IMF excludes Nigeria from list of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, calls for deeper reforms. Nigeria has been left out of the International Monetary Fund’s latest list of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, sparking fresh discussions about the country’s sluggish growth and persistent structural challenges. In its newly released Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa, the IMF highlighted countries such as Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda as the continent’s top performers, projecting regional growth to stabilize around 4.1 percent in 2025. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria failed to make the list, reflecting what analysts describe as a combination of weak reforms, high inflation, and over-dependence on oil revenues. The IMF also warned that many African nations, including Nigeria, face growing fiscal pressures as governments turn to domestic banks for financing amid limited external funding opportunities. According to the report, these fiscal and monetary imbalances, along with rising inflation and exchange-rate instability, continue to dampen Nigeria’s growth outlook. The Fund advised countries in the region to adopt sound fiscal policies, strengthen revenue mobilization, and diversify their economies to cushion against global shocks. Experts say Nigeria’s omission underscores the urgent need for deeper reforms in public finance, infrastructure, and governance. While some progress has been made under ongoing policy adjustments, the IMF’s findings suggest the country still lags behind peers that have successfully implemented aggressive economic diversification and investment-friendly strategies.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Hidden Mega Pokémon Locations If you’ve been exploring Lumiose City and the surrounding regions in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you might have noticed something curious—certain Pokémon feel a bit too powerful, even for regular Alpha encounters. That’s because Mega Evolutions are making a return in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, but not in the way you’d expect. Many Mega Pokémon aren’t given to you through story progression; they’re hidden across the map, waiting for trainers who know where to look. Below is a guide to help you uncover these elusive Mega Pokémon and make the most out of your exploration. 1. Mega Lucario – Tower Ruins in Central Lumiose Mega Lucario can be found deep within the old Tower Ruins area, a zone that unlocks after completing a few Lumiose City missions. Look for aura flares at night—they hint at Lucario’s meditative spot. You’ll need a high friendship with your own Riolu or Lucario to trigger the encounter. Bring a few strong Poké Balls and patience, because this Mega form is tough to weaken without fainting it. 2. Mega Gardevoir – Café District Secret Room Head to the Café District and complete a side quest involving a mysterious musician. Once done, you’ll gain access to a hidden room behind the café stage. Mega Gardevoir spawns during early morning hours in-game, surrounded by psychic energy effects. It’s a graceful yet powerful opponent, so prepare your team accordingly. 3. Mega Charizard X – Ashen Volcano Region One of the most cinematic encounters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Mega Charizard X appears near the peak of the Ashen Volcano after you complete the regional research on Fire-type Pokémon. Watch for a short cutscene hinting at the “dragon of black flame.” You’ll need fire-resistant gear and plenty of healing items. Trainers often stock up before this fight—if you’re short on materials, you can always [url=https://www.u4gm.com/pokemon-legends-z-a-pets]buy Pokémon ZA items[/url] in-game to prepare for the encounter. 4. Mega Gyarados – The Sunken Docks The Sunken Docks area can be accessed after unlocking aquatic traversal Pokémon. Dive deep into the ruins, and you’ll eventually find a whirlpool guarded by a glowing red Gyarados. To battle it in its Mega form, you’ll first need to calm the storm by completing a side mission given by a dockworker NPC. Water- and Electric-type Pokémon work best for this encounter. 5. Mega Absol – Forgotten Forest at Twilight Mega Absol’s location is among the trickiest to reach. You’ll need to visit the Forgotten Forest during twilight hours, when the mist is thickest. The encounter only triggers if you have a pure Dark-type Pokémon leading your team. This battle is as much about timing as it is about preparation. Many players who want to catch it efficiently look for [url=https://www.u4gm.com/pokemon-legends-z-a-pets]cheap Legends ZA Pokémon[/url] to round out their party with the right counters before heading into the forest. 6. Bonus Tip: Hidden Mega Stones To trigger Mega Evolutions, you’ll need the appropriate Mega Stones. They can be found scattered across Lumiose City, often hidden in abandoned alleys, rooftops, or near major landmarks. Keep your scanning gadget on at all times—it emits a faint glow when a Mega Stone is nearby. Some stones may even appear as mission rewards for completing high-difficulty requests. The Mega Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A add a whole new layer of strategy to exploration. Each encounter feels like a mini-legend of its own, encouraging you to explore every inch of the map. Whether you’re hunting for Mega Lucario in ancient ruins or braving the Ashen Volcano for Mega Charizard X, these challenges are some of the most rewarding moments in the game. Take your time, prepare your team well, and don’t forget—sometimes the key to victory lies in how you approach each encounter, not just how powerful your Pokémon are.

Shehu Sani Mocks Labour Party Over Outrage at Governor Mbah’s Defection: “You Left Africa to Syria, They Left to Spain” Former Nigerian senator, Shehu Sani, has taken a swipe at critics of Governor Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—especially those from the Labour Party (LP)—accusing them of hypocrisy and selective outrage. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Sani reacted to comments made by Peter Obi, who had downplayed the political impact of Mbah’s defection but criticized the trend of cross-party movement among politicians. Sani questioned why members of the Labour Party should be angry over a PDP member joining the APC, pointing out that many within the LP themselves were originally from the PDP. Using his trademark humor, Sani drew a colorful analogy: “You left Africa to Syria, and they left Africa to Spain. You are angry because they didn’t follow your route. You saw the vision and left; they only trailed your footsteps. The defectors only divorced the wife you once divorced.” The former lawmaker argued that political migration has long been part of Nigeria’s political culture, and it was inconsistent for politicians to condemn defections when they had once done the same. Sani’s remarks came after Obi clarified that Governor Mbah’s defection does not represent a regional political takeover, insisting that good governance—not party affiliation—should determine political support. However, Sani’s post reframed the conversation, suggesting that Nigeria’s political class is caught in a revolving door of defections, where party switches are more about personal ambition than ideology. His witty metaphor quickly went viral, reigniting debates about loyalty, integrity, and the fluid nature of political alliances in the country.

Tinubu Urges World Leaders To Declare Theft Of Mineral Resources An International Crime. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on world leaders to recognise the stealing of countries’ mineral resources through illegal mining and smuggling as an international crime. Speaking at the 7th Annual General Assembly of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) in Abuja, the President said the illegal exploitation of Africa’s natural resources has become a global threat to economic stability and peace. Tinubu lamented that billions of dollars are lost yearly to mineral smuggling, corruption, and illicit trade, which he said fuel insecurity, kidnapping and banditry across the continent. “The stealing of our countries’ mineral resources should no longer be treated as a local issue. It is an international cr+me that undermines peace and stability,” he said. The President urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the broader international community to strengthen legal frameworks that criminalize illegal mining and resource theft. He also called for collective regional action to trace and recover stolen assets, while emphasizing transparency in their use. Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria has so far channelled over ₦100 billion in recovered proceeds into social intervention projects such as the Student Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Scheme. “No nation can win this fight alone. We must build stronger partnerships and ensure that those who profit from our collective wealth face justice,” he added. Tinubu further appealed to world leaders to support a global convention against resource theft, similar to existing international laws against drug and human trafficking.

Cameroon Opposition Leader Claims Election Victory Ahead of Official Results. Cameroon’s opposition candidate, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has declared himself the winner of Sunday’s presidential election a bold move coming days before the country’s electoral authority is expected to release official results. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Tchiroma asserted that “our victory is clear and must be respected,” urging the government to “accept the truth of the ballot box” or risk “plunging the country into turmoil.” He also vowed to publish detailed regional results soon, maintaining that “the people have chosen.” Although tally sheets from polling stations can be made public, only the Constitutional Council is legally empowered to proclaim final results a restriction the government has warned remains a “red line that must not be crossed.” Tchiroma’s declaration echoes that of Maurice Kamto in 2018, when he similarly announced victory against longtime ruler Paul Biya before official results were out. Kamto was later arrested, and his supporters’ rallies were violently dispersed. President Paul Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for 43 years and remains the world’s oldest sitting head of state, is seeking yet another term. However, Tchiroma, a former employment minister, has drawn surprising enthusiasm from younger voters, turning the race into one of the most closely watched in years. As both camps circulate tally sheets and blackboard results on social media, each side continues to claim victory setting the stage for possible post-election tension in the Central African nation.

History Made: Robotic Surgeon Performs Nigeria’s First UroLift Surgery. Nigeria has recorded a major medical breakthrough as a hospital in Lagos successfully performed the nation’s first UroLift surgery, marking a new milestone in the treatment of prostate enlargement and minimally invasive healthcare in West Africa. The landmark procedure was carried out at The Prostate Clinic (TPC), Victoria Island, under the leadership of Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned consultant urologist and expert in laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Announcing the feat over the weekend, Prof. Ekwueme described the UroLift, also known as the Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL), as “a new era in prostate care for Nigerian men.” He confirmed that the patient recovered well and was discharged on the same day without any complications. “This is the first UroLift procedure in Nigeria, and it represents a new dawn for men living with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH),” he said. “It’s simple, safe, and effective — relieving urinary obstruction without the usual side effects of traditional prostate surgery.” The UroLift system is a minimally invasive treatment that uses small implants to lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, thereby improving urine flow. Unlike conventional surgery, it doesn’t involve cutting, heating, or removing tissue, and helps preserve sexual and bladder function. Prof. Ekwueme noted that the introduction of the UroLift system would significantly reduce medical tourism, save foreign exchange, and attract more investment in advanced medical technology within the country. Healthcare experts have hailed the achievement as a turning point in Nigeria’s medical landscape, commending The Prostate Clinic for championing innovation in men’s health. They expressed optimism that this success would inspire other hospitals to adopt modern urological technologies and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for advanced medical care.

October 7 Massacre a ‘Mistake That Cost Iran Dearly,’ - Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Says. In a stunning reversal of rhetoric, an Iranian newspaper closely aligned with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has described Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel as a “grave mistake” that inflicted serious damage on Iran’s regional influence. According to a report by The Jerusalem Post on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, the statement marks one of the first public acknowledgments within Iran’s ruling establishment that the Gaza war has weakened, rather than strengthened, Tehran’s strategic position in the Middle East. In an editorial published this week, the Islamic Republic newspaper overseen by a representative of Khamenei sharply departed from the regime’s long-standing narrative that celebrated the attack as a victory for the so-called “Axis of Resistance.” “Contrary to many opinions and analyses, the ‘Al-Aqsa Flood’ operation was a mistake,” the paper wrote, referring to Hamas’s coordinated assault that killed and kidnapped thousands inside Israel on October 7, 2023. The editorial went on to argue that the consequences of the attack have been overwhelmingly negative for Iran and its network of allied militias and governments across the region. It specifically cited Syria’s apparent distancing from Tehran as one of the most damaging developments to result from the conflict. “Syria’s departure from the Axis of Resistance and its shift toward alignment with the United States and Israel is one of the most damaging developments of the past two years,” the paper stated, calling it a “direct outcome” of Hamas’s offensive. The tone of the piece stands in sharp contrast to previous statements by Iranian officials, including Khamenei himself, who had hailed the October 7 assault as a “historic victory” and a “turning point in the struggle against Israel.” Iranian state media and military commanders had also praised Hamas for “changing the balance of power” in the region.

Bill for Creation of Ibadan State Passes Second Reading in House of Representatives. A bill seeking to create a new state in Nigeria’s South-West geopolitical zone has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. Sponsored by Hon. Abass Adigun, representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, the bill proposes an amendment to the 1999 Constitution to establish Ibadan State from the current Oyo State. During Thursday’s plenary, Adigun argued that Ibadan, once the capital of the old Western Region, deserves statehood, noting that other regional capitals like Enugu and Kaduna have since become states. He described the proposal as a “monumental step toward equitable development and true federalism. Adigun cited Ibadan’s large population and landmass as justification, claiming that “one local government in Ibadan is bigger than three in Bayelsa State.” His comment sparked protest from Bayelsa lawmaker Obuku Ofurji, who called it “disrespectful.” Adigun later apologised but maintained that his statement was factual. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the bill to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further consideration. The proposal aligns with renewed agitation for state creation across Nigeria. In September, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure Ibadan State is created before 2027. Creating a new state under Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution requires approval by two-thirds of the National Assembly, the affected state’s assembly, local councils, and a referendum supported by two-thirds of residents in the proposed area. No new state has been created in Nigeria since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

“Peter Obi Is Not My Leader” — Orji Kalu Declares, Says He Remains the Most Influential Politician in the Southeast Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State, has stirred political tension with his bold declaration that Peter Obi is not his leader, asserting that his extensive political achievements make him the most prominent politician from the Southeast. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Kalu emphasized his long-standing influence in Nigerian politics, dismissing suggestions that Obi holds any political authority over him. In his words: “He is not my leader. I’m the most important politician from that zone. I have won two states before. I ran for President before — my 4.9 million votes are still there in 2007. I achieved a lot with PPA. We had ministers, we had ambassadors with President Yar’Adua.” The senator highlighted his decades of political success — from his gubernatorial leadership to his presidential bid under the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) — noting that his legacy extends beyond regional politics. Kalu’s remarks come amid the growing influence of Peter Obi, whose performance in the 2023 presidential election as the Labour Party’s candidate positioned him as a major political figure, especially in the Southeast where he enjoys massive grassroots support.

“Reinvigorated and Ready to Serve!” — Senator Orji Uzor Kalu Returns to Senate with Renewed Commitment to Accountability and Development The former Executive Governor of Abia State and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed renewed determination to serve his people as the Senate resumed plenary on Tuesday. Representing Abia North Senatorial District, Kalu shared his excitement and commitment in a post on his verified Facebook page, announcing his return after a productive 10-week recess. “After a productive 10-week recess, I joined my distinguished colleagues today as the Senate resumed plenary,” he wrote. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission, Kalu emphasized his readiness to deepen accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance in the red chamber. “In my capacity representing the good people of Abia North and as Chairman, Senate Committee on South-East Development Commission, I return reinvigorated and fully committed to deepening accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance,” he affirmed. He added that his focus remains unwavering — to deliver impactful representation for his constituents, advance South-East interests, and contribute meaningfully to the overall progress of Nigeria. “Our focus remains steadfast — delivering impactful representation for my constituents, advancing the interests of the South-East, and contributing meaningfully to the progress of our great nation, Nigeria,” Kalu stated. His post has since attracted widespread engagement from supporters and followers who praised his dedication and consistency in legislative service. With the Senate back in session, Senator Kalu’s message of renewed vigor signals his continued influence and active role in pushing for regional and national development.

Christian Genocide: US Rep member wants Nigeria designated as country of particular concern. The Member representing West Virginia's 2nd District in the United States Congress, Riley Moore, has written a letter to the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, urging him to take immediate action to address the systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians in Nigeria. He lamented that Nigeria has become the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian, urging the United States not to stand idly by. He called on Rubio to use all diplomatic tools available, including designating Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and halting arms sales and all associated technical support until the Nigerian government demonstrates it is sufficiently committed to ending this reign of persecution and slaughter. "The sheer number of Christians who suffer persecution daily for their faith, including the staggering number who have been murdered for proclaiming Jesus Christ as their savior is horrific. More than 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria in 2025 already, an average of 35 murders per day. That includes at least 50 Christians brutally martyred on Palm Sunday and another 200 killed in June. This is consistent with reports from Open Doors that more Christians are killed every year in Nigeria than the rest of the world combined. These relentless persecutions have continued for years and show no signs of abating," Moore said. "Since 2015, at least 250 Catholic clergy have been attacked in addition to another 350 clergy from other denominations. On Ash Wednesday this year, a priest in north-central Nigeria was kidnapped and brutally murdered. Between the Boko Haram uprising in July 2009 and September 2025, 19,100 Christian churches in Nigeria have been attacked or destroyed, representing an average of 1,200 churches per year, 100 per month, or more than three per day. In addition, at least 850 Christians are currently being held for ransom in jihadist camps in extreme conditions. These individuals are tortured or killed if ransom isn't paid. Reports estimate at least 15 million people have been displaced by the rampant acts of violence and terror in Nigeria. Simply put, this must end. "Muslim extremist groups such as ISIS-West Africa, Ansaru, and Boko Haram are major perpetrators. Just last week, Boko Haram ravaged Kirawa, Nigeria, displacing thousands. But just as concerning are reports that corrupt cells of the Nigerian government may be complicit, and even directly involved, in some of these attacks. In Northern states such as Kano, regional governments have backed and facilitated the closing of Christian orphanages and forced the children to be reeducated as Muslims. The Nigerian federal government also maintains and enforces anti-blasphemy laws, and several states within Nigeria have even harsher anti-blasphemy laws than the federal government. This includes sentencing an individual to 24 years in prison for 'insulting the Prophet Mohammed.' Moore lamented that the Nigerian government has sought to downplay the genocide of Christians, arguing that Nigeria has a broader issue with terrorism that affects people of all faiths. He, however, pointed out that while Nigerians of all faiths face terrorism and death at the hands of extremists, Christians are far and away the most targeted for persecution and violence.

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.

ABU Spends just ₦4 Billion Yearly on Electricity — VC Cries Out Over Soaring Bills. The Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Adamu Ahmed, has revealed that the institution spends nearly ₦4 billion yearly on electricity, describing the situation as crippling and unsustainable. Speaking at a news conference marking ABU’s 63rd anniversary, Ahmed said the heavy energy cost was affecting research and academic activities. He disclosed that the university was pursuing energy self-sufficiency through partnerships and innovations, including renewable energy projects. According to him, the Federal Government had provided ₦1 billion through TETFund and approved a 10-megawatt solar power project, while alumni groups, such as the SBS Class of 1975, were already supporting solar initiatives on campus. The VC lamented that insecurity and poverty continued to hinder education and development in the North, urging renewed research in agriculture and peacebuilding. He noted ABU’s strength in agricultural research, with institutes like IAR and NAPRI leading regional innovation. Ahmed also highlighted the university’s growth from four faculties in 1962 to 18 faculties, 110 departments, and 17 research centres making it the largest university in sub-Saharan Africa. He announced that ABU had been ranked the best public university in Nigeria by Times Higher Education in 2025 and is one of three Nigerian universities listed in the QS World University Rankings. The VC further revealed that the university had secured over $15 million in World Bank Centres of Excellence grants and a €5 million Horizon grant for an AI-driven disease diagnosis project. Staff and students have also registered over 30 patents across renewable energy and pharmaceuticals. Despite these successes, Ahmed warned that funding shortages, brain drain, and infrastructure decay remained major challenges. He urged ABU’s alumni to “give back” through endowments and donations, saying, “The Sardauna gave you opportunities; now it’s time to give back.”

Nigeria’s Debt Rises as World Bank Approves $750m Loan. The World Bank is set to approve two loans worth $750 million for Nigeria on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, aimed at boosting healthcare security and digital infrastructure. According to the bank’s website, the package includes $500m for the Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth in Nigeria (BRIDGE) project and $250m for the Health Security Programme in Western and Central Africa, Nigeria – Phase II. The BRIDGE project, led by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, seeks to expand broadband access to rural and underserved areas. With a total cost of $1.6bn, $500m will come from the World Bank while the rest will be sourced from private investors and multilateral lenders.  Plans include laying fibre-optic cables nationwide, linking all six geopolitical zones to Lagos, and building city loops, regional networks, and data centres. Implementation will be through a Special Purpose Vehicle, with the Federal Government holding 51% equity and private partners 49%. The $250m health loan will be managed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention under the Ministry of Finance. It aims to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to prevent and respond to health emergencies, drawing lessons from COVID-19 and other outbreaks. Between June 2023 and August 2025, Nigeria secured $8.4bn in World Bank loans for energy, education, health, rural development, and governance. The bank remains Nigeria’s largest creditor, holding about 40% of external debt as of March 2025. Experts remain divided on the impact of borrowing. Some argue concessional loans tied to growth projects can benefit the economy, while others warn Nigeria’s debt—now around N149 trillion, up from N87 trillion at the end of Buhari’s tenure—is becoming unsustainable.

Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso set to expose Nigerian politicians aiding bandits. Intelligence agencies from Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso say they are preparing to reveal the names of senior Nigerian politicians alleged to be supporting bandit groups operating in Nigeria’s North-West. According to security analyst, Zagazola Makama, officials of the security agencies disclosed that they are already in possession of the names of some politicians suspected of providing assistance to the criminal gangs. They added that some individuals involved in supplying arms to the bandits had been arrested and investigations were underway. According to the agencies, the move forms part of ongoing regional efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks that fuel insecurity in West Africa. The development comes against the backdrop of growing collaboration between Sahelian states on security, especially in tackling armed groups and illicit arms trafficking across borders.

Ghana Accused of Dumping West African Migrants Deported From U.S. in Togo. West African migrants deported from the United States to Ghana earlier this month have been transferred to neighbouring Togo by force, according to their lawyers, who are pursuing lawsuits in US, Ghanaian and regional courts alleging violations of fundamental human rights. Of 14 people who landed in Ghana from the US on 6 September, lawyers say 11 were kept in detention. After around two weeks at a military camp near Accra, six of them were allegedly taken across the border to Togo. "The deportees were forced by armed military guards to climb wire fences," said Samantha Hamilton, an attorney for Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), a civil rights organisation that has filed a lawsuit in the US on behalf of the migrants. "A woman in her late 50s was thrown on the back of a motorcycle and smuggled across the border." The lawyers believe that Togo was chosen for its proximity. It is two and a half hours' drive from where the deportees were held in Ghana. Only two of the people removed between 18 and 19 September are Togolese nationals, according to their lawyers, the others hailing from other countries in West Africa. "A Malian woman who only speaks Bambara was left to fend for herself in Togo. She was sexually assaulted and now she's been kidnapped, and her kidnappers are demanding a $50,000 ransom from her family," Hamilton told RFI.

Analyst Criticizes Atiku’s Use of Marriages as Political Appeal to Yoruba Voters A public affairs analyst, Dele Fanimo, has criticized attempts by politicians to use their marriages as evidence of national inclusivity, specifically referencing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s outreach to Yoruba voters. Speaking on Voice of the People TV, Fanimo questioned the sincerity of such tactics, arguing that marrying across ethnic lines does not necessarily prove genuine commitment to national unity. “Who is asking him in the first instance to tell us how much he loves Yoruba?” Fanimo asked rhetorically. He pointed out that Atiku has wives from multiple regions, including the Yoruba, Igbo, and South-South, but maintained that this does not automatically make him a “pan-Nigerian.” “Titi Atiku is his wife, the same way he also married somebody from Igboland, the same way he also married from the South-South—and that doesn’t make him a pan-Nigerian,” Fanimo said. The analyst added that Nigerian voters are becoming more discerning about political rhetoric: “Nigerians are becoming conscious of the lies politicians put up,” he observed. Extending his criticism beyond Atiku, Fanimo said the issue reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics. “It’s not only Atiku. Most politicians, when they need your vote, there is nothing they will not tell you,” he remarked. His comments echo a growing skepticism among political observers about the sincerity of politicians’ appeals to different ethnic and regional groups during campaigns

Ebonyi gets Acting Governor as Nwifuru embarks on annual leave. Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has embarked on annual leave. Ebonyi State House of Assembly yesterday gave effect to a letter transmitting executive powers to Her Excellency, Princess Patricia Obila, who has been discharging her duties as the Acting Governor since the Governor proceeded on annual leave. It was gathered that this is in compliance with section 190 (1) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. Meanwhile, the Acting Governor of Ebonyi State, Princess Patricia Obila, has highlighted the potential of irrigation to significantly enhance crop yields and contribute to food security in Nigeria and across West Africa and the Sahel subregions. Princess Obila made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the National and Regional Hand in Hand Investment Forum on Irrigation, organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations in Abuja. The Acting Governor affirmed that the forum was aimed to chart a course for enhancing agricultural productivity in Nigeria, West Africa, and the Sahel subregions. She commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative in Agriculture, leveraging Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential. Princess Obila reiterated the commitment of the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru’s People’s Charter of Needs Agenda to agricultural development. She noted that the administration was pursuing initiatives to enhance agricultural productivity, promote irrigation, and support farmers to ensure economic diversification and job creation.

2027 Presidency: Kwankwaso’s Camp Tables Demands as He Meets Jonathan for Possible Alliance As preparations for the 2027 presidential election intensify, former President Goodluck Jonathan is facing one of his biggest strategic decisions — which political platform to contest under and who to partner with. According to reports by The Vanguard, Jonathan’s camp has opened discussions with former Kano State governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in a bid to strengthen his chances. Kano, widely regarded as a political battleground with massive voting strength, is seen as a crucial base for Jonathan’s ambitions. Insiders disclosed that during recent meetings between both camps, minimum demands were presented on each side. Kwankwaso’s associates reportedly asked for the vice-presidential slot as a condition for any alliance. While Jonathan’s team has not dismissed the idea, sources revealed that they are also weighing other options — including the possibility of picking a younger northern politician, potentially a sitting governor, to attract youth support and balance regional influence. The talks remain ongoing, but analysts believe that a Jonathan–Kwankwaso ticket could significantly reshape the political landscape ahead of 2027, especially in the northern strongholds.

WHO Confirms New Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo, 15 Dead Including Health Workers. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has declared a new outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Kasai Province, with at least 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers, confirmed as of September 4, 2025. The World Health Organization (WHO), in a statement on Thursday, said the outbreak was detected in Bulape and Mweka health zones, where patients showed symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, and haemorrhage. Tests conducted on September 3 at the National Institute of Biomedical Research in Kinshasa confirmed the Ebola Zaire strain, the deadliest form of the virus. A national Rapid Response Team, supported by WHO experts in epidemiology, infection control, laboratory analysis, and case management, has been deployed to Kasai. WHO has also sent two tonnes of medical supplies, including protective equipment and mobile lab kits, to aid the response. Despite the swift deployment, the agency warned that Kasai’s remote location, with limited road and air access, poses major challenges. Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said authorities are racing to contain the outbreak. “We’re acting with determination to halt the spread and protect communities,” he stated, highlighting DRC’s experience in managing viral outbreaks. Health workers are tracing contacts and providing treatment for suspected cases, while 2,000 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine already stockpiled in Kinshasa will be rushed to Kasai to protect frontline workers and high-risk individuals. Kasai previously experienced deadly Ebola outbreaks in 2007 and 2008.