The recent activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force marks a significant step in the region’s efforts to tackle the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa. This move, which was discussed at the 43rd ordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja, reflects the collective commitment of member countries to combat security challenges in the sub-region.

The force, initially proposed in October of last year, is set to consist of 5,000 personnel. Its establishment underscores the urgency of addressing the increasing terrorism threat that has destabilized several countries in the region, particularly in the Sahel. Nigerian Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru emphasized the need for collaboration and strategic planning to tackle these security concerns, which also include maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

Abdel-Fatau Musah, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, also acknowledged the impact of the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the regional body. Despite this setback, ECOWAS remains committed to facilitating the free movement of citizens and goods across its member states, a cornerstone of its vision for a united community. Plans are in place to address the unforeseen consequences of the withdrawals, particularly on regional security.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, reinforced the need for military leaders to support political efforts by ensuring a secure environment that fosters economic growth. He highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and intelligence sharing to effectively address both the root causes and manifestations of insecurity in West Africa.

This initiative not only addresses terrorism but also signals a broader effort to ensure long-term peace and stability in the region, even as political tensions arise. The activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force could potentially become a pivotal move in reinforcing security cooperation among member states.

What are your thoughts on the role of regional security forces like ECOWAS in addressing terrorism, especially in light of the political challenges posed by countries withdrawing from the organization?

The Nigerian House of Representatives’ recent directive to block all pornographic websites is a significant move in the country’s ongoing conversation about internet regulation and moral standards. Sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an APC lawmaker from Katsina State, the motion aims to tackle what he sees as a growing global problem of cyber pornography, particularly in a nation where religious values strongly oppose nudity and obscenity.

Tafoki highlighted the potential negative consequences of pornography, referencing warnings from psychologists and sociologists about its psychological and societal effects, such as promoting adultery, prostitution, and addiction. His argument also pointed to the actions of other countries, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, which have already taken steps to ban such content.

The resolution passed by the House calls on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure internet service providers block pornographic content and impose penalties on those who fail to comply. This move has sparked debate over how far the government should go in regulating internet access while balancing concerns about freedom of expression and the practical implications of such a ban.

The decision could have far-reaching implications for internet access in Nigeria, potentially raising issues about censorship, privacy, and the enforcement of internet regulations. What are your thoughts on the government’s role in regulating online content, particularly when it comes to moral or religious values?

The political tension in Rivers State has escalated following calls for the resignation or impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara by a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike. The APC faction, led by Chief Tony Okocha, accused Fubara of multiple alleged offenses, disrespecting President Bola Tinubu, and failing to implement previous resolutions aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis. Okocha called for Fubara’s resignation, claiming that his governance had caused significant damage to the state.

Governor Fubara, however, responded to the accusations by affirming his commitment to peace and good governance. He urged his supporters to remain calm, promising that despite the political turbulence, he would continue to work for the betterment of the state. Fubara also warned against any acts of lawlessness, emphasizing that political instability would only harm the people of Rivers State.

In response to Okocha’s criticism, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, dismissed the call for impeachment, labeling Okocha as an “impostor” whose authority to speak on behalf of the APC was invalid due to a court ruling that had removed him from his position as state APC chairman. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in support of Fubara, criticized Okocha for attempting to create unnecessary political tension and urged him to focus on national issues rather than stoking conflict in Rivers State.

Further complicating the situation, the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by the Martin Amaewhule faction, issued an arrest warrant against the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.), and four other commissioners, accusing them of malfeasance in conducting the October 2024 local government election. The Assembly’s move is part of the broader political crisis, with both factions of the APC and the state government engaged in ongoing disputes.

Rivers State elders, including former Governor Chief Rufus Ada-George, have called for peace and urged all factions to cease inflammatory rhetoric and work together for the state’s stability. Ada-George highlighted the importance of unity in the face of political challenges and warned against escalating the situation further, citing historical lessons from past conflicts.

Despite the tensions, Fubara has remained resolute in his commitment to deliver impactful, people-oriented development. His administration has already made strides, including the completion of a long-awaited palace for the Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom, a significant historical project for the region. Fubara continues to appeal for calm and cooperation to move the state forward amidst the ongoing political challenges.

The controversy surrounding Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, arose after a viral video showed him confronting a street preacher in a market. In the video, the governor orders the preacher to stop causing a disturbance, citing the law against noise pollution. Soludo’s remarks sparked criticism, with some accusing him of banning evangelism, while others defended his actions as necessary to enforce public health laws.

In response, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, clarified that the governor’s comments were misinterpreted. He emphasized that Soludo’s focus was on addressing noise pollution, not banning evangelism. The Public Health Law of 2006 prohibits excessive noise in public spaces like markets, and Soludo was simply enforcing this law. He advised preachers to conduct their activities in designated areas, such as churches, where they wouldn’t disturb the general public.

The Commissioner referred to previous legal actions on noise pollution, including a 2019 case where a magistrate’s court in Nnewi upheld the law against a church violating noise regulations. Mefor urged the public to disregard the claims that Soludo had banned evangelism and to adhere to the Public Health Law, which seeks to balance public health with the rights of individuals.

Mark Carney’s statement on the quick and seamless transition of power reflects his commitment to ensuring stability during a period of significant political tension. With the rising trade war between Canada and the U.S., largely driven by President Donald Trump’s policies, Carney’s leadership is seen as a crucial response to these challenges.

Carney’s background as a former central banker may help him navigate the economic and diplomatic challenges posed by Trump’s threats of tariffs and annexation. The fact that Liberal Party members supported him as the most capable candidate to confront Trump shows the high expectations placed on his leadership, especially as Canada seeks to safeguard its economy and sovereignty.

The retaliation measures by Canadian provinces, like the 25% surcharge on electricity exports from Ontario, highlight the tensions between the two nations. This kind of economic counteraction is part of Canada’s broader response to U.S. tariffs and could escalate the already strained relations between the two countries.

Carney’s careful stance on Trump, refusing to comment on his relationship with the U.S. president until he officially assumes office, demonstrates his desire to maintain neutrality until he is formally in charge. This approach is likely meant to avoid any diplomatic missteps before he steps into his role as prime minister.

Malaysia has issued a strong warning to its citizens against traveling to southern Thailand following a series of violent attacks over the weekend that resulted in at least five deaths and 13 injuries. The attacks, which included bombings and shootings by suspected insurgents, occurred in the southernmost provinces of Thailand, where a long-standing separatist insurgency has been active since 2004. These areas are primarily ethnic Malay Muslim, while the rest of Thailand is predominantly Buddhist.

The attacks targeted security forces and government officials in the Narathiwat and Pattani provinces, which are popular with Malaysian tourists. In Narathiwat’s Sungai Kolok border town, gunmen fired into a district office and detonated a car bomb, killing two Thai security volunteers. Meanwhile, in Pattani, a roadside bomb killed a volunteer ranger and two government officials.

In response, Malaysia’s foreign ministry advised its citizens to delay non-essential travel to these regions until the security situation improves. Malaysia is one of the largest sources of tourists to Thailand, with around 4.9 million Malaysians visiting the country last year.

Narathiwat Governor Trakul Thotham confirmed that security in the area had been ramped up in response to the violence, though he acknowledged that there were still Malaysians in the region and some disruptions would occur. He also noted that incidents of this nature had not occurred in the area in the past four to five years.

The ongoing violence in southern Thailand highlights the continuing instability in the region, which has claimed more than 7,300 lives since the insurgency reignited in 2004.

The global community has extended warm congratulations to Mark Carney following his appointment as Canada’s new Prime Minister, with notable figures from the United Kingdom, France, and China expressing their support. This marks a significant moment for Canada as Carney, a former central banker who served as the Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, takes on the leadership role.

French President Emmanuel Macron took to social media, offering his congratulations to Carney and acknowledging the strengthened Franco-Canadian ties during Justin Trudeau’s tenure. He praised Trudeau for eight years of productive cooperation and expressed confidence in the future with Carney at the helm.

Similarly, UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer extended his congratulations, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between Canada and the UK, particularly in forums like the G7. Starmer also expressed his best wishes to Justin Trudeau, who has stepped down following declining public support.

China also joined in congratulating Carney, underscoring the international recognition of his leadership. Carney’s expertise in global finance is expected to play a central role in addressing Canada’s economic challenges, a task he is well-positioned for given his background in economics and finance.

Carney’s election as the leader of the Liberal Party paves the way for his role as Canada’s new Prime Minister. His appointment follows Trudeau’s decision to step down after a period of declining popularity. Trudeau’s time in office saw significant progress in areas such as immigration and progressive policies, although it also faced criticism, particularly regarding unmet electoral reform promises.

The global response to Carney’s appointment highlights Canada’s importance on the world stage, with nations focusing on shared priorities such as economic stability, environmental policies, and international partnerships. As Carney prepares to take office, his financial expertise will likely be crucial in addressing Canada’s domestic and international challenges, further solidifying the country’s role in global affairs.

Greenland’s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, expressed dissatisfaction with U.S. President Donald Trump’s treatment of Greenlanders, criticizing his approach to the island’s autonomy. Egede’s comments came in response to Trump’s remarks made during his recent address to Congress, where he reiterated his interest in acquiring the vast, mineral-rich Arctic island. Trump highlighted Greenland’s potential prosperity, claiming that the U.S. could invest billions of dollars to create jobs and make the people of Greenland “rich,” while also ensuring their safety, as they have been since World War II.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized that the U.S. would continue to protect Greenlanders, echoing sentiments of past American support. However, Egede rejected this narrative, stating that Greenland’s citizens deserve to be treated with respect and independence, a sentiment he has consistently voiced since taking office. He further added that Trump’s recent actions suggest that many Greenlanders might not be as eager to align with the U.S. as they once might have been.

Egede has long advocated for Greenland’s full independence, asserting that the island, with a population of just 57,000, should have the autonomy to determine its own future. Despite Greenland’s wealth in minerals, oil, and natural gas, the economy remains heavily dependent on fishing and annual subsidies from Denmark, with development progressing slowly.

North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles on Monday in response to joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States, which Pyongyang condemned as a provocative act that could lead to accidental confrontation. According to South Korea’s military, the missiles were launched from North Korea’s western region towards the Yellow Sea, marking the first ballistic missile test since the return of U.S. President Donald Trump in January.

The missiles are believed to be close-range ballistic missiles, which have a range of under 300 km (186 miles), according to South Korean defense officials. The launch comes amid the ongoing Freedom Shield military exercises between South Korea and the U.S., scheduled to run until March 20. While the drills are designed to enhance the alliance’s readiness against threats from North Korea, live-fire exercises have been suspended following a tragic incident last week, in which South Korean jets mistakenly dropped bombs on a civilian town near the border, injuring 29 people.

North Korea has repeatedly denounced such joint military exercises, viewing them as a precursor to an invasion. In a statement, North Korea’s foreign ministry labeled the drills as “a dangerous provocative act,” warning that they could escalate tensions and lead to a physical conflict. The ministry added that the drills would also harm U.S. security.

Meanwhile, South Korea’s Air Force Chief, Lee Young-su, publicly apologized for the bomb-drop accident, acknowledging the severity of the mistake.

Residents across the Lagos region are facing ongoing power disruptions due to faults on the 330kV transmission lines, according to a statement from the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) released on Monday. The company explained that the power shortages are the result of reduced power allocation from their partner, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), caused by the faults on the transmission lines.

As a result, load-shedding has been implemented across the network, leading to the continued power outages. EKEDC acknowledged the frustration this situation has caused for both residents and businesses in the area, who rely heavily on a stable power supply.

The company assured customers that they are actively working with TCN and other partners to resolve the issue and restore a more stable power supply. EKEDC thanked their customers for their patience and understanding while efforts to address the situation continue.

On Sunday, the US military, through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), reported that it detected and “escorted out” a civilian aircraft that violated a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) near President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. The violation occurred at approximately 1:15 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

NORAD responded by deploying F-16 fighter aircraft to intercept and escort the civilian aircraft out of the restricted airspace. The military aircraft also dispensed flares, which may have been visible to civilians in the area.

General Gregory Guillot, NORAD Commander, emphasized that the agency collaborates closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure airspace safety, particularly around areas with Temporary Flight Restrictions. Since Trump’s inauguration on January 20, NORAD has responded to over 20 instances of aircraft entering the TFR area near Mar-a-Lago.

The drama surrounding the relationship between popular Yoruba actor Babatunde Tayo, also known as Baba Tee, and comedian Ganiyu Morufu, aka Dara, has taken a new turn. During a live interview with socialite Esabod and other TikTok personalities, Baba Tee admitted to having a brief sexual encounter with Dara, Lande’s wife. This comes after initially denying the allegations when Lande claimed his marriage ended due to Dara’s infidelity.

Previously, Baba Tee had insisted he was not involved with Dara, only meeting her once through actress Marygold. However, in the new revelation, Baba Tee confessed that the affair occurred during a “Truth or Dare” game in which Marygold, who was present, allegedly dared Dara to engage in the act with him while taking alcohol as part of the game.

Baba Tee admitted, “I will not deny that I had a short sexual intercourse with her, it is the first time I am saying it. It is now that I discovered that it was a set-up by both of them to malign my personality.”

After making this admission, Esabod, the socialite, advised Baba Tee to apologize to Lande. Baba Tee took to his official Facebook page on Monday to express regret, saying, “I am deeply sorry from the bottom of my heart, brother, Lande,” and humorously commented on how Dara became Lande’s wife without his knowledge, adding, “I fear women.”

The situation has caused a stir, with some believing that Marygold, who was Lande’s manager, may have recorded the encounter between Baba Tee and Dara, potentially to use it against him.

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has explained his administration’s decision to opt out of an existing World Bank loan agreement to avoid placing the state under unsustainable debt. During a tour of the ongoing Government House and Governor’s Lodge project in Awka, Soludo revealed that his administration had not borrowed from any financial institution and declined the Federal Government’s 2024 loan offer to states.

Soludo emphasized that Anambra was the only state to withdraw from the World Bank loan deal, which was signed before he assumed office. He noted that while it would have been easy to continue with the loan, he found the terms unsustainable and detrimental to the state’s long-term financial health. He reiterated, “I need money, but I cannot borrow my state into slavery.”

Soludo also discussed his administration’s progress on infrastructure, highlighting the construction of over 750 kilometers of roads, with 410 kilometers already completed. Additionally, he pointed to his focus on education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, with an aim to restore the dignity of labor and counter the growing “get-rich-quick” mentality among the youth.

Regarding the Government House project, Soludo shared that it was a major milestone for the state, given that it had been 34 years since Anambra’s creation, and past administrations had operated from temporary offices. The new facility, designed to last for 200 years, includes 34 buildings and aims to strengthen the state’s governance infrastructure.

The Ubah Media Team and local Nollywood actors praised the Governor’s efforts, acknowledging the scale of the Government House project and the state’s development under Soludo’s leadership, achieved without taking on additional debt. They urged the public to support the administration as the November 8 governorship election approaches.

The Federal Government has extended the deadline for applications to join the Federal Civil Service to March 17, 2025. This decision follows complaints from many applicants who encountered difficulties accessing the recruitment portal. The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) had initially set the deadline for March 10, 2025, but after acknowledging the technical issues some faced, the deadline was extended.

FCSC spokesperson Hassan Taiwo confirmed that while some applicants were able to register successfully, others faced challenges. To ensure more eligible candidates can apply, the new deadline provides additional time for submissions. The updated information has been made available on the FCSC website and will appear in national newspapers such as The Sun, The Nation, and Daily Trust.

The Federal Civil Service Commission is urging qualified Nigerians to apply for the available vacancies, emphasizing a transparent and merit-based recruitment process.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has officially endorsed the Arab League’s counter-proposal to President Donald Trump’s controversial bid for the United States to take control of Gaza. This decision came after an emergency meeting of the 57-member group in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Friday. The OIC backed an alternative plan that was ratified by Arab leaders earlier in Cairo. The Egyptian-drafted proposal calls for Gaza to be temporarily governed by an independent committee of experts, with protection provided by international peacekeeping forces.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed that the plan, now accepted by the OIC, has become an official Arab-Islamic plan. The proposal also strongly rejects any form of displacement of the Palestinian people, labeling it a violation of international law, a crime against humanity, and ethnic cleansing.

In addition to the governance plan, the Arab League has agreed on a $53 billion trust fund to rebuild Gaza, under a new Palestinian Authority administration. The reconstruction effort is set to unfold in three phases over five years, aiming to resettle 1.5 million displaced Gazans into new housing units and repaired homes.

Trump’s proposal, which suggested that the U.S. take control of Gaza and resettle over 2 million people in Egypt, Jordan, and other countries, faced significant backlash. Many nations opposed the idea, viewing it as an infringement on Palestinian sovereignty, and instead called on the U.S. to focus on providing humanitarian aid for reconstruction efforts.

The OIC’s stance further solidifies the Arab world’s rejection of any proposal that could potentially undermine Palestinian rights, reaffirming their commitment to a solution that respects Palestinian self-determination.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has firmly distanced his administration from the ongoing investigation into a N700 billion fraud allegation against his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel. During a town hall meeting in Abak, Eno rejected the claims, stating that such figures were not from the state government and that Akwa Ibom did not have those kinds of financial figures. He expressed concern over the treatment of past governors, pointing out that the state has consistently vilified its leaders after they’ve left office, citing the cases of Obong Attah, Godswill Akpabio, and now Udom Emmanuel.

Eno’s remarks came in the wake of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arresting Emmanuel on Tuesday. Emmanuel, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, faces allegations of money laundering, diversion of funds, and financial mismanagement. The petition claims Emmanuel was unable to account for N700 billion despite receiving significant funds from the Federation Account during his tenure, alongside leaving a N500 billion debt and N300 billion in unpaid ongoing projects.

Governor Eno’s comments reflect a broader concern about the political and public fallout for leaders who are subjected to such investigations after serving in office, suggesting that it could dissuade current leaders from giving their best while in power. The ongoing probe into Emmanuel’s tenure continues to stir political debates in the state, highlighting the complex relationship between governance, accountability, and public perception.