Lagos has come a long way—especially when you look back at the colonial era. Its location along the Lagos Lagoon made it a strategic choice for the colonial administration, turning the city into a major center of British rule and commerce at the time.

These photographs, sourced from the Time Magazine archives, offer a rare glimpse into Lagos in the 1800s. They capture a city under colonial control, when Europeans dominated political power and urban planning shaped daily life.

What stands out in these images is the sense of order—well-laid streets, structured neighborhoods, and a city that reflected the priorities of its rulers. Lagos was already evolving into an organized urban space, long before the fast-paced megacity we know today.

The old days carry their own charm and lessons.

Images sourced from TIME Magazine Archives and the British National Archives. Used for historical and educational purposes.

Trump Sparks NATO Rift, Says “Time Has Come” to Act on Greenland as European Allies Push Back

U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited transatlantic tensions after declaring it is “time to act” on Greenland, accusing Denmark of failing to counter alleged Russian threats in the Arctic. Writing on Truth Social, Trump claimed NATO had warned Denmark for years over Greenland’s security. His remarks triggered a swift backlash from key European allies, including the UK, France and Germany, who issued a joint statement backing Denmark and Greenland. The allies reaffirmed respect for sovereignty, warned against economic pressure, and stressed that Arctic security must follow international norms, deepening diplomatic strain within NATO.

#Trump #GreenlandCrisis #NATOTensions

Another Tori oo! Nigeria, EU Ready to Tighten Relationship, Set Big 2026 Abuja Summit

Nigeria and the European Union don agree to strengthen their strategic partnership, with a major ministerial summit scheduled for Abuja in March 2026. According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimibie Ebienfa, the decision follow high-level talks between Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot. Both sides agree say future cooperation go focus more on non-oil sectors like agriculture, digital economy and green innovation, as Nigeria dey look for ways to reduce dependence on crude oil. The EU also pledge continued support for counter-terrorism, Gulf of Guinea maritime security and tackling root causes of instability such as youth unemployment. Nigeria, on her part, call for stronger EU backing on climate adaptation and green technology. Dem also agree on balanced migration approach through skills partnerships under the EU “Global Gateway” initiative, aimed at boosting infrastructure, clean energy and youth development. Both parties express confidence say 2026 go be turning point for deeper cooperation. Wahala oo, Nigeria foreign partnership don enter new level.

Nigeria Questions President Tinubu’s Whereabouts Amid Activist Sowore’s Demand for Clarity on Leadership, Public Absence Sparks Concern

Concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s public absence have intensified as prominent activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore called on the government to clarify the president’s whereabouts. Sowore described Nigeria as effectively “operating without a president”, citing Tinubu’s extended absence from public engagements during a period of economic challenges, rising insecurity, and widespread public discontent.

According to the Presidency, Tinubu departed Lagos for Europe to continue his end-of-year break ahead of an official trip to Abu Dhabi for the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit (ADSW 2026), where he is set to engage global leaders on sustainable development initiatives. Presidential aides confirmed he will return after the summit.

The situation has drawn scrutiny over government transparency, leadership accountability, and budget allocations. Review of the 2026 Nigerian budget shows N6.1 billion earmarked for Tinubu’s international travels and N873 million for local travels, while Vice President Kashim Shettima plans to spend N1.3 billion on foreign trips, bringing the total for top leadership travel to N7.4 billion.

Civil society groups and opposition figures echo Sowore’s call for clarity, insisting that Nigerians deserve reassurance about the president’s health, governance engagement, and leadership presence. The ongoing debate underscores concerns about executive transparency, fiscal responsibility, and citizen confidence in the highest office of Nigeria.

Tinubu Govt Allocates N6B for Presidential Jet Engine Overhaul, N1.5B for Aviation Fuel in 2026 Budget

The Tinubu-led Nigerian government has earmarked N6 billion for overhauling aircraft engines in the Presidential Air Fleet under the 2026 budget. A breakdown of the expenditure reveals that the presidential jet, 5N-FGW (Gulfstream G550), will cost N3.859 billion for engine overhaul, while two Falcon 7X aircraft will require N2.19 billion for maintenance.

In addition, N1.2 billion is budgeted for general aircraft maintenance, and N1.5 billion is allocated for aviation fuel. Other allocations include N375 million for foodstuffs and catering supplies for presidential operations.

The budget review also highlights planned travel expenses: President Bola Tinubu has set aside N6.1 billion for international trips, while Vice President Kashim Shettima plans to spend N1.3 billion on foreign travels, totaling N7.4 billion. The President is scheduled to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit (ADSW 2026) following his European break.

Historical data shows the Tinubu administration spent N36.3 billion on international travel in 2024 and significant sums on local transport, underscoring the continued high cost of State House operations.

#NigeriaBudget2026 #Tinubu #PresidentialAirFleet”

Why Is Tinubu Budgeting ₦6.1 Billion for Foreign Trips in 2026? What Nigeria’s Travel Spending Reveals About Presidential Priorities

A review of Nigeria’s 2026 budget has revealed that President Bola Tinubu plans to spend ₦6.1 billion on foreign travels in the coming fiscal year, raising fresh questions about government priorities amid economic strain. The figure, listed under “State House operations – President,” also shows an additional ₦873 million earmarked for local travel. When combined with the Vice President’s projected foreign travel costs of ₦1.3 billion, total international trip spending by the Presidency in 2026 is expected to reach ₦7.4 billion.

The budget breakdown comes as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs and fiscal pressures. According to the documents, travel expenses remain a major component of State House spending, with another ₦375 million allocated for foodstuffs and catering materials alone. While the Presidency has not released a detailed justification for the travel budget, officials insist the trips are essential for diplomacy, investment, and international engagement.

Recent movements by the President have already drawn public attention. President Tinubu recently departed Lagos for Europe before heading to Abu Dhabi at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit (ADSW 2026). The Presidency described the summit as a high-level global forum bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development. Officials also confirmed that the President would return to Nigeria after the event.

However, critics argue that the scale of spending on foreign trips is difficult to justify, especially in light of past expenditure. Although comprehensive 2025 data is unavailable, records from the Open Treasury Portal show that in 2024 alone, the State House spent over ₦36.3 billion on international travel. This included ₦12.2 billion for “international travel and transport (training)” and ₦24.19 billion for “international travel and transport (others).” Local travel was even more costly, with ₦47 billion spent on training and other domestic trips. In total, travel expenses—both local and foreign—amounted to approximately ₦83 billion in 2024.

Further reports revealed that between February and July 2024, the Presidency spent about ₦2.3 billion on foreign trips, while an additional ₦2.9 billion went toward foreign exchange for trips involving the President, Vice President, and First Lady across several countries. Payments running into hundreds of millions of naira were also recorded in individual months, fueling debate over transparency and fiscal discipline.

Opposition figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, have questioned the frequency and cost of the President’s travels. At the same time, government officials have defended the expenditure. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has argued that the President should even travel more to advance Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic interests globally.

With the 2026 budget now in focus, the key questions remain: Does the ₦6.1 billion allocation reflect necessary diplomacy or excessive spending? How does such expenditure align with Nigeria’s current economic challenges? And will the government provide clearer accountability for the rising cost of presidential travel? As public scrutiny intensifies, the debate over leadership priorities and fiscal responsibility is likely to continue.

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela and Russia Over Sanctions Violation
January 7, 2026 – International

The United States has confirmed the seizure of an oil tanker accused of violating U.S. sanctions, marking a major enforcement action against vessels attempting to bypass American restrictions. The tanker, originally identified as M/V Bella 1, had been renamed Marinera and was operating under a Russian flag while sailing in the North Atlantic. Reports indicate that the vessel previously flew a Guyana flag before its re-registration under Russia.

The U.S. European Command stated that the seizure was executed in coordination with multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Tracking operations were supported by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Munro. According to officials, the operation was carried out pursuant to a U.S. federal court warrant and reflects a “whole-of-government” approach to protecting U.S. interests and enforcing sanctions.

“The seizure supports the President’s proclamation targeting sanctioned vessels that threaten security and stability in the Western Hemisphere,” the U.S. European Command noted. Officials emphasized that the action was carefully planned to avoid environmental damage and focused on recovering the tanker rather than sinking it.

This operation follows recent diplomatic talks between U.S. and Venezuelan officials regarding potential exports of Venezuelan crude to American refineries along the Gulf Coast. U.S. refineries, which have historically processed Venezuela’s heavy crude, are reportedly capable of handling future imports once sanctions allow. Sources noted that the discussions come after years of restrictions that curtailed Venezuelan oil exports to the United States.

The seizure also comes in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela in early January 2026, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. justified the operation by citing federal indictments accusing Maduro’s government of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, alleging that the regime helped ship large quantities of cocaine into the United States. Following the operation, former President Donald Trump openly declared that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, which he claimed was built with American investment and seized by Maduro.

In his first public comments after being taken to the U.S., Maduro described himself as “kidnapped” and insisted on his innocence. The tanker seizure is seen as part of ongoing U.S. efforts to reassert influence over sanctioned energy exports and prevent regimes like Venezuela and Russia from profiting from illicit oil trade.

Experts note that the operation highlights the strategic importance of maritime enforcement in the global energy market and underscores the U.S.’s commitment to sanctions enforcement. The tanker, part of what officials have described as a “shadow fleet” circumventing international regulations, was carefully monitored for weeks before the operation, demonstrating the complexity of tracking and intercepting high-value maritime targets.

The U.S. emphasized that similar operations may continue against vessels suspected of violating sanctions, particularly those tied to sanctioned nations or illicit networks. The seizure reinforces the administration’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement and targeted enforcement to secure energy markets and uphold international sanctions.

Béla Tarr Dies at 70: Celebrated Director of Sátántangó and Werckmeister Harmonies Remembered as a Master of Slow Cinema

Renowned Hungarian filmmaker Béla Tarr has died at the age of 70 after a long illness, according to the European Film Academy. Widely acclaimed for his stark visual style, extended takes, and politically charged storytelling, Tarr rose to international prominence with films such as Damnation, Sátántangó, and Werckmeister Harmonies. Born in 1955, he became one of Europe’s most distinctive auteurs, exploring themes of social decay, collective despair, and moral collapse in post-communist societies. His seven-hour epic Sátántangó remains one of the most influential arthouse films ever made. After retiring from filmmaking in 2011, Tarr dedicated himself to mentoring young filmmakers through film.factory in Sarajevo. He is remembered as a visionary who reshaped world cinema through uncompromising artistry and deeply political expression.

#BelaTarr #Sátántangó #WerckmeisterHarmonies #WorldCinema #FilmLegend #ArthouseFilm #EuropeanCinema #FilmHistory

UK, France, Germany, and EU Allies Stand with Denmark Against Trump’s Threat to Annex Greenland

The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark have jointly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to annex Greenland. The European leaders emphasized that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and NATO territory, insisting that Arctic security must follow international law, collective defense, and respect for sovereignty. They highlighted that unilateral actions by the U.S. could undermine NATO, and stressed that Greenland’s governance is exclusively for Denmark and Greenland to decide. The move comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. actions in Venezuela and growing strategic interest in the Arctic region.

#Greenland #Trump #Denmark #EUUnity #ArcticSecurity #NATO #InternationalLaw #Geopolitics #TransatlanticRelations #EuropeNews

Nigerian Activist Agena Robert Warns ‘If U.S. Can Invade Venezuela, They Can Invade Nigeria,’ Criticizes Trump as Dictator

Nigerian human rights activist Agena A. Robert has condemned the United States over its actions against Venezuela, labeling Washington’s foreign policy as hypocritical, imperialistic, and a threat to global sovereignty.

In a statement titled “The Hypocrisy of Empire: Why the U.S. Assault on Venezuela Is a Threat to Us All,” Robert argued that U.S. claims of promoting democracy are a pretext for controlling Venezuela’s resources. He accused U.S. President Donald Trump of acting like a dictator and criticized double standards in international relations, including tolerance for elites and selective criminalization.

Robert warned that developing nations, including Nigeria, are at risk of foreign intervention disguised as benevolence, citing U.S., Israeli, Chinese, Russian, and European influence under various pretexts. He called for countries in the Global South to resist domination and uphold sovereignty, stressing that Venezuela’s experience should serve as a wake-up call.

The activist emphasized solidarity with Venezuela and the importance of defending self-determination against neocolonial exploitation.

26 EU States Urge Calm, Respect For International Law After US Military Captures Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Twenty-six member states of the European Union have called for calm, restraint and strict adherence to international law following the United States’ military action in Venezuela, which reportedly led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. In a joint statement issued by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the bloc warned against actions that could escalate tensions or derail prospects for a peaceful resolution of the Venezuelan crisis.

The EU stressed that the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter must be upheld at all times, noting that members of the UN Security Council bear a special responsibility in safeguarding these norms as a foundation of global security. While reiterating its long-standing position that Maduro lacks the legitimacy of a democratically elected president, the EU emphasized support for a Venezuelan-led, peaceful and democratic transition that respects the country’s sovereignty.

The statement also highlighted the need for sustained international cooperation to combat transnational organised crime and drug trafficking, but only in full respect of territorial integrity and international law. The bloc said it remains in close contact with the United States, regional actors and international partners to facilitate dialogue aimed at a negotiated, inclusive and peaceful solution driven by Venezuelans themselves.

Additionally, the EU called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Venezuela and confirmed that EU member states’ consular authorities are working together to protect EU citizens, including those allegedly detained unlawfully. The intervention comes amid heightened global concern over Venezuela’s political deadlock and regional stability following President Donald Trump’s announcement that Maduro had been captured and transferred to the United States to face federal charges related to drug trafficking and alleged links to designated terrorist organisations.

World Council of Churches Urges EU to Impose Sanctions, Enforce Arms Embargo on Israel Over Gaza War and Alleged Violations Against Palestinians

The World Council of Churches (WCC) has called on the European Union to impose sanctions and implement an arms embargo on Israel, citing what it described as a war of genocide in Gaza and continued violations against Palestinians in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The appeal was made amid growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories.

In a statement reported by the Middle East Monitor, Iskandar Majlton, local coordinator of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel under the WCC, said the council was deeply disturbed by the escalating cycle of violence and the immense human suffering it has caused. He stressed that the WCC’s position is firmly rooted in international law and human rights principles, condemning all attacks on civilians without exception.

Majlton highlighted what he described as an unprecedented humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip, noting that thousands of civilians—mostly women and children—have been killed, while nearly the entire population has been displaced amid widespread destruction, hunger, and disease. He further argued that the ongoing violence did not begin in October 2023 but is the result of decades-long occupation, the prolonged blockade of Gaza, and systemic inequality faced by Palestinians.

The WCC’s call adds to mounting global pressure on international bodies to take decisive action to address the conflict and uphold accountability under international law.

EU Closely Monitors Venezuela After US Airstrikes, Condemns Capture of President Maduro Amid US Lawmaker Criticism

The European Union is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela following reports of a U.S. military strike and the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized that the bloc does not recognize Maduro as a legitimate leader and called for restraint, adherence to international law, and the safety of EU citizens in the country.

In the U.S., Congressman Jim McGovern condemned the operation as an unjustified and illegal action, criticizing President Donald Trump for bypassing Congress and prioritizing military action over domestic needs such as healthcare. Trump claimed on Truth Social that Maduro and his wife were apprehended during a “large-scale” U.S. operation, but provided no evidence or operational details.

The situation has sparked international concern, with the EU reiterating support for a peaceful political transition in Venezuela and warning against unilateral military actions.

IPOB Demands International Inquiry Into South-East Insecurity, Accuses Nigerian Government, Military Of Covering Up Killings And Scapegoating Group

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called for an independent, internationally supervised public inquiry into the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria’s South-East, accusing the Nigerian government and the military of concealing the truth behind violence in the region. In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the separatist group criticised comments attributed to Major General Michael Onoja, dismissing them as “recycled propaganda” and challenging authorities to subject their claims to open, global scrutiny.

IPOB questioned why the government has consistently refused calls for a judge-led inquiry if it is confident in its narrative, insisting that evidence should be presented publicly under oath with international oversight. The group reacted to Onoja’s reported claim that insecurity in the South-East had significantly reduced following the imprisonment of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu and separatist agitator Simon Ekpa, which the military said weakened criminal networks in the region.

Rejecting this position, IPOB said it has “nothing to hide” and urged international bodies such as the United Nations, African Union, European Union and the United States to support an independent commission of inquiry. The group cited past incidents including the 2016 Nkpor killings, Aba National High School shootings, the invasion of Kanu’s home, the Zaria Shiite clashes, Odi and Zaki-Biam operations, and the 2020 Lekki Toll Gate shootings as examples of alleged state violence against civilians that remain unresolved.

IPOB also referenced warnings by former Defence Minister, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), about alleged collusion between security forces and armed groups, accusing politicians and security actors of nurturing militias before blaming IPOB when violence escalates. The group further criticised the APC and PDP for what it described as a nationwide collapse of security.

Among its demands, IPOB called for a foreign judge to chair a public inquiry into South-East insecurity, unrestricted access to security records, international protection for whistleblowers, and the immediate and unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu. The group warned that continued refusal to allow independent scrutiny would deepen public suspicion, insisting that history would eventually expose the truth.

Gambian Authorities Confirm Seven Dead, Scores Rescued After Migrant Boat Carrying Over 200 People Capsizes on Deadly Atlantic Route

Gambian authorities have confirmed that at least seven people died and 96 others were rescued after a boat carrying migrants capsized overnight, according to a statement from the country’s defence ministry. The vessel was reportedly transporting more than 200 migrants when the tragic incident occurred.

Officials said 10 of the rescued migrants were in critical condition and are currently receiving urgent medical treatment. Search and rescue operations led to the recovery of seven bodies, while fears remain that many others may still be missing.

The incident once again highlights the extreme dangers of the Atlantic migration route from West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands, widely regarded as one of the deadliest migration corridors in the world. Thousands of African migrants attempt the journey each year in overcrowded and unseaworthy boats in search of better economic opportunities.

According to European Union data cited by Reuters, more than 46,000 irregular migrants arrived in the Canary Islands in 2024, the highest number ever recorded. Meanwhile, rights group Caminando Fronteras reported that over 10,000 people died attempting the crossing in the same year, representing a 58 percent increase compared with 2023.

The latest tragedy follows a similar deadly incident in August 2025, when at least 70 migrants were killed after a boat believed to have departed from Gambia capsized, one of the worst migrant boat disasters in recent years.

Israel Announces ‘New Front’ to Protect Christian Communities in Africa and Middle East, Names Nigeria Among Key Focus Areas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the opening of what he described as a “new front” dedicated to protecting Christian communities across Africa and the Middle East, including Nigeria. Speaking to an audience of Christian Zionists in a speech published on the Israeli Prime Minister’s official YouTube channel, Netanyahu said Israel was responding to growing global threats against what he termed the “Judeo-Christian civilization.”

He credited Christian Zionists with playing a crucial role in the emergence and survival of Israel and described the partnership as enduring and strategic. Netanyahu claimed Israel had recently fought and survived a “seven-front war” but insisted an “eighth front” had emerged—one focused on influencing hearts and minds, especially of young people.

According to him, the struggle extends beyond Israel to the United States and its allies, framing it as a broader battle for Western civilization. He identified radical Shiite and Sunni Islamist groups, naming Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood, as major threats, alleging their influence stretches across Europe, the U.S., Africa, and Nigeria.

Netanyahu also highlighted what he described as widespread persecution of Christians in countries such as Nigeria, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, and others, asserting that Israel is the only country actively protecting and enabling Christian communities to thrive. He announced Israel’s intention to join efforts to form a global coalition—likened to a “United Nations” for Christian community protection—offering intelligence and other forms of support, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

He concluded by reaffirming Israel’s commitment to defending Christian communities worldwide and extended New Year and Christmas greetings, expressing hope for peace, security, and prosperity, especially for persecuted Christians.

New Year 2026: First 10 Countries to Welcome the Year, Led by Kiribati

Kiribati was the first country to enter 2026, with Kiritimati Atoll marking the earliest celebrations. Following Kiribati, New Zealand and Australia welcomed the New Year with fireworks and public events. Asian countries including Japan, South Korea, China, the Philippines, Thailand, India, and Pakistan completed the list of the first ten nations to cross into 2026, each observing local traditions, countdowns, and cultural festivities. Time zone differences caused this staggered global celebration, moving from the Pacific westward toward Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

#NewYear2026 #Kiribati #GlobalCelebration #AsiaPacific #NewYearCountdown #WorldNews #CulturalFestivities #TimeZones

Nigeria Governed by Sick People’: Sowore Alleges Tinubu Was Flown to Europe for Medical Reasons, Raises Fresh Concerns Over Akpabio’s Health

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is unwell and was hurriedly flown to Europe for medical treatment. In a post on X, Sowore claimed the president had been “managing himself” before the sudden trip and also questioned the health of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging he is seriously ill. Sowore criticised what he described as a pattern of Nigerian leaders seeking medical care abroad while governing the country. The presidency, however, said Tinubu’s trip was part of his end-of-year break and ahead of his scheduled participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit. Akpabio has also previously denied reports of ill health, insisting he remains fit and active in his duties.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Lagos for Europe, according to the Presidency.

The disclosure was made on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. He said the President is proceeding to Europe to continue his end-of-year break, ahead of an official engagement in the Middle East.

From Europe, President Tinubu will travel to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, following an invitation from the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Nigerian leader is expected to participate in the 2026 edition of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) Summit, scheduled to hold in early January.

The summit is a global platform focused on sustainability, climate action, and economic development.

#Tinubu #NigeriaPolitics #Presidency #ADSW2026

Breaking: President Tinubu Departs Lagos for Europe Ahead of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Summit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Lagos for Europe as part of his end-of-year break and in preparation for his official trip to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The presidency confirmed that Tinubu was invited by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed AlNahyan to attend the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) Summit scheduled for early January. The weeklong global summit will bring together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development, innovation, and finance, after which the president is expected to return to Nigeria.