Nigeria Mourns Death of Renowned Diplomat Christopher Mbanefo at 95

Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo, Odu III of Onitsha, at the age of 95. Mbanefo served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and held leadership roles in major universities, contributing significantly to diplomacy, education, accounting, and philanthropy. Educated in Nigeria and the UK, he was a fellow of both ICAN and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England, leaving a legacy of integrity and service.

#ChristopherMbanefo #Nigeria #Diplomat #UNRepresentative #ICAN #Education #Philanthropy #NigeriaMourns

Nigeria’s Blurred Foreign Policy Vision In A Fractured Global Order Under Tinubu Administration, By Owei Lakemfa

In this opinion piece, labour leader and columnist Owei Lakemfa examines Nigeria’s increasingly blurred foreign policy direction amid a fractured and unpredictable global order. Using the detention and eventual release of eleven Nigerian military officers in Burkina Faso as a case study, Lakemfa questions the Tinubu administration’s handling of diplomacy, security, and international relations. He criticises Nigeria’s reliance on ad-hoc presidential diplomacy, sidelining of the Foreign Ministry, prolonged absence of ambassadors, and embarrassing missteps involving the UAE and global shipping giant Maersk. Lakemfa argues that Nigeria’s traditional Pan-Africanist foreign policy vision has weakened, turning the country into a proxy in regional affairs, and calls for a return to professional diplomacy led primarily by experienced career diplomats to restore credibility and clarity in Nigeria’s global engagement.

Nigerian Pilots and Crew Released in Burkina Faso, Head to Portugal

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has announced the release and departure of the pilots and crew of the Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft (NAF 913) that had been detained in Burkina Faso.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ambassador Tuggar confirmed that following engagement in Burkina Faso, the pilots and crew of NAF C-130 (913) have been formally cleared to depart and are currently en route to Portugal via Accra.

The minister highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation, stating that these efforts continue to yield positive outcomes.

Ambassador Tuggar paid glowing tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and steady guidance which he said proved decisive in resolving the matter through constructive diplomacy and peaceful engagement.

NAF Pilots, Crew’s Detention in Burkina Faso Resolved — FG

The Federal Government has announced the resolution of the diplomatic issue surrounding the detention of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members in Burkina Faso.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement, confirming that the detained NAF personnel are expected to return to Nigeria soon.

According to Tuggar, the breakthrough followed a high-level visit by a Federal Government delegation, which he led, to the Burkinabe leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. During the engagement, both countries addressed the circumstances surrounding the detention and reached a mutual understanding that led to its resolution.

Beyond resolving the incident, Tuggar said discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, as well as deepening regional integration within the sub-region.

The development underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts by Nigeria to protect its citizens abroad while maintaining constructive ties with neighbouring countries.

#NigeriaNews #NAF #BurkinaFaso #Diplomacy

Burkina Faso Releases Nigerian Air Force Aircraft and 11 Personnel

A Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, held diplomatic engagements with Burkina Faso's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, regarding a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying 11 personnel that had been detained in the country.

The engagements resulted in the immediate release of the 11 personnel and the aircraft.

Minister Tuggar subsequently met with the freed Air Force members to confirm their well-being.

The delegation and personnel are now en route back to Nigeria.

Nigeria emphasised its adherence to international aviation protocols, expressed respect for Burkina Faso's sovereignty, and distanced itself from any unsubstantiated claims of maltreatment.

Both sides highlighted shared security challenges and the importance of fraternal relations.

This resolution underscores successful diplomacy in de-escalating a potential regional dispute.

The military aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue.

Burkina Faso authorities detained the personnel and seized the aircraft, citing alleged unauthorised entry into their airspace.

Ooni of Ife Bestows Traditional Title On Ghanaian President Mahama

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has honored Ghana’s President, Dr. John Mahama, with the chieftaincy title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source.

The ceremony, held on Monday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, was part of events celebrating the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni. President Mahama was first welcomed at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, before proceeding to Ile-Ife, where he received a grand reception from the city’s residents.

Ghana’s national television, GTV, announced on X that the title “Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source” means “A President who reorganises the global space for humanity,” bestowed by Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

The installation at the Palace Square drew notable attendees, including Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote and Ovation Magazine Publisher Dele Momodu.This ceremony underscores the ongoing cultural diplomacy and recognition of leaders who have contributed to global progress.

Ghana has taken firm diplomatic action after three of its citizens were deported from Israel under what officials described as unfair and unacceptable conditions.
The Ghanaians — including members of a parliamentary delegation travelling for a cybersecurity conference — were detained upon arrival on 7 December, and three were later sent back without clear justification.

In a reciprocal move, the Ghanaian government ordered the removal of three Israelis who had recently entered the country, signalling that it will not tolerate disrespect toward its nationals abroad.

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister confirmed that Israel’s chargé d’affaires in Accra was summoned for discussions, stressing that while Ghana values its relationship with Israel, mutual respect for travellers is non-negotiable.

Both countries are now working diplomatically to calm rising tensions and restore normal relations.

#Ghana #Israel #Diplomacy #ForeignAffairs

Ghana Deports Three Israelis in Retaliation After Israel Detains Ghanaian Nationals

Ghana has deported three Israeli nationals in response to the detention of three Ghanaian citizens by Israeli authorities at Ben Gurion International Airport. The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized fair treatment for nationals abroad and summoned the Israeli Chargé d’Affaires ad Interim. Both governments have agreed to resolve the issue amicably, while Ghana reaffirms its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and maintaining diplomatic relations.



#GhanaIsraelDiplomacy #DeportationRetaliation #ForeignRelations

Kaduna Secures $200 Million Chinese Deal for West Africa’s Largest Poultry Hub

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has arrived in Beijing to finalize binding agreements on a $200 million integrated poultry project that will become the largest in West Africa.

According to governor, this initiative, building on the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership announced last month, is projected to generate an staggering $450 million in annual revenue, create over 350,000 jobs ranging from direct farm roles to indirect supply chain positions and dramatically enhance food security across Nigeria. Spanning 10,000 hectares, the project will integrate large-scale poultry farming with maize and soybean cultivation for feed production, addressing chronic feed shortages and slashing costs for local farmers.

Construction on the pilot phase is slated to break ground in Kaduna next month, positioning the state as the epicenter of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda for agricultural self-sufficiency.

Governor Sani is leading the high-stakes delegation, joined by a federal team spearheaded by the Director General of the Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership. Their itinerary includes closed-door sessions with top Chinese firms, notably the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), to lock in technical expertise, infrastructure support, and sustained investments.

"This is more than diplomacy, it's a blueprint for prosperity," Sani declared upon arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, where he was greeted by Chinese officials. "On behalf of Kaduna and Nigeria, I extend my deepest gratitude to President Tinubu for championing this vision and to our Chinese partners for their unwavering commitment. We are resolute in our pursuit of investments that uplift our people, secure our tables, and propel Kaduna as Africa's agro-industrial beacon."

Tinubu Welcomes 21 New Envoys, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment to Global Peace and Partnerships

President Bola Tinubu has received Letters of Credence from 21 newly accredited foreign diplomats, assuring them of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in trade, security, development, and diplomacy. Speaking at the State House, Tinubu reaffirmed his open-door policy and encouraged deeper collaboration across key sectors including energy, agriculture, technology, education, and defence. He emphasised Nigeria’s readiness to work with the international community to address global challenges such as security threats, climate pressures, and economic instability.
Japan’s Ambassador, Suzuki Hideo, who spoke on behalf of the envoys, praised Tinubu's economic reforms and national security efforts, describing Nigeria as a resilient and promising nation within ECOWAS and Africa.

Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval for 65 New Ambassadorial Nominees, Raises Total to 68.
President Bola Tinubu has submitted another list of 65 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate — made up of 34 career diplomats and 31 non-career ambassadors and high commissioners — pushing the total number of his ambassadorial nominations to 68.

The latest list includes former Chief of Naval Staff Ibok-Ete Ibas and expands Tinubu’s ongoing reshaping of Nigeria’s diplomatic representation globally.

#Tinubu #NigeriaPolitics #Diplomacy #Ambassadors

PBAT's Aviation Masterstroke: The MRO Deal That Puts Nigeria on the Global Map

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just pulled off one of the most transformative moves in Nigeria’s aviation history, a strategic partnership with global aerospace giant Boeing and the UK’s prestigious Cranfield University to establish a world-class Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) hub right here in Nigeria.

This is not just another government announcement. It’s a structural shift that changes how the world views Nigeria’s aviation capacity.

1. Billions Saved, Billions Earned

Right now, Nigerian airlines spend billions of naira every year flying their aircraft abroad for routine maintenance. With this facility in Nigeria, that money stays in the economy, and foreign airlines may even start coming to us for servicing.
This means massive savings, fresh revenue streams, and a stronger naira over time.

2. Thousands of High-Value Jobs

MROs are labour-intensive and highly technical. From aeronautical engineers to technicians and software specialists to safety experts, this hub will create thousands of well-paid, specialised jobs for Nigerians. President Tinubu isn’t just creating jobs; he’s creating global-standard careers.

3. Skills That Match Global Standards

Partnering with Cranfield University, one of the world’s leading aviation and aerospace institutions, means Nigerian professionals will receive elite training. For the first time, Nigeria will train and export aviation talent at the level of Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

4. A Boost for Local Airlines

Air Peace, Ibom Air, Azman, Overland all Nigerian airlines will finally have affordable, quick-turnaround maintenance at home. This translates to cheaper operations, fewer grounded aircraft, better safety, and more flights for Nigerians.

5. Nigeria Becomes Africa’s Aviation Powerhouse

Only a few African countries have credible MRO facilities. With Boeing and Cranfield backing this project, Nigeria leapfrogs into continental leadership, attracting investment, partnerships, and global aviation traffic.

6. Proof of President Tinubu’s Economic Diplomacy Working

This partnership didn’t fall from the sky; it’s a direct result of Tinubu’s aggressive economic diplomacy, restoring investor confidence, strengthening international ties, and positioning Nigeria as a serious business destination again.

In simple terms:
This MRO project is a high-impact, high-value, globally recognised move that boosts jobs, strengthens airlines, saves foreign exchange, and establishes Nigeria as the aviation hub Africa has been waiting for, all under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch.

Tinubu Sends 32-Person Ambassadorial List to Senate — Omokri, Fani-Kayode, Ugwuanyi, Mahmood Yakubu Included

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has forwarded the names of 32 diplomatic nominees to the Senate of Nigeria for confirmation, significantly expanding the country’s next batch of envoys. 

The list features a mix of high-profile former public servants and career diplomats. Among the most notable are:
• Reno Omokri — ex-presidential aide; 
• Femi Fani-Kayode — former aviation minister; 
• Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi — former Governor of Enugu State; 
• Mahmood Yakubu — immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); 

Others on the list include former governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Lagos State deputy-governor Femi Pedro, former first ladies and former lawmakers, along with a substantial number of career-diplomat nominees. 

In his letters to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu urged that the 15 career-ambassador and 17 non-career-ambassador nominees be “considered and confirmed expeditiously.” 

Once confirmed and posted, many of these ambassadors are expected to serve in strategically important countries — including China, India, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and various multilateral missions such as the United Nations and African Union. 
#Tinubu #NigeriaDiplomacy #AmbassadorNominees #Omokri #FaniKayode #MahmoodYakubu #Ugwuanyi

“Nigeria Is Not a Colony!” — Tinubu’s Aide Warns Trump Against U.S. Military Operation Without Consent

The Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, has issued a strong warning to the United States government, declaring that it would be diplomatically unacceptable for America to carry out any military operation in Nigeria without official consent.

Speaking in an interview with BBC World Service on Monday, Bwala emphasized that Nigeria remains a sovereign nation, and any foreign intervention must be based on mutual respect and collaboration.

“If it’s a joint operation with Nigeria, that’s acceptable,” Bwala stated.
“But diplomatically, it is wrong to invade a sovereign nation without collaboration — especially one that remains a strategic partner in the fight against insecurity.”


His remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians, and hinted at deploying America’s Department of War to combat terrorist groups he claimed were targeting Christians in the country.

Bwala dismissed the notion of a unilateral intervention, stressing that such an act would violate international law unless there is evidence of government complicity — which, he maintained, is “certainly not the case in Nigeria.”

“Unilateral intervention only happens when a government is complicit in a crisis. That’s not Nigeria’s situation,” he said.


He reaffirmed that while Nigeria welcomes collaboration against terrorism, it would never tolerate external interference that undermines its independence or dignity as a nation.

Tinubu’s aide, Daniel Bwala, defends Nigeria’s sovereignty, warning that any U.S. military operation without consent would be a violation of international diplomacy.

Senate Moves to Engage US Lawmakers over Alleged Christian Genocide in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Senate is preparing to open a heated debate on a motion seeking to address what it calls “dangerous misrepresentations” of the country’s security crisis as a campaign of “Christian genocide” — a narrative gaining traction in international circles, particularly in the United States.

The motion, titled “Urgent Need to Correct Misconceptions Regarding the Purported ‘Christian Genocide’ Narrative in Nigeria and International Communities,” is sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) and co-sponsored by several senior lawmakers, including Senators Sani Musa, Magatakarda Wamako, Ibrahim Bomai, and Ahmed Wadada.

Senators Raise Alarm Over ‘Misleading Narratives’
In the draft motion, Ndume expressed alarm over what he described as a growing wave of misleading claims in both local and foreign media alleging systematic attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

While acknowledging the devastating assaults suffered by Christian communities, the lawmaker stressed that violent attacks have affected citizens of all faiths. He warned that framing the crisis in purely religious terms could inflame sectarian tensions and distort international understanding of Nigeria’s complex security landscape.

According to the motion, Nigeria’s insecurity stems from terrorism, insurgency, banditry, communal conflicts, and criminal violence — all of which have claimed lives across religious, ethnic, and regional lines.

Fear Over US Designation
The Senate also expressed unease about developments in Washington, where some lawmakers are pushing to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for alleged religious persecution.

Lawmakers cautioned that such a designation could damage Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and trigger economic consequences. The motion reaffirmed that the Nigerian government is constitutionally obligated to protect the lives and property of all citizens, regardless of their religion or ethnicity.

Senate’s Strategy: Facts and Diplomacy
To counter the growing international narrative, the Senate is proposing a coordinated communication and diplomatic strategy. Key elements include:

Engaging US lawmakers and diaspora networks through official briefings and fact-based publications.
Releasing verified data and investigative reports to clarify casualty figures and contexts.
Strengthening collaboration between the Senate Committees on Foreign Affairs, National Security, and Information with relevant ministries to shape Nigeria’s international messaging.

Urging local media, civil society, and religious leaders to exercise restraint and accuracy in public statements to avoid stoking sectarian division.
The Senate also called on foreign embassies, international organisations, and media outlets to rely on balanced and credible information, rather than unverified claims, when reporting on religiously sensitive matters in Nigeria.

No remorse or regret in our action murdering 1,200 Israelis on October 7th— Hamas leader, Hamad says.

According to the Jerusalem Post report on Friday September 26, 2025, Hamas political bureau member Ghazi Hamad has expressed no regret for the October 7 attacks on Israel, which resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages. In a CNN interview published on Friday, Hamad claimed the attacks targeted only military objectives and that civilians were not intentionally kidnapped.

He argued that the operation has advanced the Palestinian cause, citing increased international support and condemnations of Israel at the UN General Assembly. Hamad stated, "You know what the benefit of [October 7] is now? …If you look at the (United Nations) General Assembly yesterday, when about 194 people opened their eyes and looked at the atrocity, the brutality of Israel and all of them, they condemned Israel. We waited for this moment for 77 years."

Hamad showed no remorse for Palestinian civilian losses in Gaza, asserting that Palestinians "are proud to sacrifice martyrs." When presented with footage of Gazans criticizing Hamas, he refused to engage fully. On hostages, he denied using them as human shields, claiming they are treated according to "Islamic principles," countering Israeli accusations. Another Hamas official, Osama Hamdan, linked recent state recognitions of Palestine to the attacks.

The context of the October 7 assaults involves Hamas's invasion from Gaza, leading to widespread violence and Israel's subsequent military response. Hamad's stance defends the attacks as strategically beneficial, despite the devastation in Gaza. Negotiations with the US under President Trump have stalled, with Hamad accusing the US of involvement in an assassination attempt on him, eroding trust in mediators.

Hamad's unapologetic position highlights Hamas's defiant narrative amid ongoing conflict, potentially complicating peace efforts. It underscores tensions in mediation and the human cost on both sides. The interview reveals deep divisions, with implications for international diplomacy and the prospects of a ceasefire.

Nigerian Embassies Struggle With Unpaid Rent, Salary Arrears – FG

The Federal Government has admitted that several Nigerian diplomatic and consular missions abroad are grappling with financial and operational difficulties, including unpaid staff salaries, rent arrears, and mounting debts to service providers.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the challenges have hindered the smooth running of missions in different countries.

He explained that budgetary shortfalls over the years were responsible for the situation, which has significantly affected the embassies’ ability to deliver on their core diplomatic and consular duties.

“The ministry is not unaware of the restrictions that financial limitations have placed on the smooth running of the missions, including the inability to pay salaries of locally recruited staff, financial obligations to service providers, rent to landlords, and the foreign service allowance to home-based officers,” Ebienfa stated.

The ministry, however, assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration had approved intervention funds and set up a committee to verify and settle outstanding debts. It added that over 80% of available funds had been cleared for payments, prioritising service providers, staff salaries, and arrears owed to officers.

Ebienfa further disclosed that efforts were ongoing to establish a sustainable financial model for embassies abroad, alongside wider reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal governance.

Source: Channels TV

#Nigeria #Diplomacy #ForeignAffairs

Tinubu’s Brazil Visit Could Unlock $30bn Investments – Gov. Uba Sani

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has said President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil has the potential to attract over $30 billion in fresh investments into Nigeria’s economy.

Speaking with journalists in Brasília, Sani disclosed that several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, targeting key sectors such as agriculture, aviation, and science and technology.

“We’re looking at more than 30 billion dollars in investments in agriculture, food security, aviation, and airspace collaboration between Nigeria and Brazil,” he said.

The governor also noted that new agreements in diplomacy, innovation, and renewable energy would further diversify Nigeria’s economy, describing them as sectors that had been largely neglected in the past but are now gaining attention under Tinubu’s leadership.

Sani observed that Brazil’s ongoing trade tensions with the United States presented Nigeria with a unique opportunity to emerge as a strategic partner, particularly as Africa’s largest economy.

He credited Tinubu’s recent economic reforms for rebuilding investor confidence, especially the decision to clear a $7 billion foreign exchange backlog.

“No investor wants to come in if they can’t repatriate their funds. Clearing the $7 billion forex backlog was critical,” he said, commending the Central Bank of Nigeria’s efforts.

Governor Sani urged Nigerians to support the administration’s economic agenda, stressing that the reforms were designed to deliver long-term growth and national development.

BREAKING: Tinubu Stops Over In Los Angeles On Way To Brazil

President Bola Tinubu has arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), USA, en route to Brazil for a two-day state visit scheduled for August 24–25.

Tinubu earlier attended the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan, where he held bilateral talks and engaged Japanese investors.

According to presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, the President will meet Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brasília and participate in a Nigeria–Brazil business forum. His delegation includes ministers and senior officials who will sign cooperation agreements and MoUs with Brazil.

#Tinubu #Diplomacy #Nigeria

News Brief: Tinubu Jets to Japan, Brazil for Tokyo Conference, State Visithttps://youtu.be/NwKTL15MtEQ

President Bola Tinubu departed Abuja on Friday for a two-nation diplomatic tour of Japan and Brazil, with a stopover in Dubai.
In Japan, he will attend the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama from August 20–22, engage in plenary discussions, hold bilateral meetings, and meet with Japanese company CEOs with interests in Nigeria.
Following the conference, Tinubu travels to Brasilia for a state visit from August 24–25, at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, where he will participate in bilateral talks and a business forum with Brazilian investors.

Watch the related video above.

#Tinubu #TICAD9 #NigeriaDiplomacy #GlobalEngagement