This article explores the growing trend of prestigious British schools opening campuses in Nigeria. For years, wealthy Nigerians have sent their children abroad, particularly to the UK, for secondary education. These schools have been highly regarded for their rigorous curricula, global prestige, and networking opportunities. However, with the high costs of sending children abroad, especially with rising exchange rates and added expenses, many of these institutions are expanding into Nigeria.

Charterhouse, for example, has already launched a primary school in Lagos and plans to open a secondary school there in September. Other schools like Rugby School and Millfield are also entering the Nigerian market. This move not only provides a more affordable option for families but also allows them to maintain educational quality while staying closer to home.

One of the key factors driving this change is the desire of Nigerian parents to provide their children with international opportunities without sacrificing their cultural identity. While these British institutions cater to global standards, they also adapt to local needs, being mindful of Nigeria’s religious and cultural values, such as sensitivity to LGBTQ+ issues.

The rise of these schools also reflects Nigeria’s increasing reputation for producing high-achieving students, and the country’s young population (40% under 14 years old) presents a vast market for educational services. Despite the competition these new schools might create for existing elite institutions in Nigeria, experts believe that the market is large enough to accommodate both.

This trend could extend beyond secondary education into higher education. With the challenges posed by foreign exchange difficulties and stricter visa regulations, Nigerian students may increasingly look to local campuses of British universities in the future, mirroring the success of early educational collaborations between Nigeria and the UK, such as the University of Ibadan, established as a campus of the University of London.

In summary, these new British schools in Nigeria offer an exciting opportunity for parents seeking world-class education for their children while preserving their cultural roots, and they may signal a larger shift in how education is accessed globally, particularly in Africa.

The Northern Senators Forum has strongly condemned the lynching of northerners traveling through Edo State, describing the killings as “dastardly,” “despicable,” and “condemnable.” The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in Uromi, Edo State, where a mob targeted and brutally murdered innocent travelers, mistakenly profiling them as Fulani kidnappers. The Forum expressed deep concern over how such violent actions could occur and emphasized that taking the law into one’s hands is unacceptable.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Forum called the killings a heinous crime and a clear violation of the victims’ human rights. They urged Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to take swift and decisive action to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for quickly instructing security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and arrest the culprits, which they viewed as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Citing Section 41 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of movement and residence within the country, the Forum stressed the importance of ensuring all citizens are treated with dignity and respect. They called on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to work together to prevent similar incidents in the future and promote a culture of tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

South Africa’s former ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, has accused the Trump administration of being “self-evidently” racist in a recent interview with the BBC. This statement came after Rasool was expelled from the U.S. following strong criticism of President Donald Trump’s policies, particularly regarding race.

Rasool had previously accused Trump of trying to “project white victimhood as a dog whistle,” a comment that led to a heated response from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who branded Rasool a “race-baiting politician who hates America.” In his interview, Rasool suggested that the administration’s actions, such as its focus on deporting migrants and targeting foreign students supportive of pro-Palestinian protests, were indicative of a racial bias.

Rasool further emphasized that the connection between these actions and racism was “self-evident” and likened the situation to seeing a hinge on a piece of wood and concluding that it must be a door. He also accused Trump’s administration of mobilizing far-right groups, a claim the administration has denied.

The diplomat’s expulsion came at a time of heightened tensions between the U.S. and South Africa. Relations had already deteriorated due to Trump’s criticisms of South Africa’s land reform policies and his decision to cut all U.S. aid to the country. Trump has also controversially stated that members of South Africa’s white Afrikaner community should be granted refugee status in the U.S. due to alleged persecution, a claim Rasool dismissed as “an unadulterated lie.”

While Rasool’s language in his criticism of the U.S. government has been called undiplomatic, he defended his stance, saying that diplomacy should not be about flattering the host country or accepting lies. He added that his comments were made to alert the U.S. that South Africa’s dignity and truth were at stake, especially regarding false narratives about the country.

Rasool also pointed out that South Africa has been attempting to address its historical racial and economic imbalances through policies aimed at aiding the black majority, which he argued had been misrepresented by the Trump administration.

The diplomatic spat also touches on broader tensions, such as South Africa’s legal action against Israel over alleged genocide against Palestinians, and the U.S.’s cutting of aid due to the country’s new Expropriation Law, which allows land confiscation without compensation in certain cases. Despite the controversy, Rasool, who served as ambassador from 2010 to 2015, has no regrets about his remarks and remains firm in his position.

Utah has become the first U.S. state to implement a ban on flying LGBTQ+ pride flags at schools and all government buildings. This law, which will take effect on May 7, was allowed to become official after Utah Governor Spencer Cox did not take action on it by the midnight deadline on Thursday night, thus allowing the bill to pass without his signature.

The legislation, introduced by Republican state Rep. Trevor Lee of Layton, specifically targets the display of pride flags in educational institutions. The law is seen as part of ongoing efforts by some state lawmakers to restrict LGBTQ+ symbols and messages in public spaces.

Despite allowing the bill to become law, Governor Cox expressed his appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community in a letter to legislative leaders. He acknowledged that recent legislation has been challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals, stating that politics can be divisive. Cox emphasized that he loves and appreciates the LGBTQ+ community and is grateful for their presence in Utah, though he recognized that his words might not be well-received by everyone.

The timing of this decision coincided with the announcement that the Sundance Film Festival, a major cultural event that had been held in Park City, Utah for over four decades, would be moving its operations to Boulder, Colorado. This move has raised concerns among local supporters of the festival, particularly in the wake of the new law.

The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shi’ites, has reported that at least five of its members were killed in a violent clash with the Nigerian Army on Friday in Abuja. The confrontation occurred in the Banex and Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent area of Wuse 2 during a procession marking International Quds Day.

Sheikh Sidi Sokoto, a leader of the Shi’ite group, claimed that the army’s actions were unprovoked. He stated that the group was peacefully marching from Banex Plaza, where they had observed Juma’at prayers, toward Wuse Market when the army, using an armored vehicle, blocked their path and began shooting at the participants. Sokoto mentioned that many of those involved were women and minors, and based on eyewitness reports, at least five individuals were killed. He promised to provide further updates as more information became available.

In contrast, the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, stated that the Shi’ite members became violent and disrupted public order during their procession. He confirmed that there was an exchange of fire between the Shi’ites and the troops but could not confirm whether there were any casualties. Nwachukwu mentioned that he was unsure of the specific reasons behind the protest.

The incident follows a security alert issued by the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, warning its citizens about planned IMN protests in Abuja and other major cities on Friday, highlighting concerns over potential violence during the demonstrations.

Canada has confirmed its decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods starting next week, following a phone conversation between Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump. This move comes in response to the U.S. government’s planned implementation of new tariffs on April 2, 2025. According to a statement from Carney’s office, the Prime Minister informed Trump that the Canadian government would take these measures to protect Canadian workers and the economy in the face of the upcoming U.S. trade actions.

While the exact timing and scope of the retaliatory tariffs were not disclosed, the statement hinted that the leaders also discussed the upcoming U.S. presidential election, scheduled for April 28. Both leaders expressed a desire to engage in comprehensive negotiations on a new economic and security relationship following the election. Carney’s office described the conversation as “very constructive,” while Trump characterized it as “extremely productive” in a social media post.

The announcement comes amidst growing concerns over the potential for higher prices on goods in both the U.S. and Canada, with President Trump referring to April 2 as “Liberation Day.” The retaliatory tariffs mark the latest development in a tense trade relationship between the two nations.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, has strongly advocated for the immortalization of the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), citing his pivotal role in conducting the June 12, 1993, Presidential election, which is widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. Adams argued that Nwosu’s dedication and integrity in ensuring the election’s fairness ultimately led to the recognition of the late MKO Abiola’s mandate, even though the government at the time failed to install him as president.

Adams called for Nwosu to be honored in the same way as Abiola, who was posthumously recognized by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. He suggested that a monument be named after Nwosu as a lasting tribute to his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process. According to Adams, this would set a positive example for future INEC chairmen, emphasizing honesty and transparency in organizing elections.

The Senate, however, rejected a motion to immortalize Nwosu for the second time, instead opting to observe a minute of silence in his honor. This decision sparked heated debates on the floor of the Upper Legislative Chamber, with Southeast senators staging a walkout in protest. Adams criticized the Senate’s stance, particularly pointing out that the refusal to immortalize Nwosu was unjust, and described it as an act of “self-centeredness” on the part of some Yoruba leaders. He emphasized that Nwosu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy should not be overlooked and that denying him the honor he deserved would be a disservice to the nation.

Adams further stressed that Nwosu’s spirit would not be pleased with how the country is handling the recognition of his contributions, highlighting the importance of acknowledging those who have played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.

The recent mass Russian drone attack on Dnipro, a central Ukrainian city, has resulted in tragic consequences, with at least four people killed and 21 others injured. The attack, which occurred late on Friday, led to significant damage, including fires in a restaurant complex and several residential buildings. The attack involved over 20 drones, although most were reportedly shot down. Images from the aftermath show extensive damage, including large fires and debris on the streets.

In addition to the Dnipro attack, overnight air sirens were heard across other Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv. It is unclear if there were further casualties from these alerts. Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have intercepted or shot down three Ukrainian drones over its Belgorod region.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has again criticized Russia for targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, accusing Russia of violating a temporary moratorium on such attacks. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue, with various diplomatic developments. Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested placing Ukraine under UN control to elect a “more competent” government, a proposal that has been widely condemned as an effort to challenge Ukraine’s sovereignty. Ukraine and its allies have also raised concerns about Russia’s possible attempts to derail peace efforts.

In parallel, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for a “reassurance force” in Ukraine, involving French and UK forces. This proposal is part of ongoing efforts by Ukraine’s international allies to strengthen support for the country in its fight against Russian aggression. However, Russia has strongly opposed any foreign troop deployments in Ukraine, warning that such actions would be considered legitimate military targets.

The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to clash on multiple fronts, with no clear path to a lasting resolution in sight.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised significant concerns about the growing problem of drug abuse in Cross River State, with many young people falling victim to addiction. This issue has become so severe that even the federal psychiatric hospital is overcrowded with youths suffering from drug abuse, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

During a street walk organized by the Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG) in Calabar, Nandi Roselyn Ada, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics in the Drug Demand Reduction Department, expressed her deep concern over the rising drug abuse among the youth. She pointed out that, though specific arrest statistics were unavailable, the situation is overwhelming, with young people visibly suffering from the effects of drugs in various parts of the state.

One of the most concerning aspects is the overwhelming number of youths in the psychiatric hospital due to drug addiction, with 90% of the inmates being young drug addicts. Ada also mentioned that less severe cases are often rejected to accommodate those facing more serious conditions, illustrating how dire the problem has become.

The abuse of substances like Cannabis Sativa (marijuana) is particularly prevalent in the region, and the narcotics officer warned that the issue is affecting not only the addicts but also the entire community. She highlighted the role of traffickers, who profit off these young people while keeping their own children safe from the same dangers. Ada urged everyone to take a stand against drug abuse, emphasizing that it is a societal problem, not just the responsibility of the NDLEA.

Comrade Scott Ogunsere, the National President of NIDSUG, pledged to continue the campaign against social vices, taking the message to other states in the Niger Delta region and across Nigeria. He called on students and youths to reject drugs, cultism, and other forms of crime.

Dr. Peter Odey, the Acting Governor of Cross River State, also expressed the government’s commitment to fighting cybercrime and providing opportunities for the youth to steer away from criminal activities. Through various initiatives, the government aims to engage the youth productively and deter them from drugs and crime.

This situation highlights the urgent need for continued awareness and intervention to address drug abuse and its devastating impact on the youth in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.

The Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Friday targeted a drone storage unit used by Hezbollah, marking the first attack on the area since the ceasefire with the group was established in November. The airstrike followed a rocket attack from southern Lebanon towards northern Israel, which Israel intercepted. Hezbollah denied involvement in the rocket fire, and both Israel and Lebanon’s president, Joseph Aoun, described the attack as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.

The situation reflects the ongoing challenges to maintaining the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which had been brokered with the support of France and the U.S. The Israeli military has conducted frequent airstrikes on Hezbollah-related targets, citing concerns over the group’s rearming efforts. Despite this, the ceasefire has largely held, though violations from both sides continue to strain the agreement.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Friday that there had been no activity justifying Israel’s recent strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon. His remarks came after Israeli airstrikes targeted a building in Beirut’s southern suburbs, marking the first significant attack on the Lebanese capital since a ceasefire in November. This ceasefire, brokered by France and the U.S., had ended a war between Israel and Hezbollah.

Macron emphasized that the framework agreed upon by Lebanon and Israel had been violated by Israel’s unilateral actions, noting that there was no information or evidence to justify the strikes. He had earlier met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Paris to discuss ongoing economic reforms and efforts to stabilize Lebanon.

In light of the situation, Macron indicated that he would call U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the attacks. His goal was to restore full observance of the ceasefire and to de-escalate tensions.

The November truce required Hezbollah to remove its weapons from southern Lebanon, Israeli forces to withdraw, and Lebanon to deploy its national army in the region. However, both sides have since accused each other of violating the terms of the ceasefire.

The Kano State Police Command has officially banned all Durbar activities during the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations, citing security concerns and the importance of maintaining public order. The announcement was made by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, during a press briefing held at the Bompai Police Headquarters on Friday.

The decision aims to ensure a peaceful and secure environment throughout the festivities. CP Bakori highlighted that adequate security measures would be put in place to protect worshippers at designated Eid prayer grounds. He also emphasized the importance of peace during the celebrations, urging citizens to set aside their differences and work together as law-abiding members of society for the progress of both the state and the nation.

In addition to banning Durbar activities, Bakori also imposed restrictions on horse riding (Kilisa), car racing, and reckless driving during the festive period to further ensure public safety and prevent any disruptions.

The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Qalibaf, issued a strong warning on Friday, stating that Tehran would target US military bases in the region if the United States follows through on its threat of military action against Iran in the absence of a new nuclear deal. Qalibaf’s comments came during his live speech on Al-Quds Day, an annual event marking the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan.

Qalibaf’s remarks were a direct response to US President Donald Trump’s recent statement, in which Trump outlined two potential courses of action for dealing with Iran: military action or reaching a deal. Trump also mentioned that he had sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, conveying this message. In his speech, Qalibaf emphasized that if the US attacks Iran, the entire region could erupt into chaos, and both US and allied bases in the region would be at risk.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, had already dismissed Trump’s letter as deceptive, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reiterated that talks would only be possible if the US abandoned its “maximum pressure” policy. Araqchi also hinted that despite the threats in Trump’s letter, it left room for diplomacy.

The tensions between the US and Iran stem from the US’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, which was an agreement between Iran and world powers to limit Tehran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. After the US withdrawal, Iran exceeded the agreed limits on uranium enrichment, and the US reimposed sanctions, deepening the conflict.

While Western powers are concerned about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only. The ongoing standoff and these latest exchanges highlight the volatile situation between the two countries.

India has extended its support to the earthquake victims in Myanmar and Thailand after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the region on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India’s readiness to provide assistance, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance” and that Indian authorities are on standby to respond.

The earthquake, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), had a magnitude of 7.7, though other sources reported slightly varying figures. The epicenter was located around 16 kilometers from Sagaing in north-western Myanmar. The tremors from the earthquake were felt in several neighboring regions, including parts of Bangladesh and India. In India, the tremors reached the northeastern state of Manipur, which borders Myanmar, leading to panic in the western district of the state capital, Imphal. However, no significant damage has been reported from the affected areas so far.

The tremors were also felt in larger cities like Kolkata in India and Dhaka in Bangladesh, though no major damage has been reported there either. The quick response from India, offering assistance, underscores the country’s commitment to supporting its neighbors in times of natural disasters.

Zimbabwe’s President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has appointed Emmanuel Matatu, a former major general and veteran of the 1970s liberation war, as the new army chief. This appointment comes ahead of planned protests on Monday by a group of war veterans who are calling for Mnangagwa’s resignation. The protests are fueled by accusations of mismanagement and corruption, and the group has been vocal in demanding the president step down.

Matatu, who is reportedly 72 years old, has a history in the Zimbabwe People’s Republic Army (Zipra), which was one of the two main guerrilla forces that fought against white-minority rule in the former Rhodesia. Zipra, led by Joshua Nkomo, was the rival of the Zanu party, which Mnangagwa and Robert Mugabe were a part of. The two forces merged after independence to form the ruling party, Zanu-PF. Matatu’s appointment is seen as part of a broader effort by Mnangagwa to consolidate power within the military, particularly by aligning with his trusted allies in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), including ZDF commander Philip Valerio Sibanda, another former Zipra veteran.

This reshuffle comes after Mnangagwa abruptly retired Lt Gen Anselem Sanyatwe, the former army chief, appointing him as the new minister of sports, arts, and culture. Matatu’s promotion is viewed as a move to strengthen the leadership of Zimbabwe’s defense forces, with many speculating that it will help Mnangagwa solidify his control amid growing internal opposition.

The planned protests, called by a faction of war veterans, have called for Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga to take over the presidency. Chiwenga, who previously led the ZDF before becoming vice president, is reportedly supported by the protesting veterans. In response, the police have issued a four-day ban on carrying weapons or any instruments that could be used for violence in the capital, Harare, and the security minister has warned the public against participating in the protests.

Mnangagwa, nicknamed “The Crocodile” for his reputation as a ruthless political figure, became president in 2017 after a coup ousted Robert Mugabe. Despite serving his second and final term, which runs until 2028, there have been growing concerns within his party about his intentions to extend his time in power. Critics fear a repeat of the events leading up to the coup that removed Mugabe, especially after Mnangagwa recently denied rumors that he planned to remain in office beyond his term.

As the protests loom, the situation remains tense, with the government taking steps to limit the scope of any unrest. It remains uncertain how much public support the war veterans’ protests will have, but the military’s new leadership, under Matatu’s command, will likely play a key role in managing the unfolding crisis.

The governments of Nigeria and Germany have officially reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their bilateral defense cooperation by signing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the German Technical Advisory Group (GTAG). The signing ceremony took place in Abuja, with the Nigerian Ministry of Defence represented by Gabriel Aduda, the Permanent Secretary, who described the MoU as a “strategic counterpart funding arrangement” that underscores the strong defense ties between the two nations.

Aduda highlighted that the renewed agreement aligns with both countries’ shared objectives of fostering long-term security collaboration and developmental goals. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring accountability and efficiency in implementing the agreement, with a focus on adhering to strict timelines and rigorous monitoring to ensure successful execution of all engagements. He also assured that all procurement aspects would be thoroughly evaluated to ensure value for money.

The German Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Col. Boris Bovekemp, reiterated Germany’s strong commitment to enhancing cooperation in key areas, particularly defense, security, and capacity-building initiatives. He praised the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Germany and stressed the importance of strengthening these agreements to address evolving security challenges.

This renewed MoU represents a significant milestone in the Nigeria-Germany defense partnership, reinforcing mutual efforts to enhance security, develop capacity, and promote technical cooperation between the two nations.