Femi Gbajabiamila’s confession sheds light on the demanding nature of his new role as Chief of Staff (CoS) to President Bola Tinubu. His remarks emphasize the stark contrast between his previous position as Speaker of the House of Representatives, where he had more autonomy, and the current role where he feels a significant loss of freedom due to the president’s strong work ethic and hands-on leadership style.

It seems like the position of CoS has proven to be much more challenging than he anticipated, as he now answers to a president who is not only highly competent but also deeply involved in the operations of the government. This change in dynamics highlights the different levels of responsibility and the pressures that come with working so closely with someone who is not just a boss, but one who is very knowledgeable and has high expectations.

It’s interesting to hear Gbajabiamila’s candid take on this transition, especially given his long experience in public service. It sounds like he’s found a deeper level of respect for the role and its demands. Do you think this kind of honesty from someone in his position helps others understand the complexities of high-level leadership?

The situation in eastern Congo, especially in cities like Bukavu and Goma, is becoming increasingly dire. The M23 rebel group, which has gained significant territory with support from Rwanda, has intensified its grip on these cities, leading to further instability and fear among the local population. As you’ve outlined, the M23’s control over Bukavu has had immediate impacts: from the displacement of people to the closure of businesses and borders.

The response from residents like David Munyaga and others who are trying to carry on despite the uncertain future highlights the resilience in the face of crisis. However, the lack of clear security and the looming presence of the rebels have created a climate of fear. Meanwhile, the protests in Goma calling for the withdrawal of MONUSCO forces and the resignation of President Tshisekedi reveal a deep frustration with both local and international responses to the conflict. Many see the international community’s efforts, including the U.N. peacekeeping mission, as insufficient in ending the violence and restoring stability.

The situation remains tense, with the rebels pushing forward while the population and international actors struggle to address the complex challenges on the ground. The humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict, including the displacement of millions of people, underscores the need for urgent intervention and resolution. The control over vital resources in the region further complicates peace efforts, as the mineral wealth of eastern Congo remains a point of contention for both local armed groups and foreign interests.

Egypt’s president welcomed Jordan’s Crown Prince on Sunday in Cairo as the two countries continue to work on a plan to rebuild Gaza without displacing the Palestinians.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and Al Hussein bin Abdullah II spoke on latest developments in the Palestinian territories, efforts to implement the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, exchange of hostages and detainees and the humanitarian aid access.

Al Hussein’s visit came after Jordan’s King Abdullah II met last week with the U.S. president Donald Trump who doubled down on his vows to empty Gaza permanently of its more than 2 million Palestinians, saying they would not be allowed to return.

Trump suggested at one point he might force Egypt and Jordan to take Palestinians in by threatening to cut off U.S. aid.

Egypt will host an Arab summit on Feb. 27 and is working with other countries on a counterproposal that would allow for Gaza to be rebuilt without removing its population.

Human rights groups say the expulsion of Palestinians would likely violate international law.

Egypt has warned that any mass influx of Palestinians from Gaza would undermine its nearly half-century peace treaty with Israel, a cornerstone of U.S. influence in the region.

Arab and Muslim countries have conditioned any support for postwar Gaza on a return to Palestinian governance with a pathway to statehood in Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories that Israel seized in the 1967 Mideast war.

Israel has ruled out a Palestinian state and any role in Gaza for the Western-backed Palestinian Authority, whose forces were driven out when Hamas seized power there in 2007.

It’s truly a somber moment for the global community, as Pope Francis is dealing with such a serious health issue. His long history of dedication to his work, coupled with his age, certainly makes his recovery a challenge. The prayers from the Nigerian nuns show the deep connection people around the world have to him and the hope for his recovery. It’s heartening, though, to hear that his fever has subsided and his condition has stabilized, which is a positive sign.

I hope his health continues to improve in the days ahead. Are you following any other updates on his condition?

The Anambra State government is taking significant steps to combat fraudulent practices linked to traditional medicine and religious activities, particularly those promoting “get-rich-quick” schemes involving dangerous rituals like the “Oke-ite.” The crackdown on individuals involved in these practices, including the sealing of churches and the detention of native doctors, signals the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and preserving the integrity of its community.

The Oke-ite ritual, involving the use of human and animal parts for money rituals, has gained attention as a fraudulent practice, exploiting vulnerable individuals. The closure of Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha’s church, along with forensic investigations into substances found at the site, indicates the state’s serious stance against any form of harmful, deceptive practices masked as religion or traditional healing.

It’s also worth noting that the government is taking a balanced approach by documenting practitioners of traditional medicine but refraining from granting official certifications. This helps ensure that those engaging in traditional healing practices are operating within the bounds of the law and not exploiting others for financial gain or performing illegal activities.

What are your thoughts on the government’s actions so far in addressing these issues?

The situation described shows a significant shift in international diplomatic dynamics surrounding the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Zelensky’s comments reflect Ukraine’s frustration with any peace settlement that may favor Russia or exclude key players, particularly Ukraine and the UK, from peace talks.

Zelensky’s warning about the consequences of a peace deal that might compromise Ukraine’s territorial integrity is central. The prospect of a peace agreement in which Ukraine’s sovereignty is reduced or undermined, especially by ceding seized territories, is unacceptable to Ukraine, as Zelensky emphasized. His point about the potential “weakness” of Europe if Russia is allowed to claim victory underlines the broader geopolitical concerns.

The criticism of US officials’ conciliatory remarks toward Russia points to the complex relationship between the US and Ukraine, especially as the war continues to evolve. Zelensky’s stance is clear: while the US may desire a quick resolution, Ukraine seeks a lasting peace that maintains its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The ongoing discussions between the US, Russia, and other global players will significantly impact not just Ukraine but the future of European security, NATO’s role, and international stability as a whole. Zelensky’s statements, along with the reactions of European leaders, indicate that the outcome of these talks will shape the course of history for the region.

Zelensky’s assertion that Ukraine will not achieve victory without US support underscores the continued importance of the US in shaping the military and political dynamics of the conflict.

French President Emmanuel Macron is calling for an urgent meeting with European leaders to discuss the implications of US President Donald Trump’s actions. According to reports, this emergency meeting is scheduled for Monday, and it is expected to be a serious discussion about Trump’s policies and their impact. The meeting is being mentioned in the context of Macron’s diplomatic relationship with Trump, which has been notably cordial despite the differing political climates between their respective countries. This could be seen as an effort by European leaders to assess and respond to the evolving situation under Trump’s leadership.

Additionally, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski made references to this meeting at the Munich Security Conference, which emphasizes the significance of the conversation that could take place among European leaders regarding US politics.

What are your thoughts on how European leaders are reacting to US political developments like this?

Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu’s statement highlights the bravery and leadership of General Christopher Musa, the Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, in confronting the persistent issue of terrorism in Nigeria. He praises General Musa for his bold stance, particularly during his appearance on Al Jazeera, where he underscored the importance of cutting off terrorist funding to end groups like Boko Haram. Dr. Uzochukwu calls on Nigerians to unite in support of the General and the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of national solidarity in fighting terrorism and ensuring a secure future for the nation.

Would you like to discuss any particular aspect of the statement further?