While the move aligns partially with Russian demands, Ukraine has continued to resist ceding territory to Moscow. Zelenskyy explained that security guarantees from the U.S., Europe, and other partners—including Canada and Japan—would serve as a substitute for NATO membership, providing protections akin to the alliance’s Article 5 commitments. He emphasized that these guarantees must be legally binding and described the compromise as a necessary step t...

 John Cena retires from WWE following loss to Gunther   John Cena closed out his legendary WWE career with a hard-fought loss to Gunther, but the D.C. crowd made it clear he remained a hero in their eyes, giving him a raucous farewell. The Main Event showdown on Saturday night in Washington, D.C. saw Cena and Gunther go back and forth in a match full of high-intensity moments, culminating in Gunther gaining the upper hand with a powerful finishing move and locking Cena in a decisive hold. Despite the loss, Cena was met with a thunderous standing ovation from fans, and he responded with heartfelt appreciation, bringing a memorable end to a career that spanned more than two decades. Having announced his retirement in 2024, Cena leaves the WWE as a 17-time champion, celebrated for his enduring impact on the sport and his unmatched connection with fans. His departure marks the end of an era in professional wrestling, and fans everywhere will remember his energy, dedication, a...

 Chile holds polarizing presidential runoff as far-right candidate leads  Chilean voters are heading to the polls on Sunday for a highly polarized presidential runoff, facing a stark choice between far-right candidate José Antonio Kast and left-wing contender Jeannette Jara. Kast, running for president for the third time, leads in the polls, while Jara, a Communist Party member and former labor minister, presents a markedly different vision for the country. With compulsory voting in place, many citizens will cast ballots for candidates they do not fully embrace. Kast held a closing rally in Temuco on Thursday evening, addressing thousands of supporters, many waving Chilean flags. His speech emphasized public security and migration policies, drawing loud cheers for his proposals to deport migrants and increase incarceration for criminals. Supporters like 18-year-old first-time voter Benjamín Sandoval said they were motivated by concerns over rising crime, a sentiment amplified ...

 Los Angeles firefighters receive star on Hollywood Boulevard  The Los Angeles Fire Department has been honored with a star on Hollywood Boulevard, recognizing the department’s bravery and dedication during the deadly Palisades Fire in January. The initiative began with a school assignment by 14-year-old Eniola Taiwo, who suggested celebrating first responders alongside Hollywood celebrities. “I know that the first responders aren’t exactly celebrities, contrary to all others on the Walk of Fame,” Taiwo wrote. “But I am confident that there won’t be much opposition to recognizing our modern-day heroes. This star for first responders will reach the hearts of many first responders and let them know that what they do is recognized and appreciated.” After sending her letter to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the department was officially honored on Friday, December 12, with the star placed adjacent to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The ceremony was attended by Taiwo, her family, h...

Death of man on Universal Orlando roller coaster ruled accidental Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died in an accident on a high-speed roller coaster at Universal Epic Universe, and authorities have closed the investigation, according to a report from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. The medical examiner’s report, released Friday, detailed extensive injuries, including a deep gash on the left side of Zavala’s forehead, a fractured bony ridge above his eye, internal bleeding above the skull, bruising on his abdomen and arms, and fractures to his nose and right thigh. Officials confirmed Zavala’s death was caused by blunt-force trauma. The sheriff’s office investigation concluded that ride operators followed proper procedures and were neither negligent nor careless. Security footage showed Zavala alert at the start of the ride but slouched and unresponsive by the end. Witnesses reported he was bleeding from the face and collapsed in his seat when the ride stopped. Anna Marshall,...

 Anambra State Government has released the lineup of events for the highly anticipated Ọnwa Dezemba, a Christmas extravaganza aimed at making December 2025 memorable for people of the state. ‎ ‎In a statement on Saturday, the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, said the initiative forms part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s efforts to ensure residents actively participate in the festive season while celebrating Anambra’s rich cultural heritage and entertainment offerings.. ‎ ‎Mefor said the programme, scheduled to run from December 18, 2025, to January 4, 2026, will feature music, comedy, sports and cultural performances across different parts of the state. ‎ ‎The statement read in part, “The Anambra State Government, led by the ‘Solution Governor’, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has released the lineup of events for the highly anticipated ‘Ọnwa Dezemba’, a special Christmas extravaganza aimed at making December 2025 unforgettable in the minds of Ndi Anambra.” ‎ ‎ ‎Full list of eve...

 ARTMA Launches "Operation Zero Road Traffic" As Festive Travels Begin The Anambra State Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA) has launched what it termed “Operation Zero Road Traffic” across the state, marking the commencement of an intensified effort to ensure smooth vehicular movements throughout the state especially as festive travels begin. Speaking at the flag-off ceremony at ARTMA headquarters Awka, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ARTMA, Engr. Okonkwo Emeka-Konti, said the essence of the operation was to ensure that traffic officers were on ground to make sure that there were free flow of vehicular movements devoid of gridlocks. The ARTMA boss also stated that it was necessary to advise road users to obey traffic signs across Anambra State because the governor Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has overhauled as well as installed new traffic lights across all junctions; that it is very important that the traffic lights must be obeyed to avoid infractio...

 Anambra State Public Officers Forum(ASPOF) set to make security in Anambra, post election issues top agenda at end of year party on Tuesday 16th December 2025 The upcoming ASPOF end of year event in Abuja will spotlight critical concerns facing Anambra State, with officials set to dissect ongoing security challenges and outline key post election priorities for the state’s development. In a recent press release, Chief Coleman Uba, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the organization says members will gather for the organization’s 2025 end‑of‑year party on Tuesday, December the 16th, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Anambra State Liaison Office, 19 T. Y. Danjuma Street, Asokoro, Abuja. According to him, the meeting will focus on security challenges in Anambra State and post‑successful election issues, urging all members to prioritize attendance despite busy schedules. The agenda for the event, he reiterates highlights security in Anambra State as a primary concern, alongside post‑election ...

 “There will be no need for Biafra again. In the past, South East were not just the last but we were forgotten, we were not remembered but President Tinubu remembered us. All South East Governors are Supporting President Tinubu- Engr David Umahi (Minister of Works) Minister for Works Senator Davis Umahi has announced that the aggregation for a Republic of Biafra has been laid to rest following the inclusion of the South East geopolitical zone and the opening of socioeconomic frontiers of the zone by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu. Umahi made this assertion while on inspection tour of the ongoing Enugu–Anambra Road mega projects, where he addressed stakeholders, contractors, and community leaders. He explained that the historical push for Biafran secession was born out of years of neglect, exclusion, and underrepresentation at the federal level. “But today, that narrative has shifted dramatically under President Tinubu. The Minister emphasized that President Tinubu has bridged the long...

 Private jet crash lands at Kano airport A jet operated by Flybird Airlines has crash-landed at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano, causing panic among airport users and sending shockwaves through the aviation community. An eyewitness stated that the aircraft, which arrived from Abuja, was carrying 11 occupants, including three crew members, when the incident occurred at about 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025.  According to the accounts, the jet experienced difficulties on landing and crash-landed on the runway, leading to tense moments as passengers were quickly evacuated from the aircraft. All occupants were safely evacuated, with no immediate reports of injuries or casualties. Airport authorities were said to have promptly secured the scene, while emergency response teams were deployed to prevent further danger and ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel. Operations around the affected area were temporarily restricted as officials ...

A message from King Charles to the people of Australia following the antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. "My wife and I are appalled and saddened by the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack on Jewish people attending the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected so dreadfully, including the police officers who were injured while protecting members of their community. We commend the police, emergency services and members of the public whose heroic actions no doubt prevented even greater horror and tragedy. In times of hurt, Australians always rally together in unity and resolve. I know that the spirit of community and love that shines so brightly in Australia - and the light at the heart of the Chanukah Festival - will alvways triumph over the darkness of such evil. Charles R.  One more photo below. 

 14th December, 2025 PRESS RELEASE DELTA STATE POLICE COMMAND PUBLISHES OFFICIAL CONTACT NUMBERS OF AREA COMMANDERS, DPOS AND TACTICAL COMMANDERS In line with its strategic drive to deepen transparency, enhance accountability and strengthen public confidence in policing, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has approved the public release of the official contact phone numbers of all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Tactical Commanders across the State. The directive is intended to improve accessibility to police leadership at all operational levels and to facilitate prompt reporting of crimes, effective intelligence sharing and swift response to security concerns. It further underscores the Command’s commitment to citizen-centred policing and robust community partnership in the maintenance of law and order. The Command cautions that abuse of these lines, including prank calls or the dissemination of false information, as memb...

 SAFER LAGOS: LASG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO STRATEGIC COLLABORATION WITH NIGERIAN NAVY The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strategic collaboration with the Nigerian Navy in strengthening maritime security and ensuring a safer Lagos for residents, businesses and visitors. Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu made this known at the Nigerian Navy’s 2025 Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Dinner, where he paid glowing tribute to the men and women of the Navy for their dedication, professionalism and sacrifices in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime frontiers. The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. 'Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin noted that "The partnership between Lagos State and the Nigerian Navy is critical to the protection of the state’s vast coastline, inland waterways and thriving blue economy." He added that effective maritime security remains fundamental to Lagos’ economic growth, investor confidence and overall public...

 Five Suspects Reportedly Arrested Over Attack On 15-Year-Old Girl In Jema’a LGA Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the brutal attack on 15-year-old Miss Endurance Sabo, whose hand was amputated during an alleged attempted kidnapping in Goska village, Kaninkon Ward of Jema’a Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The arrests followed the swift intervention of the Chairman of Jema’a Local Government, Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara, after reports of the incident reached his office on Saturday. According to official reports, the attackers targeted Miss Sabo, her grandmother and four sisters while they were working on their farm. While the grandmother and the other girls managed to escape unharmed, Miss Sabo was seized and dragged into the forest, where she sustained severe injuries, including the loss of one hand. Upon receiving the distress call, Hon. Dogara immediately coordinated with security agencies to launch a rescue operation. The operation led to the successful rescue...

“It took me getting married and giving birth to realise marriage benefits men more” — Woman shares emotional thoughts A woman has stirred serious conversations online after opening up about how marriage and motherhood changed her perspective on life. In a heartfelt reflection, she said it was only after getting married and giving birth that she began questioning who marriage truly benefits. According to her, women often carry the heavier load — emotionally, physically, and mentally. She explained that marriage can make women feel like tools, responsible for cooking, cleaning, caring for the home, and even contributing financially, while still bearing the full weight of pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare. She questioned why something described as a “blessing” should come with so much pain, stress, sleepless nights, and emotional strain for women. In her words, childbirth comes with intense pain, followed by years of responsibility that largely fall on the woman, while many men continu...

 Falcons’ record, D’Tigress’ dominance, World Cup woes: 2025 in Nigerian Sports Nigerian sports fans experienced a year of sharp contrasts in 2025. There were sweet victories, and several bitter losses overshadowed the moments of triumph, making it a bittersweet year for the sports industry. The women’s national team, the Super Falcons, arguably gave Nigerian sports fans the greatest joy in 2025, winning a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco. Just as Nigerians were relishing the Super Falcons’ historic feat, the women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, had an astonishing run at the Women’s AfroBasket 2025, winning an unprecedented fifth consecutive title in the Ivory Coast and seventh in total. But if Nigerian sports fans had thought it was going to be an all-blissful year, they were mistaken. They were hit by the heavy blow of missing out on the biggest sporting event in the world — the FIFA World Cup — for the second consecutive time,...

 DR Congo vows to retake key town of Uvira captured by rebels The Democratic Republic of Congo government moved to reassure the country that the “military will not surrender” following the capture of Uvira. Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa made the remarks days after the M23 rebels seized the key commercial hub in eastern South Kivu province near the border with Burundi, without resistance. Meeting ambassadors and diplomats, Ngefa expressed his government’s determination to “defend the integrity of its territory”, and promised that the strategic town of Uvira “would be recaptured by the government forces”. “Faced with this situation, the Congolese government has a clear and responsible position. First, we will not surrender. The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, supported by allied forces, are reorganizing and repositioning themselves to defend the integrity of the territory. The battle to liberate South Kivu is not over,” said Ngefa. Peace agreement The intensi...

 Kaduna State Wins $400,000 At 2025 PHC Leadership Challenge Kaduna State has once again distinguished itself on the national stage, emerging as a major winner at the 2025 Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge, where it secured a $400,000 award for outstanding performance. The award was presented to the state in recognition of its achievements in key areas, including Human Resources for Health, health facility infrastructure, and the supply of essential medical equipment.  The feat further highlights the commitment of the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani to strengthening primary healthcare delivery. Kaduna State’s latest success builds on its strong performance at the 2024 PHC Leadership Challenge, where it was named the best-performing state in the North-West region and received a $500,000 award. That recognition earned the state international acclaim for its investments and leadership in the healthcare sector.

 Northern, Southern Youths Sign Peace Accord In Kaduna Ahead of 2027 Elections Youths from Nigeria’s northern and southern regions on Saturday gathered in Kaduna, where they signed a peace accord aimed at strengthening national unity and presenting a united front to boost their participation in the country’s political and economic development. The meeting, which took place at the historic Arewa House, Kaduna, was organised by the National Youth Alliance and drew youth representatives from the South-East, South-South and South-West, alongside their counterparts from the North. The event culminated in the signing of a peace pact titled “The Birthing of a New Nigeria”, with participants committing to reject ethnic and religious divisions and to speak collectively in the interest of national cohesion and democratic stability ahead of the 2027 general elections. Nigeria has long witnessed youth mobilisation along ethnic, regional and religious lines, a trend that often intensifies durin...

 PDP Factional Leaders Visit Obasanjo, Seek Support to Reclaim Power in 2027 Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, the factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Saturday led a delegation of party leaders to former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, seeking his guidance and support to reposition the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The delegation, comprising members of the faction's National Working Committee (NWC), former Niger State Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, National Secretary Taofeek Arapaja, and Board of Trustees Chairman Adolphus Wabara, arrived at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) at 11:27 am. They held a closed-door meeting with Obasanjo that lasted about 40 minutes. Addressing journalists after the meeting, Turaki described the visit as a courtesy call to introduce the new PDP leadership elected at the recent convention in Ibadan and to tap into Obasanjo's wea...

 Abia Governor Otti Announces Mini-Hollywood in Aba, Arts Gallery in Umuahia Abia State Governor Alex Otti has approved the establishment of an entertainment village in Aba, dubbed a "Mini-Hollywood," and an arts and culture gallery in Umuahia as part of efforts to boost the state's creative economy. The announcement was made by the governor on Saturday during an event at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia to celebrate the 65th birthday of veteran musician Sir Bright Chimezie, popularly known as Zigima. In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku, Otti described the projects as platforms to nurture talents in arts, music, and culture. "I also remember that I had approved that we set up an entertainment village in Aba. And that entertainment village would be a Mini-Hollywood," Otti said. "We are not competing with California, but we will do our own at our own level. And then, there is also an Art and Culture gallery that...